31 32 1900 http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/59ad1eea9c7bd156a9e507ba7148a043.pdf 6e54b37978ecefbd1513c99dbdf70d1b PDF Text Text Volume 57, Number 7 H•dreds of New Jobs Added to SIU Rolls SIU members last month crewed the w orld's 1 -~~===~~. largest steamboat, the ~~~·~ American Queen, and ~;~~ti~~ prepared the ship for its ~ ~-~-=-e-,. _.;.~,:r,,.. maiden voyage. The U.S.-built, U.S.-flag passenger vessel was chris- ·---·-· tened in New Orleans on June 2 and pegan pas- t-t~~ senger service later in the month. July 1995 �2 SEAFARERS LOG JULY1995 President's Report Long Live the Queen Last month, Seafarers helped break out the American Queen, the new passenger steamboat owned and operated by The Delta Queen Steamboat Company. The U .S.-built vessel began its first official passenger cruise June 27, a 16-day voyage from Pittsburgh to New Orleans. I am confident it was the start of a long and prosperous existence for this truly breathtaking boat. Naturally, from the SIU's perspective, the American Queen first and foremost represents jobs for Seafarers. With a crew numberMichael Sacco ing nearly 200 (including Seafarers and members of the American Maritime Officers), the American Queen provides excellent employment opportunities for SIU members who work as deckhands, oilers, cooks, cabin attendants and more. In an era when layoffs and shutdowns routinely are happening in so many industries all across the country, it is especially important and gratifying to see the creation of new jobs for American workers. These jobs do not come at the expense of Seafarers working aboard the company's other vessels. The Delta Queen and Mississippi Queen will continue to ply the inland waterways, with full complements of Seafarers aboard them. Of course, the beauty and fine construction of the American Queen itself cannot be overlooked. Every part of the boat, from the giant paddle wheel to the finely decorated passenger cabins, from the state-of-the-art pilothouse to the comfortable dining rooms, is first-class. The fact that it is American-built only enhances its attractiveness. Years ago, Delta Queen and its parent company, American Classic Voyages of Chicago, made a commitment to American workers and the U.S. flag. That became evident to the many tourism writers, travel agents and others attending the christening of the American Queen in New Orleans on June 2. The new vessel generated an air of excitement rarely seen in the U.S.-flag maritime industry. Without overstating the SIU' s role in any of this, I also offer my most sincere congratulations to the crews of the Mississippi Queen and the Delta Queen. I hope and believe that the arrival of the newest boat reflects positively on the SIU members who for years have worked aboard the Mississippi Queen and Delta Queen. Their dedication and professionalism undeniably have contributed to the company's success, which in turn helped make it viable to build the American Queen. However, the company's commitment has been evident to Seafarers long before the American Queen steamed to life. In 1993, American Classic Voyages purchased American Hawaii Cruises and took over operations of the only U.S.-flag oceangoing passenger ships, the SIU-crewed SS Independence and SS Constitution. American Classic Voyages said it was committed to keeping these two ships sailing around the Hawaiian Islands with American mariners aboard. To show its faith in the future of these ships, the company began renovations to modernize the Independence last year and returned it to service. The work was done in an American shipyard. This month, the Constitution heads to drydock to begin a year's worth of service and upgrading. Like its sister ship, the Constitution also will be renovated by American workers in a U.S. shipyard. The action taken on both of these vessels will keep them sailing well into the next century. The decision by American Classic to construct the new steamboat and renovate the ocean-going vessels represents wellmanaged U.S. companies investing in American workers-not just the crewmembers, but also the shipyard workers and others. In my estimation, that's a great formula for success, and I hope others will follow the example. Volume 57, Number 7 ~ Tl July 1995 The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 0160-2047) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone(301) 899-067 5. Second-class postage paid at MSC Prince Georges, MD 20790-9998 and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers WG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Managing Editor, Daniel Duncan; Associate Editors, Jordan Biscardo and Corrina Christensen Gutierrez; Associate Editor/Prcxtuction, Deborah A. Hirtes; Art, Bill Brower; Administrative Support, Jeanne Textor. Operators, Unions Challenge Review of Cargo Preference For Federal Deficit Reduction U.S.-flag ship operators and maritime unions are battling efforts by government agencies and Congress to cut funding for cargo preference programs as a way to lower the U.S. government's budget deficit. In response to a proposed rule being considered by the Maritime Administration (MarAd), officials of five trade associations representing U.S.-flag ship operators have told the Transportation Department agency they are willing to consider changes in the way bulk cargo preference laws are being administered. The Mar Ad action and associations' response come at the same time that Congress and cabinet-level departments are reviewing cargo preference laws to find ways to reduce federal spending. In a letter dated June 19 to Joel C. Richard, secretary for MarAd, the associations-including the American Maritime Congress, American Maritime Officers Ser- vice, Labor Management Maritime Committee, Maritime Institute for Research and Industrial Development and Transportation Institute-outlined several proposals they would like to see included in any revision. (Cargo preference laws spell out what percentage of U.S. government-impelled cargo is to be carried aboard American-flag vessels. The Cargo Preference Act of 1954 denotes that a minimum of 50 percent of government-mandated cargo must sail aboard privately owned U.S.-flag srups. The 1985 farm bill calls for 75 percent of government-impelled U.S. agricultural products to be carried aboard Americanflag vessels. Finally, the Cargo Preference Act of 1904 dictates that all Defense Department cargo must be transported on U.S.-flag bottoms.) The maritime associations informed MarAd they "support the principle of cargo preference for United States governmentgenerated cargoes as an appropriate means to help maintain a privately owned United Statesflag merchant marine." They pointed out that the Persian Gulf War demonstrated the need to have trained merchant mariners available to crew vessels in times of national emergencies. Improved Efficiency Is Needed In the letter, the associations' representatives stated that despite the fact some arguments used against bulk cargo preference laws are based on inaccurate information, "we do agree that steps can and should be taken to improve the overall efficiency and cost effectiveness of cargo preference." The associations said the present system to determine the cost to ship preference bulk cargo on American-flag vessels has several flaws. They noted U.S.flag vessel operators are required Continued on page 16 Navy League Honors Brand for Work In Promoting U.S. Merchant Marine The Navy League of the United States presented the Vincent T. Hirsch Maritime Award for "outstanding leadership" to Herbert Brand, chairman of the Transportation Institute, for "his many and varied contributions to the United States shipping industry, and in turn to national security over a span of almost 50 years." Named for the late president of the Navy League who was a fervent supporter of U.S.-flag merchant shipping for its vital defense role, the Vincent T. Hirsch award is presented to "a distinguished American who is particularly effective in creating a broader understanding of the merchant marine to national security." Presenting the award to Brand were Navy League President Evan Baker and Vice Admiral Albert Herberger, the U.S. Maritime Administrator. Admiral Joseph W. Prueher, the vice chief of Naval Operations, participated in the award ceremony and delivered the principle address. The league's award cited Brand for "his expertise and intrinsic knowledge" of the maritime industry which has "aided materially in the establishment and implementation of maritime programs to meet the challenges of foreign competition, and his advice has been highly valued by both industry and government." The citation, given June 2 at the league's national convention in St. Louis, noted that Brand has "played a pivotal role in the enactment of the Merchant Marine Act of 1970, and has been instrumental in fostering mutual understanding and cooperation among a11 segments of shipping, and shipbuilding management and labor, and many segments of Herbert Brand (left), chairman of the Transportation Institute, receives the Navy League's Vincent T. Hirsch Maritime Award for his nearly 50 years of leadership in the U.S.-flag maritime industry. Presenting Brand with the award are U.S. Maritime Administrator Albert Herberger (center) and Navy League President Evan Baker. government involved in maritime affairs." The award called attention to "theleadershiphehasconsistently displayed, as president and the chairman of the Transportation Institute, and that as a member of the Board of Governors of the National Maritime Council he's been essential to the efforts to aid U.S. shipping." Brand's "unswerving dedication to the cause of a strong and healthy U.S.-flag merchant marine has been an inspiration," the league st~ted: After service m the U.S. Navy during World War II, Brand became associated with the Seafarers International Union. He served the SIU in a wide range of capacities, including director of public relations and director of organizing as well as being involved in domestic and international maritime matters. He worked very closely with then SIU President Paul Hall. After more than 20 years with the union, Brand was named to help develop the Transportation Institute, a Washington, D .C.based management association engaged in U.S.-flag maritime industry promotion and research. He subsequently was named president of the Transportation Institute, a position he held until he was named chairman by the board of directors. Founded in 1902, the Navy League of the United States is a 68,000-member patriotic civilian organization dedicated to educating American citizens about the need for sea power to maintain America's national security and economic well-being. To that end, members in more than 300 councils worldwide engage in activities supportive of the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard and U.S.-flag merchant marine. �JULY1995 SEAFARERS LOG 3 The American Queen Steams to Life SIU-Contracted Passenger Riverboat Starts Service The Seafarers-crewed, U.S.built passenger boat American Queen officially began service June 27 in Pittsburgh, marking the start of operations for the largest steamboat ever constructed. Christened earlier last month in New Orleans, the 418-foot American Queen, which carries a crew of 170, joins its sister ships Delta Queen and Mississippi Queen as the only authentic overnight paddlewheel steamboats operating in the U.S. The American Queen can carry 436 passengers, more than either of the other two vessels. All three boats are crewed by Seafarers and operated by The Delta Queen Steamboat Co., headquartered in New Orleans. They offer three- to 16-night cruises on the Mississippi, Ohio, Cumberland, Tennessee, Atchafalaya and Arkansas rivers. thusiasm about working aboard the vessel, which was built by Americans during a two-year period at McDermott Shipyard in Amelia, La., at a cost of approximately $70 million. "The whole crew is very excited. It's just a great boat," said DeckhandAleckBrown,32, who also has worked aboard the Mississippi Queen. "It's a wonderful atmosphere," agreed 20-year-oldDeckhand Ryan Webster, a graduate of the entry-level training program at the Paul Hall Center's Lundeberg School. "We have a good crew, a great captain and the boat is excellent" Seafarers r~ported to the American Queen several weeks before the christening to prepare it for river trials in May. "I've been operating the boiler, changing oil, working on generators and doing some maintenance. formance of crewmembers as a factor in both the 105-year-old company's success and the decision to build the American Queen. "The trick for us is in the way we treat our passengers.... It's not so much the ship's facilities, but the sincerity of the crew that serves [the passengers] and how they are served," he said. Nevertheless, the American Queen's polished 19~h-century decor drew rave reviews from reporters, travel agents and ot~ers who bo~r~ed .the boat Prt<;>r to the o~ftctal maugural crmse. The national n.ewspaper USA Today descnbed the American_ Q'!-een as "a wedding c~ke that mvites Y?U to run.You,~ fm~ers through Its frost~ng, w~1le the (~ew Orleans) !i'!!es- The new American Queen joins its sister ships Delta Queen and Pzcayu'!e simpl~, tabbed It one Mississippi Queen as the only authentic overnight paddlewheel steamboats operating in the United States. grand nverboat. ------------------------------------- House Cons1·ders 11·11 to Export ~~~~o~a~~~!~:rv:~~~~r.:o~~~ Alaskan Oil on U.S.-Flag Ships Following the June 2 christen- Everything's going really well," in g, SIU members on the reported Fireman Ben Strunk. American Queen expressed enThird Engineer Joe Overstreet, American Queen Facts • • • • Crewmembers: 170 Passengers: 436 construction cost: Approximately $70 million Built at McDermott Shipyard, La. • • • • • • • Length: 418 feet Beam: 89.3 feet Gross tonnage: , 4 700 ~~~~r~i~~n~s~~~rs~a':taddle Machinery: Vintage tandem compound horizontal reciprocating steam engines, assisted by two electric zdrive steerable propulsion thrusters and twin bow thrusters Construction:Afl-steelwelded hull and superstructure Accommodations: 222 suites and staterooms "We've had some bumps and grinds, but she's come around. It' s a great boat and a new experience for me. "We have a good unlicensed crew and everyone's doing a good job." Deckhands, cabin attendants, food-service personnel and other SIU members also were busy preparing the American Queen for its inaugural cruise-a 16night venture from Pittsburgh to New Orleans, retracing an 1811 journey of the New Orleans, the first steamboat ever to travel America's rivers. "It's hard work, but it's fun and · exciting," stated Bobby Chiselbrook, a member of the steward department. Jeffrey Krida, president of Delta Queen cited the good per' The House of Representatives is expected to consider this month legislation that would lift a 22-year ban on the export of Alaskan North Slope crude oil as long as it is carried aboard U.S.-flag tankers. The bill (H.R. 70), which has the support of the SIU, already has received bipartisan support in the House Resources Committee. The group marked up H.R. 70 on May 17 in a voice vote in which both Republicans and .Democrats stated their support. (When a bill is marked up, it is made ready for consideration by the next higher level, in this case, the full House of Representatives.) Similar legislation cleared the Senate by a 74-25 vote on May 16. Senators from both political parties stated during the debate that the bill, known as S. 395 in the Senate, would create American jobs and help the U.S.-flag tanker fleet. "I hope people from throughout the country will understand that approvi~g [S. 395] will mea~ that Congress has taken action to _Pre~erve the mdependent tanker fleet and to mamtarn thousands of skilled maritime industry jobs that will be required as we go into this new phase of distribution of Alaskan oil, and it will be done at no cost to the taxpayers," Senator Ted Stevens (R-Alaska) said during the floor debate. Both the House and Senate versions of the legislation call on Congress to lift the ban to sell Alaskan North Slope crude oil to foreign nations, imposed during the Arab oil embargo of 1973, as long as it is carried aboard U.S.-flag tankers. In announcing its support for the measure at hearings in the House and Senate, the SIU stated the bills would keep the U.S.-flag independent tanker fleet sailing into the next century which would provide jobs for American mariners. Previously the union had opposed lifting the ban. However, the SIU changed its position last year when legislation was introduced to permit the export sales as long as the oil was carried aboard U.S.-flag tankers. Lifting the ban as long as the oil is carried on American-flag tankers also has the support of the Clinton administration. During the same congressional hearings, the deputy secretary for the Energy Department, William H. White, told the House and Senate committees that the administration favors the legislation as written. White also noted during a House Resource Committee hearing on May 9 that the U.S. Trade Representative has stated H.R. 70 does not violate provisions within the Organization of Economic Cooperation and Development and the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade. Cape Race Breaks Out for Bosnia ,, Seafarers have crewed a Ready Reserve Force (RRF) roll-on/rolloff vessel expected to participate in the United Nations (U.N.) peacekeeping effort in Bosnia. The Cape Race, operated by OMI Corp., left the port of Norfolk, Va. on June 28. News reports state the vessel is sailing to England to pick up equipment .... ~........-.....;;..;:~ for use by U.N. peacekeepers positioned in the war-torn country located in southeastern Europe near the Adriatic Sea in what used to be Yugoslavia. (RRF vessels make up a fleet of militarily useful vessels docked around the country in layup or reduced operating status that are activated in times of national emergency. The ships are owned by the Maritime Administration, which contracts their operations to various U.S.-flag shipping companies.) Fighting has raged for years in Deckhands Scott Manley (left) and Duncan Armentor clean the American Queen's deck following the christening last month in New the area between Bosnian Serbs, Orleans. The deck gang worked through a powerful and spicy scent, as Croats and Muslims. Through the the boat was christened with a giant bottle of Tabasco Pepper Sauce. use of non-combatant troops from N'' The SIU-crewed Cape Race is sailing to England to load equipment needed by U.N. peacekeeping forces positioned in Bosnia. member nations, the U.N. has tried to stop the fighting but has had little success. Previous American efforts in the peacekeeping operation have been limited to air support for U .N. ground forces and donations of food and other supplies for civilians. The break-out of the Cape Race comes after President Clinton met with other European leaders to discuss the situation in Bosnia. Recently, U .N. peacekeepers were held hostage and being used as human shields to prevent air attacks on Bosnian Serb forces. Late last month, the North American Treaty Organization (NATO), an alliance of 16 nations in North America and Europe, approved provisions to send forces into Bosnia to remove the peacekeepers from the fighting. The U.S. is a member of NATO. �4 SEAFARERS LOG JULY1995 Efforts Continue for Enactment of U.S. Ship Bill Efforts continue on Capitol Hill to gain support for a 10-year program to provide funds for approximately 50 U.S.-flag containerships. The Maritime Security Act (H.R. 1350) is awaiting action by the House of Representatives after the bill cleared the chamber's National Security Committee on May 24. Earlier in the month, H.R. 1350 had been marked up by the committee's Merchant Marine Panel. (The act of marking up a bill in Congress makes the legislation ready for review and consideration by the next higher level.) The bill, which has the support of the SIU and other maritime unions, calls for the Department of Transportation to provide annual appropriations of $100 million over a 10-year period to help fund roughly 50 U.S.-flag containerships. In turn, the companies whose vessels receive the dollars would make those ships available to the Department of Defense in times of national emergency or war. In a letter dated June 22, Representatives Herbert H. Bateman (R-Va.), Merchant Marine Panel chairman, and Gene Taylor (DMi ss.), the panel's ranking minority party member, wrote the chairman of the House Ap- propriations Subcommittee for Commerce, Justice, State and Judiciary to fund the provisions ofH.R. 1350. (The subcommittee oversees spending for the merchant marine.) The second point made by ficient and cost-effective opera- sage of H.R. 1350. Bateman and Taylor is H.R. 1350 tion of United States-flag ships." The Congress would "have the· will contribute positively to Bateman and Taylor stated the opportunity each year to evaluate America's economy. bill would allow American-flag the effectiveness of this program They wrote that the American shipping companies to replace and to consider changes necesmaritime industry provides jobs older vessels with newer, more sary to increase the ability of the which "generate much-needed efficient ships to compete with United States-flag merchant Outline Reasons for Support revenues for federal and state foreign carriers. They added H.R. marine to enhance the economic In the communication with taxing authorities, and improves 1350 also would permit operators and military security of our naRepresentative Harold Rogers our balance of payments and toaltertraderoutes without going tion," they wrote to Rogers. (R-Ky.), the pair outlined four balance of trade." through hearings for government Bateman and Taylor wrapped reasons why the bill should be approval. up their letter by saying, "We are supported and funded. Another matter of concern The final point made in the convinced H.R. 1350 as reported First, they pointed out the bill brought to Rogers' attention by letter to Rogers stated Congress is consistent with the goals and would "significantly enhance our the pair was H.R. 1350 would would have "an ongoing over- objectives of the 104th Congress. nation's sealift capability and "eliminate intrusive federal sight role in the implementation It makes good sense militarily military security. It will ensure _re_g_u_la_t_io_n_s_w_hi_._c_h_i_m_p_e_de_th_e_e_f_-_o_f_m_a_n._ti_m_e_p_o_l_ic_y_"_w_i_th_th_e_p_a_s_-_an_d_e_c_o_n_o_m_ic_al_ly_.'_'_ _ _ __ that our country will not become totally dependent on foreign nations and foreign crews to transport the supplies and equipment needed by American servicemen overseas." AFL-CIO President Lane Kirkland, who started Bateman and Taylor noted an active U.S. -flag maritime fleet his career as a merchant ship deck officer during makes sure the nation has World War II, will retire as head of the nation's "trained, loyal American mer- federation of labor, effective August 1. In announcing his retirement from a position he chant mariners" available in has held almost 16 years, Kirkland stated, "Service times of emergencies. It guarantees America will have militarily in the cause of free and democratic trade unionism useful vessels ready for overseas is a privilege, and I am happy and secure in the conviction that I have been faithful to it. A life spent operations, they added. in that service is a happy one, and I regret nothing." SIU President Michael Sacco praised the leaderHelps Economy ship that Kirkland has provided the labor movement. The congressmen stated that "For more than 50 years, Brother Kirkland has the bill also encourages a domes- given unselfishly of himself to improve the lives of tic commercial shipbuilding and America's working men and women," Sacco said. ship repair industry. "He has held steadfast to this vision. We in labor owe him a great deal and thank him for his unwavering commitment to the movement and the country." AFL-CIO President Lane Kirkland, shown speaking at the labor federation's 1993 convention, announced he Started in Maritime will step down August 1 after 16 years at the helm. Sacco also recognized Kirkland for his concern regarding the U.S.-flag merchant marine. He noted research staff of the American Federation of Labor this dedication goes back to Kirkland's beginnings (AFL). During the next 10 years, he handled a wide in the labor movement as a member of the Interna- range of assignments with the AFL, then the AFLtional Association of Masters, Mates and Pilots. CIO following the merger with the Congress of After graduating from the U.S. Merchant Marine Industrial Organizations. Academy in Kings Point, N.Y. in 1942, Kirkland In 1958, Kirkland joined the International Union sailed during World War II as a deck officer. He of Operating Engineers as director of research and served aboard seven different vessels carrying am- education. Two years later, he was named the exmunition and other materiel in the North Atlantic, ecutive assistant to then AFL-CIO President along the North African coast and in the Pacific George Meany. island campaigns. . . During a speech he delivered at the academy in Elected President m 1979 March 1993, Kirkland recalled being asked by a Kirkland was elected secretary-treasurer of the reporter if he was afraid of a decision he had made AFL-CIO in 1969. He held the position until his concerning a course of action for the AFL-CIO. election as president during the labor federation's He responded, "Afraid? I'll tell you what afraid 1979 convention. is. Afraid is a four-hour night watch on the bridge During his tenure, Kirkland unified the labor Recently named administrator for of a freighter in the middle of a blacked-out convoy movement by bringing the United Automobile the Benefits Plans, Lou Delma has loaded with high explosives and high octane Workers, the Teamsters, the United Mine Workers worked with the SIU for 30 years. gasoline, in a full gale in mid-winter in the North and the Internationa~ Longshoremen's and Atlantic, surrounded bywolfpacks. Warehousemen's Union back into the AFL-CIO. he became the deputy ad"Afraid is knowing that in another eight hours His term saw the first women and Hispanics elected ministrator for the welfare, pen- you are going to have to do it all over again and for to the AFL-CIO executive council, the 33-member sion and vacation programs. many days and nights yet. That's what afraid is, and board that governs the activities of the federation. Delma has continued his I haven't been afraid of anything since." The AFL-CIO also expanded its international efstudies over the years by talcing Following the war, he worked at the U.S. Navy's forts, using solidarity with overseas organizations business classes at both Staten Is- Hydrographic Office in Washington, D.C. as a to help bring successful resolutions to struggles land Community College in New nautical engineer. At the same time, he studied and faced by American unions. York and Northern Virginia acquired his bachelor's degree from the GeorAccording to the constitution of the AFL-CIO, Community College. He and his getown University School of Foreign Service in Kirkland's successor will be selected by the execuwife of 11 years, Andrea, have 1948. tive council. Prior to his announcement, the council four children. After receiving his diploma, Kirkland joined the had scheduled a meeting on August 1. Kirkland Announces Retirement As Labar Federation President Delma Named Benefits Plans Administrator The Seafarers Plans Board of Trustees has appointed Lou Delma, 47, to the position of Seafarers Plan Administrator. Continuing his 30-year career with the SIU, Delma will oversee the operations for the departments dealing with the welfare, pension and vacation programs as administrator. The Brooklyn, N.Y. native began his career with the SIU in 1965 in the claims department preparing Seafarers medical expense requests for processing at the former Plan office, located at 17 Battery Place in Manhattan, N.Y. From 1965 until 1977, Delma held various positions in the Seafarers claims department. At the end of 1977, he went to work with the manpower department. In 1980, he became supervisor of the records and vacation department, assisting Seafarers in processing their vacation applications. Delma began working as the assistant administrator for the Benefits Plans in 1992. In 1993, Rose Hall, Widow of Paul Hall, Dies at 72 Rose Siegel Hall, the widow of the late SIU President Paul Hall, succumbed to cancer on June 20. She was 72 years old. Rose Siegel grew up in a labor family. Her mother was active in the International Ladies Garment Workers Union. She came to work in 1944 for the SIU as the executive administrative assistant to the union's secretary-treasurer, John i Hawk. Later, she was assigned to work Rose Siegel Hall attends the 1991 dedication of with Paul Hall following his election as the union's training and education center named New York port agent . , in memory of her late husband, Paul Hall. Hall soon became the umon s or- ganizing director. Siegel's background and knowledge of the labor movement made her a valuable asset in the union's campaigns to organize Isthmian Steamship Co. and Cities Service tankers during the late 1940s. According to retired SIU official Ed Mooney, "It was nothing for Rose to climb a gangway any time of the day or night to make a payoff or take a deposition. You have to remember, this was a time when women weren't even supposed to be on the waterfront." Retired SIU counsel Howard Schulman recalled that Paul Hall "seemed to encourage her to express her opinion at meetings. Whether he agreed with her or not, he wanted to know what she thought." She continued to work for the SIU until she married Hall in 1950 and retired to raise a family. She remained involved in local civic and labor causes throughout her life. Mrs. Hall is survived by two children, Margo Hall O'Kane and Max Siegel Hall. Services were held June 23 at the Riverside Chapel followed by burial at Greenwood Cemetery in Brooklyn, N.Y. �JULY1995 SEAFARERS LOG 5 Upgraders Tab Hazmat and Confined-Space Training as Tanker Course Highlights The confined-space entry and rescue portion of the Paul Hall Center's tanker operation/safety class is a course highlight, said several Seafarers who last month completed the four-week tanker course. The upgraders also cited the oil spill/hazardous materials (hazmat) prevention and recovery training as one of the most useful sections of the tanker safety class, which is required for all SIU members who sail aboard tankers. ''The first two weeks, when we covered hazmat and confined-space rescue, were exceptionally good," stated Bosun Bob Garcia, a Seafarer since 1969. "We learned a lot of things that will be useful when we're out there on tankers." "It's important to know how to go about checking for different chemicals, as well as what to do once you've identified them," noted QMED/Chief Pumpman George Phillips, who most recently sailed on the Overseas Boston. "We learned a lot about flammability and toxicity. We also practiced using lifelines to get people out of tanks without injuring either them or The OSHA regulation defines a comourselves." bined space as a small area not normally used by employees. It requires that superOSHA-Certified visors or other employees be able to deterCompleting the confined-space train- mine if a hazard exists in the confined ing portion of the tanker course, officially space, and if so, that they are able to seal titled Confined-Space Entry Permit/Safe off the problem and get it under control. Rescue, results in upgraders obtaining cer- Further, it calls for training that will enable tification from the Occupational Safety and workers to execute a rescue of one or more Health Administration (OSHA) via the Paul persons who are trapped in a horizontal, Hall Center. This curriculum also has been vertical or diagonal confined space. offered as a separate, elective course by the During the tanker safety course, Lundeberg School since late 1993. upgraders practice confined-space entry An OSHA regulation that went into and rescue operations aboard the training effect that year requires such training for barge Empress II. This includes the use of some shoreside workers, but not for mer- air-monitoring equipment, protective chant mariners or shipyard workers. But, clothing and breathing gear, ventilators in adding both the 35-hour Confined- and more. Space Entry Permit/Safe Rescue class as Many Topics well as a 24-hour Confined-Space Entry Permit course, Lundeberg School instrucThe tanker safety course also includes tors pointed out that Seafarers routinely practical training for oil spill/hazmat must enter and work in confined spaces, prevention and recovery, as well as the study and therefore stand to benefit from the new of tanker construction, general tanker safety, and chemical and physical properties of elective courses. petroleum products. Students also review sections of the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 (OPA '90) and examine the flammability traits, toxicity/asphyxiation characteristics and health hazards associated with exposure to petroleum products. Other segments of the course cover monitoring tanks for oxygen deficiency and talcing other meter readings with atmospheric monitoring equipment; creating shipboard safety plans; fit-tests using respirators; and an introduction to fire chemistry, firefighting and fire/emergency duties. Oil-removal contingency plans, use of federal information guides designed to aid mariners, and rules for protecting the marine environment are among other subjects studied by the upgraders. --------~--· ..···-i "Overall, it's a great course," said AB Seafarers in the tanker safety course learn to identify various types of hazardous materials. Aaron Simmons, who completed the Upgraders at the Paul Hall Center simulate a rescue aboard the training vessel Empress II as part of the tanker operation/safety class. class last month and who joined the SIU in 1992 in the port of Norfolk, Va. "The instructor was excellent and everybody learned a lot." Lundeberg School instructors developed the course in response to regulations stemming from OPA '90. It is open to all Seafarers and, as was agreed during negotiations between the union and SIU-contracted tanker companies, includes hands-on training and classroom instruction. For information on upcoming classes and how to register for the course, see page 19 of this issue of the Seafarers LOG. AB Horton Dives into Harbor To Retrieve Fallen Old Glory Sabine Crews Ratify ThreeYear Pact SIU boatmen navigating harbor tugs in ports along the Sabine Pass in the Gulf of Mexico are sailing under a new three-year agreement. The pact with Sabine Transportation Co. began June 1 and includes wage and benefits increases as well as improved working conditions into 1998. Representatives for the Port Arthur, Texas-based company and the SIU held seven negotiating sessions in Port Arthur in May. Negotiators were able to secure, for the first time, outpatient medical care for the spouses and dependents of the SIU members who sail aboard all seven of Sabine's harbor tugs. The Seafarers also will receive wage increases throughout the life of the contract. Delegates to the talks included Captain Wilton Potts, who sailed aboard the tug Samson; Assistant Engineer Kenny Moore from the tug Hermes; and AB/Quartermaster James Hebert of the tug Samson. They were joined by SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey and Houston Port Agent Jim McGee. "Negotiations were very productive," Assistant Engineer Moore told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. "I think the outcome was pretty good. The outpatient care was our biggest gain yet. It will really help those of us with families and young children." · Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (left) discusses the new agreement with Captain William Travis aboard the Samson. The engineer added that he was "impressed with how hard the union worked on getting a good and fair contract. Jim [McGee] and Dean [Corgey] really worked hard for the membership." A union meeting was held in Port Arthur for the crews of the seven tugs where the new pact was discussed before a ratification vote was taken. McGee and the delegates also boarded each tug where the contract was proposed and voted on. The seven harbor tugs which make up Sabine's harbor division include the Ares, Goliath, Hermes, Nike, Samson, Spartan and Titan. Seafarers aboard the tugs dock and undock vessels as well as perform other harbor work in the waters surrounding the ports of Port Arthur, Orange, Nederland and Groves, Texas and Lake Charles, La. For AB William C. Horton, the sight of an American flag floating in the harbor of Santos, Brazil was too much to take. The 20-year veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps and five-year SIU member reacted within seconds. "I went in after it," Horton told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. The deck department member was on watch the morning of June 4 while the Sea Wolf was tied up in the port of Santos. Horton's duty at sunrise was to hoist the colors on the roll-on/roll-off vessel operated by Crowley American Transport. "I always hook up the blue field first," Horton stated. "That way, the flag unfurls properly when it is run up the pole." As he was following his normal procedure, Horton saw a second flag fall from the one he had attached to the pole. Unknown to the AB, the two flags were folded as if they were one. The second flag dropped into the water. "I stood there and looked," Horton recalled. "I felt bad. I couldn't stand to see it in the water. "I ran down to the dock and dove in to retrieve it." Horton's shipmates watched in disbelief from the vesseJ. As soon as he dove into the harbor, the crew threw a line to help him get back to the dock. "I don't know what anyone else would have done, but I couldn'fleave it there. My years in the Marines taught me to • Holding the flag he retrieved from the harbor of Santos, Brazil is AB William C. Horton. Standing with the deck department member in the bridge of the Sea Wolf is Captain Eduardo A. Sica. respect the flag." His act of saving the flag did not go unnoticed by the master of the Sea Wolf, Captain Eduardo A. Sica, who wrote the SIU to inform the union of Horton's action. "Without the least hesitation, this ex-Marine jumped into the river and recovered the ensign. Some of the locals watched him in awe. We helped him back on board ... and we were very proud of him. "Willie told me that he just could not have thought of anything different to do about it," Captain Sica wrote. Horton began his career with the SIU in 1990 shortly after retiring from the Marine Corps. In between, his job as a mechanic allowed him to do some engine work on military prepositioning vessels. He said he would watch the duties performed by deck department crewmembers and wanted to do the same. Since joining the union, Horton has sailed on a variety of vessels, including one that delivered materiel to the Persian Gulf during Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm. He upgraded at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education to obtain his AB ticket. �,...---------------------------------------------~~--~-~---~-------~-~~ -- - 6 - JULY1995 SEAFARERS LOG Taking a break from checking stores are Second Dariusz Czepczynski (left) and Porter Chuck Chrzan. Gateman Terry Pyrlik visits the Duluth, Minn. hall while the ship is docked. Kinsman Seafarers Shuttle Wheat On Lakes Superior, Huron and Erie The summer months are busy times for Seafarers who sail aboard Great Lakes vessels. This is especially true for the SIU members aboard the Kinsman Independent-a Laker which carries wheat from the Twin Harbors region of Duluth, Minn. and Superior, Wis. to Buffalo, N.Y. Grain harvests are plentiful during the summer months. This results in a continuous shuttling of wheat by the SIU-crewed vessel. The Kinsman Independent and its sister ship, the Kinsman Enterprise, load the wheat in Duluth and Superior and make the long trek across Lake Superior, down Lake Huron and through Lake Erie to the General Mills plant in Buffalo. The total voyage time for each 600-foot vessel is approximately 11 days. The wheat then is used to make General Mills breakfast cereals such as Wheaties and Cheerios. Seafarers began their 1995 sailing season aboard the Kinsman Independent on March 14 in Buffalo. The Laker sailed out of the Lake Erie port on March 29, bound for Duluth, to pick up its first cargo of the year. The photos on this page were taken by crewmembers on the Looking over his welding job in the engineroom of the Kinsman Kinsman Independent when the vessel recently docked. Independent is Oiler Shawn Murphy. · Wheelsman Eugene Pike is ready On the deck of the Great for another busy season transport- Lakes vessel is FOWT ing wheat aboard the Laker. John Rittinghouse. Carrying lines to the Kinsman Independent, docked in Superior, Wis., is OS Karl Bergman. Wheelsman Richard Dhols handles shifting operations along the dock while grain is being loaded onto the vessel. �JULY1995 SEAFARERS LOG Six Bosuns Reach Deck Dept Pinnacle Afterreceiving recognition for their successful completion of the highest curriculum available to Seafarers who sail in the deck department, six newly recertified bosuns thanked their teachers, as well as union officials, and provided words of encouragement to the trainees attending the June membership meeting at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. "I'd like to thank Paul Hall [the late SIU president] for creating Piney Point. And to the trainees, I say: Don't give up. When you go out on your ship, give it your best and never stop bettering yourself. Always be willing to come back [to the Lundeberg School]," said Aubrey Davis, a 1980 Piney Point graduate. Jorge Osorio, who sails from the port of New Orleans, noted the chance for advancement that the Lundeberg School provides to each Seafarer. "This has been a great experience," Osorio said. 'Thank you to all our instructors and to those who made this education possible. To all of you, I say: pass the word around to your fellow crewmembers. Come and upgrade and recertify if you can." Keeping Informed The Costa Rican native, who joined the union in 1960, also reflected on the abundance of knowledge he discovered as a result of the recertification course. "While at sea, we don't realize how much is going on in Washington with our union and the maritime industry. The class Recertified Bosun Aubrey Davis urges the Lundeberg School trainees to never stop bettering themselves. At the June membership meeting in Piney Point, Md., six Seafarers receive recognition for successfully completing the bosun recertification course. They are, from left, Patrick Ray, Thomas Parisi, Glenn Christianson, Aubrey Davis, Sal Ciciulla and Jorge Osorio. was most enlightening. I really enjoyed learning more about how the union works from the officials and getting more information on what is happening politically with our industry," he added. Osorio was not the only member of the group to find the meetings between the bosuns and union officials valuable and informative. Others stated they found the give~and-take an important part of their training. In order to gather as much information as possible, the six bosuns met with legislative representatives of the Maritime Trades Department (MID) and SIU at AFL-CIO headquarters in Washington, D.C. (The MTD deals with matters concerning the 41 affiliated trade unions and 28 port councils representing workers in the maritime and allied fields.) During the meeting at the MTD, the bosuns were made aware of key issues affecting the maritime industry and what efforts are being made by the MID and SIU legislative and governmental affairs departments to ensure job security for Seafarers. Also, the group was addressed by representatives of every department within the SIU and had an opportunity to have their questions answered. The bosuns discussed union organizing and contract enforcement with officials from the SIU's collective bargaining department. They were updated on the benefits of the welfare, vacation, training and pension funds. Additionally, they were instructed by communications department representatives in how to contribute photographs and information for use in the Seafarers LOG. "We learned quite a lot about how the union works," noted Sal Ciciulla, who sails from the port of San Francisco. "It was very educational learning about the Maritime Trades Department and what is going on in the maritime world. It is very important to keep informed of the problems the maritime industry faces," said the bosun, who began his career with the Sailors' Union of the Pacific before joining the SIU in 1979. "I really respect what our union officials are doing for us. After visiting Washington, D.C., I now understand just how much it takes to keep the union going," Ciciulla added. Attending the various meetings and learning more about his union was "an eye-opening experience" according to Glenn Christianson. "We had the opportunity to see our guys out here in Washington working hard for our jobs. I really enjoyed talking to my union representatives," the Seattle native said. The chance for advancement at Thomas Parisi echoed the Piney Point is a great benefit, said Recertified Bosun Jorge Osorio at sentiments of the other bosuns when he noted, "I was proud to the membership meeting. learn about all that our union officials are doing to keep us afloat. They are really doing a great job." derway and vertical replenishment procedures also were thoroughly reviewed, as were advanced firefighting and emergency first aid classes. "It was all hands on. The instructors were excellent, and it was good to review important skills such as CPR and first aid," noted Parisi, a third generation Seafarer, who joined the SIU in 1980 in the port of Gloucester, Mass. Following an extensive series of drills, exercises and classroom work in each area of study, the bosuns had to demonstrate their proficiency by passing either a written exam or a demonstration drill or both. Another important segment of the bosuns' curriculum focused on communicating effectively with both unlicensed ana ticensed shipmates. This skill is vital at sea in order to relay work orders and see they are done properly. Changed With the Times Thirty-five-year-old Patrick Ray was amazed at the progress of the school. The 1978 graduate of the trainee program has returned to the Lundeberg School six times since completing his basic training there, most recently in 1985. "I can even remember when the old hotel was still standing," Ray recalled. "The thing that I enjoy most about coming back to Piney Point is that I end up running into old friends and shipmates who I haven't seen in 10 or 15 years. It's great," said Ray, who sails from the port of Jacksonville, Fla. On top of meeting fellow Seafarers, Ray found even more value in the classroom training and union information he received. "The entire program was good. It is always a good idea to refresh skills needed while at sea," added the bosun. With his graduation certificate in hand at the podium, he added, "This piece of paper means so much to me. Thank you all." Reviewing Skills The bosuns reviewed many important skills during their fiveweek recertification training. They perfected certain deck techniques such as wiresplicing, knot-tying and navigation. The men also completed advanced shiphandling classes using the Paul Hall Center's simulator, which reproduces sailing conditions in ports around the world. The six Seafarers practiced military sealift operations such as helicopter landing and takeoff exercises, damage control proceGlenn Christianson, left, is congratulated by Vice President Contracts dures, forklift handling and Emergency first aid classes form part of the bosun recertification curHagglund crane operation. Un- riculum. Above, Sal Ciciulla (right) adjusts the sling on Tom Parisi's arm. Augie Tellez upon receipt of his graduation certificate. 7 �B JULY1995 SEAFARERS LOG Cruise Ship Members Continue Work During Constitution Layup Seafarers who sail aboard the two American Hawaii Cruises passenger ships will continue to have employment opportunities while the SS Constitution undergoes renovations, scheduled to begin this month. The union and the company recently reached an agreement to provide a crewing schedule aboard the SS Independence. This agreement will ensure that those crewmembers who were scheduled to work aboard the Constitution will now have the opportunity to sail aboard its sister ship, the Independence. The Independence will maintain its seven-day cruises around the Hawaiian Islands while the Constitution is in layup. American Hawaii Cruises expects the Independence to be sailing at or near capacity throughout the Constitution's renovations, which will provide the additional job opportunities. Meanwhile, SIU members aboard the Constitution have been preparing the cruise ship for entry into a Portland, Ore. shipyard later this month. The vessel will not follow the same renovation schedule used aboard the Independence last year. American Hawaii Cruises has announced the Constitution will stay out of service until all renovations are completed. (The Independence underwent some renovations at a Newport News, Va. shipyard during the summer and fall of 1994. It then returned to service with the company and will be ready have more work performed at a date to be announced later.) Plans call for the Constitution to sail from Honolulu to Portland where work will begin on the deck, swimming pools and crew quarters. Later, the vessel will undergo renovations and redecoration of all passenger cabins as well as public areas and stairways. Also, the vessel's electrical, air conditioning and plumbing systems will be upgraded in the shipyard. American Hawaii Cruises plans to complete all the work on the Constitution before returning it to service, now scheduled for the summer of 1996. SIU President Michael Sacco noted that renovations of the two cruise ships point to the longterm commitment being made by American Hawaii Cruises to use American workers and sail under the U.S. flag. He added the work on the ships ensures that the company will provide jobs for Seafarers into the next century. Cabin Attendant Leslie Brown's daily tasks include making the beds and cleaning passenger's rooms. OS/Maintenance Nagi Mohamed (left) grabs a bite of lunch while talking with Crew Cook Nagi Omar. Attending a shipboard meeting to learn more about the layup is Electrician Hasan Biko. Duties continue while the ship heads for a year-long layup. SA F. Zain cleans up following a crew meal. Crewmembers Practice Passenger Safety Gathering in the deck crew lounge to be updated on the ship's layup are (left to right) Bosun Gedera Razeek, AB B. Haines and AB M. Setnik. Entering the crew galley to learn the latest news about the ship's schedule are (left to right) Waiter S. Vogel, Wiper L. Duity, BR J. Maclaurin and BR H. Mohamed. Led by Bosun Terry Armas (forward with line), crewmembers from the SS Constitution practice passenger lifeboat safety drills. Seafarers aboard the SS Constitution, and its sister ship, the SS Independence, conduct regular exercises in order to be prepared for an actual emergency. In this photograph, shot by AB Nednito Sodusta, a motorized lifeboat tows a non-powered unit to safety. �JULY1995 SEAFARERS LOG AB Hudson, Four Others Receive MSCPAC Awards In recognition for going over and above the call of duty to make the USNS Catawba a great ship to sail aboard, AB Mack Hudson was named the 1994 Military Sealift Command Pacific (MSCPAC) Shipmate of the Year. TheSIUGovemmentServices Division member was nominated by the ship's master, Pat Huetter, for being a superior shipmate. The annual awards recognize outstanding work efforts and achievements by individuals sailing in the unlicensed deck, engine and steward departments as well as deck, engine and medical officers in the fleet. In addition to Hudson, others represented by the SIU to receive the 1994 Mariner Award of Excellence were Bosun James J. Gibbs, Engine Utilityman Herbert H. Haynes Jr. and Chief Cook Vevencio C. Cerillo. others is another valuable asset to a small crew." · The captain described two recent instances in which Hudson went out of his way to make his fellow crewmates feel at home aboard the Catawba. "Mr. Hudson has twice this year-once with a new able seaman and once with a new ordinary seaman-taken the time and effort to ensure the new person was made to feel welcome and comfortable aboard. "He taught them the business of safety at sea and helped them with their marlinespike seamanship. Both men became better sailors due to Mr. Hudson's efforts," the master of the Catawba concluded. Hudson was presented with a framed certificate proclaiming his outstanding seamanship by Captain Eric Shaver, MSCPAC commander, during a special awards ceremony in Oakland, Calif. Valuable Asset The other mariners also were In a letter recommending Hud- recognized at the ceremony held son for MSCPAC Shipmate of the in late April. Year, Captain Huetter wrote, . . . Outstanding Ded1cat1on "Mack M. Hudson Jr. is from the old school of seamanship. His Bosun Gibbs, who sails aboard professionalism on deck and the USNS Kilauea, was praised by ability to perform any task as- Captain Mark LaRochelle for signed is invaluable to a small dedication to his deck department deck gang. His outgoing per- crew and for the shipboard work sonality and genuine interest in they perform. The captain noted Gibbs has a tremendous ability to work hard under high stress situations, whether at sea or in the shipyard. "Mr. Gibbs' ability to orchestrate complex operations and coordinate his workforce makes the difference between meeting and exceeding mission commitmen ts or falling behind schedule," noted the captain. According to LaRochelle, Gibbs' hard work, accompanied by his professionalism, makes him not only an excellent shipmate to the entire Kilauea crew, but also an asset to the MSCPAC fleet. "When others elect not to work overtime during unpleasant working conditions or inclement weather, Mr. Gibbs has been conspicuous in his extensive work output. His enthusiasm is never diminished by external factors over which he has no control or influence. When the going gets tough, Mr. Gibbs just gets tougher and keep·s charging," LaRochelle wrote. LaRochelle also commended the Seafarer for his vast knowledge of underway replenishment and cargo operations aboard the MSCPAC vessel. Unlicensed engine department winner Haynes was presented the award for his superior work and Capt. Eric Shaver (left), MSCPAC commander, presents AB Mack Hudson with the 1994 MSCPAC Shipmate of the Year award during an April ceremony in Oakland, Calif. attitude while sailing aboard the USNS Walter S. Diehl in 1994. According to the ship's chief engineer, Doug Robb, Haynes' enthusiasm for his job-together with his efficiency-makes him a team player and a benefit to the entire MSCPAC fleet. T~e chief engineer commended Haynes' superior knowledge and positive attitude while performing his work aboard the Diehl. Boosting Moral In gaining recognition for his work on the USNS Mars, Chief Cook Cerillo was commended for boosting the morale of his crew- members by preparing top-notch meals. "He• s a dedicated and hard working individual who takes extreme pride in producing the best meals possible for the crew," wrote Supply Officer Jack Dempsey in his nomination of Cerillo. "He's very conscientious and always puts in the extra effort in every aspect of his job." In his nomination letter, Dempsey compared his chief cook's holiday feasts to those of a five-star restaurant. The supply officer also noted that Cerillo always maintains a spotless galley and constantly regulates shipboard sanitation and safety procedures. Seafarers Keep Lummus Ready For Immediate Military Call-Up Maintaining the 1st Lt. Jack Lummus for possible military action at any time is one of the jobs for the ship's SIU crew. Operated by Amsea, the Military Sealift Command (MSC) prepositioning vessel is fully loaded with enough ammunition and stores to sustain a U.S. Marine Corps brigade for a month in the event American military forces are called into action. The Lummus shuttles regularly between the western Pacific Ocean islands of Guam and Saipan, on which the U.S. maintains military bases. When SIU Assistant Vice President Bob Hall recently visited the ship in Guam (where he took the photos accompanying this article), he found a great deal of activity aboard the Lummus as crewmembers worked to keep the vessel up to the high standards set by MSC. Maintaining the prepositioning ship in a state of military preparedness means keeping the vessel in good physical condition. It also means the crewmembers must be ready. Helicopter landings, lifeboat drills, fire and rescue drills and loading/unloading exercises at sea are designed to ensure that each individual will know what to do in the event of a U.S. military activation and deployment. The ship was named in memory of Marine 1st Lt. Jack Lummus, After a morning spent chipping and painting, ABs who knocked out three enemy installations before being fatally SA Carmelita Henry is ready to tackle a galley as- Paul Griffin and Don Deflorio take a coffee break in wounded during the World War II battle for Iwo Jima. signment aboard the military prepositoning ship. the crew's mess hall. Lummus galley gang members prepare a special cake to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the battle of two Jima, where the ship's namesake fought and was killed. They are (from left) SA Cynthia Adamson, SA Kendrick Gatton, SA Trent Williams, Cook/Baker Karl Meyer, Steward/Baker Tony Ferrara, Chief Cook Ron Davis and SA Mike Thompson. Discussing union matters with SIU AB Richard Hilbert carves small Vice President Bob Hall aboard the figurines out of soap during his spare Lummus is AB Jon Williams. time aboard the prepositioning vessel. 9 �10 JULY1995 SEAFARERS LOG One of the deckhands on the American Queen is Scott Manley. Making sure the guests' glasses are kept full is Beverly White. ·~ s ea fa re rs· c r ew F LONG ROBIN STREET WHARF IN New Orleans, guests smiled and gestured toward the Seafarers-crewed American Queen as they remarked about her sparkling exterior - from the mahogany grand staircase near the bow, to the fluted stacks extending above the sixth deck, to the bright red 60-ton paddle - dining room, the Grand Saloon theater patterned afcer an 1885 river-town opera house, and all the other amenities that evoke a sense of travelling back in time. Even the weather seemed to favor the American Queen. On June 1, a day before her christening, it rained so hard that the local newspaper published a page-1 article about the storm. But on June 2, nary a cloud could be seen as a giant ceremonial bottle of Tabasco Pepper Sauce (made in Louisiana) crashed across the sun-drenched bow of the largest steamboat ever built. "I'm proud to be here," said Robbi Kinney, a :-: member of the steward department who helped · 1 train the dining room staff. "We have a wonderful crew and a beautiful boat." The American Queen, which began passenger service late last month, is the largest overnight passenger vessel built in a U.S. shipyard in the last 40 years. Blending modern convenience$ with the look and feel of a 19th-century paddlewheeler, the boat cost approximately $70 million to construct and furnish. SIU members busily helped prepare the 4 18. foot craft following her delivery to The Delta Queen Steamboat Co. in April from McDermott Shipyard in Amelia, La. After the christening, they conveyed a crew-wide excitement about R. Kinney sharing in the historic breakout of the Victorianstyle boat. "Morale is excellent, everyone works well together and the boat is gorgeous, inside and out," said Duncan Armentor, a 22-yearold deckhand and local resident. "I always wanted to work on a boat that cruises the Mississippi River." Oiler Dave Leddy noted the among ff "Everybody wor Here in the engi kinds of differen oiling, general cl While most of aboard either de .-..-.:::>w- (many have wor D. Armentor American Que Queen and the Mississippi Yolanda Robertson, 26, thi beautiful, exactly what I expe doing housekee first trip. So far it' The newness an attraction fo including Head of the main rea perience a new worked aboard D.Leddy been fun, a learn Jeffrey Krida, president of Steamboat Co., credited the professionalism of the crew as the company's success, a decision to add the America fleet. But the new boat's deco historically accurate, fine! modernly comfortable - und attraction. The American Queen's �SEAFARERS LOG JULY1995 , -.\iJ1 ~ Hundreds of people were on hand to celebrate the christening of the American Queen on June 2 in New Orleans. y Nearing comp Ieti on of another shift is Deckhand Ed Hopcraft. bulous New Steamboat s hard and works together. 1990's technology perhaps is best illustrated by its propulsion eroom, we've been doing all equipment. The vessel is outfitted with an authentic 1,400work: refitting valves, piping, horsepower steam engine (taken from a dormant dredge) anup," said Leddy, 22. that powers a pair of pistons to drive the paddle wheel. Suphe crewmembers have sailed plementing that power are two modern diesel-electric sysp sea ships, tugs or riverboats terns (z-drives) and twin bow thrusters that bring the total ed aboard one or both of the horsepower to 3,500. n's sister ships, the Delta The boat also is equipped with other items not found on Queen), for Cabin Attendant steamboats during the 1800s: surface-search radar, is her first vessel. "The boat is elevators, air conditioning, stateroom telephones, electronic ted," she said. "We've been fire-detection equipment, a computer that monitors 275 ing and getting ready for the points in the steam propulsion system, an electro-hydraulic been great." mechanism that can lower the pilothouse (particularly useful fthe American Queen also is when the boat passes under bridges) and more. experienced crewmembers, The design team studied historic photos and archival eckhand Ed Hopcraft. "One materials relating to Mississippi River steamboats in order to ens I signed on was to ex- develop old-style features on the American Queen, including: oat," said Hopcraft, who has the Delta Queen. "This has ·ng experience." he Delta Queen riendliness and a major factor in well as in its Queen to the ative scheme detailed and Y. Robertson ubtedly also is an enormous ixture of historic appeal and • the Grand Saloon showroom and lecture hall, marked by a jutting stage, framed by a decorated archway and flanked on a mezzanine level by private box seats for viewing live entertainment • a chart room decorated with authentic old-fashioned navigational instruments • a dining room that seats 220 guests and has windows providing a waterline view of the river • a lavishly decorated "ladies parlor" and "gentlemen's card room" based on those of 19th-century steamboats. ~ :.? - Among the other features are exterior lounges and recreation areas, a swimming pool and a gift shop. In addition, the vessel includes double-occupancy crew's cabins, each with a private bathroom and closets (similar to what is on board the Mississippi Queen). All in all, as one observer said at the christening, the American Queen looks like a sterling addition - one that may exceed even the loftiest expectations. 11 �- 12 SEAFARERS LOG J oining the growing number of SIU -pensioners this month are 19 Seafarers who have retired after many years of sailing the world's waterways. Thirteen of those signing off their ships for the last time sailed in the deep sea division, five navigated the inland waterways and one worked on Great Lakes vessels. Ten of the retiring SIU members served in the U.S. military - six in the Navy, three in the Army and one in the Coast Guard. Among this month's retirees, William E. Babbitt and William T. Baker completed the bosun recertification course at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md., and Rudy P. DeBoissiere graduated from the steward recertification course. On this page, the Seafarers LOG presents brief biographical accounts of the retiring pensioners. JULY1995 To Our New Pensioners • • . Thanks for a Job Well Done Each month in the Seafarers LOG, the names of SIU members who recently have become pensioners appear with a brief biographical sketch. These men and women have served the ·maritime industry well, and the SIU and all their union brothers and sisters wish them happiness and health in the days ahead. of the engine department. He has retired to his native Honduras. BILLIE R. HUGHES, 66,joined the SIU in 1956 in the port of New York. Anative of North Carolina, he sailed as a member of the engine department. From 1953 to 1955 he served in the U.S. Army. Brother Hughes continues to live in North Carolina. From 1950 to 1952 he served in the U.S. Army. A native of Florida, Brother Stewart continues to live there. ROGER W.SULLIVAN,65, joined the SIU in 1951 in the port of Baltimore. The GeorgianaJAMESP. ..--------. tive sailed in both the steward and deck departments. From McGUIRE, DEEP SEA 1946 to 1948 he served in the 65, started U.S. Navy. Brother Sullivan his career WILLIAM last shipped in June 1994 with the E. BABaboard the Bayamon. He curunion in BITT, 66, rently resides in Maryland. 1979 in the joined the port of NorSeafarers in folk, Va. ROBERT 1958 in the H. TWITE, He sailed as a member of the port of 62,began deck department. From 1947 Philadelto 1969 he served in the U.S. his career phia. The with the Navy. Born in New York, deck department member comunion in Brother McGuire now resides pleted the bosun recertification 1956 in the in Virginia. course in 1979 at the Lunport of Aldeberg School in Piney Point, pena, Mich. Md. From 1945 to 1952 he SALEHN. served in the U.S. Navy. Born MUTHANA, He began sailing in the deck department aboard Great Lakes in Indiana, Brother Babbitt now 65,began vessels and later transferred his resides in Pennsylvania. his sailing membership to the deep sea career with division. Brother Twite has the retired to his native Michigan. Seafarers in WILLIAM 1970 in the T.BAKER, r--~~~;:----i WILLIAM ======= port of 69,joined F. Detroit. Brother Muthana the SIU in WIEMERS, started working in the Great 1943 in the 65,joined Lakes division and later transport of Galthe ferred to deep sea vessels. He veston, Seafarers in sailed in both the deck and Texas. 1955 in the steward departments. Born in Brother port of SeatBaker sailed in the deck depart- Yemen, Brother Muthana tle. The makes his home in Michigan. ment and upgraded his skills at California native sailed as a the Lundeberg School where he member of the deck departgraduated from the bosun recer- TOMR. ment. Brother Wiemers has tification course in 1975. Born SAENZ,57, retired to Nevada. in Louisiana, Brother Baker joined the makes his home in Texas. SIU in 1963 INLAND in the port of Houston. r----==~---, RUDY P. WILBURN. AUSTIN, 65, The Texas DeBOISbegan sailing with the SIU in native SIERE, 66, 1970 from the port of Norfolk, shipped in started his Va. The deck department memboth the steward and engine career with ber started out as a tankerman departments. He signed off his the union in and worked his way up to barge Overseas Vivian, last vessel, the 1957 in the in February 1995. Brother Saenz captain. Boatman Austin parport of Balticipated in several membership continues to live in Texas. timore, sailconferences held at the Luning in the steward department. deberg School. Born in VirHe successfully completed the LLOYDE. ginia, he served 20 years in the steward recertification course SELIX, 64, U.S. Coast Guard, from 1948 to in 1980 at the Lundeberg began sail1968. Boatman Austin currentSchool. From 1948 to 1955 he ing with the ly resides in North Carolina. served in the U.S . Army. Born union in in New York, Brother De1952 from Boissiere has retired to Virginia. the port of San Francis- AUGUSTUST• .__....____,,'---'.., co. He BLAKE, CARLOS sailed in the deck department, 63, started J.GUERretiring as a bosun. A native of sailing with RER0,65, California, Brother Selix conthe union in began his tinues to live in his home state. 1960 from sailing the port of career with Norfolk, Va. GRADY C. STEW ART, 66, the As a licensed operator, Boatstarted his career with the Seafarers in man Blake began working in Seafarers in 1962 in the port of 1966 in the Mobile, Ala., sailing as a mem- the deck department as a mate port of New Orleans. Brother and worked his way up to port ber of the deck department. Guerrero shipped as a member captain. After upgrading his skills at the Lundeberg School, he passed the U.S. Coast Guard exam to gain his masters licence for tugs and towboats. From 1949 to 1953 he served in the U.S. Navy. Born and raised in North Carolina, he continues to make his home there. GENEVA R.MATTHEWS, 63,began sailing with the Seafarers in 1979 from '---'--===-___J the port of New Orleans. She shipped in the steward department and sailed primarily on Delta Queen Steamship vessels. Born in Georgia, Matthews now makes her home in Mississippi. CHARLES M.UNKRICH,62, began his sailing career with the union in 1971 in the port of New Orleans. Licensed as a tugboat and barge pilot, he sailed primarily for Dixie Carriers as a captain. Boatman Unkrich served in the U.S. Navy from 1949 to 1953. Born in Arkansas, Boatman Unkrich has retired to Louisiana. CURTIS F. WOODS, 59, joined the Seafarers in 1970 in the port of Mobile, Ala.He worked as a crane operator for Radcliff Materials, Inc., later known as Dravo. A native of Mississippi, Boatman Woods currently lives in Louisiana. GREAT LAKES RICHARD J.GIMPEL, 66, started with the SIU in 1963 in the port of Detroit. The ==__J deck department member participated in a membership conference at the Lundeberg School in 1984. Brother Gimpel served as a trustee to the Great Lakes Tug & Dredge Pension Plan from. 1987 to December 1994. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1946 to 1947. A native of Minnesota, Brother Gimpel has retired to Florida. LOG-A-RHYTHM Tar Impression by Cynthia Adamson Written upon the tired and Lined face of an old salt Speaks the aye of affirmation That his home is a sea. His wom and calloused hands Deftly deny his soft heart, The longing of which Is a love long past In some faraway port Under the dim light ofyouth. Now his passion is a skill Honed on the deck of a ship; An art with small recognition But a Da Vinci tied in each knot. Freedom is the poignant rush Of salt spray on silver hair, The very smell, taste and fear Of unpredictable swells. Here! Here! My agingfriend To following your dreams With honor and accolades For w1y smiles and winks. Your audience is eamed For stories and yarns. You 've captured our wanderlust In the image of your eyes. SA Cynthia Adamson, a graduate of the entry program at Piney Point last year, wrote this poem as the 1st Lt. Jack Lummus sailed through the San Bernadine Straits en route to Manila. �SEAFARERS LOG JULY1995 Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Cl~ C TOTAL SIDPPED All Groups Class A Class B Cla~ C Trip Reliefs **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Cl~ B Class C MAY 16-JUNE 15, 1995 Port New York 28 Philadelphia 2 Baltimore 7 13 Norfolk Mobile 8 New Orleans 20 Jacksonville 37 San Francisco 22 16 Wilmington 27 Seattle Puerto Rico 9 Honolulu 4 24 Houston St. Louis 2 Piney Point 3 Algonac 0 222 Totals Port New York 20 Philadelphia 3 Baltimore 1 Norfolk 8 Mobile 10 New Orleans 12 Jacksonville 10 San Francisco 15 Wilmington 2 16 Seattle Puerto Rico 6 Honolulu 3 14 Houston St. Louis 1 Piney Point 3 0 Algonac Totals 124 Port New York 17 Philadelphia 0 Baltimore 2 Norfolk 6 Mobile 7 New Orleans 10 Jacksonville 12 San Francisco 33 Wilmington 7 24 Seattle Puerto Rico 8 Honolulu 7 15 Houston 0 St. Louis 1 Piney Point Algonac 0 149 Totals 4 3 21 1 7 12 11 28 22 24 21 26 0 11 19 2 3 0 208 1 1 51 16 3 7 0 3 9 9 20 1 3 0 2 3 1 17 12 8 6 3 11 13 2 5 0 141 0 5 2 3 4 1 5 4 3 9 6 0 3 0 2 6 3 0 0 0 27 0 0 1 I 8 7 9 1 2 I 0 9 3 8 3 1 1 0 5 0 7 2 7 2 4 6 0 3 0 73 0 0 0 18 DECK DEPARTMENT 21 27 3 4 2 1 0 3 5 2 5 10 1 8 8 21 15 0 1 9 9 0 18 17 14 3 9 1 14 28 0 1 6 7 4 10 2 14 18 1 0 0 2 0 1 2 0 0 22 168 137 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 9 9 1 1 2 0 3 3 0 3 5 0 4 6 0 10 9 5 6 3 15 2 0 3 0 1 0 66 Piney Point Monday: August 7; Tuesday, September 5* *changed try IAbor Day holiday 23 1 0 4 1 10 8 9 12 10 3 2 9 56 6 7 27 13 42 56 48 29 0 93 50 16 8 45 3 3 0 409 5 1 38 4 2 1 1 5 2 0 1 7 11 0 0 6 8 4 8 1 6 6 2 1 0 2 6 1 0 3 2 0 0 80 0 11 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 16 0 3 1 0 1 1 2 0 4 3 8 3 0 3 7 7 0 I 3 11 6 0 19 2 3 0 2 12 0 4 5 0 2 2 5 0 4 5 0 0 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 49 9 90 August &September1995 , Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters 5 2 3 5 0 0 0 13 19 23 21 25 10 21 7 6 25 1 3 47 0 218 5 0 36 2 0 3 5 1 11 10 12 18 20 66 25 30 8 12 24 1 8 0 275 3 12 4 4 4 2 5 0 0 0 56 44 2 12 21 25 49 36 48 28 36 5 24 45 6 2 2 10 1 9 2 0 1 9 2 388 35 10 9 18 13 34 29 24 16 19 6 16 25 2 9 1 266 18 1 3 13 9 21 10 14 7 12 2 12 10 0 8 0 140 ENTRY DEPARTMENT Port 19 65 16 0 0 2 34 7 New York 13 2 2 0 1 1 0 0 0 1 Philadelphia 12 1 0 1 1 3 6 3 Baltimore 1 25 4 0 7 6 1 10 2 10 Norfolk 32 1 0 0 1 8 11 Mobile 1 0 44 11 0 12 0 2 4 25 8 New Orleans 28 2 1 0 2 5 9 17 Jacksonville 1 36 21 0 0 6 6 8 15 San Francisco 11 33 9 2 0 10 10 3 16 Wilmington 5 30 14 0 1 7 10 13 7 8 Seattle 11 7 0 0 1 4 Puerto Rico 5 3 5 13 70 0 8 13 1 44 31 4 Honolulu 32 2 0 1 5 1 4 Houston 1 13 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 St. Louis 0 0 1 36 14 0 1 0 0 16 Piney Point 0 2 0 0 1 1 0 1 Algonac 3 0 458 107 22 0 114 32 116 213 Totals 57 Totals All 1 2009 1 2252 196 325 411 64 212 635 De~artments 552 * ''Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **"Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. 8 2 9 6 12 10 18 1 97 5 0 1 4 1 4 6 4 8 2 3 5 4 0 2 0 49 0 1 1 3 3 New York Tuesday: August 8, September 5 Philadelphia Wednesday: August 9, September 6 Baltimore Thursday: August 10, September 7 Norfolk Thursday: August 10, September 7 Jacksonville Thursday: August 10, September 7 Algonac Friday: August 11, September 8 Houston Monday: August 14, September 11 New Orleans Tuesday: August 15, September 12 Mobile Wednesday: August 16, September 13 San Francisco Thursday: August 17, September 14 Wilmington Tuesday: August 22*; Monday, September 18 *changed try Paul Hall birthday holiday Seattle Friday: August 25, September 22 San Juan Thursday: August 10, September 7 St. Louis Friday: August 18, September 15 Honolulu Friday: August 18, September 15 Duluth Wednesday: August 16, September 13 Jersey City Wednesday: August 23, September 20 New Bedford Tuesday: August 22, September 19 Each port's meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals BRIAN HULSTROM Happy Birthday! Love, Mom, Dad & Family 2 5 WILLIAM R. KLEIMOLA 4 4 3 1 8 1 0 1 0 37 Please contact V. Virkki at P.O. Box A, Pt. Bolivar, TX 77650. 27 2 6 30 0 23 22 17 20 19 16 148 7 0 2 0 339 522 JOHN "VIC" VICTOR REWERTS Anyone knowing the whereabouts of John "Vic" Victor Rewerts is asked to please contact his sister, Karen Rewerts Skeen, at P.O.- Box 1936, Welcome, NC 27374. CLINTON JUNIOR RESH Your brother has passed away. Please contact your sister, Mary Dulik, at 4638 West 156th Street, Cleveland, OH 44135; telephone (216) 265-0931. EUGENE "GENE" SHIELDS Anyone knowing the whereabouts of Eugene "Gene" Shields is asked to please contact his sister, Lisa Liquori-Tilotta, at P.O. Box 132, Bellmawr, NJ 08099-0132. Notice NEW BEDFORD FISHERMEN To all present participants with account balances, all former participants, all beneficiaries receiving benefits and all participants of the New Bedford Fishermen's Money Purchase Pension Plan: An application is being made to the Internal Revenue Service for a determination on termination of the New Bedford Fishermen's Money Purchase Pension Plan. If you have not received a notice from the above plan in 1995, please contact the fund office at 56 N. Water Street, New Bedford, MA 02740; or telephone (508) 996-5618 immediately to claim benefits to which you may be entitled. 13 �i-------------------------------- ---- ---14 SEAFARERS LOB Seafarers International ·· Union Directory JULY1995 Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes MAY 16- JUNE 15, 1995 CL-Company/Lakes L-Lakes NP-Non Priority Michael Sacco President John Fay Secretary-Treasurer *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP Joseph Sacco Executive Vice President Augustin Tellez Vice President Contracts George McCartney Vice President West Coast Roy A. "Buck" Mercer Vice President Government Services Jack Caffey Vice President Atlantic Coast Byron Kelley Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP DECK DEPARTMENT 27 0 38 9 0 16 2 0 5 1 0 37 33 Totals All Departments SS 0 22 0 43 3 0 96 * "Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **"Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. 4S 0 25 1 0 6 1 0 3 1 0 21 19 0 0 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 9 1 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 7 2 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 DeanCorgey Vice President Gulf Coast HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr. Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters MAY 16 - JUNE 15, 1995 BALTIMORE 1216 E. Baltimore St Baltimore, MD 21202 (410) 327-4900 DULUTH 705 Medical Arts Building Duluth, MN 55802 (218) 722-4110 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St. Houston, TX 77001. (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St. Jacksonville, FL n206 (904) 353--0987 JERSEY CITY 99 Montgomery St. Jersey City, NJ 07302 (201)435-9424 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Mobile, AL 36605 (334) 478-0916 NEW BEDFORD 48 Union St. New Bedford, MA 02740 (508) 997-5404 NEW ORLEANS 630 Jackson Ave. New Orleans, LA 70130 (504) 529-7546 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St. Norfolk. VA 23510 (804) 622-1892 PIDLADELPHIA 2604S.4St. Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O.Box75 Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 2 West Dixie Highway Dania, FL 33004 (305) 921-5661 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St. San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 1611.z Santurce, PR 00907 (809) 721-4033 SEA'ITLE 2505 First Ave. Seattle, WA 98121 (206) 441-1960 ST.LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave. St. Louis, MO 63116 (314)752-6500 WILMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals 2 5 41 3 Sl 2 0 11 0 13 0 6 0 2 8 0 4 0 7 11 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A ClassB Class C DECK DEPARTMENT 4 0 0 2 0 1 18 0 0 40 5 5 62 7 6 ENGINE DEPARTMENT ·o 0 0 0 6 0 9 0 0 1 0 0 10 0 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 0 9 2 6 0 5 11 0 30 SS 13 41 15 4 27 2 0 14 0 16 3 3 O* 0 7 0 0 1 0 1 12 1 13 2 13 Totals All Departments lS 76 68 8 8 7 16 84 * "Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. ** "Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. S6 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 3 3 0 3 4 0 0 0 'o 1 1 0 1 h' \ 0 Enjoy a Summer Vacation at Piney Point The summer season officially has begun-and with it come thoughts of doing something special for each member of the family while still managing to keep out of the hot, summer sun and not going broke in the process. For Seafarers and their families, the answer lies in the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Located in St. Mary's County, which is surrounded by 400 miles of shoreline, the union's extensive training center makes some of its rooms available to SIU members and their families. With affordable rates and exciting activities, the facility at the Paul Hall Center's Lundeberg School is the perfect location from which to base a summer vacation. Each family member can find something to his or her liking on the grounds of the center-whether it is swimming, reading, exercising, eating, fishing, relaxing, sailing- you name it! For those wishing to venture outside the gates of the facility, there is much to see and do. In historic St. Mary's City, families can travel back in time to visit the place where vessels from England first landed in 1634. Located at Point Lookout State Park are the remains of Fort Lincoln, a prisoner of war camp for Confederate soliders during the Civil War. And for those wishing to venture even further outside the gates of the facility, Washington, D.C., Baltimore and Alexandria, Va. are short distances away by car, offering many opportunities to visit historical landmarks and other points of interest. Many of the attractions are free-the museums of the Smithsonian Institution, the U.S. Capitol, Arlington Cemetery, to name a few. A vacation stay at the Lundeberg School is limited to two weeks per family. The daily cost for each member is $40.40. An additional fee of $9.95 per day is charged for the Seafarer's spouse and for each child (there is no charge for children 11 years of age or younger). This price includes comfortable accommodations, all meals and use of the school's educational and recreational facilities. This family vacation benefit is unique to members of the SIU. Make sure you take advantage of it this summer. r--------------------------------------, SEAFARERS TRAINING & RECREATION CENTER Vacation Reservation Information Name: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Social Security number: ________ Book number: _ _ __ Address: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Telephone number: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Number in party I ages of children, if applicable: _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Date of arrival: 1st choice 2nd choice _ _3rd choice (Stay is limited to two weeks) Send this completed application to the Seafarers Training & Recreation Center, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674. ------------------------------------ _J 7/95 �SEAFARERS LOG JULY1995 Digest of Ships Meetings ing tanker operations course being offered at Paul Hall Center. Steward department commended for job well done. Crew requested new toaster for mess hall and coffee machine for officer's mess hall and asked that lightweight coveralls be issued. Crew announced formation of ITB "Baltimore Beacons" basketball team. Next port: New York. The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union's contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the LNG CAPRICORN (ETC), May union upon receipt of the ships minutes. The minutes are then 14--Chairman Billie Darley, forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publication. Secretary J.L. Gibbons, EducationOVERSEAS OHIO (Maritime Overseas), April 30--Chairman Rudolph Hernandez, Secretary Earl Gray Sr., Educational Director Scott Wilkinson, Deck Delegate Rene Govico, Engine Delegate Gregory Johns, Steward Delegate Eugenio Diego. Chairman led discussion about working conditions aboard vessel. Bosun thanked crew for cooperation on shipboard matters and urged members to keep up good work. Secretary reminded crewmembers to check z-card renewal dates. He informed crewmembers of availability of applications for tanker operations course at Piney Point and reminded crew that all members who sail on tankers must take safety class to continue sailing on tankers. Educational director urged members to maintain excellence of SIU by upgrading skills at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked steward department for superb job. Special vote of thanks extended by crew to GSA Dominico Dacua, Chief Cook Diego and Steward/ Baker Gray. Next port: Honolulu. SEA-LAND SPIRIT (Sea-Land Service), April 30--Chairman George Khan, Secretary Steve Apodaca, Educational Director Charles Henley, Deck Delegate James Rader, Engine Delegate Mark Lawrence, Steward Delegate Keynon Bragg. Secretary encouraged members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Educational director stressed importance of SPAD donations. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked galley gang for job well done. Next port: Honolulu. SEA-LAND VALUE (Sea-Land Service), April 9-Chairman John Bertolind, Secretary Abdul Hassan, Educational Director Henry Paquin. Chairman discussed reflagging of ship and noted union representative will meet ship at payoff. No beefs or disputed OT reported. SEA-LAND VOYAGER(SeaLand Service), April 30--Chairman Edmund Brand, Secretary Emanuel Douroudous, Educational Director Joe Jenkins, Deck Delegate Robert Stenehjem, Engine Delegate T.L. Cowan, Steward Delegate Strode Call. Disputed OT reported by deck delegate. No beefs or disputed OT reported by the engine or steward delegates. Chairman announced scheduled U.S. Coast Guard inspection and advised all crewmembers to be aboard vessel. He also reminded crew to attend Lundeberg School and get tanker operations course endorsement. Crew asked contracts department to look into immediate payoffs upon arrival in Tacoma, Wash. Crew asked Sea-Land to return van service to and from ship while vessel is docked. Next port: Tacoma. STONEWALL JACKSON (Waterman Steamship), April 23Chairman Carl Lineberry, Secretary Ernest Hoitt, Deck Delegate William Fieding, Engine Delegate Cres Suazo, Steward Delegate John Bennett. Chairman announced barges to be picked up while sailing through Suez Canal. Ship will then call on ports of Newport News, Va. and New Orleans. Secretary reported union forms available for crewmembers. He advised members to upgrade at Piney Point and keep center in mind as location for family vacations. Crew voted to use crew lounge as only smoking area aboard ship. Treasurer reported $135 in movie fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. ULTRASEA (Sealift, Inc.), April 30--Chairman Marvin Zimbro, Educational Director J.R. Vitch, Deck Delegate Mark Billot, Engine Delegate Edward Shamburger, Steward Delegate Carlos Arauz. Chairman reminded members to attend new tanker operations course at Paul Hall Center. He stated ship scheduled to be in Russia at beginning of May. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang. CHARLES L. BROWN (Transoceanic Cable Ship Co.), May 25Chairman Francisco Sousa, Secretary Robert Seaman, Educational Joseph Stores. Chairman announced payoff and advised ship will be involved in cable repair exercise first week of June. Treasurer discussed using ship's fund for purchase of new darts and ping pong balls. Deck delegate discussed smoking policy with crew. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port: St. Thomas, U.S.V.I. ITB BALTIMORE (Sheridan Transportation), May 29-Chairman Sonny Pinkham, Secretary Juan Gonzalez, Deck Delegate Stephen Herring, Steward Delegate Gerard Hyman. Educational director reminded members to upgrade at Lundeberg School. Deck delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Crew thanked headquarters for timely arrival of HIGHLIGHTS Charles L Brown-Chairman reports cable repair exercises to begin.first week in June. LNG Capricorn-Educational director stresses importance of writing to congressmen to urge support for U.S.-flag shipping. Overseas Ohio-Secretary reminds crewmembers to be sure their z-cards are up-todate. /TB BalUmore-Crew announces formation of its basketball team, the Baltimore Beacons. Sea-Land Producer-Chairman thanked galley gang for delicious meals. sunset barbecues and "make-your-ownpizza" nights. Seafarers LOGs and prompt response to questions raised in ship's minutes. Crew asked contracts department to look into increasing optical benefits. Crew requested union halls with available space provide exercise equipment and locker room facilities to improve cardiovascular fitness, health and general well-being of members. Discussion held regard- al Director Thomas Harris, Deck Delegate Patrick McCarthy, Engine Delegate Aaron Thaxton. Bosun and crew discussed reflagging of Sea-Land ships. He noted SIU officials working day and night to preserve jobs of membership. Chairman extended special vote of thanks to SIU port officials. Chairman thanked crew for good tour. Secretary reminded members to leave quarters clean for next person signing on. Educational director stressed importance of crewmembers writing members of Congress to urge support for U.S.flag shipping. He also encouraged membership to keep informed of union political activities through Seafarers LOG. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Captain addressed crew concerns of continued operation of LNG tankers. Next port: Bontang, Indonesia. OVERSEAS OHIO(Maritime Overseas), May 26-Chairman Rudolph Hernandez, Secretary Earl Gray Sr., Educational Director Michael Ribeiro, Deck Delegate Rene Govico, Engine Delegate Karl Benes, Steward Delegate Eugenio Diego. Chairman announced ship's itinerary for month of June and discussed safety procedures while at sea. He thanked crew for good work and wished those signing off a good vacation. Bosun asked for continued cooperation in separating plastic items from regular trash. Secretary reminded crew to upgrade at Piney Point as soon and as often as possible. He advised them of new SAB ruling concerning English proficiency exam in reading and writing before registering to ship. Deck and steward delegates reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine delegate. Chairman urged members to be sure to read SIU President Michael Sacco's report in Seafarers LOG. Crewmembers extended special vote of thanks to Engine Delegate Benes. Crew also thanked Steward/Baker Gray, Chief Cook Diego, GSU Dominico Dacua and DEU Ali Kasem for jobs very well done. Crew was advised to separate and sort recyclable materials on ship. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. SEA-LAND DEFENDER (SeaLand Service), May 28-Chairman William Dean, Secretary John Hanrahan, Educational Director Alfred McQuade, Deck Delegate Acylee "Joe" Brooks, Engine Delegate Horst Baetjer, Steward Delegate Carlton Griffin. Chairman reported letter of response received from SIU contracts department concerning crewing. Bosun reminded crewmembers of proper procedures to follow when attempting to resolve beefs. Secretary informed crew of available union forms. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested patrolman board ship to address questions of members concerning vacation time following long voyage. Crew thanked steward department for quality service and professionalism. SEA-LAND ENTERPRISE (SeaLand Service), May 7-Chairman El ex Cary, Secretary Michael Meany, Educational Director Ray Chapman, Engine Delegate Erich Frederickson, Steward Delegate Ron Dewitt. Chairman noted smooth voyage, good gang and good feeder. Secretary encourged members to donate to SPAD. Educational director advised members to upgrade skills at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman read telex from SIU President Michael Sacco concerning reflagging of Sea-Land ships. Crew requested second washing machine in crew laundry for grimy clothes. SEA-LAND NAVIGATOR (SeaLand Service), May 21-Chairman Werner Becher, Secretary Rickie Juzang, Educational Director Mike Wells, Deck Delegate Ken Hagar, Engine Delegate Ken Harder, Steward Delegate Daniel Maxie Sr. Chairman thanked crewmembers for keeping lounge clean. He announced arrival and payoff date for Tacoma, Wash. and advised crew to keep lounge locked while in port. He reminded members additional medical and vacation forms are available. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested second washer and dryer for laundry room. Galley gang com- 15 SEA-LAND RELIANCE (SeaLand Service), May 17-Chairman Charles Herrera, Secretary Joe Johnson, Educational Director Gene Speckman, Deck Delegate George Vukmir, Engine Delegate Daniel Rhodes, Steward Delegate S. Hariri. Chairman stated everything running smoothly. Treasurer announced $320 in ship's fund. Steward delegate reported disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or engine delegates. Crew thanked steward department for good salad bar and well prepared meals. Next port: Oakland, Calif. SEA-LAND SP/RIT(Sea-Land Service), May 28-Chairman Howard Gibbs, Secretary Steve Apodaca, Educational Director Charles Henley, Deck Delegate Sal Qualiatu, Engine Delegate Mark Lawrence, Steward Delegate Keyon Bragg. Secretary urged members to attend upgrading courses at Paul Hall Center. Educa- To Those Who Went Before A wreath-laying ceremony aboard the Cape Race, an OMl-operated Ready Reserve Force vessel, paid tribute on Maritime Memorial Day in May to all merchant mariners who lost their lives in the line of duty during wars and conflicts. Standing from the left are crewmembers QMEDs Kevin Quinlan, Chris Carneal and Brian Allred. Kneeling is AB Horace Cooper. mended for well prepared meals. Next port: Oakland, Calif. SEA-LAND PATRIOT (SeaLand Service), May 13-Chairman Robert Garcia, Secretary Curtis Philips Jr., Deck Delegate James Foley, Engine Delegate R.J. Mullen, Steward Delegate Jim Saxton. Chairman noted repairs needed to crew recreation room and reupholstery of chairs. He discussed flag-out of Sea-Land Freedom and commented on what a sad experience the event is for all U.S. seamen. He urged American workers to get involved to save their jobs. Educational director advised all members that key to job opportunity and job security is upgrading skills at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward thanked crew for cooperation in keeping ship clean. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang. SEA-LAND PRODUCER (SeaLand Service), May 14--Chairman Jack Edwards, Secretary David Cunningham, Educational Director James Smitko, Deck Delegate John Emrich, Steward Delegate Paula Kaleikini. Chairman announced estimated arrival dates posted for Oakland and Long Beach, Calif. Bosun discussed new classes available to upgraders at Piney Point. Treasurer reported $1,284 in ship's fund to use for movies and special food for scheduled barbecue. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman thanked GSU M. Omar for keeping mess halls clean and well stocked. He also thanked Steward Cunningham and Chief Cook Kaleikini for delicious meals, homemade desserts, breads, birthday cakes, sunset barbecues and "make-your-ownpizza" nights. Bosun stated crew enjoyed food as much as galley gang enjoyed cooking. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. tional director stressed importance of donating to SPAD. Treasurer stated eight new videotapes purchased last trip. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew gave special thanks to galley gang for great barbecue and job well done. Next port: Honolulu. SEA-LAND TACOMA (SeaLand Service), May 10--Chairman Joseph Artis, Steward Delegate Patrick Durnin. Bosun discussed reflagging of five Sea-Land vessels. He urged crew to write congressmen asking them to help protect maritime jobs by passing maritime revitalization. Treasurer stated $800 in ship's fund. N9 beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew asked contracts department about medical coverage concerns. SGT. WILLIAM R. BUTTON (Amsea), May 8-Chairman James Patrick, Secretary S. Bowman, Educational Director Manuel Cruz, Deck Delegate Matt Holley, Engine Delegate Victor Mull, Steward Delegate Herbert Hollings. Crew requested clarification of drug testing policy. Chairman discussed payoff and travel arrangements for crew. Bosun told crew there will be no liberty in Sattihipp, Thailand. He discussed current ongoing military exercise involving ship. Secretary informed crew all medical, vacation, optical forms available on ship. Educational director reminded crew to upgrade skills at Piney Point while on shore. Treasurer announced $389 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or engine delegates. Steward delegate reported beef. Engine delegate advised crew to conserve water. He also asked that garbage disposal be used sparingly while ship at sea. He reminded crew of no smoking during meal hours. �16 SEAFARERS LOG JULY1995 Know Your Rights Company: Worthington Foods, Inc. Products: Worthington develops, manufactures and markets food products that are low in fat and free of cholesterol, caffeine and other ingredients that many people are trimming from their diets Facilities: Offices and manufacturing plant located in Worthington, Ohio, near Columbus UIW members at Worthington: Involved in all facets of production and maintenance Brand names: Include Morningstar Farms, Scramblers, Natural Touch, Worthington Foods and Loma Linda That's a fact: Worthington is the world's largest producer of vegetable protein foods Worthington Foods began operating 56 years ago literally decades before terms like ''fat-free, n "light" and ''all-naturar became common parts of the U.S. dining lexicon. Today, as Americans become more and more aware of the benefits of healthier eating, the company thrives by producing great-tasting, healthy food products. UIW members at Worthington manufacture and package more than 100 canned, frozen and dry products for consumers in the U.S. and in other nations. When Seafarers purchase Worthington products, they not only buy healthy foods, but also put their dollars to work for themselves and their fellow trade unionists. The United Industrial Workers (UIW) is one of the autonomous affiliates of the SIUNA. The Seafarers LOG regularly highlights various union-made products. LOG-A-RHYTHM In Memory of Thomas L. Magras FINANCIAL REPORTS. The constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership's money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the secretarytreasurer. A yearly finance committee of rank-and-file members, elected by themembership,eachyearexamines the finances of the union and reports fullytheirfindingsandrecommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District are administered in accordance with the provisions 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 disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval 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 shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively 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 employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wagesandconditionsunderwhichan One year has passed since you left us, Memories of you are with me each day. For forty-eight years you sailed on the sea, And told us stories we loved to hear. You helped me feel a closeness to you, and I learned to respect the job you did. You loved only the sea and our family, and Each time you left I felt pains in my heart, but I understood. Your job was unique, as I have been told. God bless all the merchant marines. This poem was written by Marie Magras on the first anniversary of the death of her husband, Thomas Magras, who passed away March 26, 1994 at the age of 70. Brother Magras joined the SIU in 1944 in the port of New York and sailed to Normandy as part of the D-Day invasion during World War II. hers are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY D~NA TION SPAD. SPAD ts a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used t<;> fu~er its objects. ~d purposes 1.ncludmg, b?~ not ~ted to, furthenn~ t?e politJ.cal, soci~ .and economic interests ~f mant1me wor~ers, the preserv?tton and furthe~ng 0~ th.e Amencan merchant manne ~ 1 ~ tmproved employment opporturnttes for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union c~ncepts. In connection with such. objects, S~~ sup~rts and conn:ibutes topohttcal c~di~tes for elective office. All c~:m~buttons are vol~~tary. No ~ontnbutton may be ~olic~ted.or~~tvedbecall:seoff~rce, JOb discnmrnatton, financial repnsal, or ~~t of such con?u~t, or ~ a condittonofmembershipm!11e~rn~n orofemployment If a contnbutto!11s made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member s~ould not!fy the Seafarers Int~rnatlon~l U!ll~n or SPAD by cert~fi~ mail ~Ithi~ 30 ?ays of the con~butmn .for mvesttgatio~ .and appropnate action and refund, if mvoluntary. A member should s~pport SPAD to ~rotec~ ~d further ~s o_r her economtc, poh?cal and soc~al mterests, and Amencan trade uruon concepts. NOTIFYING THE UNIONIf at any time a member feels that any of the above rights have been violated, or that he or she has been denied the constitutional right of access to union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Au th Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. Gov1t Reviews Cargo Preference Costs Continued from page 2 by Marie Magras SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing 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 SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individualintheunion officerormemher. It also has refrain~ from publishing articles deemed harmful 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. 1be responsibility for Seafarers WG 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 moniesaretobepaidtoanyoneinany 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 havebeenrequiredtomakesuchpayment, this should immediately be reported to union headquarters. C0 NST IT UT I O NAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. 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 headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All mem- to cover costs that are beyond their control. At the same time, foreign-flag vessels seeking U.S. government cargoes are not charged for those costs, such as inland transportation in the recipient country and the risks associated with cargo offloading. The groups representing U.S.flag operators also noted that other costs borne by Americanflag shippers should be considered. Among these are expenses associated with U.S. govemmentmandated rules and regulations that do not apply to foreign-flag vessels and foreign crews. Cargo preference "administration and implementation must be based on realistic criteria," the associations stated in their letter to MarAd. At the same time the U.S. shipping groups were outlining their position on bulk cargo preference laws, the heads of the major maritime unions were expressing their views to President Clinton that national security factors should dictate that U.S.-flag vessels continue to carry Defense Department cargo. In a communication to President Clinton, the maritime union presidents noted that last year both branches of Congress had expressed their views that waivers, included in the Federal Acquisition Streamlining Act of 1994, allowing foreign-flag vessels to carry Defense Department cargo should not be permitted. However, the letter from the unions pointed out the Defense Department had announced plans to go ahead with waivers despite the action taken in Congress. ''The waivers-no matter how they are portrayed by the Defense Department-are not limited in their effect," the maritime unions informed President Clinton. "In fact, they would deny the U.S.flag merchant fleeta critical base of cargo that makes the difference between operating under the U.S. flag or not operating under the U.S. flag and without which the administration's maritime reform and revitalization proposal, which we strongly support, will be dead from the start. "It is indeed an outrage that a subordinate federal agency would deliberately undermine your maritime initiative and undermine your support for the U.S.-flag commercial fleet, destroy an entire defense-relevant American industry and export nearly 50,000 American jobs in the name of fixing a problem that does not exist," the communication stated. The letter was signed by Michael Sacco of the SIU; Joel Bern, Marine Engineers' Beneficial Association; Timothy Brown, Masters, Mates & Pilots; Michael McKay, American Maritime Officers; and Louis Parise, District No. 4-National Maritime Union/MEBA. �JULY1995 SEAFARERS LOB 17 Final Departures DEEP SEA ROBERT H. BENNETI' ,.-----=-----. Pensioner RobertH. Bennett, 84, passed away May6. Anative of Georgia, he joined the Seafarers in 1951 in the ~-----~ port of Tampa, Fla. Brother Bennett sailed in the engine department. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1924 to 1927, then in the U .S. Coast Guard from 1928 to 1932. Brother Bennett began receiving his pension in July 1977 . ROBERT M. BOYD Pensioner RobertM. Boyd, 67, died May 2. Brother Boyd started his career with the SIU in 1946 in the '-===---'---== port of New Orleans. He sailed in the steward department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md., completing the steward recertification course there in 1982. He served in the U.S. Army from 1950 to 1952. Born in Mississippi, Brother Boyd retired in June 1986. TOMMY CARSON Pensioner Tommy Carson, 78, passed away June 3. Brother Carson joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards before that union merged with the SIU' s Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District (AGLIWD). Brother Carson started to receive his pension in August 1973. JOSEPH A. CLAEYS Pensioner Joseph A. Claeys, 92, died April 25. Brother Claeys started his career with the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1952 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. He retired in April 1973. ANDREW DANKO Pensioner Andrew Danko, 74, passed away May7. Born in Ohio, he began sailing with the Seafarers in ~-------' 1953 from the port of New Orleans. Brother Danko sailed in the engine department. From 1940 to 1945 he served in the U.S. Army. Brother Danko began receiving his pension in February 1976. ANDREW FORIS .._.....__..,,,.,,,,,,,,,=-----, Pensioner Andrew Foris, 82, died May 13. Brother Foris joined the SIU in 1940 in the port of Duluth, Minn. Sailing in the engine department, he started out in the Great Lakes division and transferred to deep sea vessels. Brother Foris retired in November 1976. JESSIE C. HAMPTON SR. Pensioner Jessie C. Hampton Sr., 83, passed awayMay3. A native of · Tennessee, he began his career with '-----'===------=::..J the union in 1961 in the port of Jacksonville, Fla., sailing in the steward department. He served in the U.S. Army from 1941 to 1946. Brother Hampton started to receive his pension in December 1976. JAMES D. HARMON Pensioner James D. Harmon, 70, died May27. Brother Harmon joined the Seafarers in 1957 in the port of New Orleans. The engine department member upgraded at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. Brother Harmon retired in July 1989. CHESTER HUGHART 1-::;iiiiiiii~l Pensioner Chester Hughart, 70, passed away April 12. A native of West Virginia, he started sailing '-=====_:._=..r with the SIU in 1943 in the port of New York. Brother Hughart sailed in the deck department. He began receiving his pension in July 1983. JAMES A. JONES • Pensioner James A. Jones, 73, died April 23. Born in Texas, he began sailing with the Seafarers in ""' 1967 from the port of San Francisco. Brother Jones shipped in the steward department. He graduated from the steward recertification course at the Lundeberg School in 1987. During World War JI, he served in the U.S. Army Air Force. Brother Jones retired in April 1993. CHARLES M. LAMBERT Pensioner Charles M. Lambert, 75, passed away April 2. A native of Alabama, he joined the ." SIU in 1949 --....__~ in the port of Mobile, Ala. Brother Lambert sailed in the deck department. A World War II veteran, he served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1945. Brother Lambert started to receive his pension in June 1985. ARTHUR F. LANGLEY Pensioner Ar- thur F. Langley, 91, died February 26. Brother Langley began sailing with the union in 1943 =-==== from the port of New York. He sailed in the deck department. A native of Illinois, Brother Langley retired in July 1969. FRANCISCO R. MALDONADO r-----=----===----....., Pensioner Francisco R. Maldonado, 64, passed away March 24. Born in Puerto Rico, he joined the Seafarers in '---------'--' 1947 in the port of New York. The engine departinentmemberupgradedto QMED at the Lundeberg School. Brother Maldonado began receiving his pension in December 1975. GERALD A. McCARTHY Gerald A. McCarthy, 53, died February 23. A native of New York, he joined the SIU in 1969 after coinpleting the Lundeberg School's training course for entry level seainen. Brother McCarthy sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. ABDEL MOHAMED Pensioner Abdel Mohamed, 62, passed away February 28. He began sailing with the union in 1963 from the port of New York. Brother Mohamed sailed in the steward department. Born in Yeinen, he became a naturalized U.S. citizen. Brother Mohamed retired in June 1992. JOSEPH S. MOORE Pensioner Joseph S. Moore, 77, died March 31. Born in Georgia, he started his career with the SIU in the '-------'==--=---' port of Savannah, Ga. Brother Moore sailed in the steward department and began receiving his pension in June 1971. JOSE A. ROMERO Pensioner Jose A. Romero, 69, died March 25. Born in Puerto Rico, he began sailing with the Seafarers in 1962 from the port of New York. Brother Romero shipped in the steward department. He served in the U.S. Army from 1951to1953. Brother Romero retired in January 1991. Brother Young became a natural- JOSEPH R. KLINEBURGER iz.ed U.S. citizen. He started to receive his pension in January 1979. Joseph R. Klineburger, 52, passed away March 2. Born in Pennsylvania, he began sailing with the union in 1970 from the port of Philadelphia. Boatman Klineburger shipped in the deck department. From 1964 to 1966 he served in the U.S. Army. MIGUEL A. VERDEJO Pensioner Miguel A. Verdejo, 79, died March 9. A native of Puerto Rico, Brother Verdejo began sailing with '-------"'===== the Seafarers in 1959 from the port of New York. Brother Verdejo shipped in the steward department. He retired in October 1984. VESTER V. THRASH Vester V. Thrash, 61, died March 23. He started his career with the Seafarers in 1970 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Boatman Thrash sailed in the engine department. Born in Mississippi, he served in the U.S. Air Force from 1951 to 1955. GREAT LAKES INLAND DONNIE G. DA VIS JR. Donnie G. Davis Jr., 61, passed away August 8, 1994. Boatman Davis began sailing with the SIU in 1989. The North Carolina native sailed as a tug captain and shipped primarily on Express Marine vessels. JOHN G. FELIP Pensioner John G. Felip, 73, died April 19. A native of Philadelphia, he began sailing with the Seafarers in """"'"--~~-' 1969 from the port of Philadelphia. Boatman Felip sailed in the deck department. A veteran of World War II, he served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1946. Boatman Felip retired in March 1984. YAHYA "JACK" MASHERAH Y ah ya "Jack" Masherah, 53, died April 22. Born in Arabia, he joined the SIU in 1967 in the port of Detroit. Brother Masherah shipped in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. ATLANTIC FISHERMEN JERRY PALLAZOLA Pensioner Jerry Pallazola, 76, passed away March 24. Born in Massachusetts, Brother PallazoJa became a charter member of the Atlantic Fishermen's Union in the late 1930s in the port of Gloucester, Mass. During World War II he served in the U.S. Navy. Brother Pallazola began receiving his pension in February 1983. DENNIS W. FILLINGIM AUGUSTINE "GUS" SUTERA Dennis W. Fillingim, 41, passed away March 31. Born in Alabama, he joined the SIU in 1973 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Starting out in the deep sea division, he later transferred to inland vessels. Pensioner Augustine "Gus" Sutera, 82, died February 22. He joined the Atlantic Fishermen's Union in the .......,,==-----=:::...._::::...J 1940s in the port of Gloucester, Mass. Born in Sicily, Brother Sutera retired in February 1977. Burial at Sea ROBERT M. SULLIVAN ·' Pensioner · RobertM. Sullivan, 73, died March 16. Born in South Dakota, he joined the Seafarers in 1969 in the '--....;...;_;='--==-"'== port of San Francisco. Brother Sullivan sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. He served in the U.S. military froin 1942 to 1967. Brother Sullivan began receiving his pension in June 1986. J FOON WON YOUNG Pensioner Foon Won Young, 78, passed away May 10. He joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards in 1961 in the port of San Francisco, before that union Inerged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Born in China, The final wish of Marcus "Popeye" Thomas-to be buried at seawas honored last March. An SIU member since 1966, Brother Thomas died February 8. His ashes were cast to the waters of the Gulf of Mexico from aboard the Sea-Land Galveston Bay as members of the ship's crew participated in a memorial service. The Illinois native signed on with the SIU in 1966 in the port of New Orleans. He completed the Lundeberg School's training course for entry level seamen and shipped in the deck department. Brother Thomas also served in the U.S. Air Force from 1957 to 1958. �18 SEAFARERS LOG JULY1995 Lundeberg School Graduating Classes GEAFARER S HARRY LUNDEBERG 1 "'~,.:.::::-..l~ ...~s..:i. • .. . ;~:r.:.< LIFEBOAT SCHOOL CLASS s31 Trainee Lifeboat Class 537-Graduating from trainee lifeboat class 537 are (from left, kneeling) Charles Lore Jr., Michael Friesenhahn, Robert Frank, Michael Bowen, Bob Boyle (instructor), (second row) David Smart, Michael Bruso, Clint Stadler and Charles Slaughter. Radar- Receiving their radar endorsement on May 3 are (from left) Jim Brown (instructor), Henry Peterson, Robert Kendrick, Nick Moceri Ill, Richard Barron and Desiree Crockett. Welding- Marking their completion on May 16 from the two-week welding class are (from left, kneeling) Roman Zarkiewicz, David Vega, Paul Pagano, Tony Albright, Michael Martykan, (second row) Paul Lewis, Ralph Gosnell Jr., Fadiga Koutougou and Jim Shaffer (instructor). Bridge Management - Upgrading members of the deck department completing the bridge management . course on May 3 are (from left, kneeling) Robert " / Bakeman, Heley Mareno, Nick Moceri Ill, Richard "= Barron, (second row) Jim Brown (instructor), Eric ' Dobson, William Shelly, Henry Peterson, Robert Kendrick, David Heim and Desiree Crockett. U pgraders Lifeboat- Graduates of the May 2 upgraders lifeboat class are (from left, kneeling) Victor Quioto, Ray Wood, Harriet Lee, James Harris, (second row) Bob Boyle (instructor), Jose A. Lopez, Robert Torres, Natividad Zapata, Mary Chris Littel, Timothy Taylor and Wilbert Patterson. Tankerman Operations- SIU members completingthe tankerman operations course on May 17 are (from left, kneeling) Gary C. Mitchell, Shelton E. Drafts, Andrew Lopez, Steven Marwin, Russell BarrackJr., Scotts. Fuller, Bruce Holloway, Virgilio Casildo, Luis Gamez, (second row) Bob Carle (instructor), William Tanksley, Craig Pare, Brian C. Gauntt, Robert Pagan, George Mazzola, Leonel Lazo, Ricardo Ramos, Green Hoskins, Timothy Fogg, Janet Baird, Anthony Maben, Jake Karaczynski (instructor), (third row) Bret Hughes, Char1es Foley, Raymond Tate, Ray Banks, Gary Housman, Joseph Turocy, Mark Ramsey, Craig Holdredge and Reeves Homby. Not pictured is Isidro Palacios. Sealift- Earning their sealift certification on May 22 are (from left, sitting) Roy Jackson, Levi Rollins, (kneeling) Clinton Anderson, Joe Grandinetti, Stephen Dearborn, Robert Garceau, Mark Maiello, Craig Perry, Edward Tomas, Reginald Hunter, Eric Martinez, Brian Rotchford, (third row) Bill Hellwege (instructor), Robert Hendershott, James Crisler, Edward Corbett, Israel Rivera, Elieser Montalvo, John Nelson, Aubrey Davis, John Turner, Robert Elliott, James Girga, Mohamed Ahmed, Faisal Mawari, Rebecca Gaytan, (fourth row) George Mazzola, Joel Trotter, Michael Hargraves, Jerry Leonard, Jeffrey Fields, Kurt Benjamin, Tom Parisi and Craig Treadwell. �JULY1995 SEAFARERS LOG LUNDEBERG SCHOOL 1995 UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE The following is the course schedule for classes beginning between July and December 1995 at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship located at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. All programs are geared to improve job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. The course schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and-in times of conflict-the nation's security. Please note that as of August 1, students should check in the Saturday before their course's start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. 19 Steward Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Assistant Cook/Cook and Baker, Chief Cook, Chief Steward August25 November3 November17 January 26, 1996 Engine Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion QMED ·Any Rating August 14 November3 Diesel Engine Technology July3 October9 July 28 Deck Upgrading Courses November3 Course Start Date Date of Completion Fireman/Watertender & Oiler October2 December 15 Able Seaman July 31 October20 Hydraulics Bridge Management (Shiphandling) July 17 October 9 July 28 October20 Junes October9 July7 November 10 Marine Electrical Maintenance I July 31 Septembers Celestial Navigation November6 December 15 Power Plant Maintenance Joly 17 August25 Lifeboatman July 17 July 28 Pumproom Maintenance September 11 September 22 Limited License/License Prep. July3 September 25 August 11 November3 Refrigeration Systems & Maint. August28 October6 Welding October23 November17 Radar Observer/Unlimited July 10 August14 October2 July 14 August18 October6 Third Mate August28 December 15 All students must take the Oil Spill Prevention and Containment class. Safety Specialty Courses Inland Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Deck Inland August 14 October23 August25 November3 August4 November24 Course Start Date Date of Completion Advanced Firefighting September 11 September 22 Designated Duty Engineer/ Limited License/License Prep. July 24 Oil Spill Safety Recertification July 20 September 21 October19 July 20 September 21 October 19 Radar Observer/Inland November6 November to Electronics July 17 July 28 Oil Spill Prevention & Containment August 7 Augustlt Hydraulics September 25 October6 Sealift Operations and Maintenance October 9 November3 Tanker Operations July 17 August14 September 11 October9 November6 Augustll September8 October6 November3 December 1 ovember 13 Additional Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion GED Preparation August22 NovemberlO September 5 Adult Basic Education (ABE) and English as a Second Language (ESL) October27 Recertification Programs Course Start Date Date of Completion Bosun Recertification October2 November6 Course Start Date Date of Completion Steward Recertification July 3 August 7 Session m September 5 October 27 Deck and Engine Department College Courses --~-------------------------------------------·--···-·-------------------------·--··········----·----------------·-------------------·------------------ UPGRADING APPLICATION Primary language spoken - - - - - - - - - - - - (Street) (City) (Zip Code) (State) Dare of Birth _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Telephone~-~------ (Montb/Day/Year) (Arca Code) Deep Sea Member D With this application, COPIES of your discharges must be submitted showing sufficient time to qualify yourselffor the course(s) requested. You also must submit a COPY of each of the following: the first page ofyour union book indicating your department and seniority, your clinic card and the front and back of your z-card as well as your Lundeberg School identification card listing the course(s) you have taken and completed. The admissions office WILL NOT schedule you until all of the above are received. Lakes Member D Inland Warers Member D COURSE BEGIN DATE END DATE If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security # Book# _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ S e n i o r i t y - - - - - - - - - - - - - Department _ _ _ _ _ __ U.S. Citizen: D Yes D No Home Port ----------- Endorsement(s) or License(s) now h e l d - - - - - - - - - - - - - - LAST VESSEL: - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Rating: _ _ _ __ Date O n : - - - - - - - - - - Are you a graduate of the SHLSS trainee program? DYes DNo If yes, class# - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Have you attended any SHLSS upgrading courses? DYes DNo If yes, course(s) taken _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Dare O f f : - - - - - - - - - - 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. Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? D Yes D No Firefighting: D Yes D No CPR: D Yes DNo RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATION TO: Lundeberg School of Seamanship, Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075. 7/95 �SEAFARERS There is still time to plan a family holiday this summer at the Lundeberg School. For additional information, see page 14. July 1995 Volume 57, Number 7 Par~si Sons Continue Family Legacy For the PansI fa~1.ly ~f Gloucester, Mass., sa1lrn~ IS much m?re than ~career. It IS a way of hfe, a family legacy. Three generati<.ms of Parisi me~ have bee~ fishing on the Atlanhc Ocean smce t~e tum o~ the c.:entury, and the fa:11111~ has drre~t lm~s to th~ Atla_n~c Fish~rmen s Umon which ongmated m 1936. (The fishermen's union merged with the SIU's Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes & Inland Waters District in 1980.) The tale of the Parisi men and women who helped mold the fishing industry in Gloucester lives on through the sons ~d grandsons of those who began 1t all. After nearly 60 years of fishing the Atlantic and surrounding waters, Atlantic Fishermen's Union charter member Salvatore Parisi, 85, now spends his days sharing old sea stories with other SIU pensioners at the St. Peter's Center in Gloucester. (The patron saint of fishermen, St. Peter is said to watch over fishermen while at sea.) "All of us old fishermen get together at St. Peter's and remember how fishing used to be. It is the only place for us to go. It is a way for us to keep in touch. I also like to keep in touch with the guys on the boats," said Parisi. "I retell all the old stories-but they still remember, they will never forget the Parisi family," the retired fisherman recalled. Legacy Begins The family story begins in 1900 when an Italian fisherman named Nicholas Parisi sailed from Sicily to the United States in search of a better life. Leaving his young wife, Grace, and baby daughter (also named Grace) behind, he promised to send for them once he found work and became established. When Nicholas arrived on the East Coast of the United States, he was recruited by a railroad company which was building railroad tracks from the East Coast to the West Coast. It took Parisi one year to reach California. In the Golden State, Nicholas met an Italian immigrant named DiMaggio (father of baseball legend Joe DiMaggio) who told him about salmon fishing opportunities in Alaska. The men traveled together to Alaska and worked with a fishing company during 1901and1902. In 1903, Nicholas sent for his wife and daughter in Sicily. He left Alaska and traveled east to meet his family. The young Parisi family settled in northern Boston, where he began fishing. The industry proved to be so profitable for Nicholas that he sent word to Sicily. Relatives followed his lead and immigrated to Boston. Nicholas and his wife had more children: Catherine, born in 1905; Rose, 1907; Salvatore, 1910; Thomas, 1912; Geraldine, 1914; and Mary, 1916. By 1922, the family moved to . . ly. Summers and winter breaks were spent with his family on the fishing boats. In 1980, he joined the SIU and continued the fishing legacy. "I can't see myself doing anything else but sailing. It was a natural calling for me. I am more comfortable standing on the deck of a ship than I am walking down the sidewalk " said Thomas. In 1982, the family's 97-foot The Mother Ann sank 75 miles eastofChatham Mass. Salvatore reti~ed soon after the sinking of The Mother Ann. At age 72, he noted that fishing had filled his life with both happiness and despair. After 57 years on the water, he decided it was time to hang up his fishing equipment and settle on the beach. .. Started at Piney Point Salvatore Parisi stands outside the pilot house of his beloved New England dragger, the Saint Nicholas, during the 1945 St. Peter's Fiesta. Inset, above, is Thomas Parisi, who graduated from the bosun Gloucester to be closer to the Georges Banks, fishing grounds located off the New England coast, and the Grand Banks, located off the coast of Nova Scotia. recertification program at the Lundeberg School last The same year of his father's month. Inset, below, is Salvatore's youngest son, retirement, Philip, now 34, Philip, who currently sails as a recertified bosun graduated from the trainee proaboard LNG tankers. While fishing in New England was growing for the Parisi brothers, so were their families. Salvatore was widowed at a young age when his wife, and the mother of his first-born son, Nicholas, passed away. In 1948, he married Ann, and she bore him three more sonsCosmo, Thomas and Philip-all of whom would follow in their father's footsteps. After beginning their sailing careers aboard the family fishing boats, each son went on to join the SIU when the Atlantic Fishermen's Union merged with the Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes & Inland Waters District in 1980. Both Thomas and Philip have graduated from the bosun recertification program at the Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md. Cosmo, after nearly three decades of sailing, has returned to Gloucester and lives a quiet life not far from his father. "I am very proud of my boys," Salvatore told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. "I am proud that they have gone to Piney Point and that they are members of such a good union." While each of Salvatore's sons has a different reason for going to sea, each shares a deep love for the ocean and being aboard a ship that was passed down by their father. 12-gallon fish tank. Back then the fish were really big. You can't find them like that anymore," recalled Cosmo. "I thought that we could go home after getting so many large fish in one try, but I soon found out how wrong I was. We spent four more days out at sea, and it took another three to get home. I had made up my mind by the time we arrived back in Gloucester that I was going to quit. i never wanted to go fishing again," he remembered. When his father presented him with his first check, Cosmo quickly changed his mind and finished that first summer. He spent many more seasons fishing on the family's boats. "I wanted to be like my father. He was everything I wanted to be," said Cosmo. In 1963, when Cosmo was 14 years old, the Saint Nicholas caught fire 80 miles out at sea. The crew was dragging for groundfish when the fire broke out in the engineroom. The eight fishermen were rescued by another Gloucester dragger and they stayed nearby until their boat slowly sunk to the bottom of the ocean, early the next day. "It broke my dad's heart to watch that boat go down," said Cosmo. After the fire destroyed the Saint Nicholas, the family bought a new boat, the Estral (Portuguese for star). This helped them continue sailing until a new boat again named Saint Nicholas could be constructed. It was completed in 1965. Remembers First Trip 'Natural Decision' AB Cosmo Parisi, 46, started fishing with his father when he was 11. He still remembers his first trip to the Grand Banks aboard the Saint Nicholas. "We made just one tow and the whole bag came up filled with red fish. One fish was the size of a Bosun Thomas Parisi, 42, started sailing when he was about 8 years old with his father, uncle (whom he was named after), cousins and brother Cosmo. "It was a natural decision to begin sailing," said Tommy, as he is known by members of his fami- Saint Nicholas was one of the best-known fishing vessels of its time because of its many successful fishing expeditions and several dramatic rescues in which the boat took part. Sons Start Fishing At age 15, Salvatore joined his father and uncles aboard the fishing boats, followed shortly by his brother, Thomas. In 1932, when Salvatore was 22 years old, the Parisi family had their first new boat built. The Saint Teresa was an 82-foot fishing boat, and Salvatore (who was part owner) became the engineer on board. By this time his father, Nicholas, began staying home during the winters while his sons, nephews and their crews fished for mackerel, haddock, cod and flounder. In 1936, Salvatore and Thomas became charter members of the Atlantic Fishermen's Union. Salvatore noted that being a member of the union benefitted the crews of the Gloucester fleet because of the security it offered them, especial! y as they reached retirement age. Saint Nicholas The Parisis sold the Saint Teresa during World War II. In 1944, construction began of the family's largest and most famous boat. The Saint Nicholas, completed in 1945, was a 98-foot dragger capable of carrying 200,000 pounds of fish and a crew of nine. (Draggers pull nets that run along the bottom of the ocean to catch the groundfish which inhabit these lower depths. Groundfish include yellow tail flounder, cod and haddock.) · "She was beautiful," said Salvatore of the Saint Nicholas. "My fondest memories are of the Saint Nicholas. What they catch today in a seven- or eight-day trip is what we used to catch in a single day aboard the Saint Nicholas," Salvatore stated. According to Salvatore, the Family Grows gram for entry level seamen at the Lundeberg School. While he began fishing at the age of 15 with his father and brothers, the youngest of Salvatore's sons knew that he wanted to sail aboard deep sea ships. "I can still remember one ·n Nicholas. We were out fishing during a bout of really bad weather. The sea was tossing the boat all over the place for the entire four days we were out. I was really sea sick and felt lousy," recalled Philip. "As I watched the big tankers go sailing by as smooth as can be, I thought to myself, I have got to sail aboard one of those," he said. Philip has returned several times to Piney Point to upgrade in the deck department. Last November he graduated from the bosun recertification program. After The Mother Ann sank, Cosmo and Thomas followed their younger brother's lead and switched their membership to the deep sea division of the SIU. Retired Days In mid-June, the St. Peter' s Fiesta was celebrated in Gloucester. Salvatore's family started the traditional celebration-a weekend filled with Italian food and culture-when they first came to the East Coast from Sicily. Salvatore once took part in all the activities of the annual festivities but now participates only in the special mass held to honor the fishermen. With only one son on the beach and the other two on SIU ships, Salvatore says a special daily prayer to St. Peter to watch over his sons while they are at sea. After all his years fishing, raising sons who have carried on the family tradition, having four grandchildren (one more on the way) and one great-grandchild, Salvatore concludes, "I think I have had a pretty good life. I am proud of them all." � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1990-1999 Description An account of the resource Volumes LII-LXI Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993; Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource July 1995 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES OPERATORS, UNIONS CHALLENGE REVIEW OF CARGO PREFERENCE FOR FEDERAL DEFICIT REDUCTION NAVY LEAGUE HONORS BRAND FOR WORK IN PROMOTING U.S. MERCHANT MARINE THE AMERICAN QUEEN STEAMS TO LIFE SIU-CONTRACTED PASSENGER RIVERBOAT STARTS SERVICE HOUSE CONSIDERS BILL TO EXPORT ALASKAN OIL ON U.S.-FLAG SHIPS CAPE RACE BREAKS OUT FOR BOSNIA EFFOTS CONTINUE FOR ENACTMENT OF U.S. SHIP BILL KIRKLAND ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT AS LABOR FEDERATION PRESIDENT DELMA NAMED BENEFITS PLANS ADMINISTRATOR ROSE HALL, WIDOW OF PAUL HALL, DIES AT 72 UPGRADERS TAB HAZMAT AND CONFINED-SPACE TRAINING AS TANKER COURSE HIGHLIGHTS SABINE CREWS RATIFY THREE-YEAR PACT AB HORTON DIVES INTO HARBOR TO RETRIEVE FALLEN OLD GLORY KINSMAN SEAFARERS SHUTTLE WHEAT ON LAKES SUPERIOR, HURON AND ERIE SIX BOSUNS REACH DECK DEPT PINNACLE CRUISE SHIP MEMBERS CONTINUE TO WORK DURING CONSTITUTION LAYUP AB HUDSON, FOUR OTHERS RECEIVE MSCPAC AWARDS SEAFARERS KEEP LUMMUS READY FOR IMMEDIATE MILITARY CALL-UP SEAFARERS CREW FABULOUS NEW STEAMBOAT PARISI SONS CONTINUE FAMILY LEGACY Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 07/01/1995 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 57, No. 7 1995 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/bfda47bd71c3c23b874d6d6c99ea8dba.pdf 453f8753a3bed89613860e81dd7086c6 PDF Text Text Volume 58, Number 7 At SIU halls throughout the country and aboard Seafarers-contracted ships, members are voting on the new standard freightship and tanker contracts presented last month. Thus far, voting has been overwhelmingly in favor of the five-year pacts. SIU-Crewed Laker Carries Olympic Flame -~ h July 1996 Pages 3, 6 and 7 Seafarers to Congress: Maintain Jones Act AMERICAN · The centennial modern Olympic Games begin this month in Atlanta. Seafarers got into the spirit when the SIU-crewed American Republic transported the Olympic flame last month from Detroit to Cleveland. Pages 12-13 Rep. Walter Jones Jr. (R-N.C.) (left) responds to calls from his constituents to preserve the nation's freight cabotage law. Meeting with Jones in his Capitol Hill office are (from left) Sylvia Kirk, AB Robert Kirk and AB Robert Morton Jr. The trio were among the Seafarers who attended a June 12 congressional hearing on the Jones Act and met with elected officials. Page 3 �President's Report Listening and Action Required for New Contracts Listening and action are key components of any negotiating session. Without the two, nothing can be accomplished. Listening and action were vital elements in producing the new five-year standard freightship and tanker agreements which were presented for ratification to the membership last month. Your union listened to you when you said at monthly membership meetings, during shipboard visits, in letters to union officials and within ships' minutes that new agreements should address concerns regarding your families. Michael Sacco You wanted to make sure they would be taken care of medically when you are away from home, working aboard your vessels. This was done by negotiating sufficient contributions from the operators to be able to eliminate the 20 percent co-payment for dependent care coverage that meets reasonable and customary charges. Your union listened when you said the optical and dental benefits should be upgraded. This was done by again negotiating for the necessary contributions to increase the amount of coverage provided these procedures. But, your union did not stop there. For the first time, dependent coverage is extended to dental care. And, for the first time, Seafarers and their families have coverage for orthodontic care. Your union listened when you said the retirement program should address concerns for the future. This was done by providing the Seafarers Money Purchase Plan Benefit, an individual interestearning investment account. Although the companies participating in this program will make contributions on behalf of their employees, Seafarers themselves will be able to add funds to their personal accounts, which will allow the money to grow tax-free. There is no vesting requirement and the plan works in addition to the already established pension program. Finally, your union listened when you said there are concerns about job security. Your union acted by negotiating five-year freightship and tanker agreements that will take us into the next century. The five-year contracts are important for another reason. They show your union also was listening and willing to work with the concerns of the SIU' s contracted companies. The longer pacts allow the operators to calculate their costs and plan their operations for an extended period. Listening and action are a two-way street during collective bargaining. While fighting to maintain traditional middle-class values for Seafarers and their families, the union recognized the need for operators to remain a viable industry while providing world-class service. Otherwise, the five-year agreements and everything else established in the new pacts would be meaningless. The new contracts reflect the changing nature of the U.S.-flag merchant fleet, but some things stay the same. When the union was established nearly 60 years ago, the SIU fought for better wages, safer working conditions and improved living quarters aboard the vessels. Those concerns remain strong today. But, as Seafarers over the years have become more family oriented, the union will proceed with its work to make sure these new and changing needs are addressed which will allow SIU members to continue as the elite of the world's merchant mariners. Congratulations to the New Majority Leader Last month, Senator Trent Lott (R-Miss.) was elected by his fellow Republicans to serve as the majority leader of the Senate. Lott replaces Bob Dole, who resigned from the Senate to run for president. Lott, the son of a union shipyard worker, has a long legislative record of support for the U.S.-flag merchant marine. He is the Senate sponsor of the Maritime Security Act (S. 1139), the 10-year program to provide funds for militarily useful U.S.-flag vessels, which is awaiting Senate action. Since January 1995, he has served as chairman of the Senate Surface Transportation and Merchant Marine Subcommittee. The SIU wishes Senator Lott well in his new position as majority leader and looks forward to working with him. Volume 58, Number 7 Another Senator Announces Support for U.S. Ship Bill Support continues to grow in the Senate for passage of maritime revitalization legislation. Known as the Maritime Security Act (H.R. 1350), the measure, which has the support of the SIU, would provide $1 billion over a 10-year period to help fund approximately 50 U.S.-flag militarily useful vessels. In a letter to a constituent released last month, Senator Robert C. Smith (R-N.H.) announced he would vote for the bill when it is considered by the full Senate. "Let me assure you that I recognize how important the U.S. merchant marine is to our national security and economic welfare," Smith said in his letter. "Indeed, the merchant marine' s quick response to our troops' needs during Desert Storm was instrumental to the conflict's successful resolution. "Be assured that if this legislation is considered by the full Senate, I will support its passage," the senator concluded. H.R. 1350 has been awaiting action by the Senate since lastDecember when the House of Representatives during a voice vote passed the measure with strong bipartisan support. A similar bill (S. 1139) cleared the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee unanimously in November. News reports have stated H.R. 1350 could be considered sometime after the Senate returns to Capitol Hill following the Independence Day holiday recess. The prime sponsor of the measure in the upper house of Congress is Senator Trent Lott (RMiss. ). On June 12, he was elected by his fellow Republicans as the body's new majority leader, replacing Bob Dole as the highest ranking official in the Senate. (Dole resigned from the Senate to devote full time to his presidential campaign.) Besides holding the majority leader's position, Lott still maintains his seat as chairman of the Senate Surface Transportation and Merchant Marine Subcommittee. Lott has continued to speak out in favor of the measure, which calls for the companies receiving the funds to make their vessels and infrastructure available to the military in times of war or national emergency. During times of peace, the ships involved in the program would be securable to handle cargo for the U.S. armed forces. Besides Lott and Smith, others who have recently pushed for passage of H.R. 1350 include Senators Ted Stevens (R-Alaska) and John W amer (R-Va.) as well as Deputy Defense Secretary John P. White. President Clinton has stated he would sign the legislation when it is passed by Congress. Seafarers March in Washington For America's Youn People Leading AFL-CIO President John Sweeney and other trade unionists in a march to the Lincoln Memorial for the Stand for Children rally are SIU members (from left) Lovell Smith, David Tompkins, Mario Chery Jr., David Hoffman, Webster Bourgeois and Manuel Alvarez. Seafarers joined fellow trade unionists and their families to show support for America's young people during the June 1 Stand for Children rally in Washington, D.C. More than 200,000 people from around the country rallied at the base of the Lincoln Memorial to call attention to the needs of children. Among the issues addressed were a call for adequate funding of schools and other governmental programs created to help the nation's youths as well as providing good jobs with decent pay and benefits so families can raise their children properly. "Children should be first on the agenda at all levels," noted AB Jim Souci of San Francisco, one of many Seafarers taking part in the rally. ''They're our assets-the future of America." "It's inspirational to be involved in something like this," added Recertified Steward Janet Price, who sails from the port'of Jacksonville, Fla. SIU members led AFL-CIO President John Sweeney and the parade of union·members and their families from the Ellipse in front of the White House to the Lincoln Memorial. Thousands of trade unionists carrying signs reading "AFL-CIO Stands for Children" and "America Needs a Raise" were mixed with others participating in the day's events. July 1996 I The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 520 I Au th Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 8990675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790- ~'' 9998 and at additional offices. POS1MASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers WG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Daniel Duncan; Managing Editor, Jordan Biscardo; Associate Editor/Production, Deborah A. Hirtes; Associate F.d.itor, Corrina Christensen Gutiemz; Art, Bil.l Brower; Administrative Support, Jeanne Textor. 2 Seafarers LOG Seafarers recently met with SIU officials aboard the Ready Reserve Force (RRF) ship Cape Johnson in Baltimore. They discussed the latest developments affecting the U.S.-flag merchant marine. Standing from left to right on the deck of the Amsea vessel are retired Recertified Bosun Roland "Snake" Williams, SIU Executive VP Joseph Sacco, Bosun George Perry, Steward Rachel Cutler, Electrician John Fichter, SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez and Baltimore Port Agent Dennis Metz. Kneeling is DEU John Favero. July1996 �Membership Votes on Standard Contracts Job and Retirement Security, Medical Benefits Are Focus of 5-Year Pacts Voting is well under way on new five-year stand- halls, in communications to the department and in sesard freightship and tanker contracts that emphasize contracts Expanded Medical Benefits sions with Seafarers attending job security and retirement security for Seafare rs. classes to upgrade their skills at the Paul Hall Center. Featured in New Agreements The tentative agreements security and comprehensive mediSIU Vice President Contracts feature numerous gains directly based on members' input, including an innovative annuity savings plan for individual Seafarers plus new and increased medical benefits for SIU members and their dependents (see story, this page). They are being presented to the membership at SIU halls throughout the country, as well as aboard Seafarers-contracted ships. Voting thus far has been overwhelmingly in favor of the contracts, which also call for wage increases. A notice of final ratification, along with further details regarding the pacts, is expected to appear in a future issue of the Seafarers LOG. "Job security, retirement cal benefits for Seafarers and their families were the SIU' s main focus throughout the negotiations," noted SIU Executive Vice President Joseph Sacco. "The end See pages 6-7 for additional reports on the Augustin Tellez noted that the length of the agreements helps provide stability in the industry by allowing the ship operators to determine both their costs and their operations for an extended period. Smooth Sailing for 5 Years standard contracts. result are agreements that achieve those goals and clearly reflect the input of the membership." He added that, in preparing for the talks, the union carefully reviewed the contract recommendations made by Seafarers in minutes of shipboard union meetings, in minutes of monthly membership meetings at the various The new contracts were reached early last month with deep sea operators in the management group known as the American Maritime Association. Once ratified, they will be in effect (retroactively) from June 16, 1996 through June 15, 2001. Highlights of the agreements include the following: • A newly negotiated savings plan known as the Seafarers Jones Act Remains Vital Supporters Tell House Subcommittee that Cabotage Law Affects National Security, Economy and Transportation Members of the House Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee heard how vital the nation's freight cabotage law is to America's transportation system, economy, safety and national security during a June 12 hearing on the Jones Act. The day-long hearing was called by Chairman Howard Coble (R-N.C.) "to determine if current law meets the transportation needs of the country." The SIU responded to the chairman's call by pointing out the value of the 1920 law, which states cargo moved between domestic ports must be carried aboard U.S.-flag, U.S.-crewed and U.S.-built vessels. "The Jones Act is a national law which rightfully protects American industries and American workers," SIU Governmental Affairs Director Terry Turner informed the subcommittee. "It is a law which fosters the development of American industries and provides employment opportunities for American citizens." Wide-Ranging Support Joining Turner in support of the Jones Act were representatives from other maritime-related labor unions, shipping and transportation industries, the federal government and shipbuilders. ''The coastwise laws of the United States, and similarcabotage laws applicable to U.S. aviation, rail and trucking industries, are essential to ensuring the safety, reliability and efficiency of our domestic transportation system and, as such, are vital to our national defense and economic security," noted Philip Grill, chairman of the Maritime Cabotage Task Force. The task force is composed of more than 400 maritime and transportation-related organizations, including the SIU. Grill also serves as vice president for government relations for SIU-contracted Matson Navigation. "The national transportation policy embraced by the Jones Act not only guarantees a viable privately owned maritime fleet, but sustains all other modes of U.S. commercial transportation as well," added Peter Finnerty, vice president for public affairs at SeaLand. Finnerty was testifying on behalf of the Transportation Institute, which represents more than 100 companies operating U.S.-flag vessels in the domestic and foreign shipping trades. Jobs and Other Benefits July1996 Money Purchase Plan Benefit (SMPB). This benefit-which does not cost Seafarers anything and is totally separate from the wage-related pension - is an individual interest-earning investment account funded by a daily contribution made on behalf of the employee by the company. Seafarers also have the option of voluntarily contributing to their fund. • Expanded dental and optical benefits for Seafarers and their dependents. •Establishment of SIU riding gangs that will be used to supplement the ships' crews for project work such as shipyard preparations. • Modifications in the ship- board work procedures that add jurisdictional protection while also maintaining strict safety practices. • Wage increases. Wage schedule also includes a cost of living adjustment (COLA) in the fourth and fifth years of the contract. • No reduction in crew sizes. • On tankers, the overtime rate will reflect a blended rate based on a combination of premium, regular overtime and penalty rates. • The shipping rules shall be amended to place even greater emphasis on safety by giving priority to those mariners who possess the most seniority and shipboard experience combined with training at the Paul Hall Center. Seafarers Offer Firsthand Knowledge About Jones Act to Legislators Administration Backing Presenting the Clinton administration's endorsement for the law was Maritime Administrator Albert Herberger. ''The administration supports the Jones Act as an essential element of U.S. maritime policy," Herberger told the subcommittee. "Our overall national maritime policy, of which the Jones Act is a key part, is designed to promote national and economic security. U.S.-flag ships perform these services in all political and economic situations, during peace or war," the retired U.S. Navy vice admiral added. America's shipbuilders also offered their blessing for the nation's freight cabotage law. "The Jones Act is a bedrock requirement to sustain the U.S. shipbuilding industrial base, a critical national asset," Tom Bowler, president of the American Shipbuilding Association, told the elected officials. "Since 1920, the Jones Act has brought forth an efficient and competitive domestic transport system," noted Robert O'Neill, vice president of the Shipbuilders Council of America. Representatives from maritime labor unions, the federal government and the shipping industry testified in favor of the Jones Act during the House Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee hearing. Clockwise from top left are Terry Turner, SIU govenmental affairs director; Albert Herberger, head of the U.S. Maritime Administration; Philip Grill, chairman of the Maritime Cabotage Task Force; and Peter Finnerty, representing the Transportation Institute. In a major contractual gain that should result in substantial savings for SIU members and their families, dependent coverage will be expanded to provide 100 percent of reasonable and customary charges, pending final ratification of the new standard freightship and tanker agreements. This is an increase from the current level of coverage (80 percent) and eliminates the 20 percent co-payment. Additionally, for the first time, dental benefits - including orthodontics - will be extended to Seafarers' dependents.The contracts also call for increases in optical benefits as well as dental coverage for SIU members. More details will be published in an upcoming issue of the Seafarers LOG. Also speaking out in favor of the Jones Act were members of the subcommittee as well as other elected officials who attended the hearing. "I am here to state my support for the retention of the Jones Act," Rep. Herbert Bateman (R-Va.), chairman of the House Merchant Marine Oversight Panel, said while making an appearance at the hearing. The ranking minority party member of the House Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, Rep. Bob Clement (D-Tenn.), stated what he thought the focus of the hearing should be. Continued on page 5 Meeting with Rep. Howard Coble (R-N.C.) (far right), chairman of the House Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, during a break in the Jones Act hearing are (from left) Robert Morton Sr., Pensioner William Drew, AB Robert Morton Jr., Sylvia Kirk and AB Robert Kirk. For three Seafarers and their family members who attended the June 12 House Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee hearing on the Jones Act, the day on Capitol Hill proved to be educational for both them and the elected officials to whom they spoke. Seafarers William Drew, Robert Kirk and Robert Morton Jr. all traveled from North Carolina to not only listen to the hearing, but also to let members of Congress know firsthand how the Jones Act affects them. The trio-along with Kirk's wife, Sylvia, and Morton's father, Robert Sr.-spent a few minutes with the congressman who represents their home district, Rep. Walter Jones Jr. (R-N.C.), to seek his support for the nation's freight cabotage law. "We told him how important the Jones Act is to us," noted Sylvia Kirk., whose husband sails as an AB. ''We told him this is something that affects our everyday life because Robert is a merchant mariner." Mrs. Kirk reported that Jones listened attentively to what all five of them had to say. She said the congressman asked what they thought about the hearing and how they thought it went. Jones then expressed his doubts that any legislation would make its way through Congress this year. ''I thought the meeting went very well," added AB Morton following the session with Jones. "As we were leaving, I made sure he knew we need a strong U.S.-flag fleet, for ourselves and our country." All of them listened to the five panels which presented testimony during the day-long hearing. During breaks, they introduced themselves to several members of the subcommittee, including Chairman Howard Coble (R-N.C.) as well as Rep. Bob Clement (D-Tenn.), who serves as the ranking Democrat on the panel. "I found the whole process very educational," stated Drew, a retired QMED. "All of the representatives were very interested to hear what we had to say about the Jones Act and being a mariner. I think they were able to learn from us, as well." Seafarers LOG 3 �Coalition Asks Congress to Reject Cruise Ship Loophole House Amendment Would Keep Foreign Mariners from Seeking Redress in U.S. Courts A coalition of labor officials, maritime ministers and consumer advocates outlined during a Washington, D.C. press conference a series of crew abuses and regulatory problems aboard runaway-flag cruise ships docking in the United States. The June 13 session was called to bring attention to a provision in the Coast Guard Reauthorization Bill (H.R. 1361) that would prohibit foreign mariners working aboard cruise vessels that call on the United States from being able to use the American court system to seek redress. The House of Representatives approved a lastminute amendment to the legislation which added the provision. department member of the SIU, pointed out how difficult it would be for a Third World mariner sailing on a vessel docking in South Florida to press his or her claim on a shipowner in a court located in Monrovia, Liberia or Panama City, Panama where the cruise ship is registered. Once a law outlawing the use of American courts by foreign crewmembers of a runaway-flag passenger ship takes hold, Oubre added, "it is a very small step to extend that to lightering ships which run from our oil refining cities to off load tankers just off the coast - then to take the final step and deny access to U.S. courts to all foreign merchant seafarers." Threaten U.S. Jobs Showing how the cruise industry operates outside of U.S. law, Richard Vuernick, legal policy director for Citizen Action, said that Carnival Cruise Lines, which is headquartered in Miami, paid no U.S. corporate income tax The coalition warned that permitting this amendment to become law would hurt the U.S.-flag industry trying to compete with runaway-flag vessels. The group pointed out American jobs would bethreatened because the foreign stkifarers would become a cheaper source oflabor without the right to use the U.S. legal system. With the vast majority of passengers on cruise ships being Americans, the coalition stated the amendment would endanger passenger safety and health because the foreign mariners would be far less likely to report hazardous conditions aboard ship. Finally, the representatives noted living and working conditions for the seafarers could worsen on the passenger ships because they would not be able to call attention to them through the U.S. courts. However, when the Senate passed its version of the reauthorization bill (S. 1004), those elected officials did not in- Outside the Law "Those who are the least powerful in the maritime industry will lose one of their last avenues for protection and justice," states Father Sinclair Oubre about an effort to prevent foreign mariners who sail on cruise ships docking in the U.S. from using American courts to seek legal action. Listening to the SIU member is consumer advocate Joan Claybrook. elude language denying the American court system to foreign mariners. For more than a year, the measures have been awaiting action by a House-Senate conference committee, which is designed to iron out differences between similar bills passed by the two houses of Congress. 'Un-American' Bill John Sansone, who monitors the action of runaway-flag ships that dock in the U.S . for the International Transport Workers Federation (ITF), said the House amendment would further unbalance the competition between cruise ships operating under STCW Certificate Reminder All ABs, pumpmen, tankermen assistants and any other ratings holding lifeboat tickets who sail in international waters must possess a supplementary form of shipboard identification, known as an STCW certificate, by October 1. The deadline is earlier for deck department Seafarers joining LNG vessels; those mariners now must have the STCW certificate in their possession when signing on the LNG ships, in order to comply with an international treatv. Additionally, engine department members with watch standing ratings will need the STCW identification by February 1997. For more information on acquiring the certificate, Seafarers should contact their port agent or the Coast Guard Regional Exam Center (REC) nearest their home port. Or, they may call the Paul Hall Center at (301) 994-0010, extension 5270. Also, ABs and pumpmen who sail tankers now need a tankerman assistant endorsement. It is not necessary to go to an REC to get this rating, but they must keep in their possession (while aboard ship) discharges or a letter proving at least 30 days' seatime aboard tankers during the last five years. They then will be considered "grandfathered" for the endorsement. foreign flags and those sailing with the U.S. flag. "These companies already have an unfair advantage and they are looking for more," Sansone noted during the press conference. "This is the most un-American piece of legislation I've ever been involved with." Based in London, the ITF is composed of more than 400 transportation unions, including the SIU, from around the world. The organization has among its goals to seek an end to substandard working and safety conditions found aboard runaway-flag vessels. These ships are those owned in one country, registered in another so as to avoid the government safety, tax and other regulations of the first, and crewed by mariners from still anothergenerally Third World-nation. Domino Effect Adding his organization's voice to the fight to stop the amendment was Father Sinclair Oubre, president of the North American Maritime Ministry Association. Oubre, who also is a deck on the profits it made from its ships. "In 1995, Carnival made $900 million in gross income. Under the tax rate of 33 percent, maybe the U.S. government could have taken in $300 million toward the deficit if the company had been taxed," Vuernick stated. Consumer advocate Ralph Nader informed the audience that foreign crewmembers aboard the runaway-flag cruise ships "work seven days a week with very long hours for the mega-millionaires who own the cruise lines." He added that the industry "perpetuates floating sweatshops." Another consumer advocate, Joan Claybrook, said, "This industry-which generates most of its revenue from American passengers who are on roundtrip cruises from the United States-is not required to meet the standards met by other industries doing business in the U.S. "Now, they want to be free of America's rule oflaw," she stated. Runaway-Flag Cruise Ships Already Exempt from Many American Laws During a June 13 press conference, consumer advocate Ralph Nader asked why the runaway-flag cruise industry is seeking another exemption from U.S. law. This issue was brought up at the meeting where a coalition oflabor organizations, maritime ministers and consumer advocates spoke out against legislation that would prevent foreign mariners sailing aboard runaway-flag cruise ships which dock in American harbors from using the U.S. court system to press legal claims against shipboard problems. Nader noted the foreign-flag cruise industry in this country already is very profitable and wondered why Congress allows "U.S.-flag companies to face severe competition from these floating sweatshops." Among the U.S. laws that American-owned cruise line companies with ships registered in such foreign lands as Liberia, Panama and the Bahamas do not have to face, but must be met by U.S.-flag companies, are: U.S. corporate income tax laws Occupational Health and Safety Act • Fair Labor Standards Act Title VII of the Civil Rights Act Americans with Disabilities Act • Age Discrimination in Employment Act Family and Medical Leave Act Worker Adjustment and Retraining Act Rehabilitation Act Sexual Abuse Act National Transportation Safety Board jurisdiction for accident investigations Look for the Union Label! Seattle Hall to Move in October The Seattle SIU hall will be moving to Tacoma, Wash. and is scheduled to begin operations there on October 14. The new hall will be located at 3411 South Union Street. Directions to the hall follow: • From Seattle, take Interstate 5 South to Ex it 132 (South 38th Street/West). • Go approximately one mile to the fourth stoplight (Union Street), and turn right. • Turn left at the next stoplight, at 35th Street. The union hall is located on the comer of 35th and Union. The building is light green with a stone exterior. OR • From south of Tacoma, take I-5 North to Exit 132 (South 38th Street/West), then follow directions above. 4 Seafarers LOG _.....-J ' l /a Victc; l;I_ - The SIU and its affiliate union, the United Industrial Workers (UIW), participated in the annual AFL-CIO Union Industries Show May 31-June 3 at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Information and brochures about SIU-contracted passenger vessels, including those operated by The Delta Queen Steamboat Co. and American Hawaii Cruises, were distributed to guests, as were numerous UIW-made products. An estimated 150,000 guests attended the event, and 300 unions and union-represented companies participated. The purpose of the show is to showcase the quality and variety of union-made, U.S.-made goods and services. Pictured at the SIU booth are (from left) UIW Great Lakes Region VP Bill Dobbins, SIU Secretary-Treasurer John Fay, SIU President Michael Sacco, Southern California Port Maritime Council President Dennis Lundy, UIW National Director Steve Edney and AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department Secretary-Treasurer Frank Pecquex. July1996 �Seafarers Ratify Crawley Pact By a strong majority, SIU members who sail aboard Crowley Towing and Transportation tugboats recently ratified a new threeyear contract that increases wages and benefits. The agreement was approved June 26 and takes effect July 1. It covers Seafarers who crew Crowley boats in the ports of Lake Charles, La; San Juan, P.R.; Jacksonville, A.a.; Long Beach, Calif. and Philadelphia. "I think we came away with a good contract," said Captain Scott Linsley, who graduated from the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. 20 years ago. "The benefits were a big move ahead." Linsley, who sails from the port of Long Beach and who served on the negotiating committee, added that he believes the contract is fair both to the union and the company. Tankerman Mickey Main, also a member of the bargaining committee, agreed. "Both sides were happy with the result. We made some good gains in our dental coverage and other medical benefits. I have a wife and three children, so I'm personally pleased we got some dental coverage for dependents," said the Long Beach-based Seafarer. A 1978 graduate of the Lundeberg School, Main expressed appreciation for his years with the SIU and Crowley. "I have supported my family with this job, I'm a homeowner, and I owe it all to the union and the company." Another key aspect of the contract is job security, stated Captain Elijah Seals, who sails from the port of Jacksonville. The agreement spells out work rule changes that protect SIU jobs while providing the flexibility to possibly secure additional business, he noted. "We didn't lose any jobs," said the 20-year Seafarer, who also served on the committee. "Personally, I thought it was a good contract. We got a raise, and another big plus was the fact that our health benefits were vastly improved. That was a big boon to a lot of Seafarers who have families." Whereas Linsley and Main previously had served on negotiating committees, this was Seals' first time working in such a capacity. "It's an experience everyone should try," he observed. "It's a lot of work, but it's also a very educational process." Negotiations took place at Piney Point and consisted of a pair of one-week sessions followed by three all-day sessions. ''The committee was very dedicated and truly did an outstanding job," said SIU Executive Vice President Joseph Sacco. Joining Seals, Main, Linsley and Sacco on the committee were Captain Alex Rondfelt, Tanker- Transoceanic Cable Ship Crews Vote on Five-Year Agreement Increased wages and benefits and a new annuity savings plan are included in a proposed five-year contract that is being voted on by SIU crews aboard vessels operated by Transoceanic Cable Ship Company. Final approval was expected to take place as the Seafarers LOG went to press. All indications were that the contract, which would take effect July 1, had overwhelming support from the membership. For example, at a June 19 shipboard ratification vote aboard the Global Link in Baltimore, crews from that ship and the Global Mariner, which was docked nearby, unanimously backed the agreement. "I'm really proud of the con" tract. I think it's a big step forward," said Bosun Thor Young following the vote aboard the Global Link. ''The officials obviously did a good job negotiating." Chief Cook James Gladney identified 100 percent medical coverage for dependents (for reasonable and customary charges) as a highlight of the contract. Another, he said, is the Seafarers Money Purchase Plan Benefit an innovative savings account for individual SIU members that has no vesting requirements and is funded by contributions from the company. "It's wonderful," Gladney stated. "I support the entire contract." tic Coast Jack Caffey, SIU Assistant Vice Presidents Dave Heindel (Philadelphia) and Don Anderson (Houston), Wilmington, Calif. Port Agent George Tricker and San Juan Port Agent Steve Ruiz. SIU-crewed Crowley tugs and barges transport various cargoes between the aforementioned ports and to other locations. "We handle just about anything that can be put on a barge," said Seals. Members Have Incentive To Review Medical Bills Captain Scott Linsley knows firsthand that hospitals make plenty of billing errors. When Linsley's wife was undergoing cancer treatment, they were charged $1,600 for a prosthesis Mrs. Linsley neither received nor needed. The Long Beach, Calif.-based Seafarer, who sails with Crowley Towing and Transportation, caught the mistake and had the charge removed. "Most of the bills (from the treatments) contained errors," the 44-year-old Lundeberg School graduate stated. "If we don't check them and speak up, we'll all be losing money." When Seafarers catch such mistakes and have them adjusted by the health care provider, they not only save money for the Seafarers Welfare Plan, but also become eligible for a reward of up to $500. Under this system, known as the participant audit program, the plan offers members a 25 per- cent reward (to a maximum of $500) every time they spot a medical billing error which then is corrected to result in a savings to the member and the Seafarers Welfare Plan. For more information about the SIU' s participant audit program, call the claims department at 1-800CLAIMS4 (1-800-252-4674). Valuable Benefits Linsley also noted that his family's tragic experience (his wife eventually passed away) made him fully realize the value of good medical benefits. "Without the union, without insurance, I would have been (financially) ruined and my wife wouldn't have gotten the care she received," he said. "I try to get [fellow boatmen] to understand that benefits are extremely important. If my example can be used constructively in the LOG to illustrate that point, then by all means, print it." Jones Act Deserves Support, House Subcommittee Is Informed Prior to unanimously approving a new five-year contract, SIU crews from the Global Link and Global Mariner listen as SIU Executive VP Joseph Sacco (standing at right) brings them up-to-date on matters affecting the union and the maritime industry as a whole. The meeting took place June 19 aboard the Global Link in Baltimore. Similarly, Bosun Jose Gomez described the pact as "super. The medical benefits are great." The agreement increases medical coverage both for Seafarers and their dependents. That includes dental and optical benefits. The contract also increases the overtime rate on the ships, whose crews perform cable-laying and repair operations. Sizing up the entire package, Recertified Steward Brandon Maeda said, "I think it's great. This contract is one example of why we are the envy of a lot of other maritime unions." Seafarers crew five operated by Transoceanic. They are the Long Lines, the Global Sentinel, the Charles Brown, the Global Link and the Global Rep. Bob Clement (D-Tenn.) (left) hears from Robert Morton Sr. (center) and AB Robert Morton Jr. how the Jones Act affects their livelihoods. Continued from page 3 Cook/Baker Willie Crear (top photo) and SA Ray Magneson (below) voted in favor of the fiveyear contract during a meeting conducted last month aboard the Global Link in Baltimore. The security of a five-year contract is one topic discussed aboard the Global Link by (from left) SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez, Bosun Jose Gomez, Recertified Steward Brandon Maeda and SIU Executive VP Joseph Sacco. July1996 man Ivan Willoughby and ABs I van Cortis and Leoncio Canete from San Juan; Captain Byron Davidson and AB John Salmon from Lake Charles; AB Ray Richardson from Jacksonville; Mate Jim Larkin and AB Steve Welch from Philadelphia; and Engineer Al Cvitanovich from Long Beach. Also serving were SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez, SIU Vice President Atlan- "Today's hearing is really about jobs: jobs for U.S. citizens employed in our domestic shipping industry; jobs for U.S. citizens employed in our nation's shipyards; jobs for U.S. citizens employed in our domestic trucking and rail industries who should not have to compete against seamen hired from Third World nations," announced Clement. In professing his support for the Jones Act, Rep. Randy Tate (RWash.) said the law "provides important benefits to our nation in at least three ways." Tate outlined the three benefits as national security, economics and environmental and safety. "Safe, efficient and reliable water transportation is absolutely critical to the Pacific Northwest. What makes this powerful relationship work is a domestic waterborne transportation system that I would compare to any in the world," the Washington state representative concluded. Challenges Statements Support for the Jones Act also came in the form of questions from members of the subcommittee. Rep. Don Young (R-Alaska) took two witnesses to task over several of their statements opposing the Jones Act. Young challenged a view expressed by Rob Quartel, who heads a coalition trying to diminish the law, that 71 retired U.S. Navy admirals were wrong to call the Jones Act vital to the nation's security interests. Then Young, who is the only licensed maritime pilot serving in Congress, contested the notion presented by J. Stephen Lucas, vice president of the Louis Dreyfus Corp., that the company would not benefit by using its foreign-flag fleet in the place of U.S.-flag vessels. The May 1990 issue of the Seafarers LOG pointed out that Louis Dreyfus, a French-owned company. owned or operated more than 100 foreign-flag ships, most of them bulkers. Seafarers LOG 5 �Se farers Back New Contracts Widespread Praise for 5-Year Pacts .x ~ ~ . _. TOP PHOTO: QMED Arthur Baredian votes in Jacksonville. ABOVE: Recartified Bosun Charlie Parks (right) asks a question at the meeting in Norfolk. Throughout the country, Seafarers are praising the new five-year standard freightship and tanker contracts currently being ratified by the membership. "I have been a member of the SIU for 27 years, and this is the best contract I've seen," stated engine department Seafarer Ahmed Salim at the SIU hall in New York. "I'm really impressed with what our union did at the bargaining table," said Recertified Bosun Charlie Parks at the union hall inNorfolk, Va ''Inmy 18 years with the SIU, this is the best contract I've seen." The two Seafarers' comments reflect the overwhelming support for the agreements as shown last month in special voting meetings at SIU halls and during ratification sessions aboard Seafarers-contracted vessels. Voting began June 7, and final ratification was proceeding as the Seafarers LOG went to press. (An announcement of final ratification will appear in an upcoming issue of the LOG.) At the ratification meeting in Jacksonville, Fla., members applauded the announcements of 100 percent medical coverage for dependents, dependent dental benefits and improved dental coverage for SIU members. ''It's fantastic," said AB David Campbell. 'The dental coverage is something we've neede~. Overall, it is.outs~ding." Chief Cook Gm~ L1ghtf~ot and QM?D Arthur Bared1an also cited the medical benefits and expanded dependent coverage as highlights of the contracts. Chief Cook George Vorise summed up his view of the agreements when he said, "This contract is beautiful!." Steward Gerald Kirksey concurred. "This is a good contract. It is excellent," he observed. In Norfolk, Steward Lonzell Sykes described the contracts as "wonderful, the best yet. It's a good package from A to Z." OS James "Poppy" Davis said the pacts boosted his faith not only in the SIU, but in the U.S.-flag merchant marine. "A contract like this shows that there's a future for young people coming into this industry," he said. 'The [Seafarers Money Purchase Plan Benefit] and the medical plan are the best parts." AB Larry Combs tabbed certain workrule changes as an important gain, while AB Clay Brown singled out the money plan benefit as "the best part of the contract. But the whole contract is great," Brown said. "The union did a great job fighting for seamen." AB Demetrio F. Marchione said the agreements "protect our job security and stress safety aboard ship as well." In New York, as in Jacksonville, Norfolk and several other SIU halls, the ratification vote was unanimous in favor of the contracts. "It's a very good contract," said AB Abdulla Saeed. "The savings plan, the health benefits-it's all good." C. Cook Alonzo Belcher and wife, Avise, attend Norfolk vote. w ,./"'!';·,, QMED Cindy Davis, in Jacksonville, asks about medical coverage. QMED John Bimpong (foreground) and fellow members in Jacksonville cast their votes. Members in San Francisco observe moment of silence before starting their meeting. 6 Seafarers LOG July1996 �In Mobile (1-r), Jessie Andrews, Kennard Campbell, Darryle Coale and Norman Williams prepare to vote. From left, Lawrence Wright, Paul Charly and Lonnie Gamble are seated for the Mobile meeting. Sea-Land Consumer Crew Solid for New Agreement News that the union was presenting a new standard freightship agreement was received eagerly by the crew of the Sea-Land Consumer when the vessel docked at Blount Island near Jacksonville, Fla. on June 7. Bosun Francis Adams attended the special meeting held in the Jacksonville hall to get the first word of the new five-year pact. '"This is a great contract," Adams stated after the two-hour meeting. "I know the guys will be happy when they hear about-it." Later that afternoon, Jacksonville Port Agent Anthony McQuay went on the containership to outline the contract with those aboard. Before he could finish climbing the gangway, deck department Seafarers started peppering him with questions. During a one-hour meeting aboard the Sea-Land ship, McQuay reviewed the new pact and answered questions from the crew. Several members from the deck, engine and steward departments attended the meeting. "I love the Seafarers Money Purchase Plan Benefit," noted Electrician Irwin ''Uggy" Rousseau. 'This and all the other benefits will help a lot of members. "This contract is an exceptional move by the negotiators." Adding his support to the new agreement was AB Dion Tury. "I think the emergency leave provision is great. If there is ever a time when a medical or family emergency comes up, we will be able to return to the ship without losing our jobs. This is a tremendous improvement." Members smiled and applauded when they heard about the upgrading of the dental and optical benefits as well as the 100 percent coverage (within reason) for dependents' medical benefits. The Sea-Land Consumer crew voted unanimously for the new agreement. The Sea-Land Consumer crew is unanimous in support of the new pact. Showing they are in favor are (from left) Electrician Irwin "Uggy" Rousseau, AB Rafael Vega and Chief Cook George Salazar. Following the special contract meeting aboard the vessel, Chief Cook George Salazar (left) and SA Signing in for the shipboard Tom Higgins prepare to hang the new SPAD meeting is AB Dion Tury. "Preserve the Jones Acr poster. In four photos directly above, Houston-area Seafarers intently ponder highlights of the new standard contracts. July1996 AB Roberto Diaz sands the house of the Sea-Land Consumer prior to attending the contract meeting. Asking questions of Port Agent Tony McQuay (left) about the new pact before the meeting are SA Jesse Robinson (center) and Chief Cook George Salazar. Seafarers LOG 7 �Orgulf Cooks Sizzle Through Culinary Course Inland Members Praise Paul Hall Center Curriculum Three Orgulf Transport Co. cooks last month completed a specially designed two-week culinary training course at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. "It was wonderful," said Linda May, who has sailed with Orgulf for the past five years. "I just loved it. Everybody was professional, patient and easy to learn from. The Paul Hall Center atmosphere is helpful, too, and the upgraders from other classes were very kind and respectful when we interacted with them." Also completing the class, which blended hands-on training with classroom instruction, were Mary Hooper and Steven Nelson. "I thought it was very informative and good for everybody," noted Nelson, who formerly worked as a land-based chef. "The culinary facilities are great, and the campus is beautiful. Everybody who's ever been here from Orgulf has liked it and learned a lot." The course included intensive study of shipboard sanitation. Executive Chef Allan Sherwin, director of culinary education at the Paul Hall Center, and Lundeberg School instructor Eileen Hager stressed prevention of food-borne illness and correct procedures for inspection, preparation and storage of foods. For example, among the key facts the cooks reviewed is 90 percent of occurrences of food-borne illness is related to personal cleanliness (such as hand-washing or removing one's apron prior to using a restroom). They also were reminded that the organisms that cause food poisoning are tasteless and colorless; therefore, they primarily are identifiable through the scent of their waste. By satisfactorily completing this segment of the class, Nelson, Hooper and May earned certification from the Educational Foundation of the National Restaurant Association. Other aspects of the program were basic cooking skills, use of computers for menu-planning and ordering stores, and emphasis on nutritional cooking. The Orgulf cooks also did practical training with other galley gang Seafarers. 'That was very beneficial," said Mary Hooper is one of three Orgulf cooks who completed a culinary course at the Paul Hall Center. Maryland Governor at Hall Center Linda May described the Paul Hall Center instructors and staff as "professional, patient and easy to learn from." American Queen Seafarer Muirhead Sut:t:essfully Completes Chief Steward Training According to James Muirhead, the only honor greater than The center's lecture/demonstration galley greatly facilitated learning, notedSeafarerSteven Nelson. May. ''They were good students who were motivated," observed Sherwin. ''When upgraders train here, one of the benefits is that they become acquainted with further possibilities for education and training that exist at the Paul Hall Center," Sherwin continued. "We then can talk about specialized training." Nelson added that he and the other Orgulf cooks enjoyed a weekend trip to Washington, D.C. ''That's the first time any of us toured the Capitol, the Smithsonian and the monuments," he said. "We really enjoyed that." being the first cook/relief sous chef aboard the American Queen is belonging to the SIU, where he has the opportunity to upgrade his skills at the Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md. "Being able to come to Piney Point and upgrade has given me the opportunity to explore what I want for my future and discover what other options are available to me as a member of the SIU," stated Muirhead, who graduated from the chief steward course at the Lundeberg School on June 14. The 37-year-old galley gang member successfully completed the intensive 12-week course, which earned him certification as a chief steward. His curriculum included classroom instruction that was supplemented by on-the-job training. Menu planning, work organization, typing, inventory control and requisitioning procedures were among the topics covered. Sanitation, nutrition and safety also were highlighted. Muirhead noted that while he will use everything that he learned in the class when he is at work aboard the world's largest paddlewheeler, he feels that the sanitation portion of the course will benefit him most when he returns to The Delta Queen Steamboat Company vessel. "I was very impressed with the degree of expertise provided by Chef Allan [Sherwin, head of the school's culinary education department] in the sanitation segment," recalled Muirhead. "I have taken several courses on sanitation, but the one offered at Piney Point was superior. It was very detailed and in-depth. I learned a lot that I will be able to bring back aboard the American Queen and teach other members of the staff. I am very pleased with what I learned," he added. The galley gang member also stated the time spent in the lab by the chief steward students was "very beneficial. I learned a lot of new techniques and ideas. There are many more ways to prepare foods than what I was familiar with. The information was invaluable," Muirhead continued. The Long Island, N.Y. native moved to New Orleans in 1981 to search for work in the oil fields. After he was unsuccessful in obtaining a job in the petroleum industry, he began working as a cook in New Orleans-area restaurants. "And I just went from there. I discovered that cooking is what I was made for," Muirhead told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. After hearing about the SIU from his brother, who served in the U.S. Navy, he sent an application to the New Orleans-based Delta Queen Steamboat Company and obtained a job as a member of the steward department aboard the Mississippi Queen in 1994. Muirhead sailed aboard that vessel until the 418-footAmerican Queen was christened and joined the company's fleet in June 1995. "Bringing the American Queen out of the shipyard is one of the highlights of my career. All the work that went into the effort made those of us who brought her out feel that we had put her together ourselves and that the American As part of the chief steward course at the Lundeberg School, James Muirhead learned different techniques to prepare food. Above, Muirhead works on a special recipe in the steward lab. Queen was our ship," he recalled. "I love working aboard American Queen. It is a good, steady job, and I am always well taken care of," he said. Muirhead acknowledged the advantages of sailing aboard one of only three overnight paddlewheel steamboats operating in the United States. "The American Queen is the most beautiful vessel I have ever seen. From bow to stern, it is truly remarkable. It also has the largest collection of antiques in all the Midwest. Even the crew's quarters are nice," he stated. Muirhead added that he enjoys visiting the quaint towns located along the rivers that the American Queen plies. "I like to discover all the little towns, visit with the people, experience their cultures and get to know them, ifI have the time. That, for me, is a definite highlight," concluded the chief steward. Seafarer Hoitt Active in American Legion Maryland Governor Parris Glendening (left} recently visited the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. to address a meeting of the Maryland State and Washington, D.C. AFL-CIO. Nick Marrone (right), acting vice president of the center, presented the governor with an SIU jacket and a Harry Lundeberg white cap. Before being elected governor, Glendening served for 12 years as the county executive of Prince George's County, Md., where SIU headquarters building is located. B Seafarers LOG While recently upgrading at the Paul Hall Center, Chief Steward Ernest Hoitt noted that the American Legion "is very active with legislation and regulations promoting veterans, including Seafarers who sailed during Wortd War II, Korea and Vietnam." Brother Hoitt, who most recently sailed aboard the Stonewall Jackson, is a life member of the American Legion and is commander and past president of New Orteans Post 125. July1996 �LNG Taurus Crew Bullish on Safety ;,,,,_, :!. L. ;\'. Ii~ TA 111111 S .Jl'JLM l1VG'l,O N U 151.i. 48 JJJ~/lS01\ S IJ :JS l.-"U. l.,T. 1 The LNG Taurus has been an SIU-crewed ship since its christening in Quincy, Mass. in 1979. Throughout the ensuing 17 years, one thing about the liquefied natural gas carrier has not changed: the crew's commitment to safety. While safety is important on any vessel, it is especially crucial on one carrying such a potentially dangerous cargo as liquified natural gas. That is why Seafarers are meticulous in their work aboard the LNG ships, which transport cargo between ports in Japan and Indonesia. The SIU members also regularly conduct safety meetings and drills aboard the 936foot vessel. 'Their determination to keep the Taurus as safe as possible is very evident," noted SIU Assistant Vice President Bob Hall, who recently met with crewmembers aboard the ship in Japan and who provided the photos accompanying this article. Like the other SIU-crewed LNG ships operated by New York-based Energy Transportation Corporation (ETC), the Taurus features five eight-inch-thick spherical cargo tanks that rise 40 feet above the deck. Each tank is 120 feet in diameter and weighs 800 tons. The five tanks can carry a total of 125,000 cubic meters of liquid natural gas at 265 degrees below zero (Fahrenheit). Other features of the Taurus include a double-bottom hull, a collision avoidance system and an extensive firefighting scheme complete with automatic sprinklers and eight dry-chemical firefighting stations located at strategic points on deck. The Taurus' ports of call include A.run and Bontang in Indonesia and Himeji, Osaka, Tobata and Nagoya in Japan. ETC's U.S.-flag fleet has been transporting liquified natural gas from Indonesia to Japan since 1977. Built in 1979, the LNG Taurus transports liquified natural gas between Indonesia and Japan. AB Carlos Bonilla enjoys a break after finishing a long shift aboard the LNG Taurus. After enjoying a good meal, deck gang members (from left) AB Jesse Natividad Jr., DEU Dave Heindel, Bosun J.J. Cooper and AB Ken Steiner are eager for the next assignment. July1996 Seafarers LOG 9 �1 ~0 ~~ II Moran Boatmen Complete ~"~=s,~=~p=~=~B~~~~~e~~ng~lnlngSemlnar Aboard Carnival Cruise Ship Following a seven-day cruise to Mexico, 52 travelers aboard a Carnival Cruise Lines ship became ill after they were infected with an airborne virus carried aboard the luxury liner. The Jubilee departed its home port of Los Angeles on June 16 with 1,897 people aboard. Three days into the voyage. when the ship was arriving in Puerto Vallarta, 52 people had already reported their illnesses. As detailed in press reports. the symptoms resembled food poisoning, and passengers were treated with diarrhea medicine in the ship's infirmary. Officials at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta did not comment on the virus, but inspectors for the agency cleared the Jubilee to leave on another Mexican cruise several days after an inspection of the vessel when it docked in Los Angeles. 'The CDC's belief is that it was an airborne virus and there are no ongoing complications," said Carnival Cruises spokesman Tim Gallagher. Carnival stated that no other cases were reported after the sick passengers were treated. Taiwanese Officers Face Murder Charges Authorities from Taiwan and Romania last month continued to argue about who will get custody of a Taiwanese ship captain and six officers accused of murdering three Romanian stowaways on a trans-Atlantic voyage in April. (The incident was reported in the June issue of the Seafarers LOG.) According to press reports, two Romanian stowaways were forced overboard from the Maersk Dubai onto a hastily built raft that quickly fell apart off the coast of Spain. A third stowaway allegedly was stabbed repeatedly before being thrown to his death. A fourth stowaway, who was hidden and fed by the Maersk Dubai's unlicensed crew, lived to tell about the incident. The murders were revealed by eight Filipino crewmembers who left the Taiwan-based containership in late May. The Taiwanese officers were arrested in Halifax, Nova Scotia by the Canadian port police following the ship's boarding and an investigation by the policemen as well as immigration officials and an International Transport Workers Federation (ITF) inspector. Lawyers for the Taiwanese officers met with the Canadian police and demanded that they be released to be extradited to Taiwan rather than Romania. Officials from Bucharest argued that they should be extradited to Romania to face murder charges. According to press reports, the lawyers from Romania told Canadian officials that the evidence presented proved that the unidentified stowaways were "murdered without mercy." Liberty Ship O'Brien Returns to the Sea After a two-year break following its historic voyage to the beaches of Normandy, France for participation in the 50th anniversary ofD-Day, the Jeremiah 0 'Brien, one of two surviving World War II Liberty ships. is sailing again. On June 24, the O'Brien sailed from San Francisco, destined for six ports in Canada and the Pacific Northwest. It also was scheduled to participate in a television miniseries. In some ports, the ship will offer tours and day cruises to help raise money to pay for dry-docking in San Francisco in 1997. While raising funds is one objective, keeping the spirit of the vessel alive is the primary purpose of the voyage, noted supporters of the ship. Chief Engineer Richard Brannon, 77, the oldest member of the 0 'Brien crew, told the San Francisco Chronicle. 'We have tremendous pride in this ship and we want to keep it alive." All 56 members of the crew-52 men and four women-are volunteers who perform their work in return for room and board. Approximately two-thirds of the crew sailed a portion of the 1994 Normandy voyage. The ship set out from San Francisco bound for Victoria, British Columbia, where it was scheduled to remain for one week to participate in Canada Day celebrations on July 1. The Canadians look to the 0 'Brien as a model in their efforts to save one of their own World War II ships. The Cape Breton, one of 354 Park Class cargo ships built for the British Royal Navy in World War II, is in danger of being scrapped. The Park ships had the same horsepower reciprocating steam engines as the Liberty ships but were slightly different in appearance. From Victoria, the O'Brien is slated to sail to Vancouver, B.C. and back down the coast to the Columbia River to visit ports in Longview, Wash., Portland, and Astoria, Ore. The ship will then sail to Puget Sound to play a part in a television movie about the S.S. Titanic. The movie crews are interested in the 0 'Brien's antique steam engines, and it was mentioned in press reports that the ship may be selected to play the role of the Cunard Liner Carpathian, a ship which rescued survivors after the Titanic hit an iceberg and sank in 1912. The 0 'Brien is scheduled to return to the port of San Francisco in August. 10 Seafarers LOG Another 11 SIU boatmen who sail for Moran Towing of Texas updated their seamanship skills during a one-week seminar con- ducted last month at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School. They are the second class of Moran boatmen to upgrade this year at the Eleven more boatmen from Moran Towing of Texas attended a week-long training session at the Lundeberg School. They are (from left, kneeling) Domi~ic "Dino" Bailey, Miles Heath, Steve Kelly (company representative), John Sparks, (second row) Bill Palmer, Jim Moran, Gary D~~ton, Eric Vizier, Ryan Riggins, (back row) John Sanborn, Donnie W1lhams and Ernest Gingles. Piney Point, Md. facility. From June 10-14, the Moran boatmen received intensive training in hazardous-materials handling as well as how new regulations created by the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) for mariners and the Oil Pollution Act of 1990 affect them on the job. The training was specially designed for them by Lundeberg School instructors and the company to fit within their busy sailing schedules. The boatmen also studied rulesof-the-road, radar, bridge management and shiphandling. Lundeberg School instructor Byran Cummings, who taught the hazardous-materials handling portion of the course as well as the first aid and CPR sections, noted, "The Moran guys are always good groups who are eager to learn and will put forth the extra effort it takes to make it through an intensive one-week course." Cummings added that a majority of the Moran boatmen have upgraded at the Paul Hall Center before. SIU boatmen who attended the most recent Moran training included Captains Dominic ''Dino" Bailey, Miles Heath, Jim Moran and John Sanborn. Also upgrading during the June session were Mates John Sparks, Bill Palmer, Gary Denton, Eric Vizier, Ryan Riggins, Donnie Williams and Ernest Gingles. Mate Eric Vizier (left) listens as instructor Byran Cummings explains proper handling of hazardous materials while Mate Ernest Gingles (center) and Captain Dominic Bailey prepare a breathing apparatus for use. Due to the positive response from those who have attended the school, the company plans to send another group of boatmen to Piney Point in August. Bosun Caulder Praises Mayaguez Crew In the words of Bosun Al Caulder, 'The Mayaguez and her crew are fantastic." Caulder, who sails from the port of Jacksonville, Fla., recently signedofftheNPR, Inc. containership. He had nothing but good words for all the crewmembers aboard the ship. "All departments work well with each other," the bosun noted. "The crew comes from Puerto Rico, New York and Jacksonville. Everyone knows their jobs and gets along well." Reminding crewmembers when the Mayaguez will be ready to sail from the port of Jacksonville is AB Victor Pacheco. While Caulder was passing out the praise, he included the steward department for continually doing its share to ensure the ship is a good feeder. "Steward Richard Ward goes out of his way to satisfy the crew. He makes sure everything is firstrate." The containership, built in 1968, sails between San Juan and ports along the Atlantic coast. Peering from his position in the engineroom is OMU Luis Almodova!. Chief Cook William Muniz welcomes a visitor to the ship's galley. • Checking out activities in the crew lounge is Electrician Mark Serlis. July1996 �Petroleum Discharge berclses Elicit Jab Well Dane For Mount Washington Crew In order to launch and recover the 850-ton barge, the Mount Washington must list 12 degrees, giving it the appearance of a sinking ship. The sight of this vessel at work caused many people ashore to call authorities to report a ship in trouble in Norfolk harbor. Bosun Jeny Smith (left) and AB Peter McClung open the pressure valves. The professionalism of SIU ship ready for sea. The tanker members was once again departed Orange on May 1 and demonstrated when the Mount arrived off Ft. Story, Va. at the Washington participated in recent mouth of the Chesapeake Bay, refueling exercises in conjunction where it was joined by Navy with the U.S. Navy and Army field Seabees, dive units and other divisions from the U.S. Army Fuel units. The operation, dubbed "Market Command. Square," was conceived to pracDeployment of the OPDS-a tice the offshore petroleum dis- complicated and sometimes difcharge system (OPDS)--a means ficult task at best-was made even to support U.S. tro.ops ashore in more challenging due to adverse areas where facilities for pumping weather and strong local currents. The assignment involved fuel do not exist or have been destroyed. laying undersea petroleum hose The Mount Washington is (called conduit) and listing the operated for the Mari time Ad- ship 12 degrees to port for launchministration by Bay Ship Manage- ing of an 850-ton barge (called a ment. It has been part of the single anchor leg mooring-or Navy's fleet of Ready Reserve SALM). It also required Force (RRF) vessels, but is being maneuvering the tanker into and prepared for assignment in the out of a four-point moor, deployU.S. military's prepositioning ing anchors and mooring gear, and fleet. (Other OPDS tankers in the then retrieving all the equipment. Pumping ashore began on RRF assisted in the humanitarian effort in Somalia and are presently schedule through the ship's speon standby readiness for other cialized pressure pumps and ulmilitary operations to areas of . timately delivered nearly two million gallons of a simulated potential conflict.) After a substantial shipyard petroleum product. period to get the vessel in top form, Backloading was accomthe Mount Washington was ac- plished in Norfolk harbor, where tivated in Orange, Texas. This was the ship was visited by local followed by two weeks of training television cameras and was feain the deployment and operation of tured on the nightly news. The apthe petroleum discharge system, as pearance of the listing Mount well as completing the many Washington made it look like a routine tasks necessary to get the vessel in distress-which prompted many telephone calls by the public to the local television station stating that a Navy vessel was sinking in the harbor. A special effort by the vessel's seven-man steward department, headed by Chief Steward Felipe Orlanda and Chief Cook Juan Gonzales, was greatly appreciated by the many visiting military, government and civilian officials who came to observe the complex petroleum discharge exercise. Hundreds of additional meals were served and three messes were in operation, including a forward house dining room for visiting generals, admirals and other flag rank officers. The deck department, under the leadership of Bosun Jerry Smith, worked well as a unit to operate the unique deck equipment. They helped launch the 850-ton SALM, which was carried amidships, deployed reels of floatable/sinkable conduit in 1n-mile lengths, refueled military craft and supported underwater construction team divers-all without injury or lost time. It was yet another job well done for the Mount Washington Seafarers, who were commended by the various military commands involved in the exercises as well as by the Maritime Administration. Patriot Is First U.S. Sea-Land Ship to Call on Shanghai The Sea-Land Patriot recently became the first U.S.-flag SeaLand ship to call on the port of Shanghai, China, noted Recertified Steward Peter Schulz in a letter to the Seafarers LOG. ''The crew made sure the ship was in top shape. Once we reached Shanghai, a party was given by Sea-Land for approximately 60 guests, including officials of the Shanghai port authority, military personnel, city officials, representatives from Sea-Land and the American general counsel of Shanghai," Schulz stated in the letter and during a follow-up interview with the LOG. A 30-year member of the SIU, Schulz said some of the cuisine was catered by a local hotel, while the rest was prepared by him and fellow galley gang members Chief Cook Dante Cruz and GSU Jose Mendeses. "The party lasted three hours and definitely was a success," observed Schulz, who began his seafaring career on the Great Lakes before switching to the deep-sea division in 1979. Because of the rapid turnaround time as well as the festivities aboard the containership, For Recertified Steward Peter Schulz (left) and other SIU members aboard the Sea-Land Patria~ the ceremony marking the vessel's first voyage to Shanghai Recertified Steward Peter Schulz (left) greets repre- presented an opportunity to interact with Chinese workers sentatives from the Shanghai port authority and Chinese and officials. Here, Schulz collaborates with chefs from military during a celebration aboard the Sea-Land Patriot. Shanghai as they prepare to serve food to guests. Ju/y1996 the crewmembers were unable to venture into Shanghai. The steward noted he was looking forward to paying a return visit to the Chinese port to see some of the city. ''The rest of the voyage also was nice and smooth," he added. "Everything worked like clock- work." . Schuiz, who provided the accompanying photos, explained that he contacted the LOG with this story "to inform all SIU sisters and brothers of a new port we were able to visit. This was a winner for the SIU!" Chief Cook Dante Cruz (center) and GSU Jose Mendeses (right) assist a kitchen worker from a Chinese hotel during gathering aboard the Sea-Land Patriot in Shanghai. Seafarers LOG 11 �rr AMERICAN Wiper Hamid Hizam marvels at the thousan gathered to greet the American Republic and Cleveland. Great Lakes Seafarers Shi The American Republic was adorned with commemorative Olympic banners celebrating its participation in the torch relay. E VEN A DRIVING RAIN could not dampen the spirits of Seafarers aboard the American Republic, who became honorary bearers of the 1996 Olympic flame as it made its trek across the United States last month en route to the Olympic Games in Atlanta, scheduled to begin July 19. Painting bulwarks in a Toledo, Ohio shipyard is Deckhand Darren Lahaie. In Detroit, Deckhand Foaad Saleh carries guests' luggage aboard the American Republic in the pouring rain. greeted by nearly 10,000 cheering people. A U.S. Coast Guard boat brought a torch runner to the American Republic, where deck department members lowered the gangway for him to board. The runner made his way up to the cauldron where he lit a new torch and extinguished the American Republic's flame. The Cleveland native then carried the torch off the self-unloader and the relay continued by land en route to Atlanta. The flame has traveled by bike, motorcycle, horse, ferry, canoe, riverboat, airplane and train, but never in the history of the Olympics has the torch traveled aboard a Great Lakes freighter. Watchman Jim Smith (left) and Bosun Terry Henretta put finishing touches on the new gangway. The Olympic flame is delivered in Detroit to the American Republic during a heavy downpour. Deckhand Mohssan Masad (left), Bosun Terry Henretta (center) and Watchman Eugene Repko secure a tarp on deck. QMED Lonnie Brooks checks the American Republic's gauges prior to departing Detroit. Wheelsman Jim Smith prepares the vessel for docking operations in Cleveland. Monitoring sailing operations are Wheelsman Brendan Murphy (left) and Second Mate David Vitcenda. In Cleveland, Wheelsman Rick Roussin readies the gangway for departing guests. QMED Rich Metcalf straightens a hose on the ship's deck. Painting the boom on the laker are Deckhands Mohssan Masad (left) and Foaad Saleh. 12 Seafarers LOG When the American Steamship Company (ASC) laker docked in the port of Detroit at 2 a.m. on June 9, its crew eagerly awaited their unusual cargo. "This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the American Republic. It is unique in that a workboat is becoming a -· showplace to the entire United States. It has turned us all into kids at Christmas," explained QMED Rich Metcalf as he and other crewmembers waited for the torch to arrive. As hundreds of spectators braved the rain, a Michigan torch runner brought the flame up the vessel's gangway at 10 a.m. and lit a solid gold cauldron mounted on the number-four hatch cover near the bow. With "Atlanta 1996" etched into the gold, the cauldron was made especially for the steamship to carry the Olympic flame across Lake Erie to Cleveland. Featuring a dual propane burner system, the cauldron was designed to withstand the very weather that was encountered in the Detroit River by the American Republicheavy downpours and winds. However, once the vessel sailed into Lake Erie, the sky cleared, the sun began shining and the flame remained lit for the 10hour journey to Cleveland. The American Republic docked outside Cleveland's Rock-andRoll Hall of Fame, where it was A Special Privilege "Participating in the Olympic torch relay is giving us the opportunity to teach Americans about us-Seafarers on the Great Lakes. We are giving them a rare chance to get to know what we do and what we provide. In a way, we are becoming famous," said Deckhand Mobssan Masa. Noting that carrying the Olympic torch is a change of pace for the crew of the American Republic, Captain Edward Derry stated that it is a special moment in Great Lakes shipping history. "The crew of the American Republic is both excited and honored to be participating in the Olympic torch relay. It is not just another day on the Cuyahoga," reflected Derry, who along with Captain William Yowell piloted the American Republic across the lake. "We are not only representing the American Republic crew but all Great Lakes sailors and everyone in America. This may never happen again," the captain concluded. SIU crewmembers echoed Derry's sentiments. "I think it is a true honor, something that we will be able to tell our kids and someday our grandkids," said Wheelsman Howard Herold. "I am excited, honored and overwhelmed at this opportunity," noted Wheelsman Brendan Murphy, a 1976 Piney Point graduate. Longtime Seafarer Gateman Richard Scherlitz said carrying the torch "is truly a special experience to add to my seatime. I've crossed the Pacific, Atlantic and been everywhere I have ever July1996 �1 of spectators who 1e Olympic flame in Watchman Larry Smith works on the ship's deck while the vessel was in a Toledo, Ohio shipyard. Steward Dawn Weymouth prepares dessert for crewmembe rs and guests aboard the American Republic. Standing watch during the special voyage is Watchman Jim Smith. Taking a break while sailing across Lake Erie are (from left) Gateman Richard Scherlitz, Deckhand Mohssan Masad, Bosun Terry Henretta, Conveyorman Clifford Kracht, Wiper Hamid Hizam and VP Great Lakes Byron Kelley. rie as Olympic Flame Sails Across Lake Erie LEFT The Michigan torch-bearer jumps as he presents the Olympic flame to the American Republic. BELOW The gold cauldron, mounted on the number-four hatch cover, is lit by the torch runner. wanted to go. Now, here I am at the tail end of my life and I am standing next to the torch!" Wheelsman Rick Roussin, who has been a Great Lakes member for 24 years, noted, "It is a nice honor and a great feeling to have the American Republic's name known across the U.S." Conveyorman Clifford Kracht and Steward Herbie Jacobs are two of the original crewmembers who helped bring the American Republic out of the shipyard after it was built in 1981. Both men agreed that the parti ci p ati on of the American Republic in the torch relay was something neither of them ever dreamed would be destined for the iron ore carrier when it sailed out of the Sturgeon Bay, Wis. shipyard 15 years ago. Months of Preparation Despite the early morning rain and winds, the flame remained lit for the 10-hour voyage. While transporting the torch proved exhilarating, it took lots of hard work getting ready for the special moment. "For months we have prepared for the arrival of the torch. The amount of anticipation has been incredible," reflected Metcalf. "The torch has taken on a human life to us. We have been awaiting the arrival of a very special guest," the 1979 Piney Point graduate stated. "While there has been a lot of excitement, there has also been an abundance of hard work. The deck department has been very busy making the outside of the vessel look superior. In the engineroom, we have been busy making sure that the ship's engines remain in top form," he added. Bosun Terry Henretta and members of the deck department cleaned, chipped and painted the decks and the exterior of the 634foot freighter until it looked almost new. Deckhand Darren Lahaie noted, ''It has definitely been a change of pace. There has been a lot more work in preparing for the arrival of the Olympic torch." "It is something different than our everyday routine," stated Watchman Larry Smith. "It cer- , tainly got our blood pumping. The entire crew has put 100 percent into getting ready for this special event." QMED Lonnie Brooks noted, "We have put forth a lot of time and effort into getting the American Republic ready, and I think it is great that we were chosen to participate in the torch relay." Meeting the Challenge Deck and engine department members may have been the most visible in preparing the vessel for the flame, but in the galley, steward department members worked around the clock to ready themselves and the dining areas to feed the 30 extra people who were sailing as part of the flame's entourage. "I am looking forward to the challenge of working to serve all the extra people," stated Steward Jacobs, who was a member of the SIU from 1953 to 1964. "We are planning a special celebration and our work must be the best it can be," he added. "We have been preparing for this event for the last few weeks," added Steward Dawn Weymouth, also an SIU hawsepiper. "We are on top of it all, and we are planning for a very successful and memorable event." Porter Yehia Keid set the tables in the crew mess hall with fine linens, dishes and silverware. Flowers presented to the ship by the "flower lady," Arlene Earl, were added to the tables as centerpieces. (Earl owns a Detroit-area flower shop and made several unique arrangements to signify the importance of the ever.t for the American Republic. Earl, who was extended an invitation to sail aboard the freighter during the torch relay, donates special flower arrangements to all Great Lakes vessels on major holidays.) For ' lunch, the galley gang members prepared homemade chicken noodle soup, baked chicken breasts, "stacked" ham and cheese sandwiches, candied sweet potatoes, mashed potatoes and broccoli with cheese sauce. A cake commemorating the special voyage by the American Republic was enjoyed by crewmembers and guests. Before dinner, the crew and guests savored a fresh vegetable platter and dill dip that was prepared by Weymouth. Large salads accompanied made-toorder prime ribs of beef, baked potatoes and green beans. A variety of fresh breads and pastries baked by Second Cook Harry Petersen also were available. "This doesn't happen to us every day, so we wanted to make this a day to remember for everyone who is aboard the American Republic," stated Petersen. Ready to swing down for docking in the landing chair is Mohssan Masad. Successful Endeavor Despite the day's stormy start, the event was a total success, according to ASC Vice PresidentEngineering Gavin Sproul. "I am both relieved and pleased that everything came into place and clicked. The crewmembers of the American Republic did an outstanding job cleaning the boat and preparing her for this very special endeavor. You could see the happiness and excitement in their faces and the interest in their eyes. They did a truly spectacular job," the ASC vice president told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. The American Republic remained in Cleveland until 1 a.m. on June 10 when the freighter sailed for Lorain, Ohio to resume its regular run of loading ore pellets in Lorain and offloading at various sites along the Cuyahoga River in Cleveland. Reflecting on the participation of the American Republic in the Olympic torch relay and the return to its regular schedule, QMED Metcalf noted, "I think from the crew's point of view, we are all a bit sad that it is over but happy to get back to work and our tried and true routine. "The rarity of this event has brought out the very best in our seafaring hospitality. It brought us all together to make us proud of ourselves and proud of our boat," he concluded. Steward Herbie Jacobs smiles while making lunch for crewmembers and guests. Porter Yehia Keid dries dishes following a four-course meal. Posting the lunch menu in the galley is Second Cook Harry Peterson . . Upon arrival in Cleveland, a runner lights his torch to continue the flame's journey across America. July1996 The runner presents his torch to 10,000 cheering people who greeted the laker outside of Cleveland's Rock-and-Roll Hall of Fame. The Olympic torch is carried down the gangway to continue its cross-country trek to Atlanta. Wheelsmen Brendan Murphy (left) and Howard Herold pose next to the Olympic flame. SeafaretS LOG 13 �Inquiring Seafarer Question: What do you remember most about your first voyage as a Seafarer? (Asked of SIU members in the union hall in Jacksonville, Fla.) Ivan Salis, Steward Raul Gotay, Chief Cook - I was on the North Atlantic run 27 years ago as a saloon messman aboard the SS Houston. I was seasick for three days. It was a bad experience, but I beat it. Now, I'm getting ready for retirement. William Robles, Chief Steward - I was aboard the c__:= __:_-==:..::::..::=::::i - The LNG Virgo in December 1980. I was an SA. I remember Bosun Billy Knuckles. He was "Mr. Clean" without the earring. He had a heart of gold and was a good guy. It all was new and wonderful to me. Paul Dornes, Recertified Bosun I went to South America and India. It was fun for an 18year-old kid. That was 27 years ago aboard the Windjammer Geneva. I sailed as a messman. AB John Cedeno checks to make sure the lifeboat aboard the Charles L. Brown is properly secured. The cable ship must be ready to sail at a moment's notice. Vantage Horizon in November 1970. I sailed as a baker, believe it or not because I couldn't bake. I knew how to bake a little, thanks to the Army. But when ' - - - - - - - = = I went to ship, I found out it wasn't enough. I made the trip and upgraded as soon as I got off. Harry Berggren, Recertified Bosun On my first ship, I sailed as an AB on a T-2 tanker, the Apex Aries, that ran coastwise. I remember I made good money in 1978. I also remember the Brotherhood of the ======== Sea and the camaraderie that existed out there. David Campbell, Able Seaman - It was a C-4 with 24 booms - the Alex Stephens, a Waterman ship. We sailed to the Middle East, but had to go around the tip of Africa because the Suez Canal =-"-c.=....;====;:.;....;.;;;;..;;.o was closed. The first port was Port Sudan. It was a heck of a port after 32 days at sea. Gregory Melvin, Recertified Steward - I was a third cook in 1980 on the SeaLand Producer on the European run. It was a really good crew. The guys looked out for each other. The oldtimers showed us new guys the tricks of the trade. I got to see parts of the world I had never seen. William "Scottie" Byrne, Recertified Bosun - My first Gina Lightfoot, Chief Cook I ship was an ammo ship to Korea, the Beatrice Victory. It was 1959 and I sailed as an AB. It was just a regular voyage. cream was really good on the LNG Gemini. That was r--------- While the Transoceanic Cable Ship Charles L Brown is permanently stationed in St. Thomas, U;S.V.I. on cable repair standby, SIU members must be ready at a moment's notice to sail anywhere in the western hemisphere to repair underwater fiber optic cables. ''The crewmembers aboard the Charles L Brown are very hard workers and must remain at the utmost point of readiness to leave port whenever orders are issued," noted San Juan Port Agent Steve Ruiz. "They are all good SIU brothers and sisters and support one another and the union in every way possible," added Ruiz, who sent the accompanying photos to the aboard the Brown," recalled Ruiz. "From the bosun and the deck department to the engineroom and galley gang, the members all work together to maintain a high level of camaraderie." Seafarers LOG. At a recent payoff in St. Thomas aboard the Charles L. Brown, Ruiz answered crewmembers' questions and passed out vacation and medical forms. "There is always a sense of well-being Preparing lunch for crewmembers aboard the Charles L. Brown are Chief Steward Antoinette Spangler (left) and Chief Cook Allan Sim. remember the ice 1984. I sailed as a GSU. I also remember it was really cool to be away from home for = == = the first time. Take Advantage of Your Benefits; Enjoy a Vacation at Piney Point One of the benefits of membership in the SIU is being able to take advantage of the facilities at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education as a vacation resort. Each summer, the complex embodying the Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Crew Maintains Readiness On Cable Ship Cha~les L. Brown Md. is open for Seafarers and their families to enjoy up to two weeks of comfortable accommodations, recreational activities (fishing, boating, tennis, swimming, exercise) and three meals a day. And the school's ideal location means an easy drive to many areas of historical impor- tance in the metropolitan Washington, D.C. area. The daily cost per member is $40.40. For a spouse or child, the cost is $9 .95 per day. (There is no charge for children 11 or younger.) Space is still available, so complete the reservation form now, or give the school a call at (301) 994-0010. SEAFARERS TRAINING &RECREATION CENTER Vacation Reservation Information - - Bosun Roger Reinke helps Gathering in the galley for lunch aboard the Charles L. maintain the Charles L. Brown's Brown are (from left) AB John Cedeno, GSU Erik Marlowe, cable repair equipment. DEU Ruben Dejesus and AB Enrique Crespo. ..., 7196 Name: ______________________________ - Social Security number: - - - - - - - - - - - Book number: _ _ _ __ Address=---------------------------Telephone number: _______________________________________ Number in party I ages of children, if applicable: - - - - - - - - - - - 3rd choice: Date of arrival: 1st choice: 2nd choice: (Stay is limited to two weeks) Date of departure: ________________ Send this completed application to the Seafarers Training & Recreation Center, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674. L----------------------------~ 14 Seafarers LOG July1996 �Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea MAY 16, 1996 - JUNE 15, 1996 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Trip Reliefs **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C August & September 1996 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters Piney Point ••.. Monday: August 5; Tuesday: September 3* DECK DEPARTMENT Port New York 26 Philadelphia 4 Baltimore 9 Norfolk 17 Mobile 13 New Orleans 24 Jacksonville 37 San Francisco 20 Wilmington 14 22 Seattle Puerto Rico 8 Honolulu 7 24 Houston St Louis 2 Piney Point 3 Algonac 1 231 Totals 19 2 10 11 12 17 20 19 18 10 7 13 31 1 3 3 196 1 0 2 1 1 1 2 0 1 4 0 0 25 2 8 12 9 21 28 11 14 16 5 6 21 2 l 13 3 10 5 4 17 11 0 0 0 18 181 124 2 2 1 8 9 14 5 9 12 1 3 1 0 0 1 1 1 3 1 0 0 0 2 1 0 0 0 11 *change created by Labor Day holiday 10 2 7 2 1 10 18 5 14 11 2 3 11 0 0 0 96 48 6 6 25 20 36 49 46 40 26 49 4 6 1 43 25 6 18 55 3 3 5 5 2 1 8 0 4 1 3 5 3 4 5 10 0 0 2 385 354 53 39 14 10 4 9 25 15 32 33 38 New York • • • • • Tuesday: August 6, September 3 Philadelphia . • . . Wednesday: August 7, September 4 Baltimore • • • • • Thursday: August 8, September 5 Norfolk • • • • • • • Thursday: August 8, September 5 Jacksonville . . . . Thursday: August 8, September 5 Algonac •••••• Friday: August 9, September 6 Houston . . . . . . Monday: August 12, September 9 New Orleans •••• Tuesday: August 13, September 10 Mobile ••••••. Wednesday: August 14, September 11 San Francisco ••• Thursday: August 15, September 12 Wilmington . . . . Monday: August 19, September 16 Seattle ••••••. Friday: August 23, September 20 ENGINE DEPARTMENT Port 25 New York Philadelphia 4 Baltimore 3 3 Norfolk Mobile 10 New Orleans 12 Jacksonville 19 San Francisco 9 Wilmington 5 13 Seattle 4 Puerto Rico Honolulu 2 Houston 15 St. Louis 0 Piney Paint 1 Algonac 0 125 Totals 12 3 6 18 9 12 13 2 13 11 2 1 0 0 0 1 3 0 2 0 0 1 1 1 3 2 0 0 0 9 3 1 12 0 0 0 12 2 9 6 4 12 9 6 7 6 1 9 13 2 1 0 127 14 82 99 15 3 7 13 3 3 5 5 8 10 6 4 0 0 1 3 0 4 0 0 1 0 0 3 l 0 6 1 5 2 3 4 10 5 7 6 0 1 12 0 0 1 0 13 63 0 46 3 6 5 12 20 28 22 10 19 6 2 7 3 15 8 12 0 0 3 0 5 0 0 4 3 26 12 14 16 5 17 26 1 24 1 0 8 0 4 6 0 0 0 210 197 29 5 3 New York 9 1 Philadelphia 2 Baltimore Norfolk 7 12 Mobile New Orleans 10 Jacksonville 13 San Francisco 24 Wilmington 12 Seattle 19 Puerto Rico 4 10 Honolulu Houston 8 St. Louis 1 Piney Point 6 1 Algonac 139 Totals 7 2 4 6 1 11 6 11 4 1 1 5 9 0 4 0 72 0 1 0 1 0 2 1 0 2 0 0 9 0 0 1 0 17 18 1 10 1 3 7 3 7 4 5 3 1 1 8 3 0 0 0 0 2 1 2 3 8 7 4 1 5 2 0 0 0 9 14 15 31 53 16 38 3 19 27 1 9 0 91 53 9 46 260 7 1 1 6 11 0 0 2 0 0 0 2 2 1 3 1 2 7 1 0 1 0 117 22 3 3 6 5 12 11 17 9 7 4 8 14 0 7 ENTRY DEPARTMENT Port 5 0 0 Houston 2 St. Louis Piney Point Algonac Totals 0 0 0 27 2 2 9 15 13 14 18 12 18 10 34 15 2 21 1 65 213 102 5 2 6 2 0 0 0 34 Departments 560 608 151 388 New York 8 Philadelphia 1 Baltimore 0 5 Norfolk 2 Mobile New Orleans 12 1 Jacksonville San Francisco 12 Wilmington 3 6 Seattle 2 Puerto Rico 11 Honolulu 3 2 0 3 0 7 6 3 2 4 4 58 6 0 4 0 1 1 2 4 4 2 23 0 6 5 3 7 9 5 7 9 3 28 11 1 12 3 10 2 0 0 0 34 22 36 19 46 23 3 41 1 13 2 2 10 0 12 19 8 10 8 13 58 10 0 3 0 1 0 1 6 0 5 5 0 0 0 0 60 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 13 2 0 5 1 15 1 20 8 51 4 4 22 22 22 26 5 0 122 80 0 92 376 168 398 113 205 947 1,044 272 Totals All Honolulu • • • . . . Friday: August 16, September 13 Duluth ••••••• Wednesday: August 14, September 11 Jersey City . . . . . Wednesday: August 21, September 18 New Bedford •• ~ Wednesday: August 21 *; Tuesday: September 17 •change created by Paul Hall's birthday Each port's meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals GRANT CAMPBELL 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 6 0 1 0 0 13 0 1 1 6 3 9 14 11 17 1 7 3 l 3 St. Louis . . . . . . Friday: August 16, September 13 2 STEWARD DEPARTMENT Port * "Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **"Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. July1996 San Juan • . • • • . Thursday: August 8, September 5 27 Barbara Grim is searching for information on Grant Campbell whose last known whereabouts was the Sheepshead Bay area of Brooklyn in the 1940s. He was a ship's officer for many years. Anyone with information on Grant Campbell should write to Barbara T. Grim at 307 Lanny Drive, Winchester, VA 22601; or telephone (540) 662-5998. STANLEY CASTANZA Please contact Catherine Ann Slingerland (Olive Oil) whom you met in Honolulu in July 1982. Write to her at 266 B Bellevue Road, Bellevue, Tauranga 3001, New Zealand; or telephone (64) 07-576-8232. MARK MITCHELL DA VIS Michelle Lenzen is trying to locate her grandfather, Mark Mitchell Davis (born around 1922 in Arkansas). Mr. Davis was a chief mate for Pacific Tanker, Inc. when Ms. Lenzen's father, David Charles Davis, was born in San Francisco. Anyone knowing the whereabouts of Mark Mitchell Davis, please contact Michelle Lenzen at 6166 S. W. Nevada Court, Portland, OR 97219. BOB GRIFFIN Your old friend Ernie Topolsky from Staten Island would like you to give him a call. His number is (410) 546-1542. LEOPOLDO PALACIO and VINCENT SIGUENZA Please write to Estelle Deal at 750 W. 27th Street, San Pedro, CA 90731. Correction On page 24 of the May 1996 issue of the Seafarers LOG, Wiper Hamid Hizamof the American Republic was incorrectly identified. Brother Hizam has been a member of the SIU since 1969. For most of those years, he has sailed aboard American Steamship Company vessels. PARTICIPATE ••• REGISTER ••• VOTE ••• Seafarers LOG 15 �.............. ,.......... ... Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes ·"Seafarers International Union ·.· · · ·. ·. ·. ·· ·· Directory MAY 16 - JUNE 15, 1996 Mkhael Sacco President John Fay Secretary-Treasurer Joseph Sacco Executive Vice President Augustin Tellez Vice President Contracts George McCartney Vice President West Coast Roy A. "Buck" Mercer Vice President Government Services Jack Caft'ey Vice President Atlantic Coast Byron Kelley Vfoe President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey Vice President Gulf Coast HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 CL-Company/Lakes Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JERSEY CITY 99 Montgomery St. Jersey City, NJ 07302 (201) 435-9424 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Mobile, AL 36605 (334)478-0916 NEW BEDFORD 48 Union St. New Bedford, MA 02740 (508) 997-5404 NEW ORLEANS 630 Jackson Ave. New Orleans, LA 70130 (504) 529-7546 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St. Norfolk, VA 23510 (804) 622-1892 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S.4St. Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT 9 0 6 0 DECK DEPARTMENT 0 34 6 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 28 1 32 1 26 0 11 2 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 0 41 0 0 13 2 0 5 4 0 43 36 0 102 42 MAY 16 - JUNE 15, 1996 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C (810) 794-4988 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St. Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St. Houston, TX 77001 0 7 Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters ALGONAC (218) 722-4110 24 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP STEWARD DEPARTMENT 520 St. Clair River Dr. Algonac, MI 48001 Duluth, MN 55802 0 NP-Non Priority TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP Totals All Departments 0 67 35 0 77 9 * ''Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **"Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. (301) 899-0675 BALTIMORE 1216 E. Baltimore St. Baltimore, MD 21202 (410) 327-4900 DULUTH 705 Medical Arts Building L-Lakes *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes & Inland Waters West Coast Totals 3 3 0 1 0 1 2 0 9 0 4 13 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 8 0 3 11 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A ClassB ClassC DECK DEPARTMENT 4 0 0 0 1 1 11 0 0 23 0 3 38 1 4 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 1 0 0 0 0 0 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 13 3 12 64 2 1 0 2 5 33 2 1 11 0 14 1 0 0 0 1 1 0 1 3 2 1 7 1 11 0 0 0 0 0 23 7 Totals All Departments 71 2 25 46 1 89 * "Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. ** "Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. 6 59 44 4 S4 1 1 6 0 8 1 1 7 0 9 0 0 0 0 1 2 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 1 0 0 3 0 0 1 2 0 4 0 3 36 0 13 0 20 0 11 0 12 Are You Receiving All Your lniportant Mail? In order to ensure that each active SIU member and pensioner receives a copy of the Seafarers LOG each month-as well as other important mail such as W-2 forms, pension and health insurance checks and bulletins or notices-a correct home address must be on file with the union. you are not getting your union mail, please use the form on this page to update your home address. Your home address is your permanent address, and this is where all official union documents will be mailed (unless otherwise specified). If you have moved recently or feel that If you are getting more than one copy of the LOG delivered to you, if you have changed your address, or if your name or address is misprinted or incomplete, please complete the form and send it to: Seafarers International Union Address Correction Department 5201 AuthWay Camp Springs, MD 20746 r----------------------------------------------------------------, HOME ADDRESS FORM (PLEASE PRINT) 7/96 P.O.Box75 Piney Point, MD 20674 (301) 994-0010 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave. Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St. • Name Phone No. ( ) San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 161h Santurce, PR 00907 (809) 721-4033 SEA TILE 2505 First Ave. Seattle, WA 98121 (206) 441-1960 ST.LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave. St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 WILMINGTON 510N. Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 16 Seafarers LOG Social Security No. _ _ _ / _ _ _ / _ _ __ D Active SIU D Other Book No. _ _ _ _ _ _ __ D Pensioner --------------------------------------------------------------This will be my permanent address for all official union mailings. This address should remain in the union file unless otherwise changed by me personally. ---------------------------------------------------------------~ Ju/yt996 �Welcome Ashore 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 waterways 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. mong the 20 SIU pensioners A this month is inland Captain Gerald T. Tyler, one of 12 SIU retirees who navigated the inland waterways. Three sailed in the deep sea division; four worked aboard Great Lakes vessels and one shipped in the Atlantic Fishermen's division. Tyler graduated from the Towboat Operators upgrading course offered at the Lundeberg School in April 1973 and received his 2nd Class Inland Operator and 2nd Class Ocean Operator License. This program was designed to prepare qualified operators for licenses under the Coast Guard regulations requiring such documentation for all operators of uninspected towboats and tugboats. This month, the pensioners' favorite retirement area is the East Coast, where 11 make their homes. Five have retired to the Gulf states, two reside in the Midwest and one each has retired to their Puerto Rico and the Republic of Yemen. Six of the retiring SIU members served in the U.S. militaryfour served in the Navy and two in the Army. On this page, the Seafarers WG presents brief biographical accounts of this month's pensioners. DEEP SEA - HILAIRE J. CLAVETTE, 62, first sailed with the SIU in 1979 as a member of the steward department. The Massachusetts native last sailed in June 1995 on a Crowley Towing & Transportation vessel. He makes his home in Livingston, Texas. EDGARL. HARRISON, 62, started his career with the Seafarers in 1961 in the port of Norfolk, Va. The Virginia native last sailed in November 1984 as a captain aboard the Roanoke, operated by Maritrans. Boatman Harrison calls Hopewell, Va. home. KENNETH LINAH,56, began his career with the Seafarers in ANND. 1969 in the LUCKETT, port of Hous60, joined the ton. The New SIU in 1968 ~,---~,York native and sailed as a sailed in the engine department member of the and upgraded to QMED at the steward departLundeberg School in Piney Point, ment, last sailMd. Brother Linah last sailed in ing in 1993. March 1995 aboard the Sea Land- Sister Luckett sailed primarily on Quality. From 1956 to 1965, he vessels operated by Delta Queen served in the U.S. Navy. Brother Steamboat Co. She has retired to Linah makes his home in Greenville, Miss. Lakeland, Fla. I I DOUGLAS MANUEL M.MARTIN, I SABATER, 65, joined the 65, joined the I Seafarers in SIU in 1964 in 1980 in the the port of port of NorNew York. folk, Va. BoatBrother man Martin Sabater sailed ===== = last sailed in in the deck January 1996 as a chief engineer department and upgraded his aboard the dredge Padre Island, skills at the Lundeberg School. A operated by NATCO. The Virnative of Puerto Rico, he last ginia native served in the U.S. sailed in December 1995 aboard Navy from 1947 to 1970. Boatthe Sea-wnd Shining Star. man Martin makes his home in Brother Sapater has retired to Honaker, Va. Ponce, Puerto Rico. JAMESE. URIPSANMAY0,62, TOHIR,67, began sailing started his with the SIU career with the in 1974 from Seafarers in the port of 1969inthe Norfolk, Va. port of New Born in North York. The Carolina, he '-=~~---..,.. ...J deck departsailed in the deck department, ment member upgraded at the most recently in 1984 as a mate. union's training facility in Piney Boatman Mayo sailed primarily Point, 1'.ifd. He last sailed in on tugboats operated by Inland December 1995 aboard the SP5 Towing Co. He has retired to AlEric G. Gibson, operated by liance, N.C. Maersk Lines. Born in Indonesia, Brother Santohir became a U.S. DENNIS W. MCDONALD, 63, citizen and resides in Dover, Del. joined the Seafarers in 1966 in 1 July1996 the port of Houston. The Texas native worked in the engine department, last sailing in February 1996 as a chief engineer. Boatman McDonald sailed primarily aboard vessels operated by G&H Towing. From 1953 to 1955, he served in the U.S. Army. Boatman McDonald resides in Village Mills, Texas. ,-----:;;;;;::::;;::;=~---, WILLIAMR. BURGESS, 56, joined the Seafarers in 1971 in the port of Baltimore. A native of North Carolina, he sailed in the engine department and upgraded frequently at the Lundeberg School. Boatman Burgess sailed primarily aboard vessels operated by Curtis Bay Towing Co. of Baltimore. He last sailed in 1988. Boatman Burgess has retired to Marion, N.C. ELMERD. MURRELL, 62, started his career with the SIU in 1962 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Boatman Murrell sailed in the deck department, most recently as a captain. The North Carolina native last shipped in August 1984 on an Inland Towing Co. vessel. Boatman Murrell has retired to Leland, N.C. GERALDD. SHARP,63, joined the Seafarers in 1972 in the port of Jacksonville, Fla. The Iowa native sailed in both the inland and deep sea divisions. Boatman Sharp shipped in the steward department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. He last sailed in January 1992 as a chief steward aboard the Rover, operated by Vulcan Carriers, although he primarily sailed in the inland industry. From 1950 to 1971, he served in the U.S. Navy. Boatman Sharp lives in Avon Park, Fla. LLOYD W. TAYLOR, 69, began his career with the SIU in 1974 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Boatman Taylor worked in the deck department. Born in Kansas, he last shipped as a captain in November 1995 on a Moran Towing Co. vessel. Boatman Taylor makes his home in Moncks Comer, S.C. GREAT LAKES ALIHADDAD,65, joined the Seafarers in 1964 in the port of New York. Brother Haddad sailed in both the steward and deck departments. Born in the Republic of Yemen, he became a U.S. citizen. Brother Haddad last sailed in December 1993 aboard the E.M. Ford, operated by Inland Lakes Management. He has retired to his native land. L - -- - - " ' - - =-----'!!!_____J ROBERTC. HENSLEY, 67, began his career with the SIU in 1973 in the port of Norfolk, Va. t .'>-:.f; The North (i:. ...., Carolina na~ "' tive sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. Brother Hensley last sailed in December 1995 aboard the Crapo, operated by Inland Lakes Management. From 1946 to 1952, he served in the U.S. Navy. Brother Hensley calls Marion, N.C. home. PAULE. TAYLOR, 58, started his career with the Seafarers in 1972 in the port of Detroit. = = = Brother Taylor sailed in the deck department, most recently in November 1995. The Michigan native sailed primarily aboard Luedtke Engineering Co. vessels From 1956 to 1967, he served in the U.S. Anny. Brother Taylor resides in Pentwater, Mich. GLENN M. WA TIERS, 66, joined the SIU in 1971 in the port of Detroit. Born in Michigan, he worked in the deck department. Brother Watters last sailed in December 1995 aboard the Paul H. Townsend, operated by Inland Lakes Management. He has retired to Wichita, Kansas. ATLANTIC FISHERMEN SEBASTIAN SCOLA, 62, joined the Atlantic Fishermen's Union in 1953 in the port of Gloucester, Mass., before it merged with the AGLIWD in 1981. He last sailed with the Gloucester Fishermen in December 1989. Brother Scola has retired to Gloucester, Mass. Former Official James Martin Retires at 62 Former SIU port agent James Martin, who was active in the union's affairs for more than 35 years, recently retired to Harvey, La. From 1960 to 1968, Martin sailed in the SIU' s inland division as a member of the deck department. The Louisiana native last sailed as a captain for Crescent Towing in 1968. That same year, Martin came ashore as an SIU inland representative in the port of New Orleans. He later served as a port agent in New Orleans and Norfolk, Va. Martin also worked at the Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md. under the late Vice President Frank Mongelli. His duties there included working as the SIU' s Gulf Coast safety director. Throughout his years with the Seafarers, Martin remained very active in organizing drives and beefs. Ready for the Alaskan Oil Trade GERALDT. TYLER SR., 63, joined the Seafarers in 1967 in the port of Baltimore. The Maryland native sailed in the deck department and graduated from the towboat operators course at the Lundeberg School in 1973. Boatman Tyler last sailed as a captain in January 1996 aboard the Triumph, operated by Piney Point Transportation Co. He has retired to Crisfield, Md. JOSEPH E. WOBBLETON, 62, began his career with the SIU in 1973 in the port of Norfolk, Va. A native of North Carolina, he sailed in the steward department. Boatman Wobbleton last sailed in March 1989 aboard a C.G. Willis, Inc. vessel. He makes his home in Moycock, N .C. SIU members recently spent six weeks aboard the OM/ Columbia preparing the tanker for carrying Alaskan North Slope crude oil. The work was done while the vessel was sailing from Dubai in the United Arab Emirates to Wilmington, Calif. Part of the duties included installing wire rope for use as mooring lines, which is required in the port of Valdez, Alaska. Shown above, ABs Dennis Goodwin and Daniel P. Hecker pose by a special rig used to hold the spools of wire. Seafarers LOG 11 �j I ._ I I II Labor Briefs II Hundreds of UIW Jobs Saved As Cannery Sale is Finalized Members of the SIU-affiliated United Industrial Workers (UIW) will continue working at the continental United States' only tuna canning factory following the recent sale of Pan Pacific Fisheries in Terminal Island, Calif. to Tri-Marine International. The sale, made possible in part by the UIW' s efforts, resulted in 700 UIW jobs being saved. In a letter to the union, Tri-Marine's chief executive officer said, "Thanks to your leadership and support, we [are] commencing canning operations with unionized labor at our plant. ... With the help of your membership, we will pack a quality product. . . . Thank you for your constant support." UIW members at Tri-Marine are involved in all phases of producing finished fish products, from cleaning and cooking the fish to canning and sealing the goods to labeling and packing the cans. They also work in quality control, operate water treatment equipment, drive forklifts, perform maintenance and repair work on the machinery and more. Tri-Marine outbid a tuna packer from Thailand for the 25-acre complex that comprises the factory, offices, lunch areas and parking lot. Because the Thai packer reportedly planned to move the plant overseas, while Tri-Marine indicated it wanted to keep the factory's jobs in Terminal Island, the UIW supported Tri-Marine in its effort to buy the cannery. Similarly, the union played a key role in helping Tri-Marine secure a new lease with the Los Angeles Harbor Commission (which is required because the city is part-owner of the complex). Finally, the UIW negotiated a five-year contract with the company that establishes job security and features numerous other benefits for the UIW members who are employed at the factory. In addition to keeping the factory jobs in the U.S., another benefit of Tri-Marine's purchase of Pan Pacific is that it may help generate additional work for the region's fishing industry. Among the commercial fishermen who work in the area are members of the Fishermen's Union of America, another affi1iate of the SIU. Farm Workers-BC! Contract Ends 17-Year Lettuce Boycott A lengthy and historic labor struggle ended May 29 when the United Farm Workers (VFW) and Bruce Church, Inc. (BCI) signed a five-year contract covering the company's 450 California employees. Besides marking the end of a 17-year boycott of BCI lettuce, the pact calls for wage increases, establishes a pension fund and provides medical benefits for employees and their dependents. It also sets up grievance and arbitration procedures, limits the use of pesticides, and sets guidelines for a joint union-company safety committee. The boycott was launched in 1979 when the ]ate Cesar Chavez, the VFW' s founding president, led VFW members at BCI on a strike that in ensuing years led to protests, marches, rallies and lawsuits involving much of the U.S. labor movement. Tirroughout the period since the strike began, BCI lettuce-sold under labels including Red Coach, Friendly, Green Valley Farms and Lucky-has kept a prominent spot on the AFL-CIO's "Don't Buy" list, distributed periodically to trade unions throughout the U.S. The contract was signed in the Cesar Chavez Library in Salinas, Calif., in front of a large photo of the late union president. Arturo S. Rodriguez, Chavez's successor as UFW president, described the contract as "a tremendous tribute to Cesar Chavez's life and work. This affirms that his dream of democracy and collective bargaining for farm workers is alive and well." Apparel Price Check: Imports More Costly Than U.S.-Made Sweatshops and child labor in overseas textile factories recently received a flurry of United States media coverage after a labor and human rights group exposed Wal-Mart's Kathie Lee (Gifford) line of clothing. But what most or all of the stories failed to mention is this: Not only is a significant percentage of foreign-made textiles produced by child and other exploited labor, but also the prices on imported men's and women's clothes are higher than prices on their U.S.-made counterparts. In 1995, imported clothes cost an average of 9.1 percent more than domestically produced garments, according to the industry organization Crafted With Pride in U.S.A. Council, Inc. In fact, imports have been more expensive than American-made clothing in nine of the past 10 years. The 9. I-percent higher import price in 1995 was up from 7 .8 percent in 1994 and from 3 percent in 1993. The 1995 data also show that imports were more expensive than domestic goods in more than 62 percent of all apparel (73 percent of women's clothing, 45 percent of men's). The average price in 1995 for both men's and women's U.S.-made clothing was $18.48, which is $1.68 less than the $20.16 average price for imports. In 1994, when imports had 70 percent of the market, U.S.-made apparel cost $1.55 less on average. Temp Firms Fined $150,000 For Wage, OT Violations A federal judge in Boston last month ordered two temporary-employment agencies to pay a combined total of $150,000 in fines to the U.S. Department of Labor due to willful violations of the nation's wage and overtime laws. The fine against Baystate Alternative Staffing Inc. of Fitchburg, Mass. and Able Temps Referrals Inc. of Worcester, Mass. is believed to be the largest penalty ever issued for intentional violations of wage and overtime regulations. Additionally, the Labor Department is filing a separate lawsuit seeking almost $300,000 in back wages and damages for the workers. The key question in this case was whether or not the temporary workers are considered employees of the temp firms, or independent contractors. Judge David W. DiNardi ruled that because the agencies recruited, hired, placed and controlled the temporary workers, the firms indeed are the employers. Therefore, they must obey federal wage and overtime laws requiring (among other things) time-and-a-half pay for hours worked beyond 40 a week. "This case should discourage other temporary employment firms from trying to evade the nation's wage and hour laws by classifying low-skilled workers as independent contractors," said Labor Secretary Robert B. Reich, according to The Wall Street Journal. 18 Seafarers LOG Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership's money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the trembership by the secretaty-treamrer. 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 recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District are administered in accordance with the provisions 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 disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval 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 shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively 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 employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals 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 207 46 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. 1bese rights are clearly set forth in the SIU constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing for overtime 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, be or she should contact the nearest SIU port agent. con EDITORIAL POLICY -THE SEAFARERS WG. The Seafarers WG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffinned by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers WG 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 circwnstances 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 OBLIGATIONS. 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 headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITYDONATION-SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further 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 American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect 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 Michael 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. DRIVE THE BEST. • • BUY UNION YES! These 1996 cars, light EAGLE trucks and vans are asTalon sembled in the U.S. by FORD members of the United Contour* Auto Workers (UAW). The Escort* list is provided by the Mustang UAW. Probe Taurus CARS Thunderbird BUICK Century* LeSabre Park Avenue Riviera Roadmaster Skylark CADILLAC DeVille Eldorado Fleetwood Brougham Seville CHEVROLET Bereua Caprice/Impala SS Cavalier* Corsica Corvette CHRYSLER Cirrus Concorde* LeBaron Convertible Sebring* DODGE Avenger Intrepid* Neon* Spirit* Stratus Viper Grand Prix Sunfire* SATURN Saturn TOYOTA Corolla* UGHT TRUCKS &VANS AM GENERAL Hummer GEO Prizm LINCOLN Continental MarkVJil Town Car MAZDA 626 MX6 MERCURY Cougar Mystique"' Sable MITSUBISHI Eclipse Gal ant OLDSMOBILE Achieva Aurora Ciera Cutlass Supreme Olds 88 Olds 98 PLYMOUTH Acclaim* Breeze Neon* PONTIAC Bonneville Grand Am B-Series Pickups NISSAN CHEVROLET Quest GMC Jimmy Safari Sierra* Sonoma Suburban* Yandura/Rally/ Savana Yukon Astro Blazer ISUZU C/K Pickups* Hombre Pickup Chevy JEEP Van/Sportvan/Express Cherokee Lumina (APV) Grand Cherokee S-10 Pickup Wrangler Suburban MERCURY Tahoe Villager CHRYSLER Town & Country* DODGE Caravan* CaravanCN Extended Grand Caravan,.. Dakota Ram Pickups* FORD Aerostar Bronco Econoline/Club Wagon Explorer F-Piclcup* Ranger MAZDA Navajo OLDSMOBILE Bravada Silhouette (APV) PLYMOUTH Voyager* Grand Voyager* PONTIAC Trans Sport (APV) TOYOTA Pickup-compact* *Some, but not all. vehicles of this model are UAW-assembled; i.e., some are produced in another country. Check the Parts Content label or the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) for the location of the plant of final assembly. July1996 �receiving his pension in September 1986. JAMESH.FOX · royo, 68, passed away April 9. Anative of Puerto Rico, he began I his career with the Seafarers in 1970 in the ======"""' port of San Juan. Brother Arroyo sailed in both the engine and steward departments. ROYCE D. BOZEMAN Pensioner RoyceD. Bozeman, 62, died May 26. He graduated from the Andrew Furuseth Training School in 1958 and joined the SIU in the port of Mobile, Ala. Brother Bozeman sailed in all three departments before settling in the galley. The Alabama native upgraded at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md., where he completed the steward recertification course in 1984. Brother Bozeman retired in September 1995. ------~ CECILIO G. BUTAC Pensioner Cecilio G. Butac, 82, passed away March 12. Born in the Philippines, he began sailing with the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) in 1946 in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU' s Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District (AGLIWD). Brother Butac last sailed on the Lindemvood Victory prior to his retirement in September 1968. ALONZO COHEN Pensioner Alonzo Cohen, 82, died January 13. Brother Cohen first sailed with the MC&Sin 1937, before that union '----------~ merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. He served in the U.S. Army from 1943 to 1946. Born in North Carolina and a longtime resident of Pennsylvania, Brother Cohen started receiving his pension in April 1978. ~-----~ Pensioner James H. Fox, 77, passed away May 6. A native of New Jersey, he started his career with the Seafarers in 1958 in the port of New York. Brother Fox sailed as a member of the engine department. He retired in September 1983. KENNETH D. FREELAND Pensioner Kenneth D. Freeland, 74, died May 6. Born in Illinois, he joined the MC&S in the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Freeland began receiving his pension in December 1973. FREDDIE HUDSON Freddie Hudson, 39, passed away December 31, 1995. Brother Hudson first sailed with the Seafarers in 1986 aboard vessels operated by American Hawaii Cruises. He was an engine department member and upgraded to QMED at the Lundeberg School. Born in Missouri, he made his home in California. DAVID J. JEKOT David J. Jekot, 40, succumbed to a liver ailment on May 2. He graduated from the Lundeberg School's entry level program ' - - - - - - - - J for seamen in 1972 and joined the SIU in the port of Piney Point, Md. The Philadelphia native last sailed as an OMU aboard the Charleston. Pensioner Hazel Johnson, 63, passed away May 18. A native of South Carolina, he graduated from the Andrew =======..; Furuseth Training School in 1961 and started his career with the Seafarers in the port of New York. Brother Johnson sailed in the steward department and upgraded at both the Furuseth and Lundeberg schools. Starting as a rnessman, he last sailed as a chief cook. Brother Johnson retired in April 1995. CARLS. LAIRD Carl S. Laird, 41, died recently. Born in Florida, he graduated from the Lundeberg School's entry level program for seamen in 1977 and joined the SIU in the port of Piney Point, Md. Brother Laird sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. DAVID DOUGLAS RONNIE P. LAMBERT Ronnie P. Lambert, 37, passed away March 21. The Mississippi native began sailing · $: with the Seafarers from the port of New Orleans. Brother Lambert sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. r----~=,,-----, '--------'-"'----~ Philadelphia. Starting as an oiler, the engine department member last sailed as a chief electrician. Born in Mexico, he became a U.S.citizen and began July1996 Paul T. Lewis, 47, died April 9. He joined the SIU in 1991 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. The California native last sailed in the engine department as a QMED. HENRY MOBLEY ,._ Pensioner Henry Mobley, 75, passed awayMay24. Born in Mississippi, he started his career with the Seafarers in 1960 in the port of New Orleans. Brother Mobley sailed as a member of the steward department. He served in the U.S. Army from 1941to1943. Brother Mobley began receiving his pension in May 1986. JAMES E. NOONAN Pensioner JamesE. Noonan, 78, died May 28. He joined the SIU in his native New Orleans in 1947. Brother ======= Noonan sailed as a member of the steward department. A World War II veteran, he served in the U.S. Anny from 1942 to 1945. Brother Noonan retired in June 1990. NICHOLAS E. PATRON HAZEL JOHNSON MARTINDALE Pensioner Mar_, tin Dale, 68 -+ passed away t;', \1 March 20. He \.(" f started his . 4.. career with the .,. · Seafarers in 1963 and sailed in all three departments: steward, deck and engine. Brother Dale last sailed in 1977 aboard the Galveston, operated by Sea-Land Services. He retired in July 1993. PAUL T. LEWIS Pensioner Nicholas E. Patron, 84, passed away April 6. Brother Patron joined the MC&S, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. He last sailed as a chief cook. Born in Colorado, Brother Patron lived in California and began receiving his pension in January 1973. FLOYD L. PENCE Pensioner Floyd L. Pence, 70, died May 19. He joined the Seafarers in 1944 in the port of New York. Brother Pence sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School, where he graduated from the bosun recertification program in 1974. He also sailed in the inland division. From 1950 to 1952, he served in the U.S. Anny. Brother Pence retired in February 1982. MILTON A. POOLE Pensioner Milton A. Poole, 68, passed away March 6. A native of South Carolina, he first sailed with the SIU in 1951 as a mem==== her of the deck department. He last sailed in 1976 aboard the Banner, operated by Interocean Management. Brother Poole began receiving his pension in June 1992. DEMETRIOUS PROVELEZIANOS · Pensioner Demetrious Provelezianos, 75, died in midApril. Born in Greece, be joined the Seafarers in 1948 in the port of New York. Brother Provelezianos sailed in the deck department and retired in July 1979. HENRY W. ROBERTS Pensioner HenryW. Roberts, 71, passed away May 31. He started his career with the SIU in 1944 in his native New '-------~ Orleans. Brother Roberts was a galley gang member and upgraded at the Lundeberg School, where he completed the steward recertification course in 1981. He was a longtime resident of Mobile, Ala. and began receiving his pension in February 1982. ALFONSO ROMAN Pensioner Alfonso Roman, 85, died March 14. Brother Roman joined the MC&S, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Born in Puerto Rico, he made his home in California. He retired in July 1978. GEORGE A. ROY Pensioner George A. Roy, 75, passed away June 1. After 23 years in the Anny and Navy, the Connecticut native began sail======= ing with the Seafarers in 1967 from the port of New York. Brother Roy worked in the engine department and upgraded at the union's training facility in Piney Point, Md. He last sailed as a chief electrician. Brother Roy began receiving his pension in September 1985. GEORGE SCHMIDT Pensioner George Schmidt, 79, died April 29. Born in Massachusetts, be joined the SIU in 1947 in the port of New L_c___.::~--'-::::::..;.::::::...::= *'' York. Brother Schmidt last sailed as a bosun in the deck department. A World War II veteran, he served in the U.S. Navy from 1940 to 1945. Brother Schmidt retired in September 1975. JAMES C. SIVLEY Pensioner James C. Sivley, 67, passed away March 8. A native of Alabama, he began sailing with the Seafarers in 1967 as a member of the steward department. Brother Sivley last sailed in 1992 aboard the OM! Hudson as a chief cook. He began receiving his pension in May 1993. MONTE L. SMITH Monte L. Smith, 64, died February 3. Brother Smith started his career Pensioner Lee W. Snodgrass, 82, passed away March 23. He first sailed with the Seafarers during World War II from the port of San Francisco. Brother Snodgrass last sailed in the deck department as a bosun. Born in South Dakota, he lived in California. He began receiving his pension in March 1977. GLADYS S. STOKES Pensioner Gladys S. Stokes, 87, died February 4. Born in Arkansas, she joined the MC&S in 1957, before that union merged with the SIU' s AGLIWD. Sister Stokes was a resident of Alabama and retired in June 1973. HERBERT A. SVANBERG Pensioner Herbert A. Svanberg, 90, passed away March 1. Brother Svanberg joined the Seafarers in 1944 in the '----------~port of New York. A native of Sweden, he last sailed as a bosun. Brother Svanberg began receiving his pension in March 1971. MICHAEL W. THORNTON Michael W. Thornton, 38, died April 29. The Florida native graduated from the Lundeberg School's entry level program for seamen in 1982 and joined the SIU in the port of Piney Point, Md. Brother Thornton sailed in the steward department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. He last sailed as a chief cook. VASSILI TOOMSON Pensioner Vassili Toomson, 86, passed away May 20. He began sailing with the Seafarers in 1957 from the port of New York. Born in Estonia, he sailed in the engine department and began receiving his pension in October 1977. SIMEON F. URETA ..------==----, Pensioner · SimeonF. Ureta, 94, died March 12. Born in the Philippines, he joined the SIU as a charter memberin i.======~ 1938inthe port of New York. Brother Ureta sailed as a member of the steward department. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1945. Brother Ureta retired in December 1969. Continued on page 20 Seafarers LOG 19 �SUMMARYANNUALREPORTFORTHE SIU PACIFIC DISTRICT PENSION PLAN This is a summary of the annual report for the SIU Pacific District Pension Plan [Employer Identification No. 94-6061923, Plan No. 001] for the year ended July 31, 1995. The annual report has been filed with the Internal Revenue Service, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Basic Financial Statement Benefits under the plan are provided by a trust arrangement. Plan expenses were $14,601,398. These expenses included $612,807 in administrative expenses and $13,988,591 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 5,378 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all of these persons had yet earned the right to receive benefits. The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $154,552,183 as of July 31, 1995, compared to $150,347,276 as of July 31, 1994. During the plan year, the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $4,204,907. This increase included unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan's assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year or the cost of assets acquired during the year. The plan had a total income of $18,806,305, including employer contributions of $7,750, earnings from investments of $18,089,899, stock dividends of $155,047, less investment expense of ($278, 256), unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of assets of $830,890 and other income of $975. Employees do not contribute to this plan. Minimum Funding Standards Our actuary's statement shows that enough money was contributed to the plan to keep it funded in accordance with the minimum funding standards of ERISA. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: 1. an accountant's report; 2. assets held for investments; 3. actuarial information regarding the funding of the plan; 4. transactions in excess of five (5) percent of plan assets; and 5. fiduciary information, including transactions between the plan and parties-in-interest [that is, persons who have certain relationships with the plan]. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of the plan administration, SIU Pacific District Pension Plan, 522 Harrison Street, San Francisco, CA 94105; telephone (415) 495-6882. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements will be included as part of that report. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan at 522 Harrison Street, San Francisco, CA 94105, and at the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) in Washington, D.C. or to obtain a copy from the DOL upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department of Labor should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, N4677, Pension and Welfare Benefit Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20216. SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE SIU PACIFIC DISTRICT SUPPLEMENTAL BENEFITS FUND, INC. This is a summary of the annual report for the SIU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc. [Employer Identification No. 94-1431246, Plan No. 501] for the year ended July 31, 1995. The annual report has been filed with the Internal Revenue Service, as required under the Epiployee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). The SIU PD Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc. has committed itself to pay benefit claims incurred under the terms of the Plan. Final Departures a member of the steward department. Continued from page 19 ATLANTIC FISHERMEN MARCELO L. VERZOSA Pensioner Marcelo L. Verzosa, 91, passed away March 12. Brother Verzosa first sailed with the MC&S from the port of San Francisco, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Born in Manila, he began receiving his pension in September 1977. CARMOND L. WILLIAMS Pensioner Carmond L. Williams, 69, died March 9. A native of North Carolina, he joined the Seafarers in 1944 in the port ='-'"'--"=-o.:.= = = = of Norfolk, Va. Brother Williams sailed as a member of the deck department. From 1951 to 1953, he served in the U.S. Army. Brother Williams retired in October 1984. DREXEL W. HANNA Drexel W . Hanna, 60, passed away May 4. Born in New Jersey, he joined the Seafarers in the port of Philadelphia. The deck department member upgraded in 1993 at the Paul Hall Center. He last sailed as a captain. CHARLES F. HEBERT Pensioner Charles F. Hebert, 91, died March 28. A native of Louisiana, he joined the SIU in 1957 in the port of Houston. Boatman Hebert sailed as a member of the steward department. He lived in Texas and began receiving his pension in November 1968. HERMAN WINTERS Pensioner Herman Winters, 82, passed away December 21, 1995. Born in Virginia, he first sailed with the MC&S in 1935, before that union merged with the SIU' s AGLIWD. Brother Winters began receiving his pension in June 1978. VINCENT YOUNG Vincent Young, 80, passed away October 7, 1995. Brother Young began sailing with the Seafarers in 1962 from the port of New York. Born in Kobe, Japan, he sailed in the steward department and upgraded to chief cook at the Lundeberg School. Brother Young also sailed in the inland division. INLAND BRENDA A.BROADWAY Brenda A. Broadway, 50, passed away February 10. Sister Broadway began sailing with the Seafarers in 1994 as a member of the steward department. Born in Arkansas, she lived in Illinois and sailed primarily aboard Orgulf Transportation vessels. WILLIAM DEESE iiiii;;:::;::;;::;;:;.;;;i Basic Financial Statement Benefits under the plan are provided by a trust arrangement. Plan expenses were $7,437,381. These expenses included $543,274 in administrative expenses and $6,894, 107 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 1,304 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all of these persons had yet earned the right to receive benefits. The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $4,060,774 as of July 31, 1995, compared to $3,092,967 as of the beginning of the plan year. During the plan year, the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $967,807. The plan had a total income of $8,405,188, including employer contributions of $7,793,232, earnings from investments of $192,472, receipts from other funds as reimbursement for pro-rata share of joint expenses of $276,768, and other income of $142,716. Employees do not contribute to this plan. Mobile, Ala. The Alabama native last worked for Radcliff Materials prior to retiring in June 1982. ~~~..;;;;,,;J OSCAR 0. HOPE Oscar 0. Hope, 43, passed away May 10. He began sailing with the Seafarers in 1979 from the port of Jacksonville, Fla. The Florida native sailed as a member of the deck department. ODELL WYNDHAM .,.....,.-;, " Pensioner Odell Wyndham, 86, died March 17. Boatman Wyndham started his career with the SIU in 1960 in · the port of Mobile, Ala. The Mississippi native sailed as a tankerman and last worked for Radcliff Materials. Boatman Wyndham retired in May 1976. GREAT LAKES WAYNEF.OLSEN Pensioner William Deese, 76, died February 25. After a career in the U.S. Air Force, he began sailing with the SIU in 1964 from the port of WayneF. Olsen, 63, passed away April 14. He joined the Seafarers in his native Alpena, Mich. Brother Olsen sailed as MICHAEL J. LOVASCO r=c=,..,,....,,=..,,,......_,,,..., Pensioner MichaelJ. Lovasco, 80, passed away March 27. A native of Boston, he joined the Atlantic Fishermen's = - - - - - - - ' Union, an affiliate of the SIU, before it merged with the AGLIWD in 1981. Brother Lovasco last sailed as a captain. He retired in December 1977. SALVATORE PARISI Pensioner Salvatore Parisi, 85, died May 4. Brother Parisi began sailing aboard his family fishing boats at the age of 15. In 1936, he became a charter member of the Atlantic Fishermen's Union, an affiliate of the SIU, before it merged with the AGLIWD. Born in Boston, Parisi and his family owned and operated five fishing vessels. Brother Parisi last sailed as a captain aboard his fishing dragger, The Mother Ann. He began receiving his pension in November 1975. JESUS M. SEIGAS Pensioner Jesus M. Seigas, 86, passed away March 1. He joined the Atlantic Fishermen's Union, before it merged with "'-----"'===== the AGLIWD. Born in Argentina, Brother Seigas made his home in Massachusetts. He retired in February 1973. RAILROAD MARINE JOHNR.HOCK Pensioner John R. Hock, 77, died May 5. Born in New Jersey, he joined the SIU in 1959 in the port of New York. Brother Hock '----"--------' sailed in the deck department and worked primarily for Penn Central Railroad. He served in the U.S. military during World War II. Brother Hock began receiving his pension in April 1982. ======= A Reminder for the Folks Back Home Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: 1. . an accountant's report; 2. assets held for investments; 3. transactions in excess of five (5) percent of the fund assets; and 4. fiduciary information, including transaction between the plan and parties-in-interest [that is, persons who have certain relationships with the plan]. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of the plan administration, SIU PD Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc., 522 Harrison Street, San Francisco, CA 94105; telephone (415) 4956882. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements will be included as part of that report. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan at 522 Harrison Street, San Francisco, CA 94105, and at the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) in Washington, D.C. or to obtain a copy from the DOL upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Dep.artment of Labor should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, N4677, Pension and Welfare Benefit Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20210. 20 Seafarers LOG AB Abdul Gharama (left) affixed an SIU sticker to the wall of his neighborhood gas station in Aden, Yemen when he visited family and friends there recently. Gharama joined the union in 1977 and has upgraded several times at the Lundeberg School, most recently from the tanker operation/safety course in November 1995. Shown in the photo on the right is his son, Hani, who accompanied him to the station. July1996 �l .~,,,~~,. ",..._,.~,w.·-,,,,,""··-·~~-~==·~~~~~m--t:::~~=~~~~:c~~:=~~~: •..• Dig·est of sliip.Hoard : Uni.on Meet1·ngs . . . . · . . ·.·. . The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union's contract department. Those Issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships minutes. The minutes are then forward9d to the Seafarers LOG for publication. LNG AQUARIUS (ETC), March 17-Chairman John Thompson, Secretary Franklin Robertson, Educational Director Ralph Gosnell, Deck Delegate Floyd Hackmann, Engine Delegate Bruce Smith, Steward Delegate Rafael Cardenas. Chairman thanked crew for separating plastics from regular trash. He reminded crewmembers to keep safety first while working. Bosun also advised crew to register to vote in upcoming U.S. presidenl1 tial election. Educational director enii couraged crew to upgrade at Lundeberg School. Chairman read letter from LNG Capricorn and posted on crew bulletin board. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun asked crewmembers to write members of Congress asking for their support of maritime revitalization program. Steward delegate asked crew to help keep lounge clean. Crew discussed management of stores during long voyages. I CHAMPION (Kirby Tankships ), April 28-Chairman Paul Dornes, Secretary Glenn Bertrand, Educational Director William Beatty, Steward Delegate John Padilla. Chairman announced ship to pay off in California. Educational director advised crewmembers to enroll in tanker operation/safety course at Paul Hall Center. Steward delegate reported beef. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or deck delegates. CLEVELAND(Seaiift, Inc.), April 22-Chainnan David Garoutte, retary Miguel Vinca, Educational Director J. Funk, Deck Delegate Eugene Finley, Engine Delegate Peter Cooley, Steward Delegate Julio Arzu. Bosun reported ship's itinerary still unknown but vessel slated for arrival in U.S. first week of June. He advised crew to solve shipboard problems using proper chain of command. No beefs or disputed OT reported. He reminded crewmembers to be careful around low hanging wires on deck. Crew thanked galley gang for good barbecue. Next port: Ploce, Croatia. HUMACAO (NPR, Inc.), April 15Chainnan Clarence Pryor, Secretary Francis DiCarlo, Educational Director R. Borrero. Chairman announced payoff upon arrival in San Juan, P.R. Disputed OT reported by deck delegate. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Chairman announced new washer received. LEADER (Kirby Tankships), April 23-Chairman Patrick Rankin, Secretary Bruce Mesger, Educational Director Richard Gracey. Chairman and ere~ discussed converting spare room into shipboard gym. Educational director reminded crew of required STCW certificate needed by October 1, 1996 and stressed importance of upgrading at Paul Hall Center. Disputed OT reported by engine delegate. No beefs or disputed OT reported by deck or steward delegates. Crew requested new movies every 30 days. OOCL INNOVATION(Sea-Land Service), April 22-Chairman Alan Rogers, Secretary R. T. Seim. Crewmembers requested new washer and dryer. Educational director encouraged members to contribute to SPAD and upgrade at Piney Point. Treasurer announced $17 5 in ship's fund to be used for purchase of new movies. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crewmembers sent letter signed by entire crew to Senator Robert Dole urging support for maritime revitalization legislation. Crewmembers extended special vote of thanks to steward department for tidy ship and fine meals. OOCL INSPIRATION(Sea-Land Service), April 14--Chairman Mark Trepp, Secretary Ekow Doffoh, Educational Director Pete Kanavos, Deck Delegate Danny Miller, Engine Delegate Todd Smith, Steward Delegate James Padmore. Educational director reminded crew to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer asked members to rewind videotapes and place them back in order. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port: Elizabeth, N.J. OVERSEAS BOSTON (Maritime Overseas), April 24--Chainnan Jeffrey Kass, Secretary John Holtschlag, Educational Director James Cleland, Steward Delegate Russell Barnett. Chairman announced company called Seattle union hall to let patrolman know of upcoming payoff in Ferndale, Wash. Educational director discussed how crewmembers can obtain STCW certificates from U.S. Coast Guard. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman informed crew that negotiations for new tanker agreement are scheduled to begin soon. Bosun read letter from union headquarters concerning March 4 ship's minutes. Crew discussed maritime revitalization program and drafted letter to send to members of the Senate urging their backing of the vital legislation. Bosun stressed importance of contributing to SPAD. OVERSEAS MARILYN (Maritime Overseas), April 28-Chainnan Mark Galliano, Secretary Pernell Cook, Deck Delegate James Brinks, Engine Delegate A. Hickman Jr., Steward Delegate Samuel Concepion. Chairman informed crew that new mattresses did not arrive; new order to be placed this voyage. Deck delegate thanked galley gang for job well done. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crewmembers discussed Seafarers WG articles. Next port: Haifa, Israel. ROBERT E. LEE (Waterman Steamship), Chairman Bill Penney, Secretary Danny Brown, Educational Director Eddie Johnson, Deck Delegate Michael Stein, Engine Delegate Leroy Williams. Chairman announced payoff upon arrival in port of New Orleans. Secretary urged members to contribute to SPAD. Educational director informed crewmembers of importance of upgrading at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crewmembers requested new furniture for crew lounge. Crew thanked galley gang for job well done and observed minute of silence for departed SIU brothers and sisters. SEA-LAND ATLANTIC (Sea-Land Service), April 28-Chairman William Stultz, Secretary Edward Porter. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew thanked steward department for fine meals. Crew noted air conditioning vents in crew quarters need repair. SEA-LAND EXPEDITION (SeaLand Service), April 21-Chairman Negron, Engine Delegate Pedro Gago. Chairman noted everything running smoothly and informed crew of payoff in Elizabeth, N .J. Educational director reminded all members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. SEA-LAND HA WAii (Sea-Land Service), April 20-Chairman Jim Carter, Secretary Brenda Kamiya, Educational Director Daron Ragucci, Engine Delegate David Ballard, Steward Delegate Virgilio Rivera. Crewmembers discussed starting movie fund. Educational director reminded members of importance of a Lundeberg School education. Beefs and disputed OT reported by deck and engine delegates. No beefs or disputed OT reported by steward delegate. Crew discussed creating separate smokers' lounge. SEA-LAND INTEGRITY (SeaLand Service), April 21-Chairman Stephen Argay, Secretary Pedro Laboy, Educational Director Dennis Baker, Deck Delegate Douglas Hodges, Engine Delegate Ismal Manley, Steward Delegate Charles Ratcliff. Chairman reminded crew that before signing vacation forms, please consider donating to SPAD. Bosun thanked entire crew for good voyage and hard work. Educational director urged members to attend upgrading courses at Paul Hall Center and continue writing members of the Senate asking them to support maritime revitalization legislation. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew noted concern that cadets aboard vessel possibly doing work that should be assigned to unlicensed members. Crew gave vote of thanks to galley gang for good food. Next port: Charleston, N.C. SEA-LAND PATRIOT (Sea-Land Service), April 28-Chairman Shawn Evans, Secretary Peter Schulz, Educational Director Robert Martinez, Engine Delegate Joe Vain, Steward Delegate Dennis Skretta. Chairman thanked all crewmembers who took time out of their shipboard schedules to write letters to their senators urging them to support maritime revitalization legislation. He asked crewmembers to separate aerosol cans and plastics from regular refuse. Educational director advised crew to watch safety films available from ship's library. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew extended special thanks to members of galley gang for excellent job. Crew noted poor mail service is delaying arrival of Seafarers WG to ship. Next port: Yokohama. SEA-LAND TRADER (Sea-Land Service), April 24--Chairman Mike Willis, Secretary R. Riley, Educational Director Kevin Bertel, Engine Delegate Prentiss Smith, Steward Delegate Thomas White. Crew requested additional washing machine for dirty work clothes. Chairman reminded crew to place dirty linens in linen room. Crewmembers discussed letter sent to Senator Bob Dole, signed by entire crew, urging him to support maritime revitalization program. Educational director reminded all crewmembers to register to vote in upcoming U.S. presidential election. Treasurer announced $2,000 in ship's fund and $230 in movie fund. Deck delegate reported disputed OT and engine delegate reported beef. No beefs or disputed OT reported by steward delegate. Crewmembers discussed establishment of crew recreation room. Crew requested information from contracts department on possible implementation of 40 J K plan for Seafarers in new contract. Members also asked contracts department for report on contract negotiations. Vote of thanks given to galley gang for job well done. Chairman reminded crew to stand together because there is strength in numbers when people work toward a common goal. ----------------------------·----- -~-,·--·-~·-·- July1996 James Patrick, Secretary Ivan Capowski, Educational Director Alan Ladd, Deck Delegate Jonathan Stringer, Engine Delegate Victor Mull, Steward Delegate Bob Bess. Chairman discussed upcoming operation in Jacksonville, Fla. and subsequent arrival of vessel at Virginia shipyard. He reminded crew of STCW identification certificate and tankerman assistant endorsement requirements. Educational director advised crew of upgrading opportunities available at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported. CLEVELAND(Sealift, Inc.), May 25-Chairman David Garoutte, Secretary Miguel Vinca, Educational Director J. Funk, Deck Delegate Eugene Finley, Engine Delegate Robert Woods, Steward Delegate Julio Arzu. Chairman thanked deck Crewmembers asked contracts department to look into vacation and base wage rates during negotiations for new contract. Crew thanked steward department for jobs well done. Next port: Guam. I i I ! I! 1 ITB PHILADELPHIA (Sheridan , Transportation), May 9-Chairman Charles Darley, Secretary Joseph Emidy. Bosun Darley thanked members of deck department for fine spirit of cooperation in getting tanks cleaned and making his first voyage as bosun a memorable one. No beefs , or disputed OT reported. Chairman reminded ABs and pumpmen to keep in their possession while aboard ship discharges or letter proving they have served at least 30 days seatime aboard tankers in the last five years. He added that with such documentation they will be considered grandfathered in for new A Piece of the Rock ! I l I l I Bosun David Garoutte stands by aboard the Cleveland as the Sealift, Inc. vessel prepares to anchor in Gibraltar (seen in the background) for bunkering. The Clevelandwas on a return trip from Ploce, Croatia. and engine department members for hard work and effort in cleaning holds and keeping pumps going. He advised crewmembers to e,;pect eight to 10 days of loading cargo in Lake Charles, La. before returning to Ploce, Croatia. He announced payoff, thanked entire crew for making last voyage a success and reminded them to clean rooms for next crewmembers signing on. Secretary asked all crewmembers to return silverware, glasses and pitchers to mess hall and make sure plastic items are separated from regular trash. Educational director urged members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman noted information from Paul Hall Center and Seafarers LOG available concerning STCW certificates. Crewmembers discussed circulating repair list. Crew requested cold drink dispenser in mess hall. Steward asked crewmembers to keep laundry room clean. Crew extended vote of thanks to galley gang for good barbecue. DEWAYNE T. WILLIAMS (Amsea), May 5-Chairman Alvin C. McCants, Secretary Salvatore E. Torneo, Educational Director Steve Johnson, Deck Delegate Brian Johnston, Engine Delegate Frank Jaworski, Steward Delegate Erik Loret. Chairman reminded crewmembers of October 1 deadline for STCW identification certificate which must accompany merchant mariner's document at sea. Bosun announced legislation allowing export of Alaskan oil on U.S.-flag, U.S.crewed tankers signed by President Clinton April 28. Educational director encouraged crew to enroll in tanker operation/safety course at Lundeberg School and upgrade when possible. He advised crewmembers that Paul Hall Center ap- -----~--·-·---- tankerman assistant endorsement and it will be added to their z-cards at time of renewal. He advised ABs and pumpmen they do not need to go to U.S. Coast Guard regional centers to obtain endorsement Crew thanked galley gang for excellent food and service. Next port: New York. NEDLLOYD HOLLAND (SeaLand Service), May 5-Chairman Freddie Goethe, Secretary E. Dooms, Educational Director John Walsh. Chairman discussed export of Alaskan oil aboard U.S.-flag, U.S.-crewed tankers. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman encourage.d crewmembers to read Seafarers LOG. Crew asked contracts department to look into raising dental and eye care benefits in new contract. Crew thanked steward department for job well done. OVERSEAS BOSTON (Maritime Overseas), May 31-Chairman Jeffrey Kass, Secretary John Holtschlag, Educational Director C. Kirchhofer, Steward Delegate Ros· sell Barnett. Chairman asked contracts department for clarification on length of time crewmembers can serve on vessel. Educational director discussed obtaining STCW certificates and contacting Seaman's Church for new books and magazines. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew noted new couch and TV on way to ship. OVERSEAS CHICAGO(Maritime Overseas), May 19-Chairman Maurilio Zepeda, Secretary Joe Ortega, Educational Director Marie Sawiw Sr., Steward Delegate James Willy. Chairman noted no news on new contract received from headquarters. Crew asked contracts department to look into crewmembers being able to file for vacation check every 30 days. Crew extended vote of thanks to galley gang. Seafarers LOG 21 �Lundeberg School Graduating Classes I :lJ t II Trainee Lifebo t Class 549-Graduating from trainee lifeboat class 549 are (from left, kneeling) Celina Ortega, Webster Bourgeois, David O'Brien, (standing) Alex Persons, Clinton Zavros, Kamal Moore, Leonard Bonarek, Mario Chery Jr., Lovell Smith and Thomas Hale. Basic Electronics-Upgrading graduates of the May 14 basic electronics class are (kneeling) Ralph Gamer, (from left, standing) Richard Robertson, Franklin Coburn, Eric Morrison and Russ Levin (instructor). Oil Spill Containment-Completing the 40-hour oil spill recovery and containment course on June 4 are members of trainee class 551. With their instructor, John Smith (kneeling), are (from left, front row) David Mark Hoffman II, David Tompkins, Manuel Alvarez, (second row) Osvaldo Rios, Jason Vogel, Jason McCormick and Eric Orscheln. Advanced Firefighting-Earning their certificates of completion from the advanced firefighting course on May 9 are (from left, kneeling) Bonifacio Fortes, Kathleen Kemp, Cesar Gutierrez, Ernest Lacunza Jr., Bur1in Pinion, Joseph Spell II, (second row) NajibCamry, Lawrence Carranza, Heather Stilwell, Rogelio Ybarra, Julie Borovick, John Smith (instructor), Sharon Naquin, Isom Ingram, Joyce O'Donnell, (thrid row) Ronald Rizzuto, Glen Boykin, Brett Newsome, Robert Stancavage, Robert Rester and Howard Schoenlly. Bridge Management-Five Seafarers graduated from the bridge management class on May 16. They are (from left, first row) Daniel Crawford, Jessie Holmes (staff), Timothy Seidell, Rick James, (second row) Jake Karaczynski (instructor), Henry Brown and Patrick Brown. Upgraders Lifeboat-Certificates of training were received by the May 29 class of upgraders. They are (from left, kneeling) Mike Stringer, Pedro Ramos, Willie Jones, Tom Gilliland (instructor), Rodney Roberson Sr., (second row) August Requedan, William Ramos, Najib Camry, Arthur Aguinaldo, George Claiborne Jr. and Kent Doctor. Tanker Operation/SafetySeafarers completing the tanker operation/safety course on May 7 are (from left, sitting) Lovell McElroy, James Porter, John Wolfe, Kevin Hall, Jimmie Thomas, (kneeling) Rudolph Hernandez, Michael Rawlins, Juan Ortiz, Eddie Ponteres, Milton Greene Jr., Trinidad Sanchez, (standing, first row) Ron Richardson, Errick Nobles, Matt Scott, Jerry Mclean, Sean Ryan, Arthur Aguinaldo, Richard Dunston, Stephen Stepanski, (standing, second row) Stephen Thompson, R.L. Maddox, Adolphus Young, Tibby Clotter, Jerry Foley, Carlos Sanchez, Peter Murtagh, (standing, third row) John Mclaurin, Fred Jensen, Ronald Owens, Ismael Castillo, Ben Cruz, Ralph Gibbs, (standing, fourth row) Randall Shearer, Ceasar Smith Jr., Joseph Smoler, Doug Smith, Joe Sauzek, (last row) Keith Innes, Larry Ewing and Jerry Lott Jr. 22 Seafarers LOG July1996 �. . . LUllDEBERS·St:HOOL I ·UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE . · · 'VM~\Vfug is the sch~l!le ~~f· ~!~~: beginning between Au~st atl:P cell,! ;er 1996 at the Seafarers.Uarry·L~deBerg School of Seamanship located at the Paul Hall Center forMaii.lime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. All progratns are geared to improve the job skills of Seafarers and to promote the Atn~q~ maritime industry. Pie?-~~i~~te that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, ~e:mcµitime industry and-in times of conflict-the nation's security. Sro,4:ents attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday be/ore their cours~.' s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning ofthe start dates. Start Date Date of Completion Tanker Operation/Safety August19 September 21 October 14 Novemberll September 13 Octoberll November8 December6 Tankerman Recertif"IC8tion August 19 October14 November 11 August30 October25 November22 Advanced Firefighting September 30 October 11 €ourse Inland Courses Deale Upgrading Courses Start Date Course Date of Completion Course Start Date Date of Completion Able Seaman October14 December13 Bridge Management August19 August30 Radar Observer August12 August16 Third Mate August26 Decemberl3 Course Date Date of Completion Celestial Navigation September 30 November8 Bosun Recertification Augusts September6 (see radar courses listed under deck department) Radar Observer/Inland Recerlltlatlon Programs Start Additional Courses Engine Upgrading Courses Start Start Date Date of Completion Adult Basic Education (ABE) Augusts October 14 September 13 November22 Course Date Date of Completion Fireman/Watertender & Oiler October14 December 13 August12 September 13 English as a Second Language (ESL) September 2 Octoberll November11 November29 Lifeboat Preparation August26 September 6 Marine Electrical Maintenance II August26 October4 Introduction to Computers to be announced Pumproom Maintenance August19 August30 Power Plant Maintenance November4 December13 September 23 December 13 Course The Lundeberg School is presently working on its 1997 calendar of courses. As soon as the dates are finalized, the schedule will appear in upcoming issues of the Seafarers LOG. , Members with any questions regarding future courses may call the school's admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Steward Upgrading Courses Course Assistant Cook/Cook and Baker, Chief Cook, Chief Steward Start Date Date of Completion August12 November 1 ---~------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ------------------------~ (Last) (First) Address _ _________ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _(Middle) ____ ~ (Street) (City) (:Zip Code) (State) Telephone___.___ ___.___ _ _ __ (AreaCode) Deep Sea Member D With this application, COPIES ofyour discharges must be submitted showing sufficient time to qualify yourself for the course(s) requested. You also must submit a COPY of each ofthe following: the first page ofyour union book indicating your department and seniority, your clinic card and the front and back of your z-card as well as your Lundeberg School identification card listing the course(s) you have taken and completed. The admissions office WILL NOT schedule you until all of the above are received. BEGIN DATE COURSE END DATE Date of B i r t h - - - - - - - - - (Mooth/DayfYear) Lakes Member D Inland Waters Member D If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security# Book# _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Seniority _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Department-------U.S. Citizen: D Yes D No Home Port_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ LAST VESSEL: - - - - - - - - - - - - - R a t i n g : - - - - - - - Are you a graduate of the SHLSS trainee program? DYes DNo If yes, c l a s s # - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - DNo DYes Have you attended any SHLSS upgrading courses? If yes, course(s) taken _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Date O n : - - - - - - - - - - Date O f f : - - - - - - - - - - - NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only if you present original receipts and successfully complete the course. Ifyou have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? DYes DNo Firefighting:OYes DNo CPR:DYes DNo Primary language spoken _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Julyf996 RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATION TO: Lundeberg School of Seamanship, Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075. 7196 Seafarers LOG 23 �SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORTS Volume 58, Number 7 July 1996 The summaries of the annual reports for the SIU Pacific District Pension Plan and the SIU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc. may be found on page 20. Boatmen Honored for Aiding Harbor Pilot Mobile Tug Crew Overcomes Foul Wea th er to Bring Wounded Man to Safety From his position on the deck of the pilot boat, Captain Vincent Collier could not believe his eyes. As the SIU member glanced through his frosty breath at the pilot ladder extending from the large vessel next to the boat, he saw harbor pilot Jack Miller hurtling downward. "It happened so quick. He hit the house, then the deck. I checked for a pulse because he didn't say anything at first," recalled Collier, one of six Mobile, Ala. -area Seafarers recently honored by the U.S. Coast Guard for bringing the injured man to safety. The 35-foot fall left Miller, an experienced harbor pilot, severely injured. The robustly built mariner sustained compound fractures in his left arm and left leg. He also broke his pelvis and several other bones as a result of the accident, which took place December 29 around 1: 30 a.m. in the Gulf of Mexico, 13 miles south of Gulf Shores, Ala. "It's a miracle he survived," said Captain Tommy Wescovich, who was in the pilot boat's wheelhouse when Miller reportedly slipped while trying to climb from the Jacob's ladder to a gangway on the deepsea ship. "I've never in my life seen anything like it and I hope I never do again." A difficult, delicate series of maneuvers, made necessary by a lack of immediate medical help and executed despite rough seas, frigid temperatures and 25-knot winds, immediately followed the mishap. Miller first was transported from the pilot boat to the nearby SIU-crewed Crescent tug Alabama, then was lifted onto an oil rig where limited medical help was available. He subsequently was taken via Coast SIU Captains Tommy Wescovich (left) and Vincent Collier display certificates awarded by the U.S. Coast Guard for their part in a difficult rescue. At right is Mobile, Ala. Port Agent Dave Carter. Guard helicopter to a local hospital. For their rescue efforts, Wescovich, Collier, Alabama crewmembers Captain Bo Tucker, Deckhands John Wint and Buddy Langley and Engineer Roy Saranthus-;along with bar pilot Marty Stapleton, recently were honored by the Coast Guard in Mobile. And Miller, still recovering from his injuries but able to move with the aid of a metal walker, attended the function, where he repeatedly and profusely thanked his rescuers. ''We enjoyed seeing Captain Jack," said Tucker. "A lot of the guys have known him for years." Crews Meet Challenge As soon as Miller - who remained conscious and communicated with the rescuers throughout the ordeal - hit the deck, Wescovich, Collier and Stapleton were confronted with several problems. Waves not only sprayed the victim with icy water, but also threatened to wash him off the boat. Via Captain Jack Miller, still slowed by injuries, shares a laugh with his wife, Sharlyn, during a reunion with his rescuers. the radio, Wescovich determined that the nearest paramedic was on the oil rig too far away for the boat to carry Miller, under the circumstances. Additionally, assis- 'It's a miracle he survived. I've never seen anything like it and I hope I never do again. ' Attending the ceremony marking the successful rescue of a severely injured harbor pilot near Mobile, Ala. are (from left, front row) Crescent Towing Assistant VP Tadd Willcutt, Crescent CEO Richard Murray, (back row) Deckhand John Wint, Engineer Roy Saranthus, Captain Bo Tucker and Deckhand Buddy Langley. "I was afraid he might slide off the door because the seas were so bad," stated Wint. "He's a gutsy fellow to be able to talk to us with the pain I know he was going through." Wint worked as a policeman in Chickasaw' Ala.tor 26 years before starting a second career as a mariner. He said that al-· though he has been to many accident scenes, "I wouldn't say I've seen anything similar to this. It was a bad accident, but everybody stayed calm and did what they had to do. "Captain Miller, bless his heart, he tried to help, too. He even reached out with his good arm and tried to grab the hand rail as we moved him." -Captain Tommy Wescovich tance from the Coast Guard would take at least two hours. Roughly two miles away, the Alabama had arrived early and was waiting to assist a tug and barge in a docking operation. Tucker heard about Miller's plight and promptly guided the tug to the accident scene. ''The pilot boat is only about 50 feet long and 20 feet wide, while the tug is approximately 90 feet by 30 feet," explained Tucker. "I know that when something like this happens, you don't want to move the injured person. But we had to get him transferred to our boat so he could get to shore as quickly as possible." The pilot boat tied up to the Alabama's port quarter. Then, absent a stretcher, crewmembers from both vessels helped remove a door from the tug and placed Miller on it. Seafarers Protect Captain Once Miller was aboard the Alabama, the Seafarers provided pillows and covered him with blankets. They shielded him from the waves and tried to immobilize him. (For various reasons, it would have been extremely impractical to attempt to move Miller inside the tug.) Under good conditions, the five-mile ride to the oil rig would take approximately 20 minutes. But with the Alabama moving slowly to minimize rocking and spray, it took nearly an hour. "We had to go slow enough that he wouldn't be hurt worse, but we also had to go as fast as possible," Tucker said. At the oil rig, a paramedic and others lowered a basket for Miller, then lifted him to the platform. A short while later a Coast Guard helicopter from New Orleans transported Miller from the rig to a Mobile hospital. Nearly five months later, the crews of the Alabama and the pilot boat were reunited with Miller under much better circumstances at the Coast Guard ceremony. Each of the Seafarers received a personalized certificate of appreciation "in recognition of notable services which have assisted greatly in furthering the aims a d functions of the Coast Guard." The certificates further read, "One of the oldest tra itions of the sea and its lore is that mariners set aside concern for self in service to others and the common good. Your actions in this are in keeping with that timeless tradition and reflect great credit upon yourself and the maritime community at large." Tucker echoed that sentiment. "On the waterfront, you've got to help others. They called, we were there, so we helped. If I was in that situation, I'd sure want someone to help me." Additionally, Wint said he was "more proud of this than my law enforcement certificates. I'm not sure why I feel that way, but this was a unique experience." Wescovich noted that the appreciative Miller choked up several times during the ceremony, when he tried to discuss the accident. "He couldn't thank us enough," Wescovich said. Finally, Collier summed up the rescuers' feelings when he said, "We were glad to help, and the main thing is that Captain Jack (who has a wife and children) survived. But I hope it's the last time something like this happens." � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1990-1999 Description An account of the resource Volumes LII-LXI Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993; Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource July 1996 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES ANOTHER SENATOR ANNOUNCES SUPPORT FOR THE U.S. SHIP BILL SEAFARERS MARCH IN WASHINGTON FOR AMERICA’S YOUNG PEOPLE MEMBERSHIP VOTES ON STANDARD CONTRACTS JONES ACT REMAINS VITAL COALITION ASKS CONGRESS TO REJECT CRUISE SHIP LOOPHOLE SEAFARERS RATIFY CROWLEY PACT TRANSOCEANIC CABLE SHIP CREWS VOTE ON FIVE-YEAR AGREEMENT SEAFARERS BACK NEW CONTRACTS SEA-LAND CONSUMER CREW SOLID FOR NEW AGREEMENT ORGULF COOKS SIZZLE THROUGH CULINARY COURSE AMERICAN QUEEN SEAFARERS MUIRHEAD SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETES CHIEF STEWARD TRAINING LNG TAURUS CREW BULLISH ON SAFETY PETROLEUM DISCHARGE EXERCISES ELICIT JOB WELL DONE FOR MOUNT WASHINGTON CREW PATRIOT IS FIRST U.S. SEA-LAND SHIP TO CALL ON SHANGHAI GREAT LAKES SEAFARERS SHINE AS OLYMPIC FLAME SAILS ACROSS LAKE ERIE BOATMEN HONORED FOR AIDING HARBOR PILOT Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 07/01/1996 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 58, No. 7 1996 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/e7059ba2e056c802e5516bf1335051cd.pdf fb66b7c472631d5a04701ac1cc662e42 PDF Text Text n ' I • Bisso Boatmen Get 1st Contract SIU members last month overwhelmingly ratified the first union contract in the 117-year history of New Orleans-based EN.Bisso Co., which operates tugboats in states along the Gulf of Mexico. It marked the successful culmination of a three-year ordeal during which the boatmen demonstrated unfailing solidarity and resolve. Page 2 . l Celebrating ratification of the contract are (from left) Chief Engineer Charlie Wilkinson, OS Chris Westbrook, SIU President Michael Sacco, Deckhand Robert Roberts and SIU Patrolman Steve Judd. Industry Conference Addresses Emerging Training Requirements Participants Stress Necessity at Cohesive Approach Rescue Replay SIU-Crewed MSCl'AC Ships Handle 2 Rescues in 2 Days ------------~Page6 More Seat arers Acquire TRBs During a special membership meeting last month at the SIU hall in New Orleans, Seafarers received their training record books (TRB), More Representatives Sign On Backing Jones Act Resolution -------~~--~~Page5 jointly developed by the union and the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. One longtime member described the book as "the best thing the union has ever come up with." The center and the SIU hope to issue TRBs to all Seafarers by the end of the year. ~~--------------- Page3 SIU Members Crew Another Ref lagged Maersk Containership ____________ Pages 12-13 �.....--.........----........--~----~------------!11!!![111111.........................~ -- ~·~~--~~~~~---------- President's Report Lessons of Bisso First and foremost, I congratulate the boatmen of E.N. Bisso Co. for securing their first union contract. It certainly wasn't easy. But, the Bisso crewmembers I spoke with last month in New Orleans all said it was worthwhile. As reported elsewhere on this page, Bisso boatmen persevered through three years of turmoil and challenges before getting that contract. During that time, they faced constant pressure and stalling tactics from the company, even though Michael Sacco they had voted long ago to join the SIU. We can learn a lot from the Bisso case. One lesson is that individual hard work and dedication to a goal usually pays off. Bisso boatmen worked hard to secure union representation. And they stayed dedicated to their goal of working under a union contract. That's one reason they won. There is another reason they won, also. It is the oldest principle of the trade union movement: solidarity. Pick any cliche you like about strength in numbers, but don't discount the time-tested notion that togetherness and camaraderie go a long way toward accomplishing a goal. Call it pooling resources or simple cohesion; in any case, it is effective. The Bisso boatmen have solidarity. They stuck together no matter what obstacles were placed before them. They stuck together when it would have been easier to give up. In the long run, they became much stronger than they were when this ordeal began. Finally, what we also must not overlook is the fact that these tugboat crews shouldn't have had to wait so long to get their union contract. The Bisso case illustrates one reason why this country needs a serious overhaul of its labor laws-an adjustment that restores true freedom of association. Without such changes, the deck will remain stacked against the individual or group who wants to join-or keep-a union. Time after time, year after year, in maritime and in many other industries, workers vote to join a union only to have companies stall the collective bargaining process by filing objections to the conduct of the polling. Then, it literally can take years to exhaust the appeals process. Some time ago, I read a revealing illustration of this situation, written by staff members at the AFL-CIO, the national federation of trade unions (of which the SIU is an affiliate). Imagine if political elections were conducted under the same rules as union elections, the writers suggested. If that were the case, George Bush might have held office for three years after he lost the 1992 election, while the courts issued a ruling to his objections. It's supposed to sound foolish, yet that's exactly what workers and unions face today. Just as the Bisso boatmen would not have secured their contract without hard work, dedication to their goal and solidarity, the labor movement as a whole must continue to press for real labor-law reform. Meanwhile, I again applaud our brother Seafarers at E.N. Bisso. And I sincerely hope that this marks the beginning of a solid working relationship between the SIU and the company. This was a hard fight all the way, but it's time to move forward. As I mentioned at the deep sea and inland advisory board meeting last month at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (see page 3), it is critical for labor and management to work cooperatively. That's especially true in light of all the changes happening in our industry, and the wonderful participation at the meeting makes me feel that plenty of company representatives and government officials believe the same thing. That doesn't mean we should stop advancing our own interests, of course, but it does mean we should be smart enough to recognize that if our contracted companies don't survive, then we don't survive. It is in that spirit that we look forward to E.N. Bisso being an SIU-contracted company for many years to come. Volume 59, Number 7 July 1997 The Seafarers WG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 8990675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998 and at additional offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers WG, 520 I Au th Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Daniel Duncan; Managing Editor, Jordan Biscardo; Associate Editor/Production, Deborah A. Hirtes; Associate Editor, Corrina Christensen Gutierrez; Art, Bill Brower; Administrative Support, Jeanne Textor. Copyright © 1997 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD All Rights Reserved. 2 Seafaren LOG 125,000 Rally in Detroit For Locked-Out Workers Board: Newspaper Companies Did Not Bargain in Good Faith In the sweltering heat of the first day of summer, more than 125,000 trade unionists, community activists, political representatives and clergymen from across the nation converged in Detroit to demonstrate in support of the 2,500 locked-out workers at the Detroit Free Press and the Detroit News. The SIU participated in the June 21 rally-dubbed Action! Motown '97-which included members of 40 unions and residents of 45 states. Even those Seafarers busy aboard Great Lakes vessels took part in their own way. While work precluded members from marching down the streets of the Motor City, the SIU-crewed Medusa Conquest, Walter J. McCarthy and John J. Boland blew their steam whistles and sounded their horns in a salute of solidarity as they sailed through the city where the enormous, union-sponsored gathering took place. Labor Board Issues Rullng The rally received an unexpected boost on June 20, when the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) ruled in favor of the locked-out workers on a key issue. The board announced that the owners of the Detroit News (Gannett) and the Detroit Free Press (Knight-Ridder) had committed serious labor law violations by not bargaining in good faith with the six unions representing the workers, who went on strike against the newspapers on July 13, 1995. The blockbuster decision favored the striking unions on almost every unfair labor practice charge pending before the NLRB. Most significantly, the judge declared the strike was due to More than 125,000 trade unionists from 40 unions and 45 states traveled to Detroit to show support for the locked-out workers of the Detroit News and Detroit Free Press. unfair labor practices. He called for the newspapers immediately to return all strikers to their former jobs and fire the scabs who were hired as replacements. Additionally, the judgment makes the two papers liable for more than $80 million in back pay. strikers Saluted "Brothers and sisters, you have won the battle of Detroit!" AFL-CIO President John Sweeney told the cheering crowd. "For 23 long months, this greatest of American union cities has rallied to uphold not only the workers and their unions, but to uphold the most important standard of corporate conduct we all rely upon-basic respect for workers and the jobs they do," said Sweeney. "The ruling vindicates the struggles of the Detroit newspaper workers and their families who valiantly have fought for justice during the past two years. The AFL-CIO was committed then, is committed now and will be committed to supporting these workers in Detroit and around the country until they are back at work and have a fair contract!" proclaimed the national labor federation president. Following Sweeney's remarks at the end of the two-mile march through the streets of Detroit was AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Richard Trumka. "Brothers and sisters, we will win this struggle because we're 40 million union members and our families and we are fed up!" declared Trumka. "We are hotel workers, coal miners, steelworkers, hospital workers, auto workers and carpenters and electrical workers, and we are fighting back! "We are men and women, young and old, black and white, African American, Latino and Asian Americans, all of us together, working together, organizing together fighting together and, by God, we are winning together!" exclaimed Trumka. Washington Support Also addressing the crowd in support of the striking workers were two congressmen. Continued on page 7 Boatmen Ratify First Bisso Contract Pact Increases Wages, Establishes Retirement Plan Seventy-three Louisiana boatmen have made history. Overcoming many obstacles, the SIU crewmembers of New Orleans-based E.N. Bisso Co. have overwhelmingly ratified their first union contract-the first collective bargaining agreement in the 117-year history of the company. Voting took place May 29 through June 12. Of the boatmen casting ballots (approximately 80 percent), all voted in favor of the contract. The pact, effective retroactive to June l, includes a wage increase and the first-ever retirement plan for Bisso boatmen. It also puts more money in members' pockets by maintaining medical benefits while decreasing the amount they must pay for coverage. SIU officials and Bisso delegates who served on the negotiating committee praised the members at Bisso for their resolve. The boatmen voted to join the SIU in March 1994, despite a campaign waged by the company not to do so. They held firm in their desire for union representation even as Bisso spent the next two years in court, unsuccessfully appealing the election results. Afterwards, negotiations between the company and the union took almost a year before an agreement was reached. 'The members at Bisso deserve congratulations for overcoming so much and for getting what they want and deserve: a union contact," said SIU President Michael Sacco. 'They set an example for boatmen in the Gulf and everywhere." SIU Patrolman Steve Judd, who served on the bargaining committee, added, "To go three years and stand up to the .- constant, daily pressure they withstood is amazing. The reason it was possible is because the men stuck together." Boatmen Chris Westbrook, Robert Roberts and Charlie Wilkinson Jr. helped negotiate the contract and attended a special membership meeting last month at the SIU hall in New Orleans. There, they were recognized by President Sacco and scores of their fellow Seafarers from the deep sea and inland divisions. Westbrook, who sails as an OS, said he already likes the security of having a contract. "It feels great, I'll tell you. This is protection we never had before, and it helps give you the respect that you deserve on the job," he noted. The 26-year-old Seafarer credited his fellow mariners and SIU officials "for getting us all through this three-year ordeal. (SIU Vice President Gulf Coast) Dean Corgey, (SIU Port Agent) Joe Perez and Steve Judd were always there, 24 hours a day, anytime we needed anything. That kind of integrity means a lot," he said. "At this point, things are looking better than anybody could have expected," Westbrook added. "We're going to end up with more union supporters than we had when this started." 'A Foundation' Roberts described the ratification as "a big relief and a foundation to build on. It's time to get all this anguish over with and start having a working relaContinued on page 7 July 1997 �Industry Group Takes 'Partnership' Approach In Tackling Evolving Training Requirements School's Advisory Boards Confer with Coast Guard, MadAd & MSC Officials With substantial domestic and After initially working in one international regulatory changes group, participants met in four affecting the training needs of subcommittees. They talked U.S. merchant mariners, the Paul about analyzing the training Hall Center for Maritime Training requirements for mariners sailing and Education last month hosted aboard MSC ships and implean unprecedented meeting de- menting appropriate courses at signed to help prepare Seafarers the center; identified companies and SIU-contracted companies which volunteered to allow for those revisions. Lundeberg School instructors The first joint meeting of the aboard their vessels to further center's Deep Sea and Inland hone their knowledge of current Advisory Boards included repre- shipboard operations, equipment sentatives from the SIU; the cen- and training needs; discussed the ter's Lundeberg School of Sea- possibility of establishing sepamanship; the U.S. Coast Guard; rate unlicensed apprentice proU.S. Maritime Administration grams for inland and Great Lakes (MarAd); U.S. Military Sealift mariners; formed a group tasked Command (MSC); National with developing a thorough-yetTransportation Safety Board succinct means of assisting com(NTSB); and SIU-contracted panies to comply with various deep sea, Great Lakes and inland regulations stemming from the operators. It took place June 17 International Safety Management and 18 in Piney Point, Md. Code (ISM) and International "We have talked about a part- Convention on Standards of nership, working together to ben- Training, Certification and efit the industry as a whole," SIU Watchkeeping for mariners President Michael Sacco said in (STCW); and covered many other opening the meeting. "We're very subjects. serious about that. We want to enAttendees also heard from sure that you have the best-quali- Coast Guard Commandant fied people on your equipment." Robert Kramek and Paul Hall SIU Vice President Contracts Center instructors and officials. Augie Tellez noted that the con- The agenda included a tour of the ference "is a means for us to pro- campus, review of the curriculum, duce better, more qualified man- an explanation of how the TRBs power by generating and imple- are being issued and used, and a menting new ideas together." He review of ISM and STCW. "This is a lot more than just pointed out that the U.S. Coast Guard-accepted training record show and tell. These workshops book (TRB), which the school give you a real chance to particirecently began issuing, resulted in pate in the (curriculum) developpart from last year's deep sea and ment process," observed Bob inland advisory meetings (con- Lambourne, director of marine ducted separately), as did the personnel and safety at Allied newly revised program for entry- Towing Corp. "I think it's worthwhile to meet each other and level mariners at the Hall Center. exchange ideas, and it's also good to see how interested the union is in helping the companies comply with all these new regulations." Royal "Duby" Joslin, vice president of operations and engineering at Great Lakes Towing Co., commended the idea of inviting representatives from deep sea, inland and Great Lakes companies. "The idea of the joint conference makes sense because the issues more and more are affecting all segments of the industry," Joslin stated. "The conference was very well-run and the right people were here, which in itself is a vote of confidence in the meeting." Similarly, John Morrison, executive vice president of Ocean Shipholdings, Inc., described the advisory discussions as "productive. Those who missed it will regret it. ... The Coast Guard can only pass along responsibilities if someone steps up, which the school has done. I'm encouraged." Updated Regulations Bill Eglinton, director of vocational education at the school, and Chris Young, an information spe- Posing for a photo on the Coast Range are Bosun John Mossbarger, 2nd Pumpman Tom Markva, DEU Casey Barber, SIU President Michael Sacco and Chief Pumpman Alex Resendez. July 1997 cialist at the Coast Guard, were frequent participants in international meetings leading to ratification in 1995 of amendments to the STCW convention. They reviewed the impact of the treaty, which sets minimum standards for certification, training and skills needed by deep-sea mariners worldwide and also is significantly impacting rules governing inland and Great Lakes mariners. Ratified by more than 100 nations, the STCW already has resulted in regulatory changes in the U.S. and abroad, with more regulations slated to take effect in upcoming years. Eglinton and Bob Gauvin of the Coast Guard also led a discussion about ISM rules scheduled to take effect in 1998 and in 2002. Those codes also will have an impact on training, personnel procedures, vessel maintenance and Continued on page 7 New Orleans Seafarers Say Document Is Great Asset Seafarers packed the SIU hall in New Orleans on June 26 for a special meeting that included presentations of training record books (TRBs) to members and an Seafarers gather in the crew mess of the Coast Range tor a union meeting shortly before the Crowley tanker set sail from Portland, Ore. to San Francisco. Seated (from left) are Recertified Steward Laura Cates, Chief Pumpman Alex Resendez, and mother and son SIU members OS Linda and DEU Casey Barber. Standing (from left) are Chief Cook Frank Martin, AB Benny Freeland, Bosun John Mossbarger, and father and son SIU members Chief Steward J.D. and GSU Chris Hopkins. pointing out the long and successful history of the SIU with Crowley Maritime, he praised the company for reinforcing its "strong support for the U.S.-flag merchant fleet and the nation's - Members of the Paul Hall Center's Deep Sea and Inland Towing Advisory Boards tour the facility before kicking off last month's meeting at Piney Point, Md. Here, SIU Headquarters Representative Carl Peth (standing at left) describes the operations of the manpower office. Union Continues Issuing TRBs Seafarers Crew 2 Tankers for Crowley Petroleum Seafarers are sailing aboard two tankers that recently were purchased by Crowley Petroleum Transport, Inc., a newly formed division of Crowley Maritime. The Coast Range and Blue Ridge last month began service under the Crowley banner carrying oil along the U.S. West Coast. SIU members came aboard the vessels in Portland, Ore. while the double-hulled tankers were being painted and made ready to return to sea. SIU President Michael Sacco met with crewmembers on June 20 aboard the Coast Range just before the 16-year-old vessel set sail for San Francisco. (The Blue Ridge departed Oregon a week earlier.) Later that day, Sacco addressed an audience of Crowley officials, customers and maritime industry representatives who were invited to tour the vessel. In } · ~ -... iJ .. ~-. , Waiting for the start of the union meeting is AB Mahendra Singh. cabotage law, the Jones Act" through the purchase of the ships. Sacco added that the union looks forward to working with Crowley as it enters the tanker trade.Both the Coast Range and Blue Ridge are 658 feet long. They have a maximum draft of 35 feet and can maintain a speed of 15.5 knots. Both ships will be able to carry approximately 307,000 barrels of oil in their 19 cargo tanks. explanation of how the pocketsize documents work. International standards for merchant mariners, the Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan, and the restructured program for entry-level students at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education also were covered by SIU officials at the meeting. SIU President Michael Sacco, Executive Vice President John Fay, Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez and Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey all were on hand for the conference. While many topics were reviewed, the TRB was the focal point. Fifteen Seafarers received their TRBs, which the union and the Hall Center jointly developed to assist members in complying with existing and impending regulations (both international and domestic) affecting the training, qualifications and documentation of merchant mariners. "We took the lead in developing this book because it's vital and valuable to the membership," stated Sacco, who encouraged all Seafarers to apply for the document as soon as possible (see form on page 6). Anoth~r reason for generating the books "is to establish a highquality model for others to follow. There has to be some uniformity in our industry with these TRBs, or else it will be very confusing for the seamen, the companies, the Coast Guard-everybody," Sacco noted, adding that the SIU to date is the only organization to publish a Coast Guard accepted TRB. The document primarily was The training record book "is designed as a simple, efficient way of recording members' training and their demonstration of job skills. It can only help SIU members," explains SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez. produced to help standardize proof of doeumentation for port state control under both the International Safety Management Code (ISM) and the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for mariners (STCW), including the 1995 amendments to that convention. It contains sections for listing a mariner's training as well as his or her demonstrations of various shipboard competencies. "I think this is the best thing the union has ever come up with," said Recertified Bosun Gerald Corelli, a member of the SIU for 37 years, who received his TRB at last month's meeting. 'This book makes things a lot easier for me. Now I don't have to carry all my certificates and credentials with me aboard ship. All I need is the book." Corelli added that the TRB "shows how the union is doing everything they can to help us. · This book is going to prevent and answer a lot of problems, especially with the Coast Guard not Continued on page 6 Seafarers LOG 3 �Industry Group Takes 'Partnership' Approach In Tackling Evolving Training Requirements School's Advisory Boards Confer with Coast Guard, MadAd & MSC Officials With substantial domestic and international regulatory changes affecting the training needs of U.S. merchant mariners, the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education last month hosted an unprecedented meeting designed to help prepare Seafarers and SIU-contracted companies for those revisions. The first joint meeting of the center's Deep Sea and Inland Advisory Boards included representatives from the SIU; the center's Lundeberg School of Seamanship; the U.S. Coast Guard; U.S. Maritime Administration (MarAd); U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC); National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB ); and SIU-contracted deep sea, Great Lakes and inland operators. It took place June 17 and 18 in Piney Point, Md. "We have talked about a partnership, working together to benefit the industry as a whole," SIU President Michael Sacco said in opening the meeting. "We're very serious about that. We want to ensure that you have the best-qualified people on your equipment." SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez noted that the conference "is a means for us to produce better, more qualified manpower by generating and implementing new ideas together." He pointed out that the U.S. Coast Guard-accepted training record book (TRB ), which the school recently began issuing, resulted in part from last year's deep sea and inland advisory meetings (conducted separately), as did the newly revised program for entrylevel mariners at the Hall Center. After initially working in one group, participants met in four subcommittees. They talked about analyzing the training requirements for mariners sailing aboard MSC ships and implementing appropriate courses at the center; identified companies which volunteered to allow Lundeberg School instructors aboard their vessels to further hone their knowledge of current shipboard operations, equipment and training needs; discussed the possibility of establishing separate unlicensed apprentice programs for inland and Great Lakes mariners; formed a group tasked with developing a thorough-yetsuccinct means of assisting companies to comply with various regulations stemming from the International Safety Management Code (ISM) and International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for mariners (STCW); and covered many other subjects. Attendees also heard from Coast G:uard Commandant Robert Kramek and Paul Hall Center instructors and officials. The agenda included a tour of the campus, review of the curriculum, an explanation of how the TRBs are being issued and used, and a review of ISM and STCW. "This is a lot more than just show and tell. These workshops give you a real chance to participate in the (curriculum) development process," observed Bob Lambourne, director of marine personnel and safety at Allied Towing Corp. "I think it's worthwhile to meet each other and exchange ideas, and it's also good to see how interested the union is in helping the companies comply with all these new regulations." Royal "Duby" Joslin, vice president of operations and engineering at Great Lakes Towing Co., commended the idea of inviting representatives from deep sea, inland and Great Lakes companies. "The idea of the joint conference makes sense because the issues more and more are affecting all segments of the industry," Joslin stated. "The conference was very well-run and the right people were here, which in itself is a vote of confidence in the meeting." Similarly, John Morrison, executive vice president of Ocean Shipholdings, Inc., described the advisory discussions as "productive. Those who missed it will regret it. ... The Coast Guard can only pass along responsibilities if someone steps up, which the school has done. I'm encouraged." Updated Regulations Bill Eglinton, director of vocational education at the school, and Chris Young, an information spe- Posing for a photo on the Coast Range are Bosun John Mossbarger, 2nd Pumpman Tom Markva, DEU Casey Barber, SIU President Michael Sacco and Chief Pumpman Alex Resendez. July 1997 .,·. -. . ··ir ~ Members of the Paul Hall Center's Deep Sea and Inland Towing Advisory Boards tour the facility before kicking off last month's meeting at Piney Point, Md. Here, SIU Headquarters Representative Carl Peth (standing at left) describes the operations of the manpower office. cialist at the Coast Guard, were frequent participants in international meetings leading to ratification in 1995 of amendments to the STCW convention. They reviewed the impact of the treaty, which sets minimum standards for certification, training and skills needed by deep-sea mariners worldwide and also is significantly impacting rules governing inland and Great Lakes mariners. Ratified by more than 100 nations, the STCW already has resulted in regulatory changes in the U.S. and abroad, with more regulations slated to take effect in upcoming years. Eglinton and Bob Gauvin of the Coast Guard also led a discussion about ISM rules scheduled to take effect in 1998 and in 2002. Those codes also will have an impact on training, personnel procedures, vessel maintenance and Continued on page 7 New Orleans Seafarers Say Document Is Great Asset Seafarers packed the SIU hall in New Orleans on June 26 for a special meeting that included presentations of training record books (TRBs) to members and an Seafarers gather in the crew mess of the Coast Range for a union meeting shortly before the Crowley tanker set sail from Portland, Ore. to San Francisco. Seated (from left) are Recertified Steward Laura Cates, Chief Pumpman Alex Resendez, and mother and son SIU members OS Linda and DEU Casey Barber. Standing (from left) are Chief Cook Frank Martin, AB Benny Freeland, Bosun John Mossbarger, and father and son SIU members Chief Steward J.D. and GSU Chris Hopkins. pointing out the long and successful history of the SIU with Crowley Maritime, he praised the company for reinforcing its "strong support for the U.S.-flag merchant fleet and the nation's \ Union Continues Issuing TRBs Seafarers Crew 2 Tankers for Crowley Petroleum Seafarers are sailing aboard two tankers that recently were purchased by Crowley Petroleum Transport, Inc., a newly formed division of Crowley Maritime. The Coast Range and Blue Ridge last month began service under the Crowley banner carrying oil along the U.S. West Coast. SIU members came aboard the vessels in Portland, Ore. while the double-hulled tankers were being painted and made ready to return to sea. SIU President Michael Sacco met with crewmembers on June 20 aboard the Coast Range just before the 16-year-old vessel set sail for San Francisco. (The Blue Ridge departed Oregon a week earlier.) Later that day, Sacco addressed an audience of Crowley officials, customers and maritime industry representatives who were invited to tour the vessel. In I J"':.] :. Waiting for the start of the union meeting is AB Mahendra Singh. cabotage law, the Jones Act" through the purchase of the ships. Sacco added that the union looks forward to working with Crowley as it enters the tanker trade.Both the Coast Range and Blue Ridge are 658 feet long. They have a maximum draft of 35 feet and can maintain a speed of 15.5 knots. Both ships will be able to carry approximately 307,000 barrels of oil in their 19 cargo tanks. explanation of how the pocketsize documents work. International standards for merchant mariners, the Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan, and the restructured program for entry-level students at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education also were covered by SIU officials at the meeting. SIU President Michael Sacco, Executive Vice President John Fay, Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez and Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey all were on hand for the conference. While many topics were reviewed, the TRB was the focal point. Fifteen Seafarers received their TRBs, which the union and the Hall Center jointly developed to assist members in complying with existing and impending regulations (both international and domestic) affecting the training, qualifications and documentation of merchant mariners. "We took the lead in developing this book because it's vital and valuable to the membership," stated Sacco, who encouraged all Seafarers to apply for the document as soon as possible (see form on page 6). Another reason for generating the books "is to establish a highquality model for others to follow. There has to be some uniformity in our industry with these TRBs, or else it will be very confusing for the seamen, the companies, the Coast Guard-everybody," Sacco noted, adding that the SIU to date is the only organization to publish a Coast Guard accepted TRB. The document primarily was The training record book "is designed as a simple, efficient way of recording members' training and their demonstration of job skills. It can only help SIU members," explains SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez. produced to help standardize proof of documentation for port state control under both the International Safety Management Code (ISM) and the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for mariners (STCW), including the 1995 amendments to that convention. It contains sections for listing a mariner's training as well as his or her demonstrations of various shipboard competencies. "I think this is the best thing the union has ever come up with," said Recertified Bosun Gerald Corelli, a member of the SIU for 37 years, who received his TRB at last month's meeting. ''This book makes things a lot easier for me. Now I don't have to carry all my certificates and credentials with me aboard ship. All I need is the book." Corelli added that the TRB "shows how the union is doing everything they can to help us. This book is going to prevent and answer a lot of problems, especially with the Coast Guard not Continued on page 6 Seafarers LOG 3 �Hause Maritime Groups Line Up Solidly far Janes Act Actions Precede Introduction of Bill Designed to Gut Freight Cabotage Law All 12 members of the U.S. House of Representatives Merchant Marine Oversight Panel have signed a letter stating their strong belief that the Jones Act should not be changed. The letter, which was sent to all members of the House, comes as legislation has been presented in that congressional chamber to alter the nation's freight cabotage law. (The Jones Act, part of the 1920 Merchant Marine Act, calls for all cargo moved between two domestic ports to be carried aboard U.S.-flag, U.S.-crewed and U.S.-built vessels.) History of Support Noting that "Congress has always supported the principle that vessels used to transport cargo and passengers between U.S. ports should be built in the United States, crewed by American citizens and owned by American companies," the members of the Merchant Marine Oversight Panel renewed the pledge made during the 104th Congress, which ended in 1996. The panel, chaired by Rep. Herbert Bateman (R-Va.), wanted to send a strong message to fellow congressmen that it still will not consider any changes in the Jones Act. "Repeal of the cabotage laws would result in a takeover of our domestic waterborne transportation system by foreign companies," the letter stated. "Those foreign companies could enjoy a significant competitive advantage by: (1) operating subsidized vessels (U.S. domestic fleet vessels are IlQ1 subsidized); and (2) operating exempt from the American tax system, labor laws, safety statutes, environmental requirements and a host of other laws." The members of the panel then noted that no American industry-no matter if it is maritime, trucking, air or railshould have "to compete here under a system that institutionalizes a capital and operating cost advantage to foreign operators. The American government must not discriminate against American business in this fashion." Joining Bateman in signing the letter were Reps. Duncan Hunter (R-Calif.), Curt Weldon (R-Pa.), Jim Saxton (R-N.J.), Tillie Fowler (R-Fla.), Joe Scarborough (RFla.), Neil Abercrombie (DHawaii), Gene Taylor (D-Miss.), Jane Harman CD-Calif.), Patrick Kennedy (D-R.I.), Thomas Allen CD-Maine) and Adam Smith (D-Wash.). The panel, part of the National Security Committee, is one of two groups within the House that has jurisdiction on matters pertaining to maritime, including the nation's cabotage laws. The other, the House Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, also has a letter being distributed in which a majority of its members proclaim their support for the Jones Act. Promotes Safety Standards In that letter-signed by Reps. Don Young (R-Alaska), Frank LoBiondo (R-N.J.), Bob Clement (D-Tenn.), Jay Johnson (D-Wis.) and Bob Borski CD-Pa.)-the subcommittee members point out "cabotage laws promote the highest standards of marine safety and environmental protection in U.S. ports and waterways." It also notes the economic impact of the Jones Act fleet. "Our fleet pumps some $15 billion into the nation's economy annually, including $4 billion in direct wages to the 124,000 Americans employed in the oper- ation, construction and repair of Jones Act vessels. Jones Act wages alone generate $1.4 billion in federal and state tax revenues," added the members of the subcommittee, which is included in the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. Both letters ended by saying, "American cabotage laws greatly benefit the U.S. national security, economy and natural environment, and deserve our committed and continuing support." Leglslatlve Oversight Both the Merchant Marine Oversight Panel and the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee have jurisdiction over a bill introduced June 19 to gut the Jones Act. Entitled the Coast Shipping Competition Act (H.R. 1991), the bill,s sponsor, Rep. Nick Smith (R-Mich.), claimed at a press conference unveiling the legislation that it would not affect the jobs of American merchant mariners. However, one provision in the bill would allow foreign-flag, foreign-crewed vessels to make up to six trips a year in the U.S. coastwise trade. No hearing date has been set for H.R. 1991. ISupport Grows for Jones Act Resolution I More members of the House of Representatives have added their names in support of a resolution that backs the Jones Act, the nation's freight cabotage law. As the Sea/are rs LOG went to press, a total of 179 elected officials were included as sponsors of House Concurrent Resolution 65 (HCR 65). The measure, which was introduced by Reps. Joseph Moakley (D-Mass.) and Gerald Solomon (R-N.Y.), has strong bipartisan support. It spells out the economic, environmental and national security advantages provided by the Jones Act in its call not to alter the law. Several House chairmen have announced their support of HCR 65. They include Solomon, who heads the Rules Committee; Herbert Bateman (R-Va.), Merchant Marine Oversight Panel; Bob Livingston (R-La.), Appropriations Committee; Benjamin Gilman (R-N.Y.), International Relations Committee; Don Young (R-Alaska), Resources Committee; and Bob Stump (R-Ariz.), Veterans' Affairs Committee. Under the rules of Congress, a concurrent resolution delivers a formal statement or opinion of the legislators. It requires passage by both the House and Senate. Dyn Marine to Operate Converted RO/RO New Job Opportunities on Horizon for Seafarers The recent announcement by the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) that SIU-contracted Dyn Marine Services will operate a converted, reflagged roll-on/roll-off (RO/RO) ship represents future job opportunities for Seafarers. The Grenadian-registered GTS Bazaliya is scheduled to be reflagged under the Stars and Stripes and converted at Bender Shipbuilding and Repair Co., Inc. in Mobile, Ala. The vessel will be renamed the USNS LCpl. Roy M. Wheat and will become the second ship in the U.S. Military Sealift Command's Maritime Prepositioning Force (Enhanced) program, known as MPF(E). It will be named in memory of the U.S. Marine Corps lance corporal who posthumously received the Medal of Honor for sacrificing his life to save those of two fellow Marines in a land-mine explosion in Vietnam in 1967. In announcing the award of the $150 million contract for the purchase, conversion, operation and maintenance of the Grenadian RO/RO, MSC described the MPF(E) program as "designed to increase the capability of the three existing maritime prepositioning ship squadrons through the addition of a converted ship to each of the squadrons." Each of the three vessels added to the prepositioning fleets in the Indian Ocean, western Pacific and Mediterranean Sea will be capable of simultaneous roll-on/roll-off and lift-on/lift-off operations both pier-side and under way. Each ship also will have a flight deck for helicopter operations (but will not routinely carry operational aircraft). "Prepositioning of this additional equipment with the MPS squadrons will significantly enhance Marine air-ground task force capabilities," MSC noted in its press release. DANIR HORODYSKY Merchant Mariners Deserve Recognition for Service to Their Nation SAN FRANCISCO. e were at Normandy on D-Day. We were at the invasion of North Africa. We were at Italy, Guadalcanal, and the treacherous Murmansk run. In the Philippines, General Douglas MacArthur ordered us into the foxholes. We delivered troops, anununition, and supplies to all fronts in World War II, Korea, Vietnam, and the Persian Gulf. We are by law "a naval or military auxiliary in time of war••.. ,,.Of the 215,000 merchant mariners who served in World War II, more than 100,000 received combat bars. And 6, 795 - one in every 32 - lost their lives. When we were needed, political and military leaders recognized the critical role played by the U.S. Merchant Marine. W St,OW, lightly armed Liberty ships vs. the U-boat resulted in the highest casualty rate of all the services, slightly higher than that of the U.S. Marines. More than a thousand cargo ships and tankers were sunk; 31 were lost without a trace. Merchant marin"ers also served in combat zones in the Gulf, Korean, and Vietnam Wars. On San Francisco's Embarcadero near the Bay Bridge are memorials to merchant s·eamen who perished in these wars - including seven men in the engine room of the San Francisco-based SS Baton Rouge Vicf(Jry. It was mined and sunk en route to Saigon. Nonetheless, we're only second-class veterans. And we don't have even that hard-won limited sta- tus urµess we were in ocean-going service between December, 1941, and August 15, 1945. This status is routinely and cruelly denied to the thousands of men and women who have served in America's wars since August 15, 1945. In "Battle For The Atlantic: America's Forgotten Heroes," a 1993 article in American History had this to say: What thi! bureaucrats in Washington did to the merchant mariners was rejJrehensible. They treated them like second-class citizens, and worse. In 1944, as he signed the GI Bill, President Franklin D. Roosevelt said: "I trust Congress will soon provide similar opportunities to members of the Merchant Marine who have risked their lives time and time again during war for the welfare of their country." It didn't happen. The crusade for military veteran status went nowhere. Arid then, in 1977, the Women Air Service Pilots found a champion, then-Senator Barry-Goldwater, who was a general in the Air Force Reserve. His legislation won veteran' status for the WASPS and, strangely, named the Secretary of the Air Force as administrator of procedures for granting veteran status to all other applicants. Ten air-related groups have received this status since 1979. · Not until 1988 did the·U.S. Merchant Marine's World W.ar II sailors get limited veteran status, and then only after an expensive court battle largely financed by the AFL-CIO. THE JUDGE remarked: "[The) Secretary of the Air •Berkeley resident Daniel H<trodysky, a resident of . Force abused [his) discretion.... However, the record Berkeley, California, enlisted June, 1945, in the U.S. ·contains unrefuted evidence that merchant seamen Maritime Servia. He also served in thi! Merchant Marine were trained in weaponry.... during the Vietnam War. TM Mar£ner Fairness Commit"The record is silent. .. as to the military training of lte's address is: P.O. Box 2361, Berkeley, CA 94702. dietitians, telephone operators, and other successful applicants .... The denials were arbitrary and capricious... and contrary to law.... " At that point, the Air Force Secretary, Edward Aldridge, Jr., "declared" August 15, 1945, as the end of World War.II for merchant mariners. It wasn't the end for the casualties op 13 ships that were sunk by mines between that date and the formal declaration of peace proclaimed as December 31, 1946, by President Harry Truman: "Although a state of war still exists, it is at this time possible to declare... that hostilities have terminated." Congress set that date into law. The December 31, 1946, date is recognized for all the other services and by the Veteran Affairs Department. Bills in Congress to grant veteran status to merchant mariners have gone nowhere, largely because of Air Force opposition. In a 1996 letter to a Senator, one Air Force official chose to relegate the U.S. Merchant Marine to a "subculture." Today the Air Force is said to be in the "process of reconsidering" the 1945 cutoff, but that begs the point. The President should change it by executive order before it is posthwnous for most of us. WE'RE not looking for the VA benefits that might have helped us in the past half century. By now we're too old for the GI Bill and the VA loans. We just want recognition. President Roosevelt said, referring to the Merchant Marine, "As time goes on, there will be greater public understanding.... " He was wrong. President Clinton prbclaimed in 1994, "Their sacrifices were crucial to victory." The men and women of the U.S. Merchant Marine are waiting today for understanding and recognition of their sacrifices. CSan Francisco ~er Columnist Supports WWII Merchant Mariners Retired Bosun Andrew Boney recently brought the above article to the attention of the Seafarers LOG. The piece by Daniel Horodysky, reprinted here with permission, calls for passage of legislation that would establish the same veterans' status cutoff date for World War II merchant mariners as the one set for the armed forces. It originally was published July 1997 by the San Francisco Examiner and also appeared in numerous other newspapers throughout the country. As reported in previous editions of the Seafarers LOG, such legislation has been introduced this year in both the House and Senate. Each bill is known as the Merchant Mariners Fairness Act. Seafarers LOG 5 �MSCPAC Ships Do 2 Rescues in 2 Days Seafarers to Crew MSC's Sea Pride Kilauea, Niagara Falls Aid Stranded Mariners Two U.S. Military Sealift Command-Pacific FJeet (MSCPAC) ships crewed by members of the SIU's Government Services Division each executed a rescue in Southeast Asian waters last month, within a two-day period. The USNS Kilauea, an ammunition ship, provided food and fresh water to 23 crewmembers of a disabled cargo vessel in the Java Sea south of Borneo on May 13. A day earlier, the supply ship USNS Niagara Falls assisted 28 fishermen adrift on a stalled boat off the coast of Mindanao in the Philippines. "Your prompt, professional and compassionate responses to vessels in distress on the high seas were in keeping with the highest traditions of mariners," said U.S. Navy Rear Admiral John Bepko in a message to both ships. "Of particular note, in both cases, was the initiative, ingenuity and tenacity of masters and crews to promptly render immediate aid and assistance, and resolve these incidents in a safe and sagacious manner. Well done." Disabled 4 Days While transiting the Makassar Strait en route to Guam to the northeast, the Kilauea received a message from the Global Marine Distress and Safety System about a nearby ship without fuel, food or water. · About 95 miles away, the Maryam 7 indeed had been disabled for nearly four days and its crew of 20 Indians, two Indonesians and one Greek devoid of nourishment. The captain of the Kilauea, Jeff Cook, ordered one of the MSCPAC vessel's two helicopters ahead to find the 407-foot Maryam 7, which is registered in Dubai. After the helicopter succeeded, the Kilauea sailed toward the stranded ship, which was anchored near numerous shoals. As the Kilauea approached, the Maryam 7 reportedly used a hand-cranked radio to communicate with the American-flag ship. The crew explained they were only 160 miles from their destination but had run out of fuel for the boilers. Their stores also were exhausted. Additionally, they said they repeatedly had been promised provisions by their Indonesia-based shipping agent, but to no avail. Their distress call had been forwarded to the automated system by a passing ship, which otherwise did not offer assistance. Mindful of the shoals, the Kilauea anchored a safe distance from the Maryam 7 some four hours after receiving the initial call. Cook then dispatched both helicopters to deliver food and 70 gallons of fresh water to the weary mariners. Working with MSCPAC staff, the Kilauea also arranged further assistance for the stranded crew. A boat from Indonesia reportedly arrived hours later and towed the cargo ship into port. Showing their appreciation to the Kilauea, the Maryam 7 crewmembers gave the MSCPAC ship several handwritten letters of thanks and Indian rupees. This marked the third time in three years that the Kilauea took part in a rescue. OS Spots Boat Less than 48 hours earlier, the Niagara Falls, also en route to Guam, rescued 28 fishennen from a disabled fishing boat near Mindanao. OS Arthur J. Cafarelli was on lookout and spotted the small craft several miles off the starboard bow. Cafarelli then reported to the bridge that several individuals from the boat were waving their hands and twirling rags, apparently trying to attract the Niagara Falls' attention. The Seafarers-crewed vessel quickly diverted alongside the fishing boat and discovered it had been adrift for more than a week due to engineering problems. The Filipino mariners-who noted that other ships had come near them but didn't stop to assist-also had consumed all but one day's worth of food and water. While members of the MSCPAC vessel's engine department attempted to repair the fishing boat, the deck and galley gangs coordinated the providing of stores. Niagara Falls engineers determined that the boat's transmission could not be repaired, so the vessel was secured aft of the supply ship and readied for a tow to Sarangant Bay in Mindanao. While sailing toward the drop-off point, the Niagara Falls contacted another ship headed the same way. That vessel agreed to complete towing of the rescued boat to port while the Niagara Falls resumed its voyage to Guam. Jeffrey A. Siepert, captain of the Niagara Falls, described the rescue as "an exceptional effort. All individuals perfonned their tasks safely and professionally." r-------------------------------------, 1 Training Record Book Application I I I I I I Name Last First Date of Birth Middle SSN Home Phone Number City State Height (inches) _ __ Weight _ _ __ Zip Code Hair Color _ _ __ D Yes D No Have you ever attended any SHLSS Upgrading Courses? D Yes D No Are you a graduate of the SHLSS entry level program? Book Number I I I I I I I I Home Port Eye Color _ _ __ Department (where you want book sent to) Along with your completed application, please send the following information: 1. Copy of USMMD (Z-card) front and back 2. Two (2) passport size photos 3. Copy of your STCW certificate (if applicable) 4. Copy of your SHLSS school card (if applicable) 5. Proof of any training received other than at SH LSS (certificates, cards, DD-214, etc.) (if applicable) Signature:------------------Send application to: SHLSS - ADMISSIONS Attn: TRB P.O. Box 75 Piney Point, MD 20674 ~ Date _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ or give completed application to port agent If the above application is not filled out completely and the requested information sent, the application will be considered invalid and void. This blank form may be copied. L-------------------------------------~ 6 Seafarers LOG The SIU last month announced that the union will crew the reflagged containership Sea Pride, which will serve as an ammuni~ tion supply ship for the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC). Operated under a five-year charter by Sealift, Inc., the Sea Pride will carry U.S. Air Force ammunition. It is equipped with cranes and can carry nearly 2,000 containers. The vessel reportedly will be assigned to MSC's Afloat Prepositioning Force in the Mediterranean Sea beginning this fall. Currently sailing under the Liberian flag, the ship is expected to undergo minor refurbishing in Mobile, Ala. sometime in the next few months. TRBs Issued lllrough Lundeberg School Continued from page 3 keeping records anymore." Fellow Recertified Bosun Cesar Gutierrez also received his TRB in New Orleans. "I read about it in the LOG and understood right away that this is important, so I applied immediately," recalled Gutierrez, who joined the union 30 years ago. 'This book is useful and informative." In addition to Corelli and Gutierrez, other Seafarers who received their TRB at the meeting were Recertified Bosuns Angelo Urti and Hugo Dermody, ABs Leif Pederson, Oscar Padilla, Ramon Castro and Kenneth Baker, QMED Robert Hines, Electricians Melvin Kerns, Brian Jones and Mike Scardina, DEU Louis Mullet, Junior Engineer William Kelley and SA Gilberto Bonitto. Issued to All Seatarers TRBs are being issued through the Hall Center's Lundeberg School to all deep sea, Great Lakes and inland Seafarers. Although there is not yet a fixed date by which SIU members must carry a TRB in order to sign on a ship, the school hopes to equip every Seafarer with a TRB by the end of the year, and members are urged to apply for the books as soon as possible. Original TRBs will be issued at no charge, although Seafarers applying for the booklets must send two color, passport-size photos with their applications. (There will be a $25 charge for replacement books if lost.) TRBs will be distributed by the Paul Hall Center to whichever port is designated by an individual Seafarer as his or her home port. Members will sign a receipt indicating they have received the booklet. At the New Orleans meeting, Tellez emphasized that "nothing negative will be written in the TRB. This is designed as a simple, efficient way of recording members' training and their demonstration of job skills. It can only help SIU members." Bill Eglinton, director of vocational education at the Paul Hall Center, oversaw the final design and printing of the TRB. He noted that the information entered by individuals into the book will be supported and verified by a database maintained at the training facility. "We are very willing to help other organizations who also have a need for a TRB," Eglinton added. 'There seems to be agreement between labor, management and government that it would benefit the industry to stick to one format." The SIU's training record book (TRB) includes an identification page, instructions and guidelines for the mariner, general guidelines for designated instructors and assessors, and four sections. Four Sections Section 1 consists of pages to be used for recording and verifying different types of training, either aboard ship or ashore at a training facility. This section will be used by all Seafarers. In fact, Section 1 currently is the only part of the TRB that should be used by SIU members. ''Training is the only thing that should be entered in the TRB right now," noted Eglinton. "Members should not have any entries made in Sections 2, 3 or 4 until the SIU announces that it's okay to make such entries." He added that Seafarers "should make it a point to secure a written verification of any training they receive aboard ship, besides getting it entered in the TRB. Examples of such training would be anything more than just routine safety drills-a seminar, for instance, where the company sends someone to ride the ship, or if an officer provides a formal lecture on vessel familiarization, new equipment, company policies, anything like that." Section 2 pertains to the 1995 STCW amendments and will be used by Seafarers beginning at a later date. This section contains pages for documenting the demonstration of various job skills associated with sailing aboard tankers, roll-on/roll-off (RO/RO) passenger ships and non-RO/RO passenger ships. It als_o features charts for proving competencies related to first aid, firefighting and fire prevention, use of survival craft and rescue boats, and more. Section 3 includes competency tables for those members seeking either a third mate's license, inland mate or master's license, third assistant engineer's license or rating performing duties as an electronics technician. Section 4 includes the remainder of the tables from the 1995 Amended STCW Convention Code. This section only applies to licensed ratings; it is included in the 1RB to accommodate Seafarers who may secure a license, and to promote a standard TRB. SIU members are reminded to bring their TRB with them when registering at their union hall. This will allow port officials to photocopy any new entries, thereby enabling the Paul Hall Center to update its electronic database. This procedure will allow for producing a duplicate TRB with current information, should one become lost or destroyed. July 1997 �Hall Industry Group Tackles Key Topics SIU Supports Locked-Out Newspaper Workers Continued from page 3 operations, data tracking and more. "ISM could end up overshadowing STCW," Eglinton stated. TRI Explained Continued from page 2 "To the locked-out workers here in Detroit, I say thank you. Thank you for the brave fight to preserve the dignity of American workers. I also stand with you. This struggle is about human rights, fairness and justice. It is a struggle worth fighting for and together we will win," stated House Democratic Whip David E. Bonior (D-Mich.). 'They are the same struggles our parents and grandparents fought, bled and sometimes died 'fllt$WAJ\tf\t ilil~lll\'tl!>!lt.1.V1t..-. ~rs ~mt~~~ ~~ ~Ir-~ Algonac, Mich. SIU Representative Todd Birdak demon· strates his support for the striking newspaper workers during the June 21 solidarity rally in Detroit. Donning SIU T-shirts and signs, SIU Representative Don Thornton and his dog, Tessa, marched through the streets of Detroit in support of the strikers. for. But they are the struggles that brought us the weekend, brought us decent wages, brought us pensions and health benefits. These are the struggles that have raised the standard of living for every single American citizen!" added Boni or. Rep. Neil Abercrombie (DHawaii) noted the significance of the mobilization of thousands of trade unionists and praised the striking workers for their courage in the battle for jobs with fair wages and working conditions. 'This is an incredible show of solidarity," stated SIU Algonac, Mich. Representative Todd Birdak, who served as a parade marshal for the day-long event. "I've met union members from all over the country, and I'm proud to have participated." "I was overwhelmed by the outpouring of support for the strikers," added SIU Algonac Representative Don Thornton. Additionally, the contents and functions of the TRB (jointly developed by the union and school, with input from the Coast Guard and SIU-contracted companies, in part due to STCW and ISM) were explained by Eglinton, SIU Headquarters Representative Carl Peth and Paul Hall Center Admissions Director Priscilla Dement. (See related article on page 3.) "For the first time, our members own a record of all their training," Eglinton said. 'The initial reaction from some members has been, 'This means more paperwork.' But once they understand how it works and how convenient it is for them, they're really happy about it." Young, Commandant Kramek, Chris Krusa of MarAd and a number of company officials praised the SIU and the school for their initiative in being the first to develop a Coast Guard-accepted TRB. In his remarks, Kramek echoed the partnership theme that was a focal point of the conference. "In the last three years, we've seen management and labor work more closely than ever. We're intent on being a positive part of the industry-maintaining good safety standards and making sure we're fair," K.ramek said. "Our goal is to be the premier maritime service in the world." He also noted the importance of maintaining a strong U.S.-flag fleet. "Ninety-five percent of America's exports and imports go by sea. If we can't compete with the European Union, the Asian bloc and others, we're not going to be a world power or remain globally competitive," he stated. Latest from Hall Center The SIU-crewed Medusa Conquest was one of several vessels that sailed through Detroit during Action! Motown '97. Bisso Boatmen Ratify Contract Continued from page 2 tionship between the SIU and E.N. Bisso," he stated. The 25-year-old deckhand also said the Bisso boatmen needed the security and benefits of a union contract. "Without the contract we had no rights and our pay was low. I think Bisso can be a good place to work, but it needed the SIU to bump it in the right direction," Roberts explained. Chief Engineer Wilkinson emphasized that it took "a lot of hard work by a lot of people" in order to secure recognition and the contract. "I'd like to thank all the employees (at Bisso and the SIU) who helped us through thick and thin. It's not like the delegates did it by ourselves," stated Wilkinson, 33. He cited the various gains and job security achieved via the contract as key reasons why all the efforts "definitely were worth it. I think this probably will ease a lot July 1997 of tensions, because now everybody knows where they stand. We never had job protection until we got the contract. For a family man, that's hard to deal with-the idea that you can work hard, do a good job and still not know if you would have a job tomorrow." Despite the ordeal of Bisso's resistance to the boatmen's vote for representation, Wilkinson concluded that he never doubted the mariners eventually would win. "No, sir, not after we went in there with the pledge cards and won the vote, even through the battle Bisso gave us," he recalled. "I just didn't see us giving up easily. Too many people worked too hard to let this go down the drain." Bisso operates a fleet of 15 boats, 14 of which work in ship docking operations from the Gulf of Mexico up the Mississippi River as far north as Baton Rouge, La. One vessel sails offshore. Staff members of the Paul Hall Center also provided synopses of many other topics: • Chef Allan Sherwin, director of culinary education, reviewed recent restructuring of the school's steward department curriculum. This includes new, modular classes (meaning they contain distinctly separate and measured segments of instruction) and an emphasis on seatime requirements between courses. Sherwin also noted a heightened emphasis on "not just teaching how to cook and bake, but also teaching pride. In the steward SIU President Michael Sacco (right) and Coast Guard Commandant Robert Kramek emphasize that widespread changes in maritime mean all segments of the industry can benefit by working together. In three photos above, staff members of the .P~~I Hall Center update participants on the school's most recent act1v1t1es and plan~ for the upcoming year. Pictured from left are. Chef ~llan Sherwin, ~1rector of culinary education; J.C. Wiegman, assistant director ?f vocational education; and Phil Peak, curriculum development coordinator. Chris Krusa of MarAd (left) and Chris Young of the Coast Guard were among the speakers at last month's advisory board meeting. department, you see the rest of the crew every day. If you're not pleasant as well as competent, the entire vessel suffers. Just good enough isn't good enough. We're demanding excellence," he said. He added that shipboard sanitation is a focal point of the revised curriculum. • J.C. Wiegman, assistant director of vocational education, explained the structure of the new unlicensed apprentice program, which includes shipboard training. The curriculum received Coast Guard approval earlier this year. . "Graduates of this program will be more thoroughly trained and will already have some hands-on training aboard the ship. We have raised the standards for entry into the Paul Hall Center, which should benefit the industry," he said. He added that the school regularly provides specialized courses, including on-site training, for individual companies. "We're willing and able to work with you to meet your specific training needs. This is critical nowadays, because upgrading is an absolute must for mariners to keep up with all the regulations." •Phil Peak, curriculum development coordinator, described how courses are developed at the school. ''New classes go before a curriculum review board, where they are thoroughly examined, critiqued and modified. Our goal is to develop effective, quality training and education programs using current industry designs and development techniques and by maintaining conformity with industry requirements. We also strive to ·be consistent with the goals of our contracted companies," he said. Peak noted that the center offers approximately 60 classes, including a half-dozen self-certification courses and a wide range of Coast Guard-approved classes. • Eric Malzkuhn, longtime engine department instructor, provided a detailed report covering unlicensed engine department ratings, including a proposed new rating structure and career path for engine department mariners. In addition to the people representing the school and the union, those attending the Deep Sea/Inland Towing Advisory Board meeting were Mike Swayne and George Kelley of AT&T's Transoceanic Cable Ship Co.; Tony Naccarato of OMI; Pat Postiglione, John A. Ripperger and Bill Cole of Maritime Overseas; Roy Tolley and Carol Berger of Sea-Land; Dave Brown of Orgulf; Arthur Knudsen of McAllister Towing of Virginia; and Carl Steinhauser of Crowley American Transport. Also present were Joslin of Great Lakes Towing, Captain P.K. Sang of V Ships Marine, Ltd.; Mike DiPrisco of Crowley Maritime; Joe Cecire and John Torgersen of Bay Ship Management; Pat Brangan and Jim O'Hearn of AMSEA; Trish Grabowski, Douglas Currier and Jack Scott of Dyn Marine Services; and Lamar Doyle of Intracoastal Towing & Transportation Co. Other participants included Bob Baumann of Maritrans, Don Ivins of Express Marine, Phil Emanuel of Osprey-Acomarit Ship Management, Lambourne of Allied Towing, Todd Johnson of Pacific-Gulf Marine, Captain Carl Olderich and Captain Ed Stribling of Maersk, David Dolan of Marine Transport Lines, Jim Hannon of Sealift, Inc., Jimmy Mann of Matson Navigation Co., Mike Godbey of Crowley Marine, Fred Rosser of Kirby Tankships, Morrison of Ocean Shipholdings, David Kish of Delta Queen Steamboat Co., and Victor M. Carreras of Navieras-NPR, Inc. Chris Young, Commander Greg Jones, Gauvin and Captain Bob Skewes represented the Coast Guard, while Eric Sager and Ash Chatterjee were in attendance for the NTSB. Also present were Perry Stutman of the National Maritime Center, Chris Krusa from MarAd and Ken Gilman of the U.S. Army Transportation School. Seafarers LOG 7 �SIU-Crewed Wilson Escapes Sierra Leone Members Welcome Unlicensed Apprentice No One Injured as Vessel Sails During Fighting in Port The crew of the SIU-contracted Wilson had little idea of what awaited them when their ship tied up in the capital city of Sierra Leone in late May. According to Bosun Stanley Jandora, the Sealift, Inc. cargo ship was scheduled to offload 5,000 tons of grain and corn meal in Freetown. The process of taking the bagged cargo off the ship was proceeding smoothly for the first four days the Wilson was in port. "You have to understand," Jandora, who turns 80 this month, told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. "They move slowly over there and they stop offloading at 6 o'clock every night." However, the regular pace at the port changed on Sunday, May 25. That morning, the armed forces of Sierra Leone-which is located along Africa's Atlantic coast north of the equator--overthrew the civilian government of that country. In a report to Sealift's office in New York, Captain Paul Mallory stated gunfire could be heard in the city and port facility around 5:30 a.m. By 8:30 a.m., conditions in the port seemed more stable as the shooting had died off, but no cargo workers had reported to work. However, crewmembers of the Wilson were ordered to remain aboard the vessel. ''As soon as the captain realized the workers weren't coming, we were restricted to the ship," Jandora noted. Throughout the afternoon and evening of the 25th, crewmembers could hear gunfire and grenade launchers, while seeing fires bum in Freetown. During the evening, Mallory reported, "A heavily armed soldier threatened a crewman on deck and shots were fired at the vessel, shooting out two deck floodlights." That night, small groups of armed men drove throughout the port area, breaking into warehouses in order to loot them of their cargo. As all this was going on, SIU members worked aboard the ship, preparing it in case a quick departure was needed, J andora recalled. Around 6:40 a.m. on the 26th, a group of heavily armed soldiers approached Chief Mate Tommie Sanford and threatened him. When he offered them food, they responded that they wanted money. They drove off, claiming they would return with more men and take what they wanted. At the same time, the local radio reported the U.S. Embassy was being shelled while the United Nations building was under siege. Mallory stated heavy smoke was covering the city, and gunfire could be heard continuously. With a direct threat having been made on the crew and ship, Mallory ordered the ship be made ready to sail. "We got away really fast," Jandora said. "We didn't waste any time." As the lines were being let go, a Land Rover filled with armed men headed for the vessel. However, the vehicle's radiator overheated and boiled over, distracting the soldiers from the work being done to allow the Wilson to sail. After the last line was released at 8:36 a.m. with Chief Mate Sanford and AB Kevin White safely aboard, the soldiers saw the ship pulling away from the dock. They demanded the ship return, but Mallory ordered "full ahead" and the Wilson headed down the Sierra Leone River to sea. ''They didn't realize what was going on. That's why we got away so easily," the bosun recalled with a chuckle. Yet the vessel and crew still were not out of harm's way. The harbormaster and port captain radioed the ship to stop and anchor because the port was closed. Mallory acknowledged that the port was closed and the vessel would not moor without permission; however, he refused to stop the Wilson. The port captain called on the navy to stop the vessel, but no gunboats ever appeared. The Wilson cleared the reefs at the river's entrance at 9:30 a.m. and headed for the open seas, outside Sierra Leone's territorial waters. The vessel arrived safely on the 28th at its next scheduled port, Monrovia, Liberia. Jandora, who has been a member of the SIU since 1944, said despite the gunfire in the port area, none of the crewmembers came close to being shot at. "We have a very competent, very cooperative crew. Everyone knew what his job was and did it," he added. The crew of the Wilson was praised for its efforts by Sealift, Inc. In a letter dated May 28, Jim Hannon, the company's crewing manager, said, "Sealift is proud of the efforts of the entire crew for being ready, willing and able to work under the most extreme circumstances. Everyone rose to the occasion, remained calm and handled the situation in a most professional manner, literally while under fire. "I congratulate everyone on board for a superior effort, and I thank you for insuring the safety of the crew, vessel and cargo." The Wilson sails from Houston and Lake Charles, La. to deliver grain and other cargo to ports in Africa. Senate Conducts Hearing on OECD Pact The Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation last month conducted its first hearing on the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) Shipbuilding Agreement Act (S. 629). Designed to end international shipbuilding subsidies as well as prevent unfair pricing practices used by some countries to increase their respective shares of the shipbuilding market, the bill represents an agreement that would cover the United States, the nations of the European Union, Japan, South Korea, Norway, Sweden and Finland. Those nations account for about 80 percent of the world's commercial shipbuilding and repair capacity. All of them, except the United States, already have ratified the OECD pact. During the June 11 hearing, Senators Trent Lott (R-Miss.), Daniel Inouye (D-Hawaii) and John Breaux (D-La.) urged American shipbuilding interests to work toward reaching an agreement on a compromise being proposed by Lott and Breaux. Precise terms of that compromise still are being worked out, but both Lott, the Senate majority leader, and Breaux, who introduced S. 629 on April 22, intend to strengthen the legislation so that it protects the Jones Act, restores a three-year transition period for the Title XI guarantee program and ensures that plans such as the National Defense Features Program still may be implemented. In fact, Lott vowed to ensure that the OECD pact does not affect the Jones Act, which specifies that cargo moving between U.S. ports be carried on U.S.-built, U.S.-crewed, U.S.-owned vessels. It is unclear, however, how such changes would impact the international agreement, since the other 8 Seafarers LOG signatory countries already approved a pact devoid of those changes. A year ago, during the I 04th Congress, the House passed an OECD shipbuilding bill that included three amendments put forth by Rep. Herb Bateman (R-Va.), chairman of the House Merchant Marine Oversight Panel. Those amendments called for clarification that the OECD covenant will not impact the Jones Act, provided transitional benefits for U.S. shipyards and extended the Title XI program through 1998. (Title XI allows the federal government to guarantee shipbuilding loans at 87.5 percent of the loan amount for 25 years.) They are the basis of the Lott/Breaux compromise. During last month's hearing, Lott said he would work with Bateman to secure passage of S. 629. Earlier this year, he declared that without amendments similar to those advanced last year by Bateman, the OECD pact "falls abysmally short of the objectives established by the very industry which sought an international agreement." Also at the hearing, backers of the legislation said the bill is necessary because without it, the U.S. will compete in a "subsidy war'' that it cannot win. Opponents of S. 629 countered that the bill, as written, contains loopholes that will allow foreign subsidies and dumping practices to continue. They also voiced uneasiness that the OECD agreement raises U.S. national security concerns because it would cover numerous military vessels. Am:lff/011JLArAK£1U: <c.OffIT<l~~IT TO TO~R JO~ Ji:<c.~mTI ... COffml~l!JTf TO 5Pllll i An important component of the new unlicensed apprentice program at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. is the 90-day shipboard training and assessment phase. During this segment, students work aboard SIU-contracted vessels, where they gain hands-on experience in all three departments. This helps them develop skills while identifying the department they are best suited for. Above, unlicensed apprentice Aaron Lutzky (second from left) is welcomed ' . aboard the Overseas New York by (from left) Recertified Bosun Ed Cain, SIU Patrolman Vince Coss, Bosun James Souci and Steward Baker Willie Madison. At right, members of the steward department are ready to help Lutzky get the most out of his assignment. Pictured from left are SA Julianne Abernathy, SA John Whalen, Lutzky and Chief Cook Joan Riley. Seafarer Ross Given Burial at Sea ~ A memorial service was conducted May 10 aboard the Sea-Land Developer for former shipmate John T. Ross Ill, who died December 25, 1996 at the age of 55. The vessel stopped at the western end of Unimak Pass Fairway en route to Yokohama, Japan. Chief Officer Paul Shelley recited a passage from Psalm 107 and Captain Robert Lamb read a prayer for the burial of the dead at sea. The ashes of Brother Ross were then spread upon the water to the accompaniment of three prolonged blasts on the ship's whistle, signifying man overboard. Brother Ross graduated from the Andrew Furuseth Training School in 1964 and joined the Seafarers in the port of Baltimore. He sailed in the engine department and upgraded to chief electrician at the Lundeberg School. In a note to the Seafarers LOG accompanying the photo above, his shipmates wrote, "We were fortunate in knowing John and sailing with him for more than five years. He was an excellent shipmate and will always be fondly remembered. Thank you for the honor of allowing us to see him to his final resting place." Supertanker Strikes Reef in Tokyo Bay As the Seafare rs LOG went to press, news reports were announcing a major oil spill taking place near Yokohama, Japan. According to various sources, the Panamanian-registered supertanker Diamond Grace struck a reef four miles from Yokohama and began dumping an estimated 400,<XX> gallons of light crude oil into Tokyo Bay on July 2. The leaking oil had produced a slick 3.5 miles wide which was drifting toward Tokyo, about 18 miles away. The Diamond Grace, built in 1994 in Japan, was crewed by 25 mariners from the Philippines and Japan. It was headed to Kawasaki, Japan from the United Arab Emirates with 75.5 million gallons of crude. Preliminary reports from the scene stated the tanker scraped a reef in shallow waters which created a 10-foot hole on the starboard bow. Apparently one tank was punctured. The vessel continued moving after striking the reef until it ran aground. Oil drained from the Diamond Grace for approximately 90 minutes before it was contained. An Associated Press report quoted a fishing boat captain as saying those plying Tokyo Bay generally know where the deep and shallow waters are located, so it would be difficult to think how something like this could happen. Japan's transportation minister declared the spill the worst ever in the country's history, when the original reports from the scene stated four million gallons had spilled. However, when the vessel reached port, crews realized the tanker was not as damagaed as previously thought. Clean-up efforts began immediately. Boats were throwing absorbent mats onto the spill while a helicopter dropped solvents in order to disperse the oil. The Japanese coast guard deployed vessels around the spill to keep fishing boats and other ships out of the affected area. July 1997 �CS Long Lines Maintains Tradition ofProductivity When the SIU-crewed Long Lines recently performed a cable-repair operation near the Hawaiian Islands, it marked the continuation of a long-standing tradition of efficient work by the venerable vessel. Launched in 1961, the Long Lines has been a staple of the fleet of cable ships recently sold by AT&T to '!yco International. The vessel has laid approximately 70,000 miles of cable in three oceans and has participated in countless repair operations. It also is believed to be the first ship ever to lay transoceanic fiber optic cable. Today, the Long Lines still is "going strong," reports Cook/ Baker Shari Hardman, who sent the photos accompanying this article to the Seafarers LOG. Hardman noted that the recent repair operation took place ''two days west of the islands. The ship was called out on April 7 and returned back to Honolulu on April 19. Captain Dooley commended the crew for a smooth and efficient operation," she observed. While at sea, SIU members conducted a meeting in which they discussed the sale of AT&T's Submarine Systems Inc. (including five SIU-crewed cable ships). They applauded the fact that the five vessels-the Long Lines, Global Link, Global Mariner, Global Sentinel and Charles L. Brown -will remain under SIU contract. Members of the steward department during the Long Unes' recent cable repair near Hawaii included (from left) SA Joe Neilsen, Third Cook Domingo Barroga Jr., Storekeeper Sonny Moe, SA Victor Pastor, Baker Vincent Alonzo and Chief Cook Tommy Belvin. SIU Active on Maritime Memorial Day Taking part in a union meeting in the galley, Seafarers on the Long Lines discuss the recent sale of AT&T's cable ships to Tyco International. Seafarers and SIU officials participated in a number of National Maritime Memorial Day events across the country on May 22, as reported in the June issue of the Seafarers LOG. Honoring the nation's maritime heritage, the SIU took part in ceremonies in Washington, D.C., Seattle, San Francisco, St. Louis, Pittsburgh, San Pedro, Calif. and Mobile, Ala. Above: Chief Steward Stephen Valencia (left) and SIU Port Agent Nick Celona represent the union at a commemoration aboard the Liberty ship Jeremiah O'Brien in San Francisco. Splicer-Joiners Lee Hardman (left) and Kevin Young helped execute the successful repair of the underwater cable. Built in 1961, the Long Lines remains a capable and adept component of the SIU-crewed fleet of cable ships. Seal arers Keep USNS Regulus Primed Seafarers aboard the USNS Regulus are dedicated to keeping the fast sealift vessel in superior condition, ready to sail in less than four days. The ship1 docked in the Avondale (La.) Shipyard, is operated by Bay Ship Management for the U.S. Maritime Administration (MarAd). The roll-on/rolloff vessel is capable of sailing at speeds in excess of 30 knots and is part of the Ready Reserve Force (RRF). According to AB Arthur Machado (who sent the accompanying photos), hard work for crewmembers aboard the USNS Regulus is constant. Machado is part of the crew on the ship when it is tied up in reduced operating status (ROS). These Seafarers perform whatever duties are needed to keep the vessel in a state of preparedness. Crewmembers aboard the vessel conduct inspections of all spaces, perform routine maintenance, operate cargo gear, handle stores, adjust and rig gangways, and much more. RRF vessels make up a fleet of militarily useful vessels docked around the country in layup or ROS that are activated in times of national emergency. The ships are owned by MarAd, which contracts their operations to various U.S.-flag shipping companies. The USNS Regulus is prepared to sail anywhere in the world within four days, thanks to the constant maintenance performed by (from left) Wiper Jason Arino, DEU Allen Pettis, AB Harold Boone and other crewmembers. July 1997 Chief Cook Don Dwyer (left) listens to speakers (above) at the observance in San Pedro, Calif. Below: From left, Chief Cook Andre Zene, SIU Port Agent David Carter, SA Corinthus Thomas and StewardBaker Peter Crum team up for a "gumbo cook-otr in Cooper Riverside Park in Mobile that followed a formal Maritime Memorial Day ceremony. Chief Steward Howard Williams (left), Chief Cook Victor Lacayo (middle) and GSU Jose Canales ensure the Ready Reserve Force vessel always has enough stores on board. Seafarers LOii 9 �..--------------.....-i---...... --------~------.,...._--~---- - --·-- -----··-- -, ~ Taking time to be with the family is an important part of seafaring life. Pictured on this page are some members who are just starting their families and others who have retired and are enjoying their grandchildren and a more relaxed way of life. As always, the LOG welcomes your photos and will publish them on a periodic basis. f0 Seafarers LOG July 1997 �A SEAFARER'S VIEW - Part m: Henry Gamp Describes Lile Aboard t.l.J.e SW-Crewed Lucia/Caribbean Editor's note: A member of the SIU since 1974. Henry Gamp recently sent this article to the Seafarers LOG chronicling life as chief mate aboard a Penn Maritime tug and barge as it sailed from Boston and the East Coast ports to Aruba and Panama and back-a total of 5, 700 nautical miles in 36 days, all the while trying to avoid bad weather. The first two parts appeared in the last two issues of the LOG. This is the conclusion of Brother Gamp's voyage on the Lucia/Caribbean. • • • Once clear of the dock at Sint Nicolaas and headed out, you enter open water within five minutes, in contrast to, say, the Delaware River, where there may be six hours or so while transiting the river to secure the barge for sea. The gangway needs to be secured, lines stowed or securely tied down, hatches dogged, thruster and hydraulic engines shut down with their exhaust pipes closed to prevent water entering them and nilmerous other details of this nature. Everything and anything that could be washed away or destroyed by heavy seas washing across the barge or tug must be secured. Our north-northwesterly run from Aruba diagonally across the open Caribbean to Navassa Island was fairly routine with easterly winds and swells. One naval vessel and a Coast Guard cutter spoke to us during this passage, requesting our last port, destination and master's name. Again, just as we turned northward off the Haitian coast, we were challenged. This time it was a U.S. Coast Guard plane that flew across our bow from right to left, calling us on VHF Channel #16. He asked the same basic questions and also what we called this type of vessel. He acknowledged our reply and, wishing us a good day, vanished off into the horizon. The coast of Haiti was in sight off to our starboard in the distance. At 0100, August 1, about 15 miles WNW of Punta de Maisf, Cuba, with us heading toward Miva Por Vos, another plane flew across our bow with a red strobe light flashing from its tail section. This plane never contacted us and flew off toward Cuba. It seems everyone was keeping an eye on our movements. We met several merchant ships from the Wmdward passage up through Crooked Island Passage. Between Rum Cay and San Salvador, the weather forecast was excellent. We opted to follow the 74° meridian northward, which would put us about 75 miles eastward of Cape Hatteras, when we traversed that far north. We had the most beautiful sky on my afternoon watch on August 2. Winds were out of the SSW at 10-12 knots. Seas were almost flat. I guess you could see in excess of 20 miles with some of the most perfectly shaped cumulus clouds dotting the azure blue skies. They were the whitest July 1997 on the chart with my dividers. white and some of the bottom rope yarns. segments were dark gray, showI stood the first watch of the The last step, and I think most day, Monday morning. Without a ing the moisture they contained. enjoyable, was covering the We were about 330 nautical fender with half hitches (knitting target or reference point, it is difmiles east of Cape Canaveral, the cover). Once I showed ficult to estimate the range of visibility at sea. It appeared to and there was no haze whatsoev- Mariya how to begin her half er on the horizon. On the 48-mile hitches, she had no problem con- fade in and out. Perhaps five range, a few clouds randomly miles at best, and less than a tinuing with the pattern. I showed her a few techniques mile at other times. I kept a carescattered about showed up as rain on the radar. ful eye on the radar, but did not such as adding and dropping hitches to widen or narrow it; pick up a single radar contact I knew the tankermen were until 0330, just before watch happy not to be shipping water how to bend strands together change. · across the decks while they were without using knots, and hiding Sure enough, a target popped standing out there checking the bitter end inside the fender. cargo temperatures in the mornShe was pleased with the results, up right on top of my heading ings. Shipping water also lowers and it turned out to be an attracmarker. I manipulated my ARPA cargo tempera(Automatic Rapid Plotting tures and Apparatus) means running crosshair cursor the boilers earlier to meet disover top of it and pushed the charge tempera"acquire" button ture specificato lock on it. It tions. It was was a nearly staeven possible to tionary target get some paintwith only a 1110 ing done on the CPA (Closest deck houses Point of and deck piping Approach). I during this period of nice later determined weather. One it to be a fishing man wearing boat hauling her goggles would nets in. With the hazy weather, I chip with the came right 20 needle gun, another follow- The Lucia is the tug portion of the articulated tug/barge degrees to give ing up with the Lucia/Caribbean, which made the 5, 700 nautical mile trip in 36 days. her ample room to maneuver. primer. Later, one would cut in using a paint tive serviceable small boat fendWhy take chances in open water? er. (We often have a project such brush, another following up by By now, I could hear my painting the open expanses with as weaving a rope mat, tying a relief ascending the four flights a roller. Maintenance is constant, monkey fist or malting Turk's of stairs in the tower leading to and good weather has to be taken head knots going on during offthe bridge. No sooner had the . advantage of. Lucia settled on her new heading watch time.) . The crew had rigged a trolling I always enjoy passing along than another radar target such skills to the younger generline using a broom handle as an appeared, this time in the upper outrigger on the stem deck of the ation. Not that many years ago, right-hand comer of the radar tug. I always envisioned that they things like this were considered screen. I acquired this contact as would find a set of fish jaws dan- essential knowledge on a tugwell, and the ARPA showed she gling from the lure during one of boat, and you had better know was steaming toward us at 19.3 their periodic inspections of the them to keep your job. In fact, knots with less than a 3/10 mile fishing tackle. I seriously doubtwhen I began tugboating, making CPA. ed with our 11.5 to 14 knot rope fenders in the tug's fo'c'sle I reached for my VHF radio speed that their efforts would was special nighttime or foulmicrophone and called her on ever yield us our evening entree. weather work for the deckhands. Channel # 16. In that exchange, I There was always a fender in Nonetheless, it was a good learned she was a large containrelease for the monotony of the some stage of construction hang- ership bound for the Nantucketing from a block and tackle. daily routine while they kept at Ambrose Traffic Lane. We They were softer, didn't grab, their maintenance work. agreed to a port to port passage, A while back, I had instructed easier to slide on than the rubber so I executed another clockwise one of our AB/tankennen on how fenders made out of used tire right rudder course change. I treads bolted together we so to make a rope fender. Mariya, kept my eyes fixed on the screen spying it in the fo'c'sle one day, until I could see the CPA numoften use aboard tugboats today. expressed a similar interest and All good things come to an bers beginning to increase and was also inquisitive as to how to end, as with the sunny, balmy was certain we were in no danmake one. She thought it was weather we enjoyed since exiting ger. I stayed on the bridge until the Caribbean. Once abeam of we cleared both vessels. Then I difficult and complicated to construct a rope fender, but I assured Charleston, S.C., it faded into swung back onto our original her that was not the case. overcast skies and occasional track and relinquished the watch. Our first step was to splice a rain squalls. It was now I found the noon watch to be Saturday, August 3. VISibility rope grommet. Next, we located tedious. I've never relished sailwas poor at times. The winds, some scrap line on the barge ing in heavy fog in restricted which we cut into three-foot however, remained from light waters such as narrow channels, lengths. Then we bent those secand variable to under 10 knots fairways, traffic lanes, etc. I tions through the grommet, hidout of the south to SSW. would guess we had just under a ing the grommet's splice, and Our 0001 Monday position mile of visibility when I took seizing them together with rope put us at Latitude 39°06' .ON x over the watch. It quickly deteriyams to hold the fender in shape Longitude 069°58' .9W. We.were orated and I pulled the throttles while we worked on it. This cen- heading for the Great South back, slowing our rpms, and ter section of the fender is known Channel east of Nantucket began sounding fog signals. We Shoals, steering on course as the heart. We suspended it were now inbound following the 024 °True. We opted to go outfrom a line fed through a ceiling Boston Harbor Traffic Lane. side Cape Cod so as not to have From where I stood in the wheelbeam so we could adjust its to adjust our arrival time in height as we went along. Then house, it was 413 feet to the bow Boston for the Cape Cod Canal of the barge. The bow would we estimated how much line it tide (with our 30'3" draft, we fade out of sight at times. Now would take to cover the fender would have to complete our tran- and then the manifolds-only and cut that amount. sit during the upper half of the We then stretched that length 294 feet in front of me-also tidal range) and also chance the disappeared from view. of rope down one side of the possibility of it being closed due Surprisingly, in this heavy tog's main deck, back to the stem, where we began unraveling to fog. Interestingly, this position fog, there was considerable trafit into its three separate strands. also put us abeam of New York fic abeam of Nantucket Island Instead of wrapping the ends Harbor, and I stepped off 197 and along the east coast of Cape with tape, we moused them using miles to Ambrose Light Tower Cod. I plotted a number of small targets. I took them to be pleasure craft or fishing boats traveling at incredible speeds for the prevailing conditions. As I inched along our track line, I would slow down or speed up a few revolutions to increase the CPA of one vessel and discover it would decrease it on another. They were crossing, meeting, overtaking us in all directions. I would like to think they were all radar equipped and were not blindly dashing toward a set of way points punched into a Loran (Long Range Navigation) or GPS (Global Positioning System) receiver. Nevertheless, with the small CPAs that many gave us, I strongly doubt this was the case. I'm certain our booming long blast followed by two short blasts were the only warning or indication many of them had of our presence. All the while, we were groping along in the fog, preoccupied with traffic. I could hear tugboats talking on VHF Channel #13 in Buzzards Bay and Rhode Island Sound, giving their visibility at one to two miles. Our original estimated time of arrival would have had us picking up our Boston pilot at the 'BG' Buoy at 2200 Monday evening. Our office sent us a satellite message requesting we adjust that time back a couple of hours on the advice of the local pilots, which we complied with. Visibility was fair once inside the harbor. Picking up the pilot was uneventful. I made a notation in the logbook that we passed Deer Island Light at 0055 on Tuesday morning. The current was flooding and tide rising which is what the pilot had wanted. He brought along copies of some new soundings showing a 29'6" obstruction in the approach channel to the McArdle Street Bridge. Our agent was waiting on the dock upon our arrival. Soon the customs and immigration people appeared and we cleared shortly thereafter. About half the crew was changing out, so in addition to discharging cargo, those not on watch were washing clothes, cleaning rooms, packing and calling loved ones at home to let them know their travel arrangements. Returning to Boston Harbor had brought me full circle to the place I joined the vessel some 36 days before. In that time, we made stops in Boston, New Haven, Philadelphia, Savannah, Aruba and Panama. Adding the mileage from our various passage plans during this time was surprising even to me--we had traversed just over 5, 700 nautical miles. I would remain onboard a few more days and make the trip down to New York, our next port of call. My relief met me in Morania's yard on Staten Island. We had tied up there for a few hours to pick up supplies. Though it was raining heavily that morning, he was a welcome sight, and my spirits were high. I spent a few minutes catching him up on the day-to-day operations of the unit. 'Then I was off for the airport and home to my wife, Beverly. Seafarers LOii 11 �.Colorado Ref lags Under Stars and Strip -..;; Seafarers Crew 4th Maersk Containership Another Maersk containership--sailing with an SIU crew-has reflagged under the Stars and Stripes and enrolled in the Maritime Security Program (MSP). The Maersk Colorado in May became the fourth ship operated by Maersk Line Ltd. of New York to join the MSP fleet this year. Seafarers began working aboard the Colorado in May, after the vessel replaced the Danish flag with the American ensign in Long Beach, Calif. Three other Maersk ships, the Texas, Tennessee and Califomia, became part of the MSP fleet earlier this year. Like the Colorado, those vessels are crewed by Seafarers in the unlicensed ranks and members of the American Maritime Officers for officer positions. (Authorized under the Maritime Security Act of 1996, the MSP calls for a 10-year, $1 billion program supporting approximately 50 American-flag vessels that are militarily useful. Ships enrolled in the program must be made available to the U.S. armed forces to provide sealift in times of war or national emergency, as well as to transport military cargo in times of peace.) John Cox, SIU patrolman in Wilmington, Calif., serviced the Colorado immediately after the flagswitch in May. "Without exaggeration, I heard more than one person say they had chills running up and down their spine when the American flag went up, and I felt the same way," noted Cox, who provided the pho- tos accompanying this article. "There was no ceremony, but the crew was very excited because the vessel is spotless and it represents new jobs for the SIU." From Long Beach, the Colorado (built in 1992) embarked on a South American run slated to include stops in Peru, Ecuador, Chile, Colombia and Venezuela. The vessel also was scheduled to call on ports in Mexico and Florida. Maersk also operates eight American-flag ships for the U.S. Military Sealift Command that are crewed by Seafarers. AMERICAN FLAG RAISED: Sequence beginning at lower left shows the lowering of the Danish flag and the hoisting of the U.S. ensign, as the old name is painted out. ~,,,,-.,~~'!: Ready for his next assignment aboard the Maersk Colorado is AB Mohamed Ahmed. 12 Seafarers LOG July 1997 �& a -· As on all SIU-contracted ships, safety is a top priority. Here, 8()Sun Robert Garcia (left) and AB Mohamed Ahmed carefully work with a boom near one of the Colorado's lifeboats. SIU steward department pesonnel know that, because they interact with the entire crew, they play a key role in affecting morale aboard ship. Ready to greet their fellow crewmembers with a smile are Chief Steward Sal Torneo and Chief Cook Arlene Ringler (also pictured at right). July 1997 Seafarers LOG 13 �Seafaring Brothers Enjoy Meeting Football Greats Members Gain Autographs, Stories at Card Shows If !! QMED Chris Earhart and his brother, AB Mickey Earhart, are among the multitude of Americans who have taken up sports-card collecting as a hobby. Late last year, that pastime led to the Seafarers meeting several retired National Football League (NFL) standouts while helping conduct a card show in southern Maryland, near the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. For the seafaring brothers, both of whom are sports fans, the experience proved doubly rewarding. "Part of the card show was helping collect food for the homeless, so that part obviously was worthwhile," notes Chris Earhart, who joined the SIU in 1989 in Wilmington, Calif. ''Meeting the players, we weren't star-struck at all. But at the same time, how many chances do you have to meet those kinds of people? ''We really enjoyed ourselves." The brothers were upgrading at the Paul Hall Center in 1993 when they discovered a local card shop and developed a friendship with the owner. They returned last year for more upgrading classes, visited the shop again and were asked to assist with an upcoming show. During that same time, Chris went to another memorabilia show featuring NFL Hall of Fame linebacker Dick Butkus, then surprised Mickey with a football bearing Butkus' signature. "I got it as a birthday present for Mickey, and he about fainted when I handed him that football," Chris laughingly recalls. "I think he was so excited because Butkus is one of the greatest players the game has known." At the subsequent show, Mickey, who joined the union in Wilmington in 1990, and Chris met four more well-known, retired players: Minnesota Vikings quarterback Fran Tarkenton, Los Angeles Rams defensive lineman Deacon Jones, Rams linebacker Jack Youngblood and Washington Redskins receiver Charlie Taylor. "When we talked to Fran, he said he would like to try sailing, but he didn't think his wife would let him," Chris says. "All of the players were funny and nice." LNG Aries Galley Gang Earns Accolades from Captain, Crew Making sure Seafarers look forward to meal hours aboard the LNG Aries is the job of Chief Steward Robert Brown and Chief Cook Al Fretta. In fact, the galley gang does the job so well that Captain Lionel H. Senes praised the steward department in a recent letter to the Seafarers LOG. "I would like to take this opportunity to commend Chief Steward Brown and Chief Cook Fretta for the wonderful job they are doing aboard the Aries. On this shuttle run between Japan and Indonesia, the crew has very little to look forward to daily except a good meal. Mr. Brown and Mr. Fretta make a great team, and the meals they serve are a diverse mix of appetizing ethnic foods, delicious international cuisine and savory down-home favorites," Senes wrote. The captain noted that the galley gang frequently offers special meals where crewmembers may eat on deck, taking advantage of the ship's picnic tables and barbecue grill. Recently the Aries crew enjoyed a cookout featuring steak, hamburgers, hot dogs, sausage, shrimp, chicken, a variety of pasta salads, baked beans, deviled eggs, pizza and fruit salad. "Steward Brown bakes on a daily basis-making rolls, breads of various types, pies, cakes and homemade pizza. Chief Cook Fretta does an exceptional job and is much appreciated by the crew," he added in the letter. The captain noted that while Brown and Fretta's talents are first class, the menu would not be as ft ~: v··x, ·'> '~ SIU members and brothers Mickey and Chris Earhart recently met for- mer NFL players while assisting with a card show near Piney Point, Md. Top photo: Mickey (left) and Chris (right) share a laugh with Deacon Jones. Middle photo: The brothers pose with Jack Youngblood (second from left) and the shop owner. Bottom photc: Fran Tarkenton tells the Earharts that sailing sounds like an appealing career. The superior culinary skills of Chief Cook Al Fretta (left) and Chief Steward Robert Brown aboard the LNG Aries were praised by Captain Lionel H. Senes. good without the help their fellow galley gang members. "I would also like to take this opportunity to commend the efforts of our SAs Ronnie Fore, Dorian Gillespie and Donna Moore, without whose efforts the steward department would not be complete. "The SIU i can be proud of these people and the job they do for Energy Transportation Co.," concluded Senes. LNG The Aries is one of eight vessels , crewed by Seafarers and operated by ETC The galley gang aboard the LNG that carry lique- Aries works hard to provide variety fied natural gas in their offerings. Pictured above, from Indonesia from left, are SAs Donna Moore, Ronrne · Fore an d Donan . G"ll . to Japan. 1 esp1e. t · · 'd k Crewmembers enjoy a cookout on the Anes ec . Summer is already upon us, with its sweltering heat and enervating humidity. It's definitely time for a vacation. Picture yourself and your family by the pool, at the beach, on a picnic. Or picture yourself and your family exploring Civil War sites or checking out dinosaur bones at the Smithsonian Institutiion, or watching sharks feed from the safety of an aquarium tank. All these activities and more are possible day trips for Seafarers and their families who choose to vacation at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. With affordable rates (see below) and exciting activities, the facility h p l H 11 c • at t e au a enters Lundeberg School is the perfect r - - - - - - - - - - - -SEAFARERS - - - - TRAINING - - - - &- RECREATION - - - - - CENTER --------------, Vacation Reservation Information Social Security number: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Book number: Address: - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - location from which to base a summer vacation. Located in St. Mary's County, which is surrounded by 400 miles of shoreline, the union's extensive training center makes some of its rooms available to SIU members and their families during the summer months. Each family member will be able to find something to his or her liking on the grounds of the center. But while there is plenty to do at the school itself, there is even more outside the gates of the facility. In historic St. Mary's City, families can seemingly travel back in time to visit the place where vessels from En-g land first landed in 1634. Also in the vicinity is Point Lookout State Park which contains the remains of Fort Lincoln, a prisoner of war camp for Confederate soldiers during the Civil War. And in less than a two-hour drive from the school, vacationing Seafarers can show their families various sights in Washington, D.C., Baltimore, Md. and Alexandria, Va. Many of the attractions are free-the museums of the Smithsonian Institution, the U.S. Capitol and Arlington Cemetery, to name a few. This family vacation benefit is unique to members of the SIU. Make sure you take advantage of it this summer. Telephone number: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ UNION MEMBER VACATION RATES Number in party I ages of children, if applicable: - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3rd choice: _ __ Date of arrival: 1st choice: 2nd choice: _ __ (Stay is limited to a maximum of two weeks) Date of departure: _ __ Send this completed application to the Seafarers Training & Recreation Center, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674. 7/97 ~----------------------------------------~ 14 Seafarers LOG A vacation stay at the Lundeberg School is limited to two weeks per family. Member $40.40/day Spouse 9.45/day Child 9.45/day Note: There is no charge for children 11 years of age or younger. The prices listed above include all meals. July 1997 �Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea MAY 16 ~AL REGISTERED All Groups Clim A CW.. B Cius C Port NewYork , 28. Philadelphia .· lO · Baltimore Norfolk Mobile 6 ·• 12 9 32 s 2 0 8 2 14 11 13 2 1 4 16 6 1 4 10 12 Puerto Rico Honolulu Houston · St·Loois ·• Piney Point Algonac Totals Port New York · Philadelphia · Baltimore Norfolk Mobile ·New Orleans Jacksonville ·san Francisco Wtlmington Seattle Puerto Rico Honolulu ")ioustcm St. Louis Piney~oint Algonac Totals Port New York Philadelphia · •Baltimore Norfolk Mobile New Orleans Jacksonville San Francisco Wtlmington Seattle Puerto Rico Honolulu Houston St. Louis Piney Point Algonac Totals Port New York Philadelphia Baltimore Norfolk Mobile New Orleans Jacksonville San Francisco Wdmington Seattle Puerto Rico Honolulu Houston St Louis Piney Point Algonac Totals Totals All Departments 37 13 6 21 3 0 1 242 12 1 3 6 10 9 20 9 5 12 6 4 14 1 7 1 120 17 1 3 6 8 3 18 22 17 10 3 10 23 3 2 5 1 5 4 2 1 0 176 41 s 13 3 2 0 1 371 264 4 8 13 4 13 1 0 1 4 5 9 2 4 12 5 3 9 3 2 8 15 2 4 3 0 () 13 1 128 0 20 11 1 3 1 94 103 6 7 9 12 13 8 0 4 2 3 l t 4 3 6 1 10 1 8 6 6 1 7 5 4 0 0 0 4 16 1 2 1 1 s l 5 5 s 1 3 19 3 13 8 2 9 4 10 4 62 12 1 2 109 3 3 8 2 0 0 SS 202 S62 S76 2 11 17 0 l 0 1 1 16 0 0 0 0 0 0 108 47 27 1 10 s 6 6 9 12 11 2 0 0 0 59 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 8 17 4 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 3 8 12 0 0 5 0 0 5 8 2 0 0 9 4 0 4 11 0 0 3 10 1 0 8 12 3 0 1 4 2 0 7 48 84 0 2 10 0 0 1 1 0 0 176 0 0 42 264 436 7 28 51 24 s 39 6 19 23 9 1 11 s t 1-----·--· 1 0 3 1 10 0 260 2 3 0 0 0 106 27 9 48 22 0 1 3 0 3 5 2 2 9 4 18 14 18 16 29 26 26 3 24 19 6 10 10 20 25 8 1 5 15 8 50 4 71 3 17 11 0 0 3 6 0 5 0 0 0 2 0 13 2 ~1 13 0 lU 89 290 8 0 214 450 199 187 915 813 33S 4 2 Honolulu ..................Friday: August 15, September 19 ..,, ,,.,,. . . . . . .,..,. ,,, 1o::lll && Personals BIG BOB DELPBLOM 7 22 2 3 7 13 12 20 15 New Bedford .........H.Tuesday: August t 9, September 23 J 0 0 0 27 Jersey City ...............Wednesday: August 20, September 24 2 1 0 St. Louis ...................Friday: August ts, September 19 2 0 1 0 17 San Juan ...................Thursday: August 7, September 11 2 0 23 Tacoma ......•. ~............Friday: August 22, September 26 11 .3 0 o Wilmington ..............Tuesday: August 19* Monday: September 22 14 14 10 17 ,o ,:· San Francisco..·.........Thursday: August 14. September 18 Duluth ......................Wednesday: August 13, September 17 23 o Mobile .......................Wednesday: August 13. September 17 19 9 11 6 5 4 0 70 0 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT s ""~ 1 o 4 o New Orleans ............Tuesday: August 12, September 16 5 2 3 · 2 1 ' 1 2 1 l 1S3 0 0 Jacksonville..............Thursday; August 7, September 11 'Change creaud l1y Paul Hall's blnltday holiday 19S 9 12 5 1 66 4S 10 9 s 0 0 1 0 Notfolk.....................Thursday: August 7, September 11 Houston ....................Monday: August 11, September IS 0 12 8 Baltimore ..................Thursday: August 7, September 1t Algonac ....................Friday; August 8, September 12 2 1 0 0 29 Philadelphia .............Wednesday: August 6, September 10 1 7 6 10 3 14 10 (j' 1 15 33 3 6 New York .................Tuesday; August 5, September 9 11 21 1 4 o:,' 21 4 2 0 2 0 0 9 3 5 6 2 1 0 0 28 2 7 2 18 20 11 7 7 6,. 7 8 2 0 21 9 20 26 3 2 0 0 0 13 44 14 17 5 0 1 5 1 17 8 17 9 6 :~:"-:. 18 36 48 43 27 49 4 13 1 6 7 6 13 18 32 1 5 0 3 2 54 s l 4 - Piney Point ..••...•.......Monday: August 4, September 8 19 2 7 9 I 8 9 5 ••REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Clim A Cla.u B Cla.u C 25 4 7 6 15 19 0 0 S 0 1 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 6 8 1 5 4 14 11 5 4 2 9 1 1 1 0 DECK DEPARTMENT 15 2 8 24 4 0 7 2 3 2 4 3 13 4 6 6 0 0 8 13 2 7 16 7 16 5 26 8 16 l 16 11 4 3 12 20 20 30 9 1 3 11 2 6 5 6 12 24 18 3 0 3 0 0 0 2 1 I 1 2 0 1 83 149 33 192 6 13 6 0 0 3 1 10 Clim A CW.. B Chm C Trlp Reliefs 2 10 3 5 1 12 145 TOI'AL SIUPPED All Groups 6 0 1 1 0 Q 0 0 15 3 0 16 2 JUNE 15, 1997 All- & ..,,,..,,,, 19111 " lfem,,.,.,,,p lfeeflnp Deep Sea, Lake$, Inland Wafels Please write Wayne Cole at 8580 9th Street, Bay City, OR 97107, or telephone (503) 377-2261. ·FRIENDS OF JAMES H. IDLL Brother James H. Hill would like to hear from his SIU brothers, especially those who sailed with him aboard the SS Pen Van Guard and the USS Keva Island. His mailing address is 1805 Mitchell Street, Tampa, FL 33602. - *''Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **"Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. July 1997 Seafarers LOG '15 �1---~- ------- 'II I Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes I I - MAY 16 - Midaael Sacco PreSident 1obnfay · Executive Vice President CL - Company/Lakes Qeorge McCartney Vice President West Coast · Roy A. ''Buckn Mercer .Vice: President Government Services Jack Caffey Vice PresidentAtlantic Coast .· Byroo Kelley . :. : .Vtee. Pr~ident Lakes and Inland Waters . ~Cotxe1 . Vice Ptestdent GUif Coast mtADQOAIU'ERS Port Algonac Port Algonac Port 0 34 2 0 11 2 L - Lakes NP - Non Priority TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class CL Clim L Class NP *T<YfAL REGISTERED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP David Hdndel Secretary•Treasurer JUNE 15, 1997 DECK DEPARTMENT 13 0 0 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 9 0 2 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Clim CL Class L Class NP 0 21 2 0 2 0 0 7 4 0 14 11 STEWARD DEPARTMENT Algonac 0 7 4 Port Algonac 0 23 15 0 0 0 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 4 0 9 5201 Au.th Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St Clair River Dr. Algonac, MI 48001 - 44 31 0 75 6 23 0 Totals All Depts 0 *"Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **"Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. 17 (810) 794-4988 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame SL, #lC Anchorage, AK 99503 {907) 561-4988 Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters BALTIMORE 1216 E. Baltimore St. Baltimore, MD 21202 (410) 327-4900 MAY 16 - JUNE 15, 1997 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B ClimC DULUTH 705 Medical Arts Building Duluth, MN 55802 (218) 722-4110 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi s" Honolulu, HI 96819 {808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St. Jacksonville, FL 32206 {904) 353-0987 JERSEY CITY 99 Montgomery St. Jersey City, NJ 07302 (201) 435-94~4 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Mobile, AL 36605 (334) 478--0916 NEW BEDFORD 48 Union St. New Bedford, MA 02740 (508) 997-5404 NEW ORLEANS 630 Jackson Ave. New Orleans, LA 70130 (504) 529-7546 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes, Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes, Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes Inland Waters West Coast Totals 1 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Clim A Class B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT 31 1 44 0 5 0 0 5 0 3 0 2 3 12 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 17 0 1 0 7 2 10 0 7 5 0 0 1 1 2 5 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 l 4 16 4 0 4 0 0 0 2 0 1 3 2 1 0 1 0 10 0 4 27 1 0 0 0 1 1 3 0 0 4 0 0 4 3 0 0 2 1 7 1 12 8 42 7 69 25 4 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 2 0 1 1 1 0 6 11 0 0 7 0 0 2 0 14 1 16 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 2 0 0 0 0 2 1 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 6 90 4 4 44 8 71 6 Totals All Depts *"Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **"Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. 17 0 1 5 36 NORFOLK 115Third St Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 PIC-FROM-THE-PAST PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St This photo, taken in the 1950s, was sent to the LOG by Peter J. Mistretta of Baltimore, Md., who is pictured standing at left. It was taken aboard the SS Meredith Victory, registered in Los Angeles, Calif. Philadelphia. PA 19148 (215} 336-3818 PINEYPOINf 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 FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St. San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16!h Santurce, PR CX1)07 (781) 721-4033 ST.WUIS 4581 Gravois Ave. St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave. Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WILMJNGTON 510 N. Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 16 Seafarers LOG During World War II, the need for a faster cargo ship resulted in the design and production of the Victory ship. A total of 414 Victory cargo ships were built. Each was 455 feet long with a 62foot beam and could run at speeds of 15 knots plus The Victory ships sailed only in the Pacific and played no part during WWll's Battle of the Atlantic or in European operations. If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with the LOG readership, it should be sent to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. Juli 1997 �Welcome Ashore 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 waterways 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. wo recertified bosuns are among the 19 Seafarers who are announcing their retirements this month. Representing 60 years of active union membership, the two recertified bosuns are Sil T. Ablaza and Virgil C. Dowd. The bosun recertification course offers the highest level of training for deck department members at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. Twelve of those signing off shipped on deep sea vessels, five plied the inland waterways, one sailed the Great Lakes and one worked in the railroad marine division. The most common area of retirement for this month's retiring Seafarers is the Gulf states, where nine of the pensioners make their homes. Four have retired to the East Coast, four to the Midwest and one each resides on the West Coast and Puerto Rico. Nine of the retiring pensioners served in the U.S. military-five in the Army, two in the Navy and one each in the Air Force and Marine Corps. On this page, the Seafarers LOG presents brief biographical accounts of the retiring Seafarers. T DEEP SEA the U.S. Navy. Brother Busby resides in Colfax, La. VIRGIL C. DOWD, 71, began sailing with the SIU in 1961 from the port of Wilmington, Calif. aboard the Atlas. Born in Iowa, he sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School, where he completed the bosun recertification course in 1984. During World War II, he served in the U.S. Navy. Brother Dowd makes his home in Seattle. WALTERN. FLEISHMAN, 74, ."' joined the SIU ; in 1948 in the ' port of New York. During his union career, he was active in organizing drives and beefs. The California native sailed in the engine department and upgraded to a licensed officer at the Lundeberg School in 1966. Brother Fleishman has retired to New Orleans. began sailing with the SIU in 1966 from the port of New Orleans. His first ship was the Del Mar, operated by Delta Steamship Lines. Brother Soihet sailed in the engine department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. He last sailed in 1985 as a QMED aboard the Archon, a Westchester Marine vessel. Born in Honduras, he became a U.S. citizen and makes his home in Kenner, La. HARRYN. FOSTER, 58, first sailed with the Seafarers in 1964 aboard the graduated from the Andrew Furuseth Training School in 1960 and joined the Seafarers in the port of Mobile, Ala. Starting out in the steward department, he later transferred to the engine department. A native of Alabama, his first ship was the Claiborne, operated by Waterman Steamship Corp.His last ship was the Rover, an OMI Corp. vessel. Brother Foster calls Mobile home. started his career with the· Seafarers in 1962 aboard the Ocean Ulla. A native of Puerto Rico, he worked in the steward department. Brother Tirado last sailed in 1994 as a chief cook aboard the Raleigh Bay, operated by Sea-Land Service, Inc. He has retired to Santa. Isabel, P.R. JOHN J. LEONARD, 65, gradu- 65, first sailed ated from the Lundeberg School in 1968 and joined the SIU in the port of New Orleans, first sailing aboard the Cities Service Miami. Brother Leonard worked in the deck department and upgraded his skills at the Lundeberg School. He signed off the Sam Houston, operated by Waterman Steamship Corp. in December 1996. From 1948 to 1954, he served in the U.S. Army. Brother Leonard resides in Marrero, La. with the Seafarers in 1969 aboard the Seatrain He was born .....___ _ _ ___. in the Philippine Islands. Starting out in the steward department, he later transferred to the deck department. Brother Ablaza upgraded at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. and graduated from the bosun recertification program there in 1985. He last sailed in 1988 aboard the SS Constitution, operated by American Hawaii Cruises, and has retired to Picayune, La. ISHMAELL. BRYAN, 67, joined the SIU in 1976 in the port of New York. Brother Bryan sailed as a member of the deck department and last signed off the Ambassador, a Crowley American Transport vessel. Born in the Cayman Islands, he became a U.S. citizen. Brother Bryan makes his home in Margate, Fla. DONL. BUSBY, 65, graduated from the Lundeberg School in 1967 and joined the =::::...........J Seafarers in the port of New Orleans. A native of Louisiana, he sailed in the engine department and frequently upgraded his skills in Piney Point His first ship was the Centerville. His sailing career ended when he signed off the UVG Capricom in December 1996. From 1948 to 1952, he served in JESSIE ROBINSON, 65, began his sailing career with the SIU in 1968. Brother Robinson .....___ _ _ ___,worked in the steward department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. He last sailed aboard the Robert E Lee, a Waterman Steamship Corp. vessel. The Virginia native served in the U.S. Army from 1952 lo 1954. Brother Robinson makes his home in New Orleans. OTIS L. SESSIONS, 69, started his career with the Seafarers in ROBERT J. DIXON, 55, began sailing with the SIU in 1961 from the port of Philadelphia. The Pennsylvania native worked in the deck department, last sailing aboard a Turecamo Marine vessel. From 1964 to 1966, he served in the U.S. Army. Boatman Dixon makes his home in Philadelphia. FRANCISCO TIRAD0,65, FELIX VALENTIN, Florida. ~--~L..--- Brother Valentin sailed in the deck department and upgraded frequently at the Lundeberg School. He last sailed in 1980 aboard the Santa Juana, operated by Delta Steamship Lines, Inc. The New York native served in both the U.S. Army and Air Force. Brother Valentin makes his home in Salt Lake City. INLAND NELSONH. BREAUX, 59, started his career with the Seafarers in 1962. A native of Louisiana, he worked in the deck department, last sailing aboard the Gretchen, operated by G&H Towing Co. From 1956 to 1958, he served in the U.S. Marine Corps. Boatman Breaux has retired to Houston. operator program. Boatman Thomas also sailed in the engine department, last sailing as a captain. He signed off the M G . Dudley, operated by Piney Point Transportation Co., and has retired to Tangier, Va. From 1953 to 1955, he served in the U.S. Army. JENETA I. KEITH, 65, started her career with the SIU in 1987 in GREAT LAKES the port of St. Louis. A native of Kentucky, she sailed as a member of the steward department, primarily aboard vessels operated by Orgulf Transportation Co. Sister Keith resides in Hickman, Ky. JOSEPHR. LARKINS SR., 62, first EDMUND SOIHET,65, SILT. ABLAZA,65, Alcoa Voyager. July 1997 1973 in the port of Houston.A native of Mississippi, he sailed in the engine department and frequently up-, graded his skills at the Lundeberg School. During his career, he was active in union organizing drives and beefs. Brother Sessions signed off the J..N.G Capricorn, operated by Energy Transportation Corp., in 1996 and has retired to Stockton, Ala. From 1950 to 1952, the served in the U.S. Army. sailed with the Seafarers in 1970 from the port of Baltimore. Born in Maryland, he worked primarily on vessels operated by Curtis Bay Towing. Boatman Larkins makes his home in Glen Burnie, Md. BRADLEY A. THOMAS, 63, began sail- ing with the Seafarers 1969 from the port of Norfolk, Va. Sailing in the deck department, the Virginia native upgraded at the Lundeberg School where he graduated from the towboat DONALDS. LING, 66, i started his career with the Seafarers in 1949 in the port of Detroit, aboard the Eastern States. A native of Michigan, he worked in the engine department. Brother Ling last sailed aboard the S. T. Crapo, operated by Inland Lakes Management, Inc. He makes his home in Hazel Park, Mich. RAILROAD MARINE EUGENIO TREGLIA, 71, began his career with the Seafarers in 1972 in the port of New York. Born in Italy, he sailed primarily with New York Cross Harbor Railroad as a member of the deck department. Boatman Treglia has retired to Brooklyn, N.Y. LOli-A-RHrTHMS Pacific Crossing by Donald Williams As the swells subside and the sea calms, This large ship I ride is steady as a palm. On a moonlit ocean the darkness shines bright, Even without the stars we find our way this night. The Pacific is wide and the miles take life, Heading home to the love of children and wife. As we cross above the depth and mountains below, It is with great pride and love that I sail for home. (Donald Williams, who sails as a chief steward, wrote this poem aboard the Maersk Constellation while the vessel was returning from Guam.) Deo Gratias by Timothy Girard A falling star to wish upon, An evening rainbow here, then gone. ·A comet's tail of distant white, The ship moves on into the night. On the bridge wing time stands still, The lookout soon will have his fill. Relieved he steers an hour more, Returns to lookout as before: This life he leads is one of pleasures. Watery riches and skyward treasures. (Timothy Girard sails as bosun aboard the PFC James Anderson.) Seafarers LOB 17 �,.----.-------~---------------------- - --- - - Final Departures DEEP SEA ALEXANDER BECKER Pensioner Alexarn:jer Becker, 68. passed away May 16. Born in Connecticut, he began sailing with the Seafarers in '-"'==-----==-== 1949 from the port of New York. Brother Becker worked in the engine department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School in Piney Paine. Md. During his union career. he was active in organizing drives and beefs. Brother Becker began receiving his pension in August 1993. last sailing as a chief electrician. During his career, he was active in union organizing drives and strikes. Brother Lanoue was a resident of New Port Richey, Fla. He began receiving his pension in August 1975. ISAAC GORDON Isaac Gordon, 54, died May 11. He graduated from the Andrew Furuseth Training School and joined the SIU in 1961 in the port of New Orleans, first sailing aboard the Bulk Leader. A native of Louisiana, Brother Gordon worked in the steward department and upgraded his skills at the Lundeberg School. DONALD E. McCLINTOCK Donald E. Pensioner Reginald J. Blyth. 81. died ~ in March. Brother Blyth started his career with the SIU in 1958 in the port of New L __ _.:._::::..:::...__ __1 York. A native of South Africa, he sailed in the engine department as an electrician and was active in union organizing drives and strikes. Brother Blyth retired in December 1980. McClintock, 59, died April 18. He graduated from the Marine Cooks and Stewards (MC&S) Training School '------""....:....::.-'---..:___ ___. and joined the MC&S in 1969 in the port of Wilmington, Calif., before that union merged with the SIU's Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District (AGLIWD). Brother McClintock was a native of New Jersey and served in the U.S. Navy from 1955 to 1959. VICTOR 0. BONET GEORGE B. McCURLEY Victor 0. Bonet, 85, passed away December 24, 1996. A native of Puerto Rico, he joined the Seafarers in 1942 in the port of New York. Brother Bonet last sailed in the steward department as a chief cook. During his career, he was active in union organizing drives and beefs. Pensioner George B. Mccurley, 67 passed away May 21. Born in Texas, he joined the Seafarers in 1953 in the port ==c:...--=== of New York. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. Brother McCurley began receiving his pension in September 1995. REGINALD J. BLYTH FLAVIUS "FLEM" A. CLARY Pensioner Flavius "Flem" A. Clary, 83, died May 12. He began sailing with the SIU in 1957 from the port of Norfolk, Ya. The Virginia native sailed in the deck department and began receiving his pension in January 1976. DONATO GIANGIORDANO Pensioner Donato Giangiordano, 73, passed away May 14. Born in Philadelphia, "' he started his sailing career with the .___ _,,1'---=----'--' Seafarers in 1943 in the port of New York. He worked in the deck department and upgraded his skills at the Lundeberg School, where he graduated from the bosun recertification program in 1973. Brother Giangiordano retired in August 1988. ROLAND E. LANOUE r--:iiiiiiim;;iiiiii~-i Pensioner Roland E. Lanoue, 83, passed away May 8. Brother Lanoue began sailing with the Seafarers in 1948 from the port of New York. Born in Massachusetts, he worked in the engine department, 18 Seafarers LOG SAM MORRIS l""iiiiiii~I Pensioner Sam Morris, 80, died ... May 3. A native of Alabama, he began sailing with the SIU in 1956 from the port of San Francisco. His =='----~'--' first ship was the Maiden Creek, operated by Waterman Steamship Corp. Brother Morris worked in the steward department, last sailing as a chief cook. From 1952 to 1955, he served in the U.S. Army. The Orlando, Fla. resident retired in July 1982. CHAMP C. SMITH Pensioner Champ C. Smith, 83, passed away April 4. Brother Smith began sailing with the Seafarers in 1949. Born in .____ _ _ _ ___, West Virginia, he sailed as a member of the engine department. Brother Smith also was a veteran of World War II. He began receiving his pension in July 1978. DAVID "SMITTY" B. SMITH David "Smitty" B. Smith, 49, died May 22. He graduated from the Lunde berg School and joined the SIU in 1970 in the .____ _ _ _ ____. port of New York. His first ship was the Falcon Lady. Brother Smith sailed in the steward department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School, where he completed the steward recertification course in 1982. He last sailed as a chief steward. A native of New York, he served in the U.S. Army from 1965 to 1969. HAROLD W. SPILLANE Pensioner Harold W. Spillane, 76, passed away April 28. Born in New Jersey, he began sailing with the Seafarers in 1951 .___ _ _ _ ___,from the port of New York. As a member of the deck department, he upgraded his skills at the Lundeberg School and attended an educational conference there in 1970. During his career, he was active in union organizing drives and beefs. A veteran of World War II, Brother Spillane served in the U.S. Coast Guard from 1942 to 1946. He began receiving his pension in November 1985. ROBERT STEWART Pensioner Robert Stewart, 71, died May 21. A native of Maryland, he graduated from the Andrew Furuseth Training School in 1960 and joined the SIU in the port of Baltimore. Starting out in the steward department, he later transferred to the engine department. During World War II, he served in the U.S. Navy. Brother Stewart retired in March 1987. INLAND JAMES R. CAMPBELL Pensioner James R. Campbell, 70, died April 5. Boatman Campbell started his career with the Seafarers in 1964 in the port of Port Arthur, Texas. The Texas native sailed as a captain. From 1945 to 1946, he served in the U.S. Army. Boatman Campbell was a resident of Hemphill, Texas. He began receiving his pension in September 1984. L __ _ __ _ __, JOHN L. GROVES He last sailed in 1991. The Texas native served in the U.S. Navy from 1964 to 1970. GARDNER HEWITT r-:~--~-1 Pensioner Gardner Hewitt, 80, passed away April 3. Boatman Hewitt joined the Seafarers in 1960 in the port of Norfolk, Va. He sailed in the deck department as a mate. The North Carolina native last sailed aboard vessels operated by McAllister Bros. Boatman Hewitt, a resident of Chesapeake, Va., began receiving his pension in March 1982. WILLIE B. LAVENDER Pensioner Willie B. Lavender, 73, died May 14. A native of North Carolina, he started his ..,,. ,.,.,,,, ....Kl" ' career with the SIU in 1957 in the port of '-'==-----===.i Philadelphia. Boatman Lavender sailed primarily aboard Curtis Bay Towing Co. vessels as a member of the steward department. A veteran of the U.S. Air Force during World War II, he made his home in Virginia Beach, Va. and retired in February 1983. LAURIE G. LEWIS Pensioner Laurie G. Lewis, 82, passed away May 3. He joined the Seafarers in 1979 in the port of Norfolk, Va. '---------'----'Boatman Lewis sailed as an engineer. He served in the U.S.Coast Guard from 1942 to 1945. The North Carolina native began receiving his pension in June 1979. CHARLES J. LYNCH Charles J. Lynch, 44, died May 6. Boatman Lynch graduated from the Lundeberg School's entry level training program in 1974 and joined the SIU in the port of Piney Point, Md. His first vessel was the tug Mary Ann, operated by Marine Towing Co. A native of Philadelphia, he sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. ODELL D. McAVOY John L. Groves, 52, passed away May 10. Born in Pennsylvania, he started his career with the Seafarers in 1968 in the port of Philadelphia. He started working in the steward department and later transferred to the deck department. Boatman Groves last sailed in 1995 aboard a Maritrans vessel. Pensioner Odell D. McAvoy, 85, passed away April 30. Born in Arkansas, he began sailing with the Seafarers in 1966 from the ------"=:.:....;_;~-' port of Port Arthur, Texas. During his sailing years, some of the ratings he held were tankerman, mate and crewboat operator. Boatman McAvoy began receiving his pension in May 1977. LEE A. HEBERT MAX MERRITT Lee A. Hebert, 50, died April 19. He joined the SIU in 1977 in the port of Port Arthur, Texas. Boatman Hebert sailed in the deck depart===---=i ment and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. During his union career, he was active in organizing drives and beefs. Pensioner Max Merritt, 74, died April 13. He started his career with the SIU in 1965 in the port of New Orleans. Born in Pennsylvania, ~-----____. he sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School, where he completed the towboat operator course in ..---=;;;;;iiiiii;;;:t1 1976. Boatman Merritt sailed primarily on vessels operated by Dixie Carriers and retired in February 1986. He was a veteran of World War II, having served in the U.S. Air Force from 1943 to 1946. WILLIAM E. MILLER Pensioner William E. Miller, 82, passed away April 17. A native of Georgia, he joined the Seafarers in 1973 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Boatman Miller sailed as a member of the steward department. He was also a veteran of World War II, having served in the U.S. Army from 1943 to 1945. Pensioner Miller was a resident of Savannah, Ga. He began receiving his pension in March 1983. CHARLES W. MORRIS Pensioner Charles W. Morris, 80, died May 11. Boatman Morris joined the Seafarers in 1957 in the port of Baltimore. .____ _ _ _ ____,He sailed primarily on vessels operated by Moran Towing. A native of New York, he worked in the engine department, last sailing as a chief engineer. Boatman Morris was a resident of West Palm Beach, Fla. and began receiving his pension in April 1982. RAUL RIVERA Raul Rivera, 47, passed away March 29. He started his career with th SIU in 1978 in his native Puerto Rico. Boatman Rivera sailed as a member of the deck department. He was a resident of Santurce, P.R. GEORGE R. SIDFLET George R. Shiflett, 59, died January 17. A native of Maryland, he started his career with the SIU in 1964 in the port of Baltimore. Boatman Shiflett worked in both the steward and deck departments. He last sailed in 1982 aboard a Moran Towing vessel. From 1956 to 1959, he served in the U.S. Marine Corps. FRANK J. SMAGALLA Pensioner Frank J. Smagalla, 79, passed away March 19. Born in Pennsylvania, he joined the Seafarers in 1961 in the port of Philadelphia. "----==-==~ He sailed as a member of the steward department. A World War II veteran, he served in the U.S. Navy from 1941 to 1945. Boatman Smagalla was a resident of Claymont, Del. and began receiving his pension in July 1979. JAMES A. STEPHENS Pensioner James A Stephens, 69, died December 30, 1996. Boatman Stephens began sailing with the SIU in 1965 ~--------' from the port of Houston. A native of Texas, he worked primarily on vessels operated by National Marine. He sailed as a captain and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. Boatman Stephens, a resident of Houston, retired in August 1993. Continued on page 20 July 1997 �to galley. Crewmembers thanked steward department for job well done. Next port: Tacoma. Wash. Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings OVERSEAS ARCTIC (Maritime 1111 Sealaret'I LOG attsmpll to prlntas many dlgem of union 111/pboanl mlnutBI as possible. On acea1lon, bscauSI al lfJactl llmltat/0111, 1ome will b8 omitted. Ships minutes nm a11 reviewed by the union,, contract dspartmsnt. Tho11 lnues rsqulllng attention or tBsolutlon are addressed by ths union upon race/pt al the ships mlnutss. Thi mlnutBI are then forwarded , to tbs SsalalBTB LOG tor publleatlon. GREEN ISLAND (Waterman Steamship), April 27-Chairman Samuel Reed, Secretary John Reid, Educational Director J. Laratta, Deck Delegate R. Castro, Engine Delegate Crescencio Suazo. Deck delegate reported beef. No beefs or disputed reported by engine or steward delegates. Chairman discussed union memo regarding new contract with crewmembers. Crew noted harsh verbal treatment by captain to members of unlicensed department. ar HM/ PETROCHEM (IUM), April ~hairman Michael Galbraith, Secretary Colleen Mast, Educational Director Larry Philpot, Engine Delegate Terrow Franks, Steward Delegate Davie Guyton. Chairman announced payoff in port of Houston. Treasurer noted 20 movies purchased. No beefs or disputed ITT reported. Crew requested new TV antenna and thanked steward department for job well done. HM/ PETROCHEM (IUM), April 27-Chairman Michael Galbraith, Secretary Colleen Mast, Educational Director Larry Philpot, Engine Delegate Terrow Franks, Steward Delegate Davie Guyton. Chairman reported ship's antenna still in need of repair. Bosun announced new TV and VCR received. Crew extended special vote of thanks to SIU Patrol· man John Cox for helping crewmembers. Chairman announced payoff upon arrival in Philadelphia Deck delegate reported No beefs or disputed disputed ar reported by engine or steward departments. Crew thanked Pumpman Philpot and SA Guyton for exceptional work. Entire crew extended vote of thanks to galley gang for ··extra fine job." ar. SEA-LAND LIBERATOR (SeaLand Service), April 22Chairman Salvatore Ciciulla, Secretary G. Thomas, Educational Director Elwyn Ford, Engine Delegate Tray Robin. Crew discussed new vessels being built, their sailing routes and expected dates of crewing. Crewmembers noted Seafarers WGs not received this voyage. Educational director recommended all members utilize educational courses offered at Lundeberg School. Treasurer reported ship's fund used to buy 20 new movies for crewmembers. No beefs or disputed reported. Crew requested new mattresses for quarters. Steward reminded crew to keep crew lounge clean. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. ar OM/ COLUMBIA (OMI), April 20--Chairman Greg Hamilton, Secretary Dana Zuls, Educational Director George Montgomery, Deck Delegate Anthony Sabatini, Steward Delegate M. Brayman. Chairman reminded crewmembers not to smoke in mess hall and to keep noise down in house between 2000 and 0600 hours. He advised crew to put away personal gear in crew change room. Bosun urged members who want quarters sani- July 11197 tized to keep doors open. He further advised all crew to put refrigerator items away after meals. Secretary informed crew all union forms available as well as applications for training record books (TRBs). Educational director stated crewmembers will receive copy of new contract from San Francisco hall. No beefs or disputed reported. Bosun commended galley gang for good food and job well done. Next ports: Valdez, Alaska and El Segundo, Calif. ar OM/ PATRIOT (OMI), April 28Chainnan J. Dillon, Secretary Carol Grycko, Educational Director H. Castro, Deck Delegate Glenn Thompson, Engine Delegate Thomas Voris Hastings, Steward Delegate Bob Racldin. Chairman reported steward department spending weekends stripping and waxing galley floor. He announced letter received from Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez concerning crew reimbursement for clothing used during tank cleaning. Bosun informed crewmembers ship scheduled to arrive at Panama Canal on May 4 or 5. He noted launch service will be determined by ship's time of stay. Educational director advised crewmembers to apply for new training record books (TRBs) and reminded them to send two passport-sized photos and copies of any training certificates with their application. Treasurer announced $700 in ship's fund. Disputed reported by steward delegate. No beefs or disputed ar reported by deck or engine delegates. Bosun informed crew payoff may be postponed until after U.S. Coast Guard inspection. Crew asked contracts department to look into reimbursement for safety shoes every four to six months instead of every 16 months. Engine delegate discussed closing engineroom hatch on port side at an earlier time while in port. Crew thanked steward department for job well done. Next port: Mobile, Ala. ar OVERSEAS ALASKA (Maritime Overseas), April 20Chairman Timothy Koebel, Secretary Lincoln Pinn, F.ducational Director Cary Pratts, Engine Delegate Sean Adkins, Steward Delegate Ahmed Sharif. Crewmembers discussed new shipping rule amendments. Crew noted questions to be addressed with patrolman concerning vacation pay. Bosun urged all members to have STCW identification certificate. Educational director discussed purchasing new movies with movie fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crewmembers extended vote of thanks to Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez for memo with contract information. Bosun asked members to treat crew recreation area with respect He reminded crew to empty ashtrays after use, dispose of cans, cups and return plates and utensils Overseas), April 2~hairman Kennard Campbell, Secretary Mark Flores, Educational Director Ed Self, Deck Delegate Thames Solomon, Engine Delegate Watt Bloodworth, Steward Delegate Pernell Cook. Chairman reported TV in crew lounge needs an antenna. He also announced steward delegate will now be in charge of ship's fund Secretary and educational director urged union members to upgrade at Piney Point as often as possible. No beefs or disputed ITT reported. Crew thanked galley gang for good meals. Steward requested heating system in chow rooms be adjusted to comply with Alaska's cold temperatures. Next port: Rodeo, Calif. wash room and laundry room clean. JULIUS HAMMER (Ocean Chemicals), May 27-Chairman Michael Moore, Secretary Ed Wmne. Bosun requested copy of new contract and copies of all important union forms. Educational director urged members to upgrade at Lundeberg School as often as possible. Treasurer announced $270 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Avila for extra efforts and fine meals. Next ports: Portland, Ore.; Long Beach, Calif. and Toyohaski, Japan. RICHARD G. MATTHIESEN (Ocean Shipholding), May 18-Chairman Jam~ Martin, Secretary Michael Pooler, Educational Director Tesfaye Gebregziabher, Deck Delegate Dana Naze, Engine Delegate Gilbert Tedder, Steward Delegate Wendy Fearing. Chairman read Chopper Lands aboard Matej Kocak SEA-LAND CHALLENGER (Sea-Land Service), April 13Chairman Aldo Santiago, Secretary Donna Jean Clemons, Educational Director Larry Holbert, Deck Delegate Frank Cammuso, Engine Delegate Ramona Gayton, Steward Delegate Alejo Fabia Jr. Chairman announced estimated time of arrival in port of Oakland and Long Beach, Calif. Payoff set for Long Beach. Educational director advised all members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. He also reminded those crewmembers who had not already done so to take tankerrnan operation/safety course. No beefs or disputed ar reported. Crewmembers prepared a letter of thanlcs to Capt. E. Paul Skoropowski for concern and fairness toward entire crew. Bosun stated repair list is posted for any crewmember who wants to request room repairs or new mattresses. Next ports: Oakland and Long Beach, Calif. Crewmembers aboard the Sgt. Matej Kocak participate in a halo exercise while at sea. Taking part in the operation aboard the Waterman Steamship vessel are Bosun Anjelo Urti, AB Charlie Simmons and AB Howard Blanks. Crew requested repair of ship's air conditioning system. Bosun advised crew not to smoke during meal hours. Crew requested refrigerators and fans for individual rooms. Chairman announced vessel sailing to China SEA-LAND ENTERPRISE (Sea-Land Service), April 24Chairman Robert Wilson, Secretary Julio Roman, Educational Director Ray Chapman. Chairman urged all members to check new ·courses being offered at Lundeberg School and donate to SPAD. Secretary asked crewmembers to keep what is discussed during union meetings confidential. reported. No beefs or disputed Next port: Oakland, Calif. ar SEA-LAND PERFORMANCE (Sea-Land Service), April 27Chairman Richard Moa, Secretary Stephanie Sizemore, Educational Director Daniel Johnson, Deck Delegate Robert Lewis, Engine Delegate Brian Wilder, Steward Delegate Donald Huffman. Chairman informed crewmembers payoff will take place next morning because of ship's late carrival in port of Charleston, S.C. Secretary thanked entire crew for working together to keep ship clean. No beefs or disputed reported. Crew asked contracts department to clarify travel reimbursement amounts. Crewmembers commended galley gang for job well done. Next port: Charleston. ar HUMACAO (NPR, Inc,), May 4-Chairman Clarence Pryor, Secretary Robert Seaman. Chairman encouraged members to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. Deck and engine delegates reported disputed No beefs or disreported by steward delputed egate. Bosun noted he will speak to captain about opening slop chest for crew. Crew thanked steward department for good meals. Steward reminded crew to keep ar ar. LIBERTY SPIRIT (Liberty Maritime), May 25-Chairman James Jowers, Secretary Cathy Scott, Educational Director Torry Kidd, Deck Delegate Berlin Pinion, Engine Delegate Isidro Palacios, Steward Delegate Santiago Amaya. Chairman advised crewmembers to use form in Seafarers WG to apply for training record book (TRB). He announced payoff upon arrival in port of New Orleans. No beefs or disputed ar reported. Crewmembers discussed importance of members finishing entire tour. Steward department commended for clean house and good meals. Next port: New Orleans. OVERSEAS JOYCE (Maritime Overseas), May 11-Chairman Richard Bradford, Secretary Michael Gramer, Educational Director Emanuel Paul, Deck Delegate Chris Kicey, Steward Delegate Carmelo Dela Cruz. Chairman announced payoff upon arrival in port. He reported next voyage will be to the East Coast ports of Jacksonville, Fla., Baltimore and Newark. N .J. Entire crew extended a ''big thanks" to Wilmington, Calif. Patrolman John Cox for level of professionalism demonstrated in resolving problems for crewmembers on last voyage. Bosun discussed importance of SPAD donations. Steward delegate distributed training record book·(TRB) applications, explaining bow to fill out form and what material to send. No beefs or disputed ar reported. Crewmembers noted Seafarers WGs received and articles discussed. Crew thanked Chief Steward Gramer, Chief Cook Dela Cruz and SA E. letter from Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez. Educational director urged members to upgrade at Piney Point Engine delegate reported disputed ar. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Bosun requested members not slam doors. Crew requested new TV antenna for ship. Next port: Tampa, Fla. SEA-LAND ATLANTIC (SeaLand Service), May 11--Chairman John Bertolino, Secretary Edward Porter. Chairman commended crew for good trip. No beefs or disputed ar reported. Bosun noted new VCR received. Crew requested new dryer for laundry room. Crewmembers thanked members of galley gang for good meals. SGT. MATEJ KOCAK (Waterman Steamship), May 11Chairman Anjelo Urti, Secretary Lonnie Gamble, Educational Director Jerald R. Graham, Deck Delegate Charlie Simmons, Engine Delegate Robert Hines Jr., Steward Delegate Michael Brown. Chairman announced payoff following completion of military exercises on May 19 in Rota. Spain. He added crewmembers will fly out May 21 and wished everyone a safe trip home. Educational director advised all members with enough seatime to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Deck delegate reported beef. No beefs or disputed reported by engine or steward delegates. Crewmembers noted Seafarers WG is arriving on regular basis and crewmembers are keeping up on union business while at sea. Crew discussed bleach getting onto clothes in washer. Steward reminded entire crew smoking is prohibited in mess room and pantry during meal hours. Crew extended special vote of thanks to galley gang and members of the engine department. ar Seafarers LOG 111 �DO BUY F oDowlng are brand names of several of the items of women'!l out· erwear made by members of the Union of Needletrades, Industrial & Textile Employees (UNITE). The Ust was constructed Crom Women's OuterwearOn the Job, On the Town NLRB Rules in Favor Of Striking Frontier Workers Six years after trade unionists walked out of the Frontier Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas when contract negotiations broke down, the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) ruled the action an unfair labor practice strike. In so doing, the board ordered the hotel to reinstate four workers who were unlawfully discharged, and to restore pay and benefits to three workers who were fired for union activities. The hotel also was ordered to bargain with Hotel Employees and Restaurant Employees locals. Seafarers were among more than 20,000 union members and their families who, on December 5, 1992 and in 40-degree weather, took part in a march and rally in support of the striking workers (represented by locals affiliated with the Hotel and Restaurant Employees Union, Operating Engineers, Carpenters and Teamsters). About 550 trade unionists working at Frontier struck on September 21, 1991 in response to unfair labor practices committed by the owners of the casino, who eliminated the workers' pension plan, reduced wages, cut back on the health plan (leaving some employees unprotected) and dropped job security and seniority rights. The hotel had operated with a union contract for more than 40 years before the present owners purchased it in 1988. The contract expired June I, 1989, but negotiations continued until the strike was called. Scabs were then hired to keep the casino in business. The picket line by Frontier workers has stood unbroken for each day of the strike. Gore: Workers Need Unions Working women need unions to get a fair deal, Vice President Al Gore proclaimed during a June 5 teleconference on women's issues, the AFL-CIO reported. "We've got to make sure that working people, and working women in particular, are getting a fair shake in the workplace. We've got to remind America that one of the best ways to do that is with strong labor unions and protection of collective bargaining. The state of our union depends in part on the state of our unions," Gore said. U.S. Department of Commerce Reports America Imports More than It Exports - According to a recent report issued by the U.S. Department of Commerce, the American trade deficit in manufactured goods continues to increase each year-to a whopping $188 billion in 1996. In fact, for each month in 1996, the nation imported, on average, goods worth $15.6 billion more than the value of goods exported. For the American worker (union and non-union), this means a loss of jobs. The Commerce Department estimates that for every $1 billion in the trade deficit, 15,000 U.S. jobs are lost. Based on 1996 figures alone, that means a loss of more than 2.8 million jobs-jobs that are now created overseas. Strawberry Pickers Rally Already Shows Results Continued from page 18 GREAT LAKES LUCIAN LANDREVILLE Lucian Landreville, 62, passed away May 8. Born in Michigan, he joined the Seafarers in 1960 in the port of Detroit. ....__=___, During his sailing career, Brother Landreville worked in both the engine and deck departments. DALE W. PETRIE Pensioner Dale W. Petrie, 79, died April 19. Brother Petrie started his career with the SIU in 1953 in the port of Detroit. A native of Michigan, he sailed in the deck 20 Seafarers LOG r--::~~P."\!I Adrian Avenuery, Anxiety. Arrow, Broadway Junior , Careerlook, Catch Me, CC Creation , Corbin's. Country, Dress Code. Erica Simone. Farah, Felix, Garan (knit), Genus. House of Ronnie , Jaymee. John Henry, Joseph Vincent, Koret, Lady Hathaway. LL II De igns, Maggie Sweet, Mustang, Pappel, Pendleton, Pierre Cardin. Plymouth, Pretty Woman, Rear End, Red Oak. Rendition . Ronnie Phillips. Sara Roberts. Sasson of Mustang, Savane. SeUage, Singer, Smart Lady, Sophisticates, Tahari, Threads. Time zone, Velva Sheen, 35N10 Coats Albert Nippon. Brlgatine , Careerlook. Classics. Coat. Concept, Country, Dumas. Galleon, Gigi Originals. Fieldstone Clothes. Haas, Holiday Deb, House of Maurizio, Ille Wacs. J.A.C. Plus. J.A. Resorts, JoFled, Jonathan. Jones Coats of NY. Judi Rich Limited . Karen Fashion. Komltor. LL II Designs, Michael, Miss Regal, Mystic , Pendleton, Redwood, Regency Styles, Regoleue, River Falls, earle, Sherwood, Sophistical . S. Rot.chield, S Rothschild, teve by Searle. teve tudlo. Suzette. Tahari, Wax Works. Weather Casual Dresses Affiliate of. Augustus. BCCI. Canaan Fashion. Claiborne. Coco Bianco. DE Franwrla, Dress Code, Et Al by Ronnie, First Issue, Gemini II, J.A.C. Plus, J.A. Resorts. Jaymee, J.G. Hook, Lady Carole Petites. Lady Hathaway, Lilli Ann, Lisa Two . Mark of the Lion. Michael B Petites. Mldnite Fashions, Miss Dorby, MKF (knit), Myrna, New Image, icole Miller, Oleg Cassin!, Pappel, Pemeptlon. Pierre Cardin, Pretty Woman. PSI, Ralph Lauren, Renditions, Rosado. Scarlet Jr.. Tuharl, Taurus II, Tracy Richards, Virgo II Evening Wear/Gowns Adam J, Affiliate of, Bridal Originals, Bridesmaids . Brooks Brother , Calvin Klein, DKNY. Drizzle. Erica Mitchell. Howard CreaUons. Jaymee, Lisa Two, Lord West, Miss Dorby, Nicole Miller, O car de la Renta Studio. Pappel, Perception. Perry Ellls, Pierre Cardin, adlne, ew Image, Scarlet Jr., Sylvia, Zurn Zurn Fashion Jackets/Blazers Adrian Avenuery, Augustus. BCCI. Broadway Juniors, Calter. Canaan Fashlon. Cape Cod. Careerlook, Carlo Stella, Catch Me, Center Stage, Chicago Trousers. Claiborne, Cooper. Corbin's, Country, Dino. DKNY. Ea y Pieces. E R Gerard, First Issue, Fundamental Things, Georgia Apparel, Globe. Henry Grethel. House of Maurizio, J .A.C. Plus, J .A. Resorts, Jackwinter. Joseph Vincent, Julia Lauren. Justin, Koret, Koret of California, Leader, Learbury, Liiii Ann, LL II Designs, Maggie Sweet, Mark of the Lion. Mustang. Mystic. Y Look, Pendleton , Play It Again, PSI , Public otices, Ralph Lauren. Rector, Ronnie Phllllps, Sasson of Mustang, Seville Row, Setlage, Singer. Smart Lady. Sophisticates. Sprockets. S. Rotchleld. Taylor Flex. Threads, Time Zone, Top Girls Skirts Adrian Avenuery, Allison Ann. Asher. BCCI. Bonnie Jean. Broadway Juniors. Careerlook, Catch Me, Chicago Trousers, Coco Bianco , Corbin's , Country, DKNY, Easy Pieces, ER Gerard. Felix. ~ Fundamental \ Things, Georgia \ Apparel, Haas. Henry Grethel, House of Ronnie, J.A.C. Plus. James River Trades, J.A. Resorts . Joseph Vincent. Julia Lauren, Koret, Koret of California, Learbury, Levi, L.L. Bean, Maggie Sweet. Magliano, 1ark of the Lion. Miss Victoria, Mu tang , NY Look. Pendleton. Pierre Cardin . Play It Again, P I, Rear End. Redwood. Ronnie Phlliip , Sasson of Mustang, Seti age, Smart Lady, SopblsUcates. Threads, Time Zone. 35 10 Slacks/Pants/Trousers Adrian Avenuery, A.G. Pants, Anxiety, Asher. Big-Mac. Broadway Juniors. Buckeye, Careerlook. Catch Me, Chicago Trousers, Coco Blanco , Corbin' , Coun· terparts, Country, Easy Pieces, Erica Simone. DE Frantorla, E R Gerard. Farah. Felix. Fundamental Things, Georgia Apparel. Haas. Henry Grethel. House of Ronnie. James River Trades. John Henry, Joseph Vincent. Julia Lauren, Koret, Koret of California, Learbury, Liz Claiborne, L.L. Bean . LL II Designs. Maggie Sweet, Magliano. Mark of the Lion, Michael B Petites. Mldnlte Fashions. MKF (knit). Mustang , lcole Miiier. NY Look. Pendleton, Play It Again, Ralph Lauren. Rear End , Rector, Redwood, Ronnie Phillips. Sasson of Must-.mg, Savane. Sea World. Setiage, Singer. Smart Lady, Sophls· tlcates. Stanley Blacker. Tabar!. Threads. 'lime Zone. Water Safety, 35 1O Suits Augustus, BICCI. Brooks Brothers. Canaan Fashion, Chicago Trouser , Claiborne, Corbin's, Dino. DE Frantorla, DKNY. Dress Code, E R Gerard, First Issue, Fundamental Things, Gemini II. Georgia Apparel, Globe, Greenfield, Haas. Henry Grethel. House of Maurizio, Ille Wacs, Jaymee , Johnny Car on, Learbury, LL II Designs, Magliano. Michael B Petites. Mid· nite Fashions. lcole Miller. Nini Cerru . el , Pierre Cantin. Play Again. Pretty Woman. PSI. Redwood . Rendl· tlons. Sara Roberts, Taurus II, Threads, Tofy, Virgo II , Wax Works Union Quality Shines at Industries Show More than 200,000 visitors attended the annual AFL-CIO Union Industries Show May 16-19 in Phoenix (below), and many stopped at the booth sponsored by the SIU and its affiliate, the United Industrial Workers (UIW). The yearly event highlights the quality of union-made goods and services, and includes live demonstrations and numerous prizes. Cruises on SIUcontracted Delta Queen Steamboat Co. vessels and numerous UIW products were featured at the SIU/UIW booth. Pictured at left are (from left) UIW Vice President Bill Dobbins; his wife, Jody; UIW retiree Mary Wiggins; UIW National Director Steve Edney and AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department Executive SecretaryTreasurer Frank Pecquex. Next year's show is scheduled for New Orleans. UN Since a massive rally took place on April 13 in Watsonville, Calif. to demand better pay and working conditions for California's 20,000 strawberry pickers, some changes are already being effected. Coastal Berry, a new company which bought out Gargiulo, the largest employer of strawberry workers, has told its 1,500 employees they are free to support the union without fear of retaliation. An election is expected soon. Organizing committees are growing among workers at the major strawberry companies, and American Stores, which operates 800 markets nationwide, pledged support for better working conditions for the strawberry pickers. Seafarers and their families were among the 30,000 trade unionsts, community activists and religious leaders participating in the April rally. Final Departures Blouses/Shirts UNITE's 218-page "Directory of Products Made by Our Members, tt published in January. As the directory points out, ..some ••• manufac· turers have a portion of their production done abroad, so look for the Union Label or 'Made in U.S.A.' when you shop.'' department. Brother Petrie was a resident of Sebastian, Fla. He began receiving his pension in August 1974. 10 .RS DONALD D. THAYER Pensioner Donald D. Thayer, 72, died March 26. Brother Thayer joined the SIU r in 1961 in the port of Chicago. A -==-=;..;;;;;...-='----' native of Illinois, he sailed in the deck department. Pensioner Thayer served in the U.S. Army from 1943 to 1946. He was a resident of Chicago and began receiving his pension in April, 1985. July 1997 �(Editor's Note: the Seafarers LOG reserves the right to edit letters for grammar as well as space provisions without changing the writer's intent. The LOG welcomes letters from members, pensioners and their families and will publish them on a timely basis.) AB Thanks Union For Lundeberg School I would like to thank the staff of the Lunde berg School for the help they gave me when I was taking ESL (English Mohamed Bazina as a Second at graduation. Language) in 1995, especially Ms. Betty Montgomery in the Academic Department. After I worked on my English for three months in the Academic Department, I enrolled in the graduate program at State University of New York Maritime College (Fort Schuyler) to obtain my Master of Science degree in transportation management. On May 10, after 18 months, I received my MS degree with a 3.5 grade point average. Once again, I would like to thank the Lundeberg School in helping me with my English and encouraging me to get my degree and proceed to achieve my goals. AB Mohamed I. Bazina Jersey City, NJ. .. Fondly Remembering The Mayaguez I was more than pleased to read the article, "Captured in Cambodia: lbe Tale of the Mayaguez," which appeared in the May 1997 issue of the Seafarers LOG. My association with the Mayaguez, ex Santa Eliana, ex White Falcon goes back to 1948 when I joined her (Santa Eliana) as chief mate. I served on through 1950 when I was brought ashore and sent to South America in a management position for Grace. I was, as port captain at Grace Line, involved in her conversion to a full containership carrying 476 17'h' by 8' by 8' containers. Unfortunately, Venezuela was not ready for containerships and she and her sister ship were withdrawn from service and laid up. She and her sister ship, the Santa Leonor, were sold to SeaLand in 1965. At that time, I was vice president, marine operations and ship construction. I converted her and her sister ship a second time to enable them to carry 285 35' by 8' by 81/J' containers. We renamed her the Mayaguez and her sister ship became the Ponce. We assigned them to Gulf Puerto Rico Lines service from New Orleans to Puerto Rico. They served in the Caribbean until they were sent to Vietnam to serve as feeder ships. My association with the Mayaguez spanned 24 years. She was one of my favorite vessels in which I served and/or operat¢. I am pleased the LOG has not fogotten her. Captain Warren G. Leback Princeton, N.J. (Capt. Wa"en Leback is the former head of the Maritime Administration.) 4 Widow Afflnna I wanted to write this before now, but it has been three months to the day of my husband's [Chief Steward Bruce D. Barbeau] death, and the time finally seems appropriate and I am able to sit down and complete this. I wanted to say something affirming my husband's life, Kno'W' Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership's money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified . public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the 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 recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District are administered in accordance with the provisions 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 disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval 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 shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. July 1997 .. friendships and love for the sea. Bruce was on the aircraft carrier Bon Homme Richard in the Vietnam war. He was young and wild and hated the restrictions of the military while loving the sea He came home after his discharge and met me. I had children and wanted a more settled life, so he acclimated himself as much as possible at 26 years of age to the routine of life on shore. For about 18 years, he managed Pizza Huts. He hired, fired, opened new stores and moved around as much as possible on terra firma. But that love and longing was there, constantly, in his reminiscences and in his stories of the sea and of his friends, long gone who knows where, perhaps sailing the seas and living the life he gave up for me. At about 40 years of age, when the kids were grown, he left Corporate America and wandered around in various jobs. But he always talked about the lure and the sirens' call of the sea and of friendships with others who felt the same. Finally, the time came for me to tell him to go, to be free-and if he returned to me, he would be happie11. and more content. I put him on an airplane in August of 1988, wondering if my love was flying away from me forever. He called in a few weekS from San Francisco, saying he had his first ship. It was the Silas Bent and, wonder of wonders, it would be coming into Seattle once a month. He stayed on that ship for more than a year and was so happy when he was home that I happily gave up the thought of him ever being a 9-to-5 kind of a guy again. The sacrifice of the time we used to have was replaced by the joy of the wonderful quality time we had when he returned to me. He began to write letters, and I began to understand this man so much better than I had in all our years of living together... and began to love him even more. Bruce did not want authority. He wanted freedom. But in a short time, my steward assistant - 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 employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers 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 filing for overtime ((YI') on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If, at any time, a member believ'?S that an SIU patrolman or other union official fails to protect their contractual rights pro~ erly, he or she should contact the nearest SW port agent EDITORIAL '°LICY - THE husband became a chief cook (which he loved) and then was promoted to chief steward. He was happy at home and I was happy for his joy. He came to the JS Lt. Baldomero Lopez, working with Captain Harry. I knew he had found his second home and a family which was in tune with his soul. On March of 1996, he got off the ship. He put off gettng his physical until the last minute, like always. As soon as he reached the Lopez, he was sent home because of a chest X-ray showing something was wrong. After battling with all he could, he was pronounced cured. Somehow I knew that was not true. I cried on October 15, my birthday, when he left to go back to the Lopez. I had said to him, "Honey, if you knew you had just six months to live, would you still want to go back to the ship?" His answer was "Yes." So he went. He returned home in two months, very ill. His cancer had spread to his bones. He died on February 11, 1997. Captain Harry's wife, Nan, came to the funeral. We sent the flag from the coffin back with her. The honor, respect, friendship and dignity that was given his flag on the wpez is seconded only by the same things given to him by shipping: his friends in the SIU and with American Overseas Marine. He had a second family on all the ships he sailed, but the bonds made on the Lopez were so strong that he needed to go there and be with those people before he died. Much is said about the negative aspects of shipping, unions, captains, officers and the work that these men do. Much, however, should be said about the love, friendship and honor they give to each other and their work. They are truly there to guard, protect and service all of us. My thanks, prayers and best wishes to all of you who guard, protect and truly do serve on the seas, in far-away ports and at home. You sacrifice much but also gain much in your chosen life. To the women who sit home and wait, I could write volumes, but best to say that a little quality time is much better than a great deal of time with a man who feels trapped and unappy. Let him go, with love, blessings and joy that he has something that makes him a part of something which his soul cries out to do. I know this letter is long and wordy, but I wanted to give honor and respect to Bruce's shipmates, captains and all of you who make it possible for Seafarers to sail off in pursuit of their dreams. Carol Barbeau Federal Way, Wash. (In a letter to Barbeau 's widow, Capt. Harry wrote that he raised Bruce's flag aboard ship on March I and the mates put it up the rest of the week. He included several photos of the shipboard ceremonies, including the picture below.) The deck officers aboard the 1st Lt. Baldomero Lopez (including Captain Harry) hold Bruce's flag next to the starboard name board. · SEAFARERS WG. The Seafarers WG traditionally has refrained from the SIU constitution are available in all union halls. All members should publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. This established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 19()() meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers WG 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. 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 headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SW. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied.the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION - SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen 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 OBLIGATIONS. Copies of and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes ~o political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect 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 Michael 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. Seafarers LOii 21 �Lundeberg School Graduating Classes ~:,._.-.....--~~ SE AFAR ER S HARRY LUNDEBERG SCHOOL LIFEBOAT CLASS 564 ·--- ~ Trainee Lifeboat Class 564--Graduating from trainee lifeboat class 564 are (from left, kneeling) Jason Manzi, Heather Tripp, Curtis Richardson, Deronja Clark, (second row) Ben Cusic (instructor), Nicole Farrell, .David Arczynski, Stephen Stukes, Jason Strickler, Kyotaro Lopez and Randy Senatore. Moran Towing Seminar--.Seafarers working aboard Moran Towing vessels completed a one-week safety seminar on May 15. They are (from left, kneeling) Casey Taylor {insrudor), Mark Taylor, Lee Stuart, Dominic Bailey, Robet Lowe, John Sanborn, (second row) Steve Kelly, Darrell Mcintyre, Mark Buizger, Gary Denton, Lou Bariza and Douglas Crawford. LNG Recertification-Completing the LNG recertification course on May 21 are (from left) Richard Morrison Jr., Rick Harris, John Fitzgerald, Robert Trainor, Jose Pedroza, Mohamed Rawi, Daniel Marcus, John Smith (instructor) and John Hitchcock. Not pictured is William Cartin. Upgraders Lifeboat-Upgrading graduates of the May 28 lifeboat class are (from left, kneeling) Bob Richer, Virgilio Donghit, Ben Cusic (instructor), (second row) Flavio Ordonez, Khalid Mohamed and James Weismore. Power Plant Maintenance-certificates of completion were received in power plant maintenance by the June 13 class of upgraders. They are (from left, kneeling) John Bimpong, Higold Schultze, Jeff Levie, Thomas Curtis, (second row) Ron Oyer {instructor), Milton Greene, Rogelio Ybarra, Matthew Ditullio, Dimarko Shoulders, (third row) Joseph LeTang, Stephen Roberts and Ralph Gosnell. Able Seaman-Marking their graduation on May 30 from the able seaman class are (from left, kneeling) Otto Schlicht, Fred Castillo Ill, Tom Giiiiiand (instructor), (second row) Neil Bond, Troy Mack, Patrick McCarthy, Scot Brown and Charles James. 22 Seafarers LO& Tanker Assistant DL--SIU members completing the tanker assistant DL course on May 14 are (from left, kneeling) Enrique Agosto, Frank Revette, Mark Fleming, Luong Ngo, (second row) Warren Mundy, Marvin Chester, Kristof Zschaler, Ernest Zepeda, Mark Jones (instructor), (third row) John Arnold, David Tillman and Amilcar Bermudez. 1 July 1997 �LUNDEBERG SCHOOL 1991 UPGRA·DINGCOURSE SCHEDULE The following is the schedule for classes beginning between August ·through December 1997 at the·Seafarers Haqy tundeherg School of Seamanship located at the Paul Hall Center fot Maritiwe Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. All programs are geared to improv~ the job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry an~in times of conflict-the nation's security. Students · attending · · any of these classes should check in the Saturda.y before their course~s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates Deck Upgrading Courses Reollllflt:allon Progta1111 Course Staff Date Date of Completion Bosun Recertification August4 Septembers Engine Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Fireman/Watertender & Oiler November3 December 12 Hydraulics October20 November 14 Marine Electrical Maintenance II Augustll September 19 Welding September 22 October 17 Course Start Date Date of Completion Able Seaman . September 22 November 14 Lifeboatman August 11 Septembers October 6 November3 December 1 August23 September 20 October 18 November IS December 12 August4 October 6 November17 December 1 August 15 October 17 November28 December ti .......,.," . ,.,. ._., . . ,=,,.,.• .,LNG.Familiarizatio" Radar Observer/Unlimited August 14 October 16 November28 Radar Recertification (one day class) Course Start Date Date of Completion Advanced Firefighting September 22 October6 October27 October3 October 17 November7 Tanker ~istant DL August25 September 22 October20 November17 September 12 October 10 November7 Decembers September8 November 17 Decembers Aupstll November3 August29 November21 August 2S Septembers October20 October31 LNG Recertification Tankerman Barge_PIC December 11 Deeember12 August25 Course StlWIBl'll Upgrading Courses · GED Preparation Date of Completion Course August9 Galley Operations Safety Specialty Courses Septembers September 19 October3 October 17 Augustl3 September6 · · · · · . ,. ·'seiit.emt>er 20. October4 October31 Octoberl8 Novefti6ert~r , .August 9 October 31 November 14 August 23 ·. Start Date ~~;vembes rff . August.25 ,, November29 Adult Basic Edueation (ABE) October10 · Decembers ·· Introduction to Computers Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward September 26 Rng)lsh • a Second Language (ESL) November 4 Lifeboat Preparation --- ;; September l October20 August25 September 22 October20 November 17 Septembers October3 October 31 November28 Self-study (In addition, English, history, math, psychology and physics courses are offered in the college program. Check with the admissions office for specific dates.) ·.: _- Jc_ - - - - - - -- - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - - - - - - - -- -- - -- - - - - - - - - -- - -- - - UPGRADING APPLICATION Name _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Address _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ With this application, COPIES of your discharges must be submitted showing sufficient time to qualify yourself for the course(s) requested. You also must submit a COPY of each of the following: the first page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, your clinic card and the front and back of your z._card as well as your Lundeberg School identification card listing the course( s) you have taken and completed. The admissions office WILL NOT schedule you until all of the above are received. COURSE BEGIN DATE END DATE Date of Birth - - - - - - - - - Telephone Deep Sea Member D Lakes Member D Inland Waters Member D If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security# Book# - - - - - - - - - - S e n i o r i t y - - - - - - - - - - - - Department - - - - - - - U.S. Citizen: Yes D No D Home Port Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - LAST V E S S E L : - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Rating:---Are you a graduate of the SHLSS trainee program? D Yes D No Date O n : - - - - - - - - - - - Date Off: If yes, class# _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Have you attended any SHLSS upgrading courses? D Yes D No H yes, course(s) taken - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? D Yes D No Firefighting: D Yes D No CPR: D Yes 0 No Primary language spoken - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - July 1997 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. RETURN COMPLETED APPUCATION TO: Lundeberg School of Seamanship, 7197 Admissions Office, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075. Seafarers LOii 23 �Sommer Vacation for Seafarers And their FamiHes There is still time to plan afamily holiday this summer at tht Paul Hall Cmtn in Piney Point. Md. For additional iriformation. see pagt 14. captain .Praises Seafaren.on Westward Venture TOTE Vessel Completes Rare Voyage to Black Sea The hard work, dedication and exemplary disposition of Seafarers aboard the Westward Venture was praised by the vessel's captain in a recent letter to SIU President Michael Sacco. Captajn Ron S. LaBarre noted the Westward Venture, a Totem Ocean Trailer Express (TOTE) vessel, completed a "highly unusual" charter to ports in the Mediterranean and Black Seas earlier this year. As part of the contract, LaBarre stated the ship made three 25-day transatlantic trips to deliver farm equipment and other supplies to Greece and Russia from Savannah, Ga. The Westward Venture and her sister ships, the Great Land and the Northern Lights, are roll-on/roll-off vessels which regularly transport cargo between the Pacific Northwest and Alaska. LaBarre commended the entire crew for its outstanding performance throughout the special overseas voyages. "The crew was called upon to 'break the routine' and be prepared for these new and exciting ports," he wrot 'The Ukraine and Russia were both ·challenging and rewarding. The crew handled everything that was asked of them like professionals. They have performed admirably, demonstrating good moral~ seamanship, engineering and food service. "It has been my pleasure to work and sail with these fine men and women. It is said that a ship is only as good as its crew, and this is an excellent ship! My thanks to them and my hat is off to one and all. The SIU should be very proud of these fine representatives," concluded LaBarre. SIU members aboard the TOTE vessel included Bosun James Delay, ABs John Dunavant, William Henderson, Edwin Rivera, Al M. Alhaj, Sanford Charles Klavano and ' Larry Viola, Electrician Christopher Cunningham, OMUs Santiago Alvarado, Devin Glossin Jr. and Milton Israel, GUDEs Nasser Almansoob, Agulio Llorente and Stephanie Brown, Steward/Baker Kenneth Long, Chief Cook Kassem and SAs Shirley Mae Bellam~ ·• and Saeed Shaibi. ROIRO's Return to Northwest Allows Fishermen To Sail Home After receiving fuel from the Westward Venture, the Bellamari sails toward its home port of Cordova, Alaska. ;;...,,. _ The Westward Venture 's return to its routine run between Tacoma, Wash. and Anchorage, Alaska was anything but regular. The SIU-crewed vessel took a slight diversion on its northbound voyage when lookouts spotted a stranded fishing vessel. "We were en route to Anchorage in the Gulf of Alaska when we spotted the fishing vessel Bellamari," recalled AB Edwin Rivera, who sent a letter and the _ _. _.. AB William Henderson inspects a shot line before transferring fuel to the Bellamari. Deck department members pose for a photo aboard the westward Venture atter assisting an Alaskan fishing vessel that had been adrift in the Gulf of Alaska without fuel for two days. I Crewmembers aboard the Westward Venture transfer fuel to the distressed Alaskan fishing vessel. photos accompanying this story to the Seafarers LOG. "After making contact with the fishermen, they informed us that they had been adrift since they ran out of fuel two days before," he added. According to Rivera, crewmembers aboard the 791-foot roll-on/roll-off Westward Venture immediately began preparations to assist the distressed vessel. "Captain LaBarre maneuvered our ship as close as possible to the fishing craft while AB William Henderson and other crewmembers prepared the shot line for the transfer of diesel fuel," noted Rivera. After Henderson inspected the shot line, Bosun Jim Delay, AB John Dunavant, Electrician Christopher Cunningham and Chief Mate Mark Daly passed the fuel container to the fishing boat. The Bellamari crew filled the fuel tank, and with a grateful wave, steamed toward home in Cordova, Alaska. ''The following day we received word that the fishennen had made it back to their port safely. They were very appreciative of our help, and we were happy to have given them a hand in sailing home," concluded Rivera. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1990-1999 Description An account of the resource Volumes LII-LXI Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993; Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource July 1997 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES 125,000 RALLY IN DETROIT FOR LOCKED-OUT WORKERS BOATMEN RATIFY FIRST BISSO CONTRACT PACT INCREASES WAGES, ESTABLISHES RETIREMENT PLAN INDUSTRY GROUP TAKES ‘PARTNERSHIP’ APPROACH IN TACKLING EVOLVING TRAINING REQUIREMENTS UNION CONTINUES ISSUING TRBS SEAFARERS CREW 2 TANKERS FOR CROWLEY PETROLEUM HOUSE MARITIME GROUPS LINES UP SOLIDLY FOR JONES ACT ACTIONS PRECEDE INTRODUCTION OF BILL DESIGNED TO GUT FREIGHT CABOTAGE LAW DYN MARINE TO OPERATE CONVERTED RO/RO MSCPAC SHIPS DO 2 RESCUES IN 2 DAYS KILAUEA, NIAGRA FALLS AID STRANDED MARINERS SIU-CREWED WILSON ESCAPES SIERRA LEONE SENATE CONDUCTS HEARING ON OECD PACT SUPERTANKER STRIKES REEF IN TOKYO BAY CS LONG LINES MAINTAINS TRADITION OF PRODUCTIVITY SEAFARERS KEEP USNS REGULUS PRIMED A SEAFARER’S VIEW- PART III COLORADO REFLAGS UNER STARS AND STRIPES SEAFARERS CREW 4TH MAERSK CONTAINERSHIP SEAFARING BROTHERS ENJOY MEETING FOOTBALL GREATS LNG ARIES GALLEY GANG EARNS ACCOLADES FROM CAPTAIN, CREW CAPTAIN PRAISES SEAFARERS ON WESTWARD VENTURE RO/RO’S RETURN TO NORTHWEST ALLOWS FISHERMAN TO SAIL HOME Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 07/01/1997 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 59, No. 7 1997 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/c505ff64677477dce3c9a73948d041c2.pdf e2ce8b497ca3dafd2fd00164e8ddfc9a PDF Text Text New Company Boosts U.S.-Flag Tanker Fleet Announcement Signals Job Security In Alaskan North Slope Oil Trade Page 3 Sealarers Sign On New Crowley Tug Representing new employment opportunities as well as a chance for SIU boatmen to work with the latest marine technology, the 105-foot Master officially joined Crowley Maritime Services' fleet last month during a ceremony in Long Beach, Calif. It is the first of six new "Harbor-Class" tractor tugs Crowley is slated to operate. Page 3. Demonstrating that an SIU ship is a safe ship, the LNG Taurus recently reached 900 consecutive days without a lost-time injury-leaving ABs Ken Steiner (left photo) and Kimberly Clark as well as their shipmates with smiles. For details, look inside, on page 14. RUNS SAFETY RECORD TO Philly Action: From Tugs to Deep Sea Business is on the upswing in the port of Philadelphia, and SIU crews are doing their parts to ensure efficient operations there, including (below) Chief Cook Michael Harris, pictured aboard the deep-sea vessel Carolina; and (photo at left, from left) inland boatmen Deckhand Ed Devine, Deckhand Ted Rozier and Captain Jeff Parkin, shown at the McAllister pier. Pages 12·13. New Prescription Program For Pensioners Kicks Ott Bisso, Hvide, Moran Crews Approve 3-Year Contracts MarAd Awards Pacts For Re~dy Reserve Force Working Families Rally, Defeat Proposition 226 �Clinton Announces New Program To Fund Dredging in Nation's Ports President's Report A Tremendous Win for Workers Last month, our brothers and sisters in California proved once again that there is strength in unity. When the defeat of the anti-worker initiative known as Proposition 226 was announced, all working people scored a tremendous victory because union men and women stood side-byside to deliver one of the biggest campaign reversals in recent times. At the beginning of this year, polls showed Proposition 226 was headed for a landslide vicMichael Sacco tory. Anti-worker forces had done their homework and prepared Californians for a ballot measure they called "campaign finance reform." Who wouldn't be for that? Whenever you tum on the news or read a paper, there are stories about the constantly climbing costs of running for political office. In fact, three out of every four voters initially said they favored what they had been told about the initiative to reign in campaign spending. Union families even supported what they had heard about the measure by the same margin. Then, the actual language of Proposition 226 was released. The fancy talk of "campaign finance reform" was a flat-out lie. Union members discovered Proposition 226 was a slick attempt to keep them out of the political process-from campaigning for pro-worker candidates co lobbying elected officials. So, the union men and women of California-including Seafarers-knew what they had to do. Working men and women banded together to launch a major statewide grassroots effort. They made phone calls. They wrote letters. They posted yard signs. They passed out leaflets. They talked with family, friends and neighbors. They reached people with the facts. Without the voice of working people in the political process, such issues as environmental protection, public school funding and safe work sites that are taken for granted may be endangered. Union members got this message through to the voters loud and clear. Meanwhile, the anti-worker forces thought their lead was solid. They had written off labor and didn't think anybody could mount a successful campaign in just four months. But working families-the same folks who, against tough odds, have won organizing campaigns and beaten back attempts by union-busters-knew better. Gradually, the polls showed the number of people supporting Proposition 226 was shrinking. Less than two weeks before the ele,tion, the first independent polls showed more people opposed the initiative than supported it. During the early morning hours of June 3, the results came in. Those opposed to Proposition 226 got 53.5 percent of the vote-a clear, solid come-from-behind victory for working people. Exit polling revealed seven our of every l 0 union households voted against the proposition. · Everyone who worked and voted against Proposition 226 is to be congratulated. No one gave working people a chance to even make this race close. But once again, union members have shown they don't understand the word "impossible." If there is any glimmer of hope, they will find it and make it glow brightly. That is why anci-worker forces have been defeated in 23 of the 31 other states where they have introduced legislation similar to Proposition 226. But the battle continues. The anti-worker faction has vowed to push forward their effort to silence the voice of working people in the political process. They don't care that independent agencies who monitor campaign spending have shown big business outspent labor 11 to 1 during the 1996 election cycle. They simply want it all for themselves and have said as much. That is why working people must remain united and vigilant to future attacks on their rights. It is a fight that must be and will be President Clinton has pro·posed a new funding program to pay for the maintenance and upkeep of America's ports into the next century. Called the "Harbor Services Fund," the program would replace the Harbor Maintenance Tax which was ruled unconstitutional by the Supreme Court in March. The president first mentioned the creation of the Harbor Services Fund in a speech before the National Oceans Conference, delivered June l 2 in Monterey, Calif. In his remarks, Clinton said the nation "must create sustainable ports for the 21st century." He noted international trade will double within the next 20 years, "and more than 90 percent of this trade will move by ocean. I propose a new Harbor Services Fund to help our ports and harbors remain competitive in the new century, by deepening them for the newest and largest ships, and by providing state-of-the-art navigation tools for preventing marine accidents." During the same address, Clinton announced he had pledged extra dollars to help in the maintenance dredging project for the port of New York/New Jersey. Immediately after his speech, the White House released some more details concerning the new fund, which would raise $800 million over the next five years. The money would be co11ected from a new user fee and be used to finance harbor dredging, port construction activities and navigation safety improvements. However, as the Seafarers LOG went to press, specifics on the new user fee had not been released. The SIU is studying all information available on the proposed program. Others in the maritime industry already have expressed concern and are urging port work be funded through the U.S. gener- AP Photo/Reed Saxon As Sen. Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.) and Vice President Al Gore applaud, President Bill Clinton announces the administration's call to maintain and improve America's harbors and ports so they will be able to compete in the 21st century's global market. al treasury as was done prior to 1986. "Unless our ports are prepared by deepening channels to accommodate larger cargo ships, American consumers will pay more for imported goods, and American businesses wil1 pay higher export costs," according to the statement from the White House. As noted earlier, the Clinton administration has been working for several months to replace the Harbor Maintenance Tax because of the unanimous decision of the Supreme Court in killing the measure. The nation's highest court ruled the tax is not a true user fee and was applied unconstitutionally against exports. It had been created in 1986 to fund the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund, which paid for the operation and maintenance of harbors and channels. When it was first implemented, the tax was set at a level that collected 40 percent of the cost thought to be required to cover maintenance dredging. However, the tax was tripled in the 1990 budget agreement and has produced a surplus. Prior to 1986, funding for harbor and channel maintenance came from the nation's general treasury. In fact, among the initial measures considered and passed by the first Congress was authorization in l 789 of navigation channel improvement projects. This is not the first time the Clinton administration has been involved in finding a solution to the dredging problems facing the nation's ports. Vice President Al Gore last year worked with representatives from maritime labor, the shipping industry, the port of New York/New Jersey, and government officials from that area to come up with a program to dredge that harbor and its channels. Work is expected to start later this year to deepen the channels to 45 feet, thus permitting the larger ships to sail into the harbor without lightering. Maintenance dredging has taken place recently in the port of Oakland, Calif. keeping its channels open for containerships and other vessels. Last month, the port of Boston awarded a contract to begin maintenance dredging later this year. Academy Honors SIU President won. llulume 601 Number 7 July 1998 1he SIU on line: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers WG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 8990675 . Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998 and at additional offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers WG, 5201 Auch Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Daniel Duncan; Managing Editor, Jordan Biscardo; Associate Editor/Production, Deborah A. Hirtes; Art, Bill Brower; Administrative Support, Jeanne Textor. Copyright© 1998 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD All Rights Reserved. 2 Seafarers LOG The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy presented SIU President Michael Sacco with an honorary degree, the first in the school's history, June 15 during graduation ceremonies at the Kings Point, N.Y. facility. After accepting the marine science diploma, Sacco told the academy graduates, "You picked the right time to enter the U.S. merchant marine, and I know you will help us continue the resurgence of our industry." Pictured with the SIU president are Rear Admiral Thomas Matteson (in uniform), superintendent of the academy, and Dr. Warren Mazek. Photos: Brian Ballweg July 1998 �New Company Formed To Move Alaskan Oil BP, MOC, Keystone Jointly Operated Fleet Will Provide Job Security for Sea/arers BP Shipping, Maritime Overseas and Keystone Shipping announced in a statement last month they have reached an agreement in principle to form a joint operating company to manage the fleet that moves BP's Alaska North Slope crude oil from Valdez, Alaska. This will provide job security for SIU members who sail aboard tankers. "We welcome this announcement because it ensures the U.S.flag tanker fleet will have a strong presence well into the next century," stated SIU President Michael Sacco. "This means a continuation of good jobs aboard modern tankers." The present fleet of tankers will continue to operate as is until the new, unnamed company is formed, according to SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez. Vessels not sailing in the Alaska trade will not be affected, he added. The primary focus for the new company-to be located in the Pacific Northwest-will be to further enhance the quality of operations, safety and environmental performance as well as adoption of the highest standards from each of the participating companies, noted the release issued jointly by all three companies. "During the past several months, we have worked closely with the leadership of our existing unions to assure that our existing crews will be emploJed into the next century and that the new company, with the full support of its unions, will provide a stable source and supply of the highest quality shipboard personnel to meet the crewing demands generated by the advanced design of the new vessels as they are brought on line," stated the release. BP has new tankers scheduled for delivery beginning in 2001. BP also announced it would increase production in Alaska by 100,000 barrels a day over the next three years which will ensure employment for Seafarers for many years to come. The Seafarers LOG will provide more information on the new company as details become available. SIU-Contracted Companies Ta Manage 55 RRF Ships In a statement released by the Department of Transportation, seven SIU-contracted companies were awarded a total of 55 ships from the Maritime Administration's Ready Reserve Force (RRF) fleet to manage over the next five years. The companies which were awarded contracts are Apex Marine Ship Management of Lake Success, N .Y.; Interocean Ugland Management Corp. of Voorhees, NJ.; Ocean Duchess, Inc. of Houston; Patriot Contract Services of Walnut Creek, Calif.; Pacific-Gulf Marine of Gretna, La.; Sea-Land Scrvi~c of Charlotte, N.C. and V Ships Marine of Mineola, N.Y. The vessels in the RRF fleet are used when the nation's armed fon;es require ~urge shipping, such as during the Persian Gulf War. The ships are owned by the government and operated by pri· vate shipping companies using American merchant mariners. The fleet is maintained in various states of readiness. Some vessels are ready to sail at a moment's notice as prepositioning ships. Others stand in reserve operating status (ROS). ready to be crewed and deployed in five days or less. RRF Ships to Be Managed Crowley Marine Services last month christened the first of six new "Harbor-Class" tractor tugs in a Long Beach, Calif. ceremony which signified new job opportunities for SIU boatmen. The 105-foot Master, featuring state-of-the-art equipment throughout, joins Crowley's West Coast ship docking operations. ''These are very high-tech boats, so proper training is vital," observed the SIU's Wilmington, Calif. port agent, John Cox. "They're very different from other tugboats. It's a great opportunity for SIU members to work with the absolute latest technology." As will be the case with its sister ships, the Master is equipped with a computer that allows frequent communication with Crowley's port offices. It is outfitted with Voith Schneider propulsion units, powered by two Caterpillar 3516-B engines and possesses 4,800 horsepower. With that equipment plus cycloid propellers, the 360degree thrust "enables these tugs to perform a variety of maneuvers without changing position," the company pointed out. In announcing the christening, Crowley also noted that the Master "has an indirect bollard pull in excess of 120 tons at 10 knots .... In addition, the unique hydrodynamics of the hull result in increased tons of steering and braking force." Crowley added two other tractor tugs to its tleet last year, and those also are crewed by Seafarers. by SIU Companies La$t month, the Maritime Administration announced .seven SI LI-contracted companies will manage 55 Ready Reserve Force vessels during the next five years. listed befow are the companies awarded C()ntracts and the ships they wilt oversee. . . . Apex Marine (11) .... , Cape.Jacob:.. Cape Jol'\n Gopher State _;: Meteor . · Ses-LJJnd (9) · Wright Diamond State Equality State Guff Sank9r GUif Trader IUM Corp. (12) Cape Fear Cape May cape Mendocino Cape Mt'lhican Cape lnscripti_on Cape Intrepid Cape Johnson Cape Juby Cape Taylor Cape Texas Cape Trinity Oaean Duch•n (3) Alatna Chattahoochee Nodaway Patriot (6) Cape Isabel Cape Island Cape Race Gape Ray Cape Aise Cape Washington Cape Wrath ~pe Brttton Cape Gibson Cap8 Gir8rdeau VShips (10) American Osprey Cape Farewell Cape Flattery Gape Florida Chesapeake Comet CornhuskAI' State Courittr Gem State Grand Canyon State Keystone Stattt Curtiss Pioneer commander Mount Washington Pioneer Contractor Potomac Cape Nome Flickertail State - Cape Blanco Cape Borda Cape Bover Pacific-Gulf (4) Banner The rest of the fleet operates under 10-to-20-day activation status. Among the types of bottoms in the RRF fleet are tankers, roll-on/roll-offs, breakbulk, auxiliary crane ships and barge-carrying vessels. In releasing the list of con- Slater Backs Reform Bill Transponation Secretary Rodney Slater announced the Clinton administration's support for the Ocean Shipping Reform Act, as the Seafarers LOG went to press. The House of Representatives is expected to act soon on legislation which would amend the Shipping Act of 1984 as well as extend the cutoff date for veterans' status for World War II merchant mariners. The Ocean Shipping Reform Act cleared the Senate on April 21 and was sent to the House. Early last month, House Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee Chairman Wayne Gilchrest (R-Md.) said he would not hold hearings on the measure, thus clearing it for full House consideration. The bitt would eliminate tariff-filing with the government which would allow importers and exporters to keep their contracts with ship operators confidential. It also preserves the Federal Maritime Commission as an independent agency. July 1998 Crawley Christens High-Tech Tugboat tracts for the 89-ship fleet, Secretary of Transportation Rodney Slater said, "The contracts will advance the nation's security interest by ensuring that maritime transportation resources are secure and available when needed." Acting Maritime Administrator John Graykowski added the partnership between the private ·u.s. shipping companies and MarAd has been successful because reserve ships have been ready when needed and have achieved outstanding operational records. The announcement revealed the fleet was remaining at the same number of vessels despite a Department of Defense study on U.S. sealift needs, conducted immediately after the 1991 conflict in the Middle East, which called for expansion of the RRF. SIU members in Southern California welcome the addition of the Master and other new Crowley boats. Above (from left), Engine Utility Jim Martin, SIU Port Agent John Cox and Captain Kerry DeMatos prepare to inspect the Master prior to its christening. Herb Brand Passes Away Herbert Brand, longtime associate of the SIU and a tireless advocate of the U.S. merchant marine, passed away on June 26, as this issue of the Seafarers LOG went to press. He was 84. Mr. Brand was widely recognized for his many and varied contributions co the U.S. maritime industry. He worked closely with the late SIU President Paul Hall for many years. Among numerous other activities, he served as chairman of the Transportation Institute, a Washington-based organization engaged in maritime industry research and promotion. Mr. Brand was a native of New York and a U.S. Navy veteran who served during World War II. A more detailed remembrance will appear in next month's LOG. Seafarers LO& 3 �New Alaskan Riding Gangs Draw Praise for Work Aboard Tankers In just their first weeks of working aboard tankers sailing from Alaska, the SIU riding gangs from Anchorage already are drawing praise. "Their work is above and beyond," stated Bosun Jeff Ktis of the crew aboard the Overseas Boston. "They are a cracker-jack crew with a smile on their faces even under the worst conditions." Ten Alaskan residents have formed three teams to work as riding gangs on tankers sailing from Valdez, Alaska. The availability of the gangs was negotiated by the union in the 1996 general tanker agreement. The program has created new jobs for residents of the Last Frontier state, a prospect which gained the attention of Alaska's lone congressman, Don Young (R-Alaska). Young met with the members of the riding gangs on their last day of training prior to boarding their first vessels. "When Representative Young heard about our program, he asked if he could talk with them," recalled SIU Anchorage Representative Harold Holten. "When he walked into the room, I don 't know who was happier, the congressman or the class." Young congratulated the members and urged them to do a good job in the hopes the program could be expanded. The congressman is a strong supporter of the U.S.-flag merchant fleet. He is the only member of Congress to hold a merchant mariner's license. Prior to boarding the tankers, the new riding gang members went through strenuous training to learn about the vessels and the jobs they were going to perform. The group includes Fabio Concep- cion, Rafael Concepcion, Romeo Fronteras, Wellington Furment, Ernesto Maya, Alan Oyao, Fernando Oyao, Cecadio Romneyt, Julio Soriano and Segundo Soriano. Half of the gang had been members of the SIU-affiliated Alaskan Fishermen's Union. Sessions included respiratory protection, confined space awareness, personal protective equipment, energy isolation, emer- gency communications and fall protection/rigging. So far, riding gang members have been assigned to the Overseas Boston, Overseas Juneau and Overseas Chicago. Holten accompanied each team to its new vessel and reported they were well received by the Seafarers aboard the tankers. U.S. Rep. Don Young (second from left) poses with members of the new Alaska riding gang after meeting with them in Anchorage. The SIU members are working aboard tankers sailing out of Valdez, Alaska. Boatmen at Bisso, H11ide1 Maran Ratify Contracts Boatmen at three SIU-contracted inland companies recently ratified three-year contracts at each site that boost wages and call for various other improvements. Seafarers employed by E.N. Bisso Co., Hvide Marine Towing Services, and Moran Towing of Texas, respectively, approved pacts that went into effect last month. Bisso The Bisso contract marked just the second such agreement in the company's 118-year history. It includes wage increases, establishes a seniority system, ~nd provides for no increase in health insurance costs for Seafarers for the life of the contract. Members of the SIU negotiating committee expressed satisfar.tion with the contract while also focusing on the overall progress the boatmen have made since voting to join the union in 1994. "If you stick together, things will get better. We keep showing that," said Engineer Chris Westbrook. "It has been well worth everything we've gone through. "From day one to now, we've gotten pay raises, (access to) a grievance and arbitration system, Among the SIU boatmen who recently ratified new contracts ar~ those who work aboard Bisso tugboats (shown above). Also benefiting from new agreements are Seafarers who sail aboard Hvide Marine and Moran of Texas vessels. Most Philippine Maritime Schools Do Not Meet STCW Regulations More Than 100 Face Possible Closure in 1999 More than 100 maritime schools located in the Philippines may be next year for failure to comply with regulations stemming from the 1995 amendments to the STCW convention, according to a report in the Business Times. Only six of the country's 122 maritime schools passed a recent evaluation by rhe Philippine government, according to the article. The ~ommission that regulates educational facilities in Lhe Philippines reporredly will close the non-compliant maritime schools in June 1999 if they do not meet the new standards. A Philippine official told the publication that most of the country's maritime training institutions lack qualified instructors and sufficient equipment. Meanwhile, the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy has agreed to serve as a consultant to the Associated Marine Officers and Seamen's Union of the Philippines-a 55,000-member unit that is affiliated with the International Transport Workers' Federation-in its efforts to establish a maritime academy in the island nation. ~loscd 4 Seafarers LOii a retirement plan-and a lot more respect." Derek Ponamsky OS described the negotiations as difficult but fair. ''There had to be some concessions made on both sides. Foolish demands from either side don't do any good, and we have to realize that this is a marathon, not a sprint," he observed. "The two things that really stand out to me are the seniority and the medical rate freeze. You can see we're making progress." Chief Engineer Robert Jordan (who sometimes sails in the deck department) also noted the widespread desire for the seniority sysrem. "I think that's what most of the members wanted. It's also a good thing that we froze the medical insurance costs. Overall, I would say it's a good contract." he concluded. Engineer Todd Rabalais also served on the committee. Bisso operates a fleet of 15 boats, most of which work in ship docking operations from the Gulf of Mexico up the Mississippi River as far north as Baton Rouge, La. Several vessels also sail offshore. were AB James Shipley and Engineer Chris Butts. Hvide in March acquired the seven harbor tugs formerly operated by Sabine Towing. Four are based in Port Arthur, Texas and two in Lake Charles, La., with the other operating as a support vessel for both areas. Moran The Moran contract boosts wages; increases dental, optical and outpatient benefits; and raises the pension amount paid to qua1ified retirees. ''The strongest points are the medical benefits, plus we got our sick leave (benefit) up to full pay," stated Captain Craig Arnaud, a member of the negotiating committee. "Those really were big plusses .... I was pretty happy with the contract." Also serving on the committee were Captain Ryan Riggins, AB Steve Wells and Engineers Cliff Champagne and Scooter Ashwood. Moran operates three harbor tugs and four offshore boats. The harbor tugs dock and undock vessels as well as perfonn other harbor work in the waters surrounding the ports of Port Arthur, Orange and Beaumont, Texas. The offshore tugs and barges transport petroleum along the East Coast, Gulf of Mexico and Puerto Rico. Please be advised·that·S/U headquarters and all SIU hin"ng halls will be closed on · Monday, August 17, 1998 (unless an ·emergency arises) for the observance of Paul Halls birthday. Normal busi,ness hours will resume the following workday. Solidarity with Laundry Workers Hvide As with Bisso, the Hvide Marine pact carried historical overtones. It is the first inland union contracr the company has signed. Among rhe agreement's highlights are increased dental, optical and outpatienr dependent benefits; wage increases; and increases in the pension contribution. "The medical benefits are something that all the guys were looking for," explained Captain Dallas Higgins, who served on the bargaining committee. "We were extremely satisfied with that, and this also is the first time we've had call-back days in our contract." A 1978 graduate of the trainee program at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. and a frequent upgrader, Higgins credited both the company and the union for maintaining a constructive tone throughout the negotiations. Joining him on the committee SIU President Michael Sacco delivered a message of solidarity June 4 at the convention of the AFL·CIO Laundry and Dry Cleaning International Union in Pittsburgh. Sacco, who also is president of the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department {MTD), detailed the MTD's role in advancing the agenda of working families, and the importance of political action. He also discussed how the labor movement had won a critical vote on California's Proposition 226 just two days before the Laundry Workers' convention. Listening to Sacco's message are Laundry Workers President Mary O'Brien and Secretary-Treasurer Sam Segler. July 1998 �California Voters, Nevada Judge Reject Efforts to Squelch Voice of Workers Week After Californians Say No, Silver State Court Says Proposal 'Unconstitutional' Working people across the country gained Lwo major victories last month when efforts to limit the political and lobbying activities of unions were rejected in neighboring western states. On June 2, the voters of California soundly defeated Proposition 226, a ballot initiative which would have prevented unions from using dues money for campaigning, lobbying or other purposes except collective bargaining without the annual written approval of union members on forms supplied by the state. A week later, a district court in Clark County, Nev. threw out as unconstitutional an attempt by anti-worker forces to place a similar measure before that state's voters. "The voters of California and the judge in Nevada have backed what we in the labor movement have known all alongthat the working men and women of America have the right to participate in the political process," stated SIU President Michael Sacco. "These anti-worker forces have been defeated in legislatures, on the ballot and in the courtroom. No matter where they turn, they are coming face-to-face with the reality that working people have been, are and will be a major player in the process of electing officials and lobbying for legislation," he added. AFL-CIO President John Sweeney said the Nevada court decision coming in the wake of the California election "strikes another stunning blow to the agenda to knock working families off the political playing field. The court's ruling on the Nevada ballot initiative and the defeat of California's Proposition 226 send a clear message that taking aim at working families won't substitute for real [campaign finance] reform." BatUes Waged Across Nation Since late last year, anti-worker corporations, lobbyists and individuals have been attempting to change state and feder- Actions Taken Around the ·Country · On Anti-Worker Legislation (as of mid-June) Alaska ...................................................defeated in legislature Arizona ................................................. defeated in legislature California ..............................................defeated by voters C~Jorado .... :.... ~ ..................................... defeated in legislature, possible initiative Connecti~ut .......................................... defeated in legislature ·:Florida .. ,..... ,,.,.,,,;:.~ .......... :~. :: .... c., ...•. , •• deff;!ated .in l~gislature • Georgia ..... ,.,.,. ..... :~······ .. •• ...................... defeated in fegislature . Hawaii .. ~ ...... .'.... ~·~: .. ~~............. ~ .. ··'.·'.... ···~· ... defeated In legislature ./K~nsas .......... ~ .... ;,·;.~·... ·,··;:·~., ..,;_;/~--~-~~--:-~_defeated in legis~ature Maine ....................................................defeated in legislature )~:Ma.r.y.land. .... ;....•.·. : .,:· ,~·~. :·~~· .~ .•• ,~;· ,~ .... ,........ defe~ted in legisfature ".'.fYl~~sachus~tts. .......... :'.. ..... :.... :~:~·····~·~r.·:pending in legislature . Michigan -----------·,-·-- ~ -.·;·• .· ..........................pending in legislature ·.: "Minn. ~sota~. ~; . ~ .·_'~· . : ....·.; ·;· ~·:· .. ·........·... ·:·•. ~·.••.•..•. defeated in legistet,ure :::Mississippi .. ~. ~: ............ :........'. ................defeated In legislature :. Mi$SOuri _____ , _____ :................................... ~defeated in legislature . : New ~~rsey~..............~ ..... ~........ , ... ,... ., .... ,pending in legislature ·..r~ew Mexico ........ ,. ................................. defeated in legislature "Nevada ............ ., .................................. .initiative declared unconstitutional . : .Oklahoma ............................................. defeated in legislature · Oregon .................................................initiative pending al laws to limit the political and lobbying activities of unions. These groups have used such misnomers as "campaign finance reform," "paycheck protection" and "giving union members a choice" in their attempts to hide what they actually are doing. As of mid-June, the anti-worker forces had been able to bring up their proposals in 32 states in the form of legislation or ballot measures. So far, these proposals have been rejected in 24 states. The rallying cry of the anti-union groups was the fact that labor unions provided $58 million dollars to support proworking family candidates during the 1996 election cycle. The anti-worker forces whined that labor and their supporters gained an unfair advantage through the spending and moved to do something to limit it. They also were upset that working people persuaded Congress to increase the national minimum ·wage, turn back legislation to recognize sham company unions and defeat an extension of fast-track trade negotiations because it did not include provisions to deal with workers and the environment. However, what they did not want made public was the amount of money they poured into the 1996 election cycle. According to the Federal Election Commission and Center for Responsive Politics, big business provided its friends and allies with $653 million- I I times that spent by the unions. Focus on California While the efforts to stop the anti-worker proposals have been hard fought in each state, none garnered as much media attention as the campaign in California. Independent polling taken as late as February in the Golden State showed three of every four voters in favor of the socalled campaign finance reform initiative. The polls revealed support for the idea from union households closely matched that of all voters. However, support for the iniriative starred to crumble when the language of Proposition 226 was presented to the voters. In an effort to mislead the electorate, the authors of Proposition 226 led with a call to ban foreign contributions in California elections-something that already is illegal in the state. The rest of the text outlined the plan to not allow unions to use dues money for campaigning or lobbying without the yearly approval in writing from its members. The approval would have to be contained on a form supplied by and kept on file by the state. The measure's language stated, if passed, it would be implemented on July l. However, state officials said the new agency called for by the initiative could not possibly be ready before January l, 1999. The result would have been the elimination of unions from the fall elections in California. Among the seats to be decided is the governor's chair. Unified Labor Movement •;. :#!lease note: The rules in some legislatures allow a defeated bill to be offered ::.":~gain ln an altered version or amended to an entirely different measure. . SOUflCe: AFL-CIO Department of Field Mobilization July 1998 Union members launched a grassroots campaign to educate their fellow brothers and sisters as well as the rest of the voters in California. Seafarers in San Francisco and Wilmington were among those making telephone calls, passing out leaflets and talking with friends and neighbors. "The labor movement really came together," noted SIU Vice President West Coast George McCartney. "Our members got out with others because all of us knew what was at stake. This was life or death." Poll numbers showed a steady drop in Bill Burke/Page One Meeting with the press on June 3, AFL-CIO President John Sweeney states the defeat of Proposition 226 in California sends a message to anti-union forces that "pounding working families is a losing proposition." the number of people who supported Proposition 226. Finally, two weeks before the election, the first independent statewide polls showed more voters opposing the measure than supporting it. When the final results were announced in the early hours of June 3, those voting against Proposition 226 garnered 53.5 percent while those for carried only 46.5 percent. More than three of every four union households voted against Proposition 226, according to exit polling. Fight Is Not Over "Despite winning this very important battle, let's not lose ·sight of the fact the anti-union forces are still out there trying to find other ways to hurt working people," SIU President Sacco pointed out. Several different bills are before Congress, even though some forms of the anti-worker language have been rejected by members in both the House of Representatives and Senate. Se-veral state legislatures are in session with measures before them. Also, the anti-worker groups have grassroots campaigns to gain signatures on petitions to attempt ballot drives in other states. Finally, these forces have vowed to try again in states where they already have been defeated. "Union members have shown they understand how important the political process is in their lives," Sacco added. ''They are willing to fight and fight again to preserve their rights. ''They have shown they are up to the challenge and they will be prepared to meet it squarely and repel it when the anti-worker forces try again." What YOU Can Do If your state is listed as pending: • Write. call or visit and inform your legislator why such a measure is bad for all working people. • Meet with friends, family and neighbors. Let them know how these bills hurt them, and ask them to contact their elected officials. If your state is having an initiative: • Register to vote, then vote against it. • Urge your friends, family and neighbors to do the same. If your state is not listed: • Remind your legislator there is no need for such legislation as it harms all working people. Seafarers LOG 5 �Cleveland Crew Proud to Support U.S. Policies And SIU Traditions Seafarers aboard the SIUcrewed Cleveland recently witnessed the devastating effects of El Nino when the Sealift, Inc. breakbulk freighter transported vehicles, building material, equipment and personnel from New Orleans and Panama to the ravaged, rain-ridden town of Esmeraldas, Ecuador. The operation, dubbed "New Horizons," is a U .S. govemmentsponsored aid program, incorporating equipment and manpower from the U.S . Marine Corps, Air Force and National Guard to provide relief to Ecuador in the form of building new schools and missions as well as clearing roads and replacing bridges which had been washed out by the flooding. The cargo initially was loaded onto six hopper barges in Louisville, Ky. and floated down the Mississippi River to the port of New Orleans. Floating cranes were used to lift the cargo directly onto the Cleveland, a C-5 cargo ship contracted by the Military Sealift Command. The photographs accompanying this article (taken by AB David J. Garoutte and sent to the LOG by Chief Steward Miguel E. Vinca) were shot in the port area as well as approximately 35 kilometers up the Esmeraldas River, where the road was washed out and passage inland became dangerous. Garoutte also noted that "due to natural hazards and guerilla activity in the area, night time travel is not advised." "New Horizons" is a prime example of the U.S. government fine-tuning its foreign aid programs, and the Seafarers aboard the Cleveland were proud to be in a position to support America's policies while at the same time uphold the time-honored traditions of the Brotherhood of the Sea. The main road in the town of Esmeraldas is totally under water. 5 Union-Crewed Vessels Jain U.S.-Thai Operation Fifteen kilometers upriver, the rain-swollen Esmeraldas River is about twiGe its normal size. At right, th~ 018ve1Md'$ 70-tM jumbo Mom offloads a heavy-lift military truck. Four SIU-crewed vessels were among five Military Sealift Command (MSC) ships that sailed to Thailand in late April to provide direct support to this year's annual Cobra Gold exercise. Cobra Gold '98 is the latest in the continuing series of U.S.Thailand military exercises designed to provide constructive benefits to the people of Thailand through combined U.S.-Thailand medical and civil affairs projects. Another of the goals is to strengthen the ability of the Royal Thai Armed Forces to defend Thailand. The Cape Inscription was the first of the five MSC ships to arrive in the port of Chuk Samet, Thailand. The roll-on/roll-off vessel carried more than 300 items for the 10,600 U.S. service members and approximately 6,250 Thai troops participating in the operation. Included among the items were amphibious assault vehicles, tractors, bulldozers, fuel trucks, generators, electronic vans and containers needed by the par- ticpants to build and operate their base camps. The Cape Inscription was followed a few days later by the 1st Lt. Baldomero Lopez, the crane ship Gopher State and the 1st Lt. Jack Lummus. Using cranes on board the Lopez, cargo was lifted to flatbottom barges · (lighters) and floated to the pier. There, the cargo was moved from the lighters by the Gopher State onto the pier. While all this was talcing place, the Lummus transferred more than 57 ,000 gallons of fuel at the fuel/ammunition pier. The fuel offloading, which was expected to take two days to complete, was finished in one. The brunt of the exercise took place between May 18 and June 2: however. its effects will linger long after the operation has been completed. MSC support for Cobra Gold '98 will continue until all the cargo and equipment has been backloaded, and the ships return home. Marching for Democracy The offloaded cargo from the Cleveland is put in a staging area, bound for inland areas hard-hit by El Nino. USllS Capable Lives Up ta Its llame After hearing a distress signal from a sinking boat off the coast of Columbia in late May, the SIUcrewed USNS Capable answered the call. The vessel, operated by Maersk Line for the Military Sealift Command (MSC), was the first of several other craft to arrive on the scene, where they found the 49-foot Ownella bobbing in the water, keel up. The Capable 's rigid, inflatable-hull boat (used in rescue operations) was dispatched for a closer inspection of the wreckage. Lines were found to be wrapped around the capsized boat's propeller, but no survivors were located. At the request of the Curacao Coast Guard. the USNS Capable assumed on-scene commander duties and coordinated the search patterns of a merchant tanker, the Crudesky, and a Curacao search 6 Seafarers LO& aircraft. The crew aboard the MSC vessel retrieved a life jacket with a Colombian passport attached (which they turned over to the Colombian Embassy at their next port of call). The Crodesky and the Colombian Coast Guard vessel each recovered one body from the water in the surrounding area. Throughout the entire recovery operation, the Capable remained on the scene. The vessel's owner was contacted and arranged for a tug to tow the wreckage hack to Columbia. The Otonella had a crew of seven and was carrying a cargo of 25 tons of chicken. The USNS Capable is one of three ocean surveillance ships devoted to counter-drug operations, and is one of approximately 25 special mission ships operated by the MSC. Seafarers joined with other trade unionists and human rights activists in a march for Nigerian democracy in front of the African nation's embassy in Washington, D.C. on June 17. The marchers celebrated the release of imprisoned trade unionists Milton Dabibi and Frank Kokori, while urging the new government to institute democratic reforms. Pictured above are Curtis Dix and Max Hall. July 1998 �Well are Plan Launches Money-Saving Prescription Program for Pensioners Qualified Retirees Will Save Out-of-Pocket Expenses SIU pensioners will be able to take advantage this month of the newest benefit to be added the welfare plan-a prescription medicine program that eliminates the need to pay at the counter. ''This new program is the latest way we are looking out for our members when they have completed their sailing days," noted SIU President Michael Sacco. Eligible retirees should receive in the mail during July a pharmacy identification card along with a letter explaining the new program. The card features the SIU logo along with the member's name and an individual identification number on the front. On the reverse side is a computer strip, much like those on credit cards, for use by pharmacists when a prescription is picked up. The cards and program are being implemented for the Seafarers Welfare Plan by National Prescription Administrators, Inc. (NPA), a firm which provides managed care pharmaceutical services across the country. The company has been in business since 1978. It serves more than 3,500 clients with 7 million covered participants. More than 50,000 drug stores participate in the NPA program. SIU pensioners will receive a list of NPA-approved pharmacies in their states when they receive their prescription card. "We believe this program will provide a tremendous benefit for our pensioners because they will not have any money coming out of their pockets when they have to pick up their prescriptions as long as they have the card with them," stated Lou Delma, plan administrator. "This also will mean a better quality of service as they may choose between going to the drug store to get the prescription or having it delivered by mail." As mentioned by Delma, another aspect of the new program will allow pensioners to order their medications through the mail. He pointed out this would help those who take a certain prescription on a regular basis. In the letter being sent to the Blue Ridge Crew Backs Jones Act During a recent meeting aboard the Crowl~y tanker Blue Ridge in the port of New York, Seafarers empMsiled that the Jone~ Act is vital to America's merchant fleet and therefore to the nation's security. Crew members also discussed the contract covering the BlutJ Ridge, the need for merchant mariners to be politically active and the importance of shipboard safety, among other topics. Pictured above (from left) C\r$ GSU Hamoud Dahbali, Second Pumpman Michael Ribeiro, Bosun Mike Moore, Pumpman Charle~ Dahlhaus, Wiper Abdul Mo~~. AB K. Savage, QMED Jack Singletary, Chief CMk Joe Clark and Steward/Baker Ron Malo~i. In ~hotO$ (lireetly below, Malozi (left) and Clark prepare lunch for their hun· gry, hard-working shipmates. Bottom photo shows the Blue Ridge at sea. July 1998 qualified retirees, the Seafarers Welfare Plan informs them they will be able to receive up to a 34day supply or 100 units of medicine, which ever is greater. If requested by the pensioner's doctor, refills will be available for up to one year. Although it is not mandatory, pensioners also have the option of requesting a generic equivalent medication. Delma noted the use of generic drugs will save the plan additional dollars which will help ensure the program's success. Besides receiving a list of participating drug stores in the pensioner's state, he or she will be able to call ·a toll free number for additional information. Also, pharmacies recognizing the NPA program either have a green-andwhite NPA logo in the door or at the pharmacy counter. Delma said the program's tmportant Dates in SIU Pension Coverage 1949 - Seafarers Welfare Plan implemented. 1961 - SIU negotiates first pension plan for deep sea members. 1981 - Contract negotiations provide revamped pension program. Benefits include medical coverage because of closure of U.S. Public Health Service hospitals and clinics which had provided such treatments for U.S. mariners. 1993 - New contrac! lifts cap for maximum monthly pension benefit 1998 - New prescription plan eliminates qualified retirees' out-of-pocket expenses. effectiveness will be evaluated before a final decision is made to expand a similar prescription plan to active Seafarers. Pensioners who have any questions or concerns about the new .benefit may call the Seafarers Welfare Plan at 1-800-252-4674. ITF Report Reveals Routine Lack of Rest The International Transport Workers' Federation (I1F) recently released results of an extensive study on mariner fatigue, and the report reveals "shocking new evi· dence of potentially huge risks to shipping safety and marine safety environment" because of "disturbing excess hours" on the job. Describing the survey as "thought to be the most extensive research ever undertaken into seafarers' hours," the ITF also issued a number of recommendations to combat the problem, including "increases to inadequate crewing levels." The SIU is one of the more than 470 transport-related unions around the world that comprise the London-based ITF. SIU Executive Vice President John Fay is chairman of the ITF's Seafarers Section_ Titled "Seafarer fatigue: Wake up to the dangers," the ITF report in part is based on surveys of 2,500 mariners from doz.ens of nations. The British officers' union NUMAST assisted in its preparation. It points out that the US Coast Guard has identified fatigue as a factor in 16 percent of major vessel accidents. The study also notes the following: • 30 percent of those surveyed regularly work at least 12 hours per day. • 36 percent get fewer than 10 hours of rest each day, and 18 percent get less than six hours. • Approximately half believe that excessive working hours endanger safety at sea. • A majority believes the situation is worsening. One officer from a passenger ship highlighted the issue when he told the ITF, "On a previous ship, I worked 12-15 hour days, and never had six hours continuous sleep. I worked an 87-hour week for three months. I regularly made errors in passage planning and execution and did not dare to sit down on watch." Among the many other cases documented in the report are two incidents of watchkeeping officers "dozing off' while in control of fast ferries, a cargo ship which collided with an oil tanker after the watchkeeper-who had slept only 2.5 hours in the preceding 33 hours-fell asleep, and several sleep-related car crashes while driving home from ships. In another instance, a grounding occurred after deck officers worked an average of 16 hours a day, with no chance to sleep longer than three consecutive hours. Additionally, the report states or alludes to many of the elements that have exacerbated mariner fatigue in the past 20 years. Sma1ler crew sizes are the most obvious factor, but other components include greatly reduced time in port; working with various inspectors and surveyors who routinely visit ships; and what one publication described as "the electronic array now facing a watchkeeper," which "can add to stress." In an article about the ITF report, T.he Business Times pointed out, "The glaring example of technological advance piling extra work on watchkeepers must be the advent of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) and, on most ships, the departure of the radio officer. Now ·sparkie's' work has to be covered by the bridge watchkeepers. At best that adds workload and increases fatigue. At worst it is also a dangerous distraction from the watchkeepers' main duty-ensuring the safe navigation of the vessel." The ITF report re.commends increasing crew sizes, doing unannounced checks on mariners' hours and "addressing a globally competitive culture which drives vessels to ever faster voyage times, in which reprisals are feared as a result of exercising rights under international regulations." ITF Assistant General Secretary Mark Dickinson concluded, "Only the adoption and application of new rules that address the question of safe crewing levels and make sure mariners gain adequate rest, will do." Seafarers LOG 7 �Deckhand Raymond Blahnik assists in keeping the Boland operating smoothly. OS/Gateman Tim Mizwicki keeps a close eye on the task at hand. Doing his part in the engine room is Oiler Andrew Derry. Porter Mohamed ~aad1 taKes pnae m keeping the Boland's galley spotless. 'Trusty'JobnJ. Boland Helps Boost I .akes Stone Trade to Record High · O n the Great Lakes, mariners refer to the SIU-crewed John J. Boland as "trusty" because of the number of years it has plied those waters. Actually, though it is an Cleaning the cargo holds is Bosun Ronald Bochek. older ship, the Boland still is in reasonably good condition. In fact, it contributed to a new single-month high for the Lakes stone trade in May. But most of all, the Boland is known as a "work boat. The crew members really work hard and put in long hours on that ship. They do a great job," noted SIU Algonac Port Agent Tim Kelley. Operated by American Steamship Company, the Boland is a self-unloader that carries salt, iron ore, taconite pellets, stone and other cargoes from U.S. and Canadian Great Lakes ports. According to statistics released by the Lakes Carriers' Association. the Boland contributed to stone shipments that cx~eeded 5 million tons in the month of May, believed to be an all-time high for one month. As of mid-June, stone ~hip­ ments for this entire season from Lakes ports were around 9.5 million tons, a 21-percent increase compared to the same Watchman James Davison, like all other crew members on the Lakes self-unloader, makes shipboard safety a top priority. Deckhand Matt Sharer and fellow crew members aboard the John J. Boland had a busy May, helping the Lakes stone trade reach an all-time cargo record. period in 1997. The association noted that, "while demand for stone is brisk, the trade has also bene· fited from the mild winter. With virtually no ice and moderate temperatures, many stone docks resumed shipping in March. Typically, stone docs not start moving until early April and generally does not reach its stride until late in the month." Boland Bosun Bochek Best In Snowmobile Bout While in the port of Toledo, Ohio, the John J. Boland unloads salt (photos above and below). The self-unloader, operated by American Steamship Company, also carries iron ore, taconite pellets, stone and other cargoes from U.S. and Canadian Great Lakes ports. Snowy climates don't appeal to everyone, but for Bosun Ronald Bochek, the white stuff is an indispensable eleMent for his Mbby C>f racing clMsic snowmobiles. A member of the SIU's Great Lakes division, Bochek re{.;ently won two races in the Eagle River (Wis.) Championship, a tournament that drew competitors from ArC>und the wMd. He placed first in the vintage open class and vintage 440 class snowmobile races, using a 1973 Thunderjet. Bochek currently sails aboard the John J. Boland. B Seafarers LOii July 1998 �Union Joins in Observing Maritime Memorial Day As is its custom, the SIU participated in several 1998 Maritime Memorial Day ceremonies across the country. Besides the events that took place in Washington, D.C. (which were reported in the June issue of the Seafarers LOG), SIU members, retirees and officials also took part in annual commemorations in San Francisco, St. Louis, Mobile, Ala. and San Pedro, Calif. The events took place May 22, marking the 65th anniversary of the date originally designated by Congress as Maritime Memorial Day. In San Francisco this year, Seafarers were among the hundreds of people who climbed aboard the historic Liberty ship Jeremiah O'Brien for its annual voyage under the Golden Gate Bridge. Wreaths were placed in the ocean during the trip in memory of those who lost their lives at sea. Down the coast, San Pedro hosted its traditional ceremony at the American Merchant Marine Veterans (AMMV) Memorial, conducted by local AMMV officials. The observance featured a number of guest speakers representing different segments of the maritime industry; a church service; and other remembrances. of the The Cathedral Immaculate Conception served as the starting point for the activities in Mobile, Ala. After the service, participants went to the local merchant marine monument and conducted a wreath-laying ceremony. Finally, the SIU hall in St. Louis served as the site of an uncommon Maritime Day event. There, the union hosted guests from the United States Transportation Command (TRANS- Aboard the Liberty ship Jeremiah O'Brien in San Francisco, SIU Representative Vince Coss (right) and Joe Valencia, retired member of the Marine Engineers' Beneficial Association, prepare to toss a memorial wreath into the Pacific. COM), whose headquarters are at nearby Scott Air Force Base. (TRANSCOM oversees the logistics movements of the U.S. armed forces as well as the U.S. Military Sealift Command.) Representatives of TRANSCOM inspected the facility and inquired about various aspects of the procedures for securing employment aboard SIU-contracted vessels. They also examined the union's role in assisting members. The SIU was well-represented at commemorations in Mobile, Ala. Pictured from left are SIU Mobile Port Agent Dave Carter, Retiree William Roche, Recertified Steward Robert Scott and Chief Cook Bertrand Wright. During the ceremony aboard the Jeremiah O'Brien (above), retired Steward Lee De Parlier toasts those who have passed away. VA Clarifies Health-Care Questions U.S. military veterans, including most merchant mariners who sailed during World War II, will remain eligible for health care benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) even if they don't enroll for one of the newly created "priority groups" with the agency by October 1. Responding to what it described as "incorrect information distributed by others on the Inrnrnet," che VA i;;Jarified an issue thac has caused substantial cMfusil)n and alarm among veterans groups, including various chapters of the American Mercha.nt Marine Veterans. The uncertainty stems from a cutoff date-October 1, 1998by which the VA is req\lired by law to estab1ish an enrollment systc;m for health-care services. The law caJls fl)r the VA to manage access to VA care by using differem caregories of enrollment prioritie5, nr;r;Qrc;ling to the agency. Altogether, there are seven enrollment priority groups, with the VA determining the proper category for individual applicants. "While veterans must be Fisherman Dies lnAacident An accident claimed the lifo of longtime SITJ fishermatt Anhmio J. Pereirtt, 50, last month in Provincetown, Mass. According to local news reports, Brother Pereira slipped off a pier while ~ttempting to pull a boat closer to th<: dock. He apparently struck his head on the edge of the boat, fell into Provincetown Harbor and drowned. The accident took place about 1:30 a.m. on June 15. Rescue efforts reportedly were ham· percd by upfavorable weather conditions, described by a U.S. Coast Guard officer as "high tide, windy, there was no moon July 1998 enrolled to receive care, it does not mean that veterans who have not applied for enrollment by that date (October 1, 1998) will lose their eligibility for VA health care," the department stated in its release. "Veterans can apply and be enrolled at the time they are in need of VA health care. Veterans who have received VA health-care services since October I, 1996 will have an application processed automatically on their behalf." The VA emphttsi:zed that veterans may apply for enrollment "at any time that they come to a VA medical facility for care, even after October I, 1998.H They also encoura.ged all veterans who have not rei;cived treatment at a VA facility sini;;e October I, 1996 co apply for enrollment by this fall "to help VA plan its services and allocate its resource~. To apply for enrollment, vecerans may call, write or visit their nearest VA health-care facility. Most facilities have designated spei;ial enrollment coordinators, the VA stated. More information is available at the VA web site: www.va.gov. At left, representatives of the U.S. Transportation Command gained a better understanding of today's U.S. merchant marine by inspect· ing the SIU hall in St. Louis. 11 and the wa.ter was choppy." A diving team recovered the body at 3:30 a.m. Brother Pereira, whosr; home pon was New Bedford, Mass., was the captain aboard the 65foot dragger Kimbandt1 . One press account uid tha.t he and two other fishermen had docked in Provincetown to dodge a storm. "He was a big help to the SIU," stated Henri Francois, th<: union's port agent in New Bedford. He was with this union for 23 years, he was a wonderful fisherman and he was always looking out for his family." Brother Pereira, a native of Portugal who had lived in New Bedford for 25 years, is survived by his wife, five sons, two sisters, a brother, a grandson and several nie~es and nephews. 0 John Cox, SIU port agent in Wilmington, Calif., displays the wreath presented by the SIU for the San Pedro event. On hand to hear the numerous guest speakers at the AMMV ceremony in San Pedro, Calif. were (from left) SIU Retirees Joe Martella, Ed O'Brien and Fred Vogler, along with former Seafarer James Rolin and OMU Joshua Faughn. Brotherhood Extends to Classroom Seafarer Eric Overby (right) takes the SIU's motto, "Brotherhood of the Sea," to heart. So, he gladly offered to tutor Elmo Davis (left) while both attended the AB class at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in May. He also assist· ed other classmates. "I couldn't have gotten through the class without Eric's help," stated Davis. "Heck, he helped the whole class." Said Overby: "I enjoy helping others. The whole Brotherhood should help out any way they can." Seafarers LOS 9 �Weddings, graduations, the births of children and grandchildren-these are the everyday events so important in the lives of SIU members, who often are away from home for several months at a time. As always, the LOG welcomes your photos and will publish them on a periodic basis. JD Seafarers LOii July 1998 �Electrician Earhart Captures 'Deep Freeze' On Videotape Seafarer Chris Earhart likes the fact that his job takes him to different places around the world. He also believes in utilizing photographs and videotape to capture some of the more notewonhy locations he visits. So, when he signed aboard the Samuel L. Cobb as chief electrician for last year's "Operation Deep Freeze," Earhart armed himself with a camcorder and many good ideas for shooting an informative, entertaining video during his offtime aboard ship. Operation Deep Freeze is an annual resupply mission calling ·for delivery of millions of gal lons of petroleum products (along with various dry stores) to McMurdo Station, a U .S.-operated scientific research base in Winter Quarters Bay, located in the Ross Ice Shelf in Antarctica. "I figured this isn't the type of voyage a person makes very often, so I shot the tape. It turned out well and it was fun," Earhart recalled, adding that although he has shared it with crew members, it is the video equivalent of a personal photo album, rather than a formal instructional piece. During other trips, Earhart has taken stilt photos of a rescue at sea and various scenery in Shanghai, among other shots. But the colorful Antarctica tape marked his successful debut as a video cameraman. It opens with tours of the deck, engine and steward departments, as various crew members take turns narrating and explaining the basic equipment. Maps are used to show the Cobb's path from Greece to Australia to Antarctica. Then, viewers take in some less-obvious surroundings, such as individual foc's'les , the crew lounge and the laundry area. From there, Earhart includes compelling footage taken from the wheelhouse and on deck as the ship nears McMurdo Station. For the landlubber, the shots of the Samuel L. Cobb rising and falling in rough seas, with waves spraying across a large portion of the deck, are enough to make one reach for a steady object. Equally dramatic are the overhead shots of the bow breaking through sprawling segments of ice. On the lighter side, plenty of seals and penguins dot the landscape as the vessel nears its des- tination and then docks. During the last fourth of the 2 hour, 20 minute video, a member of the McMurdo staff describes various aspects of the base, from the complex scientific research to the basics of daily living in such a challenging climate. For example, the station has more than 100 buildings, plus graded roads, vehicles, a power plant and power lines. Electricity is maintained by six generators, and fresh water is produced by a saltwater distillation plant. Additionally, while Antarctica is extremely windy and is 98percent covered by ice, its location and climate offer exceptional chances to study biology, human physiology, meteorology, upper atmosphere physics, geology, glaciology and more. Another highlight of the tape is the breathtaking image from the observation tower at McMurdo Station, which stretches surprisingly high above the complex. Finally, with the delivery complete, the Cobb resumes its voyage, and Earhart wraps the tape with a shot of the horizon as the vessel heads out to sea. Never one to miss a good photo opportunity, Seafarer Chris Earhart poses with Chinese military officers during a voyage to Shanghai. Denebola at the Ready 30-Year Seafarer Dttfesus Eyes Retirement Global Link Crew Says 'Welcome Ashore' to Engine Dept. Member For longtime Seafarer Ruben DeJesus, this month marks the end of a very active career at si;a--otte that spanned 30 years and included morr; than 7 ,300 sailing days. His fellow Seafarers and licensed personnel aboard the O/Q{Jql Link recently marked the occasion of his retirement with a shipboard celebration. 0 Por his retirement party, I baked him a special coconut cake (his favorite) and he was given numerous gifts," noted Cook/Baker B1fan Sargent, whei along with First Assistant Engineer Brian Yc'.'.lung ~ent the accompanying photos to the Seafarers LOG. 0 We decorated the crew mess with ribbons and balloons. The captain invited everyone to join us before lunch for a surprise ceremony honoring Ruben." Sargent wrote that engine department members gave DeJesus a new fishing pole and Seafarers aboard the USNS Denebola (below) come from various ports around the country, but they share the common goal of keeping the fast sealift ship in top condition. That is true whether the vessel is in reduced operating status (ROS) at its berth in Bayonne, N.J., or activated for military exercises or other assignment. Above, deck department members prepare a bumper to be lowered between Denebola's hull and the pier. Pictured from left to right are Bosun Herman Reynolds, OS E. Martinez and AB Ben Shupp. Chief Cook Willie Crear (left) and Cook/Baker Brian Sargent display the coconut ee.ke prepared for Wiper Ruben OeJesus. tackle to enable the native of Puerto Rico to pursue his favorite hobby. The rest of the unlicensed crew and officers presented him with a personalized "Welcome Ashore" plaqu~. "Our old friend and shipmate will be missed by all," concluded Sargent. 11·r"<· During his last voyage, DeJesus sailed as a wiper aboard the cable ship. He caught his first ship in 1968 from the port of New York. Once a professional boxer, he p1ans to retire to the U.S. Virgin Islands. . :\ .. J .· . ·v :. . I 1· ...:. J i·1· ~f -· ·..-...............~--. . . . OeJesus Mcepts Mngratula.tions and good wi$hes from First Assistant Engineer Bri~n Young (right) And OMU Mel Grayson Sr. (center}. July 1998 As he winds down a career with the SIU that began in 1968, Ruben DeJesus receives a commemorative plaQue from ship· mates aboard the Global Link. An important aspect of ROS operations is closely monitoring the engine room. Above, left, Chief Electrician Frank Bakun checks breakers. Above, right, Chief Cook Robert Valentine and Steward/ Baker Gary Lackey keep the galley in good shape and their shipmates well fed. Seafarers LOG 11 �Seafarers crew a number of tugboats that operate in the Philadelphia area, including the James McAllister. Steward/Baker Rob Hess readies lunch aboard the Mayaguez. Standing gangway watch on the Sea Fox is Bosun Ferdinand Lugo. Tankerman William Lehew gets the job done on the Maritrans tug Liberty. While fog covers the Delaware River at the Maritrans pier, SIU boatmen prepare the Liberty for its next assignment. Deep Sea, Toland Seafarers Are Active In 'City al Brotherly Love' Cargo volumes and waterborne traffic are increasing in the port of Philadelphia, and SIU members there are very much in the mix. SIU boatmen sail aboard ship-docking tugboats and barges that ply the Delaware River port, which extends to Camden, N.J. They also work on the local passenger ferry as well as ocean-going tugs and barges, tankers and dry-cargo ships that regularly call on Philadelphia. Among the SIU-contracted inland companies operating in the area are Crowley, Moran, Turecamo, Maritrans, McAllister and Express Marine. (Maritrans also operates deep-sea tankers regularly sailing to Philadelphia.) A number of Seafarers-crewed deep sea ships are among the more than 3,000 vessels that annually load and offload at the port facilities, including some of those operated by Navieras and Sea-Land. The port itself, which services many cargoes requiring specialized handling (such as meat, fruit, steel, and forest products) has been upgraded in recent years, thanks to investment by the states of Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Projects have included building new terminal facilities, adding new equipment and renovating existing facilities. f• '.:· The M"ritriifn~ 300 is one of many barges operated by t 12 Seafarers LOG company. Many SIU-crewed deep sea ships including the Nuevo San Juan call on the port of· Philadelphia. July 1998 �Mate Lance Riggs at the helm, docks a barge in New Jersey. Discussing the latest union news are SIU Representative Joe Mieluchow· ski (left) and Captain Jeff Parkin of the tug Teresa McAllister. The Navieras shore gang (kneeling, from left) includes A. Quiles, 0 . Balico, (second row) A. Ware, M. Torre, SIU Rep Joe Mieluchowski , J. Vazquez, T. Lopez, B. Ott, P. Lavin and H. Thrower. From left, Deckhand Ed Devine, Deckhand Ted Rozier and Captain Jeff Parkin report for work at the McAllister pier. OMU Jim Brown is a crew n"t~mber a.board the Navieras ship Carolina. Making the CarDlina a good feeder are (from left) Chief Steward Hasan Rahman, SA Mario Bertrand, SA Billy Mitchell and Chief Gook Michael Harris. A< ~ .. · z 1 Reviewing a saf~ty re~~m aboard me Liberty is Tankerman Rich Lord. Arriving for a union meet· ing on the Perseveranc~ i$ AB Bill Watson. RIGHT; The MaritraM tanker Integrity is the site as AB Ray Leak (left) and DEU Mike Joel examine the patrolman's report following a ~hipboard meeting. BELOW'. Philadelphia is a busy port for inland Seafarers, including Captain Gil Pruitt, standing by the Express Marin@ tu~ GutJrrJitm. Aboard the Maritrans tanker Perseverance (from left), Chief Cook Charles Yancey, SA C. Ransom and Steward/Baker Larry Ewing display a cake. Ready for the union meeting aboard Express Marine's Guardian are (from left) Captain Gil Pruitt, Deckhand Wes Ewell. Mate Homer Pruitt and AB/Cook Tom Horton. ~ Carrying on the SIU tradition of supporting renow trade unioni$t$ are (from left) Bill Kelly. Tim Logan, Mike Fay, Dennis McGUigan and Bert Smith, who rallied in support of Transit Workers Union Local 234. Seafarers Joe Grandinett, Tim Logan and Bill Kelly demonstrate their backing of 5,000 union bus drivers and mechanics in the Philadelphia area embroiled in a contract dispute. Following a full day's work. all is quiet aboard the Moran tug Reedy Point. July 1998 Seafarers LOG 13 �Safely Running With the Bull LNG Taurus Reaches 900 Days Without Lost-Time Injury . i• ~·~~ ~·~ . . . ·· . .. ,.·. ,;:.~ r.~ ;.t Sea/are rs LOG about the accom- "Dropping by'' the captain's office while painting the house are ABs Ken Steiner (left photo) and Kimberly Clark. When baseball player Cal Ripken of the Baltimore Orioles broke Lou Gherig's streak for consecutive games played, the accomplishment spawned numerous media stories nationwide about lesser-known citizens who displayed similar commitment to their respective jobs. Add the SIU-crewed LNG Taurus to the list, because the tanker recently reached a milestone of its own: 900 consecutive days without a lost-time injury. Captain J.E. Carr alerted the Shortly after the LNG Taurus reached 900 days without a lost-time injury, crew members added an award plate to the ship's plaque. Proudly commemorating the accomplishment are (from left) Recertified Bosun Dan Marcus, Chief Steward Arlene Ringler, QMED Charles Clausen and AB Ken Steiner. This view of Recertified Bosun Dan Marcus readily reveals why shipboard safety is a must. Not pictured, but tending the safety line while Marcus works on the front wall of the Taurus' accommodation house, is AB Ron LaMere. •.I•~ ·1'·.f. v . ~6_f:, ,1~ "' . - · ~. { ·A .... ! . ·~ ., plishment and sent the accompanying photos. He pointed out that one key to the Energy Transportation Corporation vessel's sterling record is the shipboard safety meetings conducted by the crew. The Taurus transports liquefied natural gas between ports in Indonesia and Japan. An SIUcrewed ship since its christening in Quincy, Mass. in 1979, it features five massive, spherical cargo tanks that rise 40 feet above the deck. Each tank weights 800 tons, is 120 feet in diameter and eight inches thick. Altogether, they hold 125,000 cubic meters of liquid natural gas, at 265 degrees below zero (Fahrenheit). .::c- AFL-CIO Praises ILO's Declaration The AFL-CIO welcomed the: Internationa1 Labor Organization's (ILO) recent adoption of a "Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights al Work." Delegates to the ILO's 86lh annual labor cottterence, in Geneva, passed the de,claration June 18. In announcing the passage. the ILO stated thm the move "underlines that t\ll member countries have an l'.lbligmion to respect the fundamental principles involved .... The vote was 273 for, and 0 against, with 43 abstentions." John Sweeney, president of the AFLCIO (the national federation of crade unions, of which the SIU is an affiliate), described the declaration as "an hisroric brtakthrough thar drnmatica11y underscores the impor· tancc of basic rights for workers in the global economy. For the first rime, the dedaration n::c· ognizes that all ILO member sUU~, whether or not they have ratified the conventions, have an obligation to respect fundamental workers' rights: freedom of association, and the right to organize and collectively bargain; elimination of all forms of forced or compu1sory labor: effe~tive abolition of child labor; and elimination of discrimination in employment and occupation. "The ILO dcclara· tion will be followed up with an annual examination of compliance with these fundamental rights in non-ratifying as well M ratifying coun- T he U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) requires that all tirr..5 Bold in the nited States carry a code which ldenlllks. amon~ other Lhing1i. tho comoany an<! the plant tnut made cucn Lire, It Is molded lnw Lhe !<ldewall or rvery Ure \\I' ":rn u~e Lhal code to a.. ur't' that tire we ouv ror our cars aml lr\J('kS u.ere made b rubber >Norkerl! co~ered by St.eelworkcm union ( SWAJ comracts. With raro e:1eeption, the cO<le-roun<t near each uroe·s wheelbeael-loots like this: DOT AC L9 i\BC 036 TM two symoo1s 1mme1.11111,e1y followtns "DOT" arr the ones we're looking for. They Wiii l>e either two letters or one letter ancl Codv JF KellY·Snr1nene1a. Fayeuevllle, (Goodyrar) AD General llre, Maylletcl, Ky. IConllnentol) JH A Uniroyal Goodrich. ooenKa. Ala. (Michelin) AO Gcner11l TIM, Rr 11n, Ohio (Continent.al) BE Uniroyal Goodrich. Tuscaloosa, Ala. (MlchellnJ .c. Bridgestone/Firestone. Des Moines, la. (Bridgestone) Kelly· prtngneld. Freeport. Ill. (Goodyear) W1 Bridgestone/Firestone, Lavergne, Tenn . (Bridgestone) YD Brldgeslone/Firestone. Decatur. "1. (Bridge lone) m RridgestoneJFirest.one. Des Moines, Ia. (Brf(lgestone) YT Bridgestone/Firestone, Decatur, Ill. (BrldgesLone) YU Brldgest.onc/Firestone. Des 1oines, la. (Bridgestone) ¥7 Brldgeslone/Firestone. Lavergne. Tenn. (Bridge lone) 1C Bridgestone/Firestone, City (Bridge tone) 2C BrldgeslOne/Ftre wne, Morrison, Tenn. (Bridge tone) 2M BrldgestoneJFlrestone. Rloomington . Ill. (Bridgestone) JJ Goodyear. Gaasaen. Ala. JN Gooayear. Topeka, Kan. JP Kelly- ' orin~e l<t. 1Y1er, Tex. (Good ear) Goodyear, nlon City, Tenn . Gooctyear. Danvllle. Va. MD Goodyear, Gad den. Ala. Yokohama Tire, Salem, Va. (Yokohama) MJ Goodyear. Topeka , Kan. man 11re, Des Moines, la. MK Good t'ar, Union City, Trnn. rman wneel lnternauonal) MM CH Plrelll, Hanroro, Calif. (Plrelll) Kclly-sor1ni:nc1a, Fayetteville, (Good ·ear) MN CV Fldrllly Tirc. atchcz.. Mioo. l'nt.an Wheel 1ntern:momi11 Kclly-Sprinnfield, Freeport, Ill. (Goodyear) MP Kelly- prlngnclrl. Tyler. Tex. (Goorlycar) ~\f PJ k'i>lly-Springneld. Fayelle~ille. ~.C . (Goodyear) 50 Uniroyal Goodrich. Woodburn . Ind. (Michelin) Ot\ Ounloo. Buffalo, .Y. (Sumitomo) DR oun100. HuntsVllle, Ala. {Sum1wmo) DY Denman, Warren, Ohio (Pensler Capital) PK Krlly-flpringficld. F'reeoort. Ill. (Goodyear) D2 Brid1;e;ilone/Pimilone, Lavergne, 'lenn. !Bridgestone) PL Kelly-Springfield, Tyler, Tex. (Good ear) B3 Brl<tge tonr/VlresLOne, Lavergne, Tenn, (Brld1:est-0neJ PO Pidclity TI re, atchez, Miss. (Titan wncel 1mernauom11) HY Brldgestone/J.lrestonc. Oklahoma City (Bridll I.one) The SIU-crewed liquid sulphur i;;arrier Sulphur /;nterprise recently Brldgesinne/Flrcstone. Oklahoma City (Brid{(f'-'11nnc) Goodyear, Danville. Va. UNION LABEL ANO Company/Brand & Location (Parent Company) VE JT CF' Seafarers LOG · Cude l\IC cc 14 company/Brand & Location (Pal'l!nl Gom11anyJ General Tire, Charlotte, .C. (Conunental) BF received its International Safety Management Code (ISM) certificate during a brief shipboard ceremony_July 1 marks the deadline for \;Ompliam;~ with phtise Me ot the ISM Code, part of the 1974 lnt~rnational Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea. Above (trcm left), recognizing the Sulphur £nt~rpri~~·~ c~rtification are Steward/Baker N~e Tran, Captain Richard Moranville, LMS Shipmanagement Vice President William Harrison, C_J _ Barrois of LMS, (second r6W) l'>fficers Ricky King. Frank Hoot and Shawn Tuey. and Jake Stahl of LMS. Cftlle one number. In the example used here. the letters "AC" designate a Ure made al the General Tire plant In Charlotte. .C. In acldlllon LO compan~-name brands . man~ of the planL~ also produce ·associall' hrancr or .. orlvate brand .. llf'('S. The codes lllOSe tires will be the same as those on the compan -name brands produced at each or the planw. 'fhe following list is adapted from one supplled t>y tile USWA. B comparing the code on tirt's you are considering buyjng with the codes on tne llst, you can be sure you arc gelling union-made tires_ (All lil'C3 carl'Yine the Michelin brand label are on tile AFL· CIO nauonwlde Do ot Buy! llsl-sce page 5.) AC rries _" Sulphur Enterprise Gets ISM Certificate Comp:my,i11r2nd & Lotation (P:mml Comp<my) Enthusiastically donning a survival suit as part of a safety exercise is SA Philena Cosby. .c. 41) BrldgesLUne/Flreswne. l\lorrlson. Tenn. (Brirlgrslonc) 7B Brldgrstonc/Fircslone. Decatur. Ill. (Bridgestone) 88 Bridgestone/Fi rest.one. Des Moines, la. (Bridgestone) PT Goodyear, DanVllle, va. CANADA PU Good)ear. Gadsden. J\la. Bli f'Y Good ear, Topela. Kan . D9 T Goodyear. Union City, Tenn. UP Cooper. fi'inlay_Ohio UT Cooper, Texarkana, Ark. VO Brldgest-0nwF1restone, Decatur, 111. (Brltlgest.oneJ SERV ICE TR.I.DES O~Iahoma Cnlro~·al Goodrich. Kitchener. Ont. (Michelin) /""". Lnlted Tire, Rexdale, Om. (Pensler Capital) JU.PC Goodyear. & K Medicine Hat.Alta. DEPARTMENT. AFL·C I O July 1998 �Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea August & September 1998 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters MAY 16 - JUNE 15, 1998 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port New York . . Phi ladelpiiir . . : 31 · · ·: . 3 21 2 4 0 4 8 14 24 3 13 5 0 6 11 16 3 ll Baltimore Norfolk Mobile New Orleans J.~c~~~yill.~ ., . · '. . . 35 : .' $.~ri': ~fuP.~1$~b" ' 30 · witrilingmn 26 Seattle 26 Puerto Rico 11 Honolulu 9 ~Houston 19 · .-St Louis 10 14 ",,'... 3 9 7 3 5 .3 9 2 l 0 5 Algonac 0 2 242 141 '5 . 2 15 }':iney Point Totals . :.... 1 .2 . 0 St Trip Reliefs DECK DEPARTMENT 8 24 15 4 .... 1 3 "" } " . 0 3 2 2 9 9 5 5 8 4 2 8 9 11 6 '" 31 14 10 12 "4 "'" . 16 6 .] "'" "' j ·"·" :;:::: .• ,::::x: ... :.:::.:.:.·· ..:::::c:. :.::::.v **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C Tuesday, September 8* 51 :, fr 7 25 19 33 59 54' 46 1~ ·12·:":' '} 12 6 4 5 2 2 0 0 l 2 l 0 1 110 2 0 0 38 3 0 0 43 80 421 15 11 IO 4 2 7 4 9 2 164 Piney Point.. ............. Monday: August 3, 53 11 16 28 "', . (j"" 15 1. 8 4 16 6 19 7 3 4 15 .31 13 ..... 19 21 2 16 ··~"'25':':'.' 4 "::3 13 3 13 5 13 6 *( chtmge created by Labor Dt1y holiday) Algonac .................... Friday: August 7, September 11 Baltimore ................. Thursday: August 6, September l 0 Duluth .............. ~ .. :.... Wednesday: August 12, September 16 .. ~OO()~ulu .................. Friday: August 14, September 18 ........ ...... ' .. ::.:::. H~Us~~~·';:L;'~'. ~:;.~~. ····~·~···Monday: August 10, September 14 Jacksonville .......... ~ ...Thutsday: August 6, September 10 Jersey City ............... WedneSda~: August 19, September 23 Mobile ...................... Wednesda.y:August 12, September 16 New Bedford ............Tuesday: August 18, September 22 6 222 0 106 16 3 2 1 2 ENGINE DEPARTMENT Port : NeW::: YQ.r~: '.':Pfiiia~eiptiif 11 2 ·" . :·: . . . '·'Baltimore Norfolk Mobile New Orleans 4 13 14 5 7 7 6 Jacksonville ·, San Francisco 17 14 5 7 6 15 5 8 ·12:: Wilmington Seattle Puerto Rico Honolulu .Houston St TOTAL smPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C · 16 · Lqui~. P~!ley. P~int 4 Algonac 0 Totals 139 0 1 3 3 3 7 6 4 0 0 2 4 20 6 0 2 15 2 20 18 16 19 7 Tacoma ..................... Friday: Aug.ust 21, September 25 6 Wilmington ..............Tuesday. August 18* t7 .1 4 3 4 8 8 10 1 6 4 8 20 96 34 2 1 76 0 87 2 10 3 12 17 0 5 7 1 0 1 0 2 16 40 190 165 0 3 9 4 41 3 l 0 0 ...... 16 4 0 . 7 1 0 4 1 . 15 0 1 . 5 .... 2 - 2 7 2 '~:. 2 l 7 .. .·-; .. . ::.: : ..... ... - - 0 7 9 l 0 ... 9 14 8 ' 13 2 3 .. 6 9 4 ... . 0 ,· 012.... 20 · 13 '; s~~ Fra~cisco ........... ThurSd;y;:·Au~~sf)3, September 17 San Juan ................... Thursday: August 6. September lO St. Louis ................... Friday: August 14, September 1& Monday. ·September 21 *(change create:d by Paul Hall birthday holiday) 1 5 9 0 4. 0 46 AB Reiner Goes on Book Signing Tour t 7 1 Mobile j New Orleans :1a~k~~n.y~11c 42 Wi 11f:l.fr1.g~~n::/L"'.· ./:-: ·:14....... Seaule Puerto Rico Honolulu 3 3 5 0 0 1 :3:3 3 12 .:.'.Hgy~~ptF:·::::.;>:::":..... :. 13 st1S~?.',ui·§.:. . ·:. . . . .'.'.'. : :· '. o . :pi'ney ·i>oini'"":: .:. : :·:.: .:. .: 5 Algonac Totals 0 0 0 1 7 . . . . . . . . o::·: ·o ·: :·j "(l o 2 · . .:. o·. . · 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 16J 48 18 118 40 18 SS 231 73 2S .: 'O .::',.,' "5 42 35 0 ENTRY DEPARTMENT Port ":N¢~/"YQiic :.f hil.adelphj,a jj~.tih~oici.:. . . . . . :. Norfolk 9 ""'' 0 7 0 0 . '"" 3 13 12 4 Mobile 1 7 2 13 :1~~k$.9.ilY.~·Ji~.:.·:.:.: .·: ·· 4 &· ~:·s~,h . F:f.•n~~~cii;:::: . . . 7. : ·" . . . 19 : j i t.win~o,ff,'.'.: .:E~f... ::ft . . :::5i'.: . .: .'.':'.'. &......'. . . Seattle 8 Puerto Rico 5 Honolulu 3 i 0 5f:loJ,facon . . . :·:·S .~i,').s~UiS . . :. "~:~fie;,( Point.. . . : ·;::.. Algonac Totltls 5 1 o· New Orleans 11 4 4 0 35 79 ··: . 6.:.. 9 · . . {} , "" : 1 I4 . . o. 7 11 0 0 0 0 l 6 2 1 0 4 5 3 0 6 2· 11 5 7 18 15 3 18 13 0 0 8 17 2.5 l 20 37 .. 5 0 o. 7 13 ."5 ". 10 1 2 7 3 I l 0 22 0 13 8 6 27 7 63 3 0 9 0 2 0 0 0 11 11 3 0 0 1 0 0 0 44 166 168 36 108 106 0 0 0 86 588 451 271 405 334 183 175 928 0 16 6 4 " 0 0 0 o 3 6.· 5 41 15 I 16 AB Larry Reiner's new action-packed novel, The Other Shore, was formally published two months ago. He recently went on a booking-signing tour in a number of stores in Tempe, Phoenix, Scottsdale and Paradise Valley, Ariz. to promote both it and the merchant marine (see photo above). " The book is a fictionalized account of the crew aboard a U.S.-flag prepositioning vessel as it heads for the Persian Gulf War. The main character in the book, Captain Al Stacey, is the only major returning character from Reiner's earlier work, Minute of Silence, which was published in 1990. Seafarers may order the novel by sending a check or money order to lntegra Press at 1702 West Camelback Road, Suite 119, Phoenix, AZ 85015. The pre-publication discounted cost of $20 (or $36 for the new novel and a copy of Minute of Silence) will remain in effect until the end of this month. Reiner will autograph copies of the novel to SIU members and retirees who identify themselves as such when reQuesting the book. 9 4 101 14 1 268 2 11 2 265 728 442 Attention Seafarers: Our flag at sea is good for America and important to you. All Departments • 2 3 sa~:.:; Fr~:ncf~cq...,.: Total~ j 11 Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. contribute to SPAD! U"Regiscered on Beach.. means rhe coral number of Seafarers regisrered at the pon. July 1998 Seafarers LOG J5 �Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes Seafarers lntemalional Union Directory MAY 16 - JUNE 15, 1998 CL - Company/Lakes Augustin Tel~ Lakes NP - Non Priority TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP David Heindel Secretary-Treasurer L- **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP ........................... ............ .Yi~e. Presidcnt Contracts .., ,..... · · .. Ge~ McCartney Vice President West Coast Port 0 24 6 0 8 0 19 . 20. 57 0 2 0 24 81 32 Totals All Depts 0 *"Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **"Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. 30 Algon~; ·~ Port o· ·Algonac (}"' Port ... DECK DEPARTMENT 7 0 0 .. ENGINE DEPARTMENT .: ·:5 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT Algonac ·O Port Algonac ~ HEADQ1,JARTERS 520 l Auth Way Camp Springs. MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr. Algonac, Ml 48001 (8 t0) 794-4988 ·· . . 0 0. 0 0 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #IC AnchOra~e. AK 99503 ... (907 J 56 t -49M BALTIMORE Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters . · MAY 16 -JUNE 15, 1998 12 I 6 E . Balli more SL Baltimore, MD 21202 (41()) 327-4900 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C DULUTH 705 Medical Arts Building Duluth, MN 55802 (218) 722-4110 HONOLULU {)06 Kalihi St. .Honolulu. HJ 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St. Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE ··: ".w. 3315 ,Liberty St ·::· ' ".t~k.$()'riville, FL 32206 ': ::: .... / (004) 353-0987 . Region . A~lru1Ji.c .q past ... 0 ... 0 0 8 0 5 0 5 Gulf Coast Lakes, lnland Waters 29 1 West Coast 35 Totals Region 0 Atlantic Coast 0 Gulf Coast 0 2 2 13 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 0 4 1 8 2 0 37 0 18 2 5 7 0 46 10 27 1 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 14 14 0 0 0 0 0 0 14 14 I I STEWARD DEPARTMENT ......... o,~ 0 0 2 I : .:.:.:. :;Q·::.::: .. 0 1 ....J) ' ·:·:::."1 .'. ·: : o . 3 0 0 0 West Coast Total~ **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 12 3 4 11 16 0 0 ·O 2 2 .. 0 15 0 12 27 ·o o· 0 0 4 0 0 0 0 4 0 0 0 5 12 76 2 Totals All Depts 74 6 19 52 *"Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **"Registered on Bea1;h" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. 4 4 35 PIC-F OM-THE-PAST This photograph wa~ ~ent to the St:Jafar~rs LOG by Pensioner John W. Curl~W {)f GersM City, Nev. The photo was taken in February 1952 aboard the SS 8essem~r Victory. In a note to the LOG accom· panying the photograph, Br{)ther Curlew wrote: "A few days out {)f San Franci5cc, bcund fer Kcrea, a erew member became sick and died. His family requested a bur- ial at sea. Here we are waiting for the service to begin." (Brother Curlew is at the upper right on the boat deck.) Following the service, the ship stopped while the body was ce>mmitted to the deep. A moment of silence wa~ broken by three blasts frcm the ship's whistle; then the voyage continued. Brother Curlew joined the union in 1947. He completed the bosun recertification program in 1975 and last sailed aboard the Sea•Land Pilfriot in 1989. Brother Curlew retired in 1990 to the high mountain desert of Nevada. - J6 Seafarers LOG If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with the LOG readership, it should be sent to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. July 1998 �Welcome Ashore 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 waterways 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 member.s for a job well done and wish them happiness and good health in the days ahead. mong the 16 Seafarers joining the ranks of pensioners this month are three recertified stewards. Recertified Stewards Tobe Dansley, Ezekiel M. Bagger and Neville Johnson graduated from the highest level of training available to members in the galley gang at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. They represent a combined 94 years of active union membership. Including the three recertified stewards, 10 of those signing off sailed in the deep sea division, four navigated the inland waterways, one plied the Great Lakes and one shipped in the Atlantic Fishermen's division. Seven of the retirees sailed in the deck department, while five worked in the engine department and four were members of the steward department. On this page, the Seafarers LOG presents brief biographical accounts of this month's pensioners A DEEP SEA ABRAHAM B. ABAS, 66, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1969 from the port of New York. Born in Singapore, he sailed in the engine department and upgraded his skills at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. Brother Abas last sailed in 1987 aboard the Ma.nltattan, operared by Manhattan Tankers. He makes his home in Scaule. TOBE DANSLEV, 62, gradu!Ued from the Andrew Furuseth Training School in 1959 and join~ the SIU in the l'Ort of Mobile, Ala. A native of Ala· bama, he sailed in the steward department and upgraded at the Lundcberg School, where he sra.duatM from the ~reward recertification program in 1985. Brother Danslcy last sailt:d aboard the Petusburg, a Bay Ship Management vessel. He has retired to Mobile. EDWARD M. DORUTH, 71, joined the Seafarers in 1966 in the port of New York. During his career, he sailed primarily in the deck department a11d wa~ active in union organizing arives_ The Illinois native served in the U.S. Army from 1945 w 1946. Brother Doruth worked primarily abo~rd Sea-Latid Setvia VC!!C)S _ He makes his home in Brooklyn, N_Y. CHARLIE E. DURDEN, 62, ~tarted hig ciilfeer with the SIU in 1961 in the port of New Orleans aboard the Cilie~ Servi~e Miami_ Born in Georgia, he sailed in the engine department and upgraded frcqut:ntly at the Lundeberg SthML Prior to his retirement, he signed off the July 1998 Overseas Vivian, a Vivian Tankships vessel_ Brother Durden has retired to Bayou LaBatre, Ala_ From 1953 to 1957, he served in the U.S. Marine Corps. Lundeberg School. A native of Puerto Rico, he last signed off the Sea-Land Innovation. Brother Toro makes his home in Union City, N.J. EZEKIEL M. HAGGER, 63, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1967 from the port of Houston. A native of Louisiana, he sailed in the steward department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School, where he graduated from the steward recertification program in 1984. He also attended an educational conference there in 1970_ Brother Hagger's last voyage was aboard the Champion, operated by Kirby Tankship in 1995. He makes his home in Port Arthur, Texas_ INLAND .----~==--. GEORGE E. HOOPES, 57, · graduated from the Andrew Furuseth Training /.·.· School in 1962 and · ·: joined the SIU in the port of Philadelphia. The Pennsylvania native sailed in the engine department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. Brother Hoopes last signed off the SeaLand Liberator and calls Santa Rosa, Calif. home. ~ CHENG HUAN, 66, first sailed with the SIU in 1986 from the port of Honolulu. Born in China, he sailed in the engine departmenc. Brother Huan worked primarily aboard American Hawaii cruise vessels, last sailing aboard the lnde:pe:ndence _He makes his homi; in Kauai, Hawaii_ NEVILLE JOHNSON, ~B, graduated from the Andrew Puruseth Training School in 1969 and joined the seafarers in the port of San Francisco. Born in Louisiana, he sailed in the steward department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School, where he graduated from the steward recenificarion program in 1981. Brother Johnson last signed off the Steven L Bennett, operated by Interocean Ugland Management. He has retired to Pass Christian, Miss. WELLBORN H. CHAMPION, 52, started his career with the Seafarers in 1979 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. Born in Georgia, he sailed in the deck department and upgraded his skills at the Lundeberg School, where he graduated from the towboat operator scholarship program in 1981 . Boatman Champion last sailed aboard a Crowley Towing & Transportation vessel. He has retired to Los Angeles. GERARD T. CIFARELLI, 59, started his career with the Seafarers in 1970 in the port of JUA.N B. TORO, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1970 in thi: port of New York. During his career, he sailed in all three departments and upgraded his skills at the JOHNM. INGRATTA, 62, first sailed with the Seafarers in 1956. A native of Illinois, he worked in the deck department, most recently sailing aboard a Great Lakes Towing Co. vessel. From 1958 to 1960, he served in the U.S. Army. Brother Ingratta has retired to Calumet City, Ill. ARANTIC FISHERMEN JOHN E. SOUTHARD, 63, joined the Seafarers in 1961 in the port of Philadelphia. Starting out as a deckhand, he upgraded at the Lundeberg School, last sailing as a captain. From 1958 to 1960, he served in the U.S. Army. Boatman Southard signed off a Moran Towing vessel in 1987 and makes his home in Medford, N.J. Six SIU-crewed vessels last month received 1997 "Ship Safety Achievement Awards" in a yearly event in New Orleans jointly sponsored by the Chamber of Shipping of America and the National Safety Council's Marine Section. Crowley's Sea Wolf, Energy Transportation Corporation's LNG Virgo, Sheridan Transportation's /TB Philadelphia, and three Sea-Land ships-the Discovery, Navigator and Trader-garnered awards, the purpose of which is "to publicly recognize and encourage accident reduction efforts by the various maritime industry segments," according to the sponsors. The safety awards are given to vessels "that have performed outstanding feats of heroism, rescue at sea, or seamanship illustrative of the high safety standards in our nation's fleet," they added_ The Sea Wolf overcame very rough weather lo rescue six people from a disabled sailboat 280 miles off the coast of Cape Hatteras, N_C _ on April 2, 1997_ U_S_ Coast Guard officials had described the rescue as "nearly impossible" due to the gale force winds, heavy rains a.nd ra.ging seas. Coincidentally, the same approximate area was the site of a July 31, 1997 rescue by the !TB Philadelphia. That vessel saved four people from a EMILE SPINOLA, 64, started his career with the Atlantic Fishermen's Union in 1961, before it merged with the AGLIWD in 1981. Brother Spinola worked as a captain, last sailing aboard the St. Mary. Brother Spinola makes his home in Gloucester, Mass. life raft whose fishing vessel sank about 60 miles off the coast. Alertness, training and quick actions helped enable the Sea-Land Navigator to rescue 12 survivors from a life raft who had abandoned their ship off the coast of Ulsan, South Korea on August 2. That same day, about 300 miles from Long Beach, Calif., a speedy response also proved vital on the Sea-land Discovery, where crew members safely removed an injured officer from a tank_ The officer. then was evacuated to a Southern California hospital. The LNG Virgo concluded the year by rescuing 18 people from a disabled, adrift ferry in the Celebes Sea. On December 26, the Virgo first picked up two people who had used a makeshift wooden raft in an attempt to secure help. but instead were swept 120 miles out to sea. The SIU-crewed tanker then rescued the 16 other people still on board the ferry. Meanwhile, crew members aboard the Sea-Land Trader put their firefighting training to good use as they quickly extinguished a shipboard blaze on September 26. No one wa~ injured in the incident, which occurred while the ship was about 500 miles east of Japan. The captain praised a11 hands for their efficient, professional response. tional Labor Relations Board to administer union representation elections, define employers' unfair labor practices, and enforce the legal rights of employees to join unions. WILLIAMT. 50, started his GEORGE E. NOBLE, 62, began sailing with the SIU in 1961 from the port of Norfolk, Va. Starting out in the deck department, he later transferred to the engine department, most recently as a chief engineer. The Virginia native served in the U.S. Coast Guard from 1956 to 1960. Boatman Noble last sailed aboard a McAllister Towing Co. vessel. He has retired to Chesapeake, Va. GREAT LAKES SIU Ships Honored far 1997 Rescues RUST JR., career with the SIU in 1973 in the port of .: Norfolk, Va_, · sailing aboard = = = =·, inland vessels_ The Virginia m1tivc later transferred to the deep sea division_ He worked in the stcw~rd department and upgraded at the Lundcbcrg School. Brother Rust last sailed aboard the Green Island, a Warnrman Steamship Corp. vessel. He ~alls Norfolk home. Baltimore. The New Jersey native worked in the deck department, last sailing as a captain aboard the Britannia, operated by McAllister Towing Company. Boatman Cifarelli has retired to Baltimore. July Feministand labor activist Char· 3 lone Perkins Gilman's birthday. in 1860. Her landmark study, Wom~n and Economics, called for the financial independence for women and proposed a network of child care centers. This l1ay became known as "Bloody Thursday" in San Francisco when in 1934 the city's mayor called out the police in an effort to hold off a strike by longshoremen. The longshoremen were angered by employer practices, among them hiring that perpetuated blacklisting and favoritism. At least two died and a hundred were injured. Workers responded witti a general strike, which prompted arbitration. winning longshoremen many of their demands. S National Labor Relations In 1933, delegates from four 6 SintoThe Act. or Waoner Act, was signed unions formed the National law in i 935. The act, which Leather Workers Association _ statM that collective bargaining was in the national interest, led to significant gains in union organizing. The act also established the Na- In 1892,strikingworkersbattlM "Pinkertons"-hired detectives who were predecessors to tMay·s 6 union busters-trying to get into the Carnegie Steel Works in Homestead, Pa_by way of a Monongahela River barge. Labor organizer Ella Reeve Bloor 8 was born in 1862. Among her activities were investigating child labor in glass factories and mines and going undercover to verify for federal investigators the conditions Upton Sinclair revealed in The Jungle, his expose of immigrants' exploitation by Chic;ago meatpackers. Atwo-day women's rights con19 vention began in Seneca Falls, N.Y. in 1848. Some 260 women attended the meeting to discuss their social, civil, and religious rights, including the right to work for a living and collect their own wages. In 1970, the United Farm 29 workers forced grape growers to sign a contract after a fiveyear strike. Seafarers LOG 17 �DEEP SEA HARRY ABRAHAMS Pensioner Harry Abrahams, 72, passed away March 3. Brother Abrahams began sailing with the Seafarers in 1966 from the port of San Francisco aboard the Fairport, a Waterman Steamship Corp. vessel. Born in New York, he worked in the deck department and last signed off the Sea-Land Defender in 1987. From 1943 to 1946, he served in the U.S. Navy. A resident of Mill Valley, Calif., he began receiving his pension in July 1990. EDWIN D. BAKER """''":•·"'' Edwin D. Baker, 58, died of a heart attack on January 22 while aboard the Grand < Canyon State. Born in California, he joined ;_____..;:= the SIU in 1997 in the port of San Francisco. A resident of Vallejo, Calif., Brother Baker worked in the deck department. JIMMY CHENG Pensioner Jimmy Cheng, 85, passed away February 11. He started his career with the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) in 1945, before that union merged with the SIU's Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District (AGLIWD). Born in China, he became a U.S. citizen and was a resident of San Francisco. Brother Cheng started receiving his pension in April 1975. RALPH W. DAMRON Ralph W Damron. 42. died April 10. A native of Michigan, he btgan ~ailing wilh lhe Seafarers aboard inland vesseb in 1979 from Port Anhur, Texas and later tran~krrcd to the deep sea division. Brother Damron worked in the de~k i;lepartmem and upgraded at the Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. A resi· dent of Groves, Tcxns, he la:;t sailed in 1993 abQard the QQldl!n Monarch, op@rat@d by Westchester Marine_ MICHAEL J. DYKEMA Michael J. Dykema, 28, passed away . « April 22. Born ,. in Michigan, he graduated from the Lundeberg School'~ entry levet training program in 1989 and joincd the SIU in the port ct Piney Point. Md. His first ship was the S.S. lndepen<illnce, o~r'MM by American Hawaii Cruises_ Brother Dykema sailed in the d~k departmi;nt and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. He was a resident of Zephyrhills, Fla. 0 RAYMOND R. EISENMAN PensiMer RaymoM R_ Eisenman. 82. lliel1 April 16. He staned his career with the Seafari;n in 1961 working abo<ird Great Lakes ve55e1s. The Wi:;con:;in natiYe later transferred to the deep ~e;i division, at whtch time he was a member of the engine department. He last sailed it\ 1978 aMarct the Mohawk and began receiving his penSiM in November 18 Seafarers LOG 1980. He was a veteran of World War II, having served in the U.S. Army Air Force from 1942 to 1945. Brother Eisenman lived in Houston. HARRY L. HUFFMAN Harry L. Huffman, 54, passed away March 6. Brother Huffman began sailing with the Seafarers in 1962 from the =--"===-.:::::i port of San Francisco. His first ship was the Jefferson City Victory. The New Jersey native sailed as a member of the deck department. He was a resident of Tacoma, Wash. DOMINADOR.Z. LUTERO Pensioner Dominador Z. Lutero, 83, passed away April 7. Born in the Philippines, he joined the SIU in 1949 in the port of Tampa, Fla. During his career, he sailed in the steward department and was active in union organizing drives. Brother Lutero started receiving his pension in August 1985. He was a resident of Stockton, Calif. FERNANDO MALDONADO Pensioner Fernando Maldonado, 73, passed away April 12. He joined the SIU ' in 1966 in the pon of New Ycrk_ Born in Pueno Rico, he sailed in the steward department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. A resident of Fajardo. P.R .. Brother Maldonado retired in Febnmy 1994. ALOEA M. MALUIA Pern;ioner Aloea M _ Maluitl, 58, died March 5_ Born in American Samoa, he graduated from the MC&S craining school in 1962 and joined the MC&S in the pon of San Francis~o. before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. Brother Maluia w<ts a resident of Pacifica, Calif and began receiving his pension in November 1982_ JAMES E. McKEE Pensioner Jame~ E. McKee, 82, passed "way December 18, 1997. Brother McKee started his career with the Seafarers in 1954 in the port of Seattle_ His first ship was the Andrew Jar:kson, a W;ltenmm Stea1mhip Corp. vessel. During his cart.er. the Washington native worked in all ~hrec departments, Inst sailing in the engine ctepanmem. He was a veteran of World War II, having served in the US_ Army from 1941 to 1943. Bracher McKee, who lived in Federal Way, Wash., retired in D~cmbcr 1980. JOHN M. McLA.URIN John M. Mcl..aurin, 37, died Marth 30. Born in Baltimort, ht gtMuatelt from the LuMeberg School's enrry level training program in 1980 and joined the SIU in the port of Piney Point, Md_ His first ship was the Seal.and Pa~er. Brother McLaurin sailed in the deck department and upgraded his skills at the Lundeberg School. He was a resident of Baltimore. JOUNGQ.MOY Pensioner Joung Q. Moy, 95, passed away January 18. Brother Moy first sailed with the MC&S in 1945, before that union merged with the SIU's AGLIWD. A resident of San Francisco, he started receiving his pension in November 1966. FREDERICK W. NEIL .. Pensioner Frederick W. Neil, 75, died March 11. A native of Florida, he joined the Seafarers in 1970 in the port = = = of New York. Brother Neil sailed as a member of the engine department and retired in August 1987. He was a resident of Gainesville, Fla CHARLES B. PARKS Charles B. Parks, 41, passed away February 24. He first sailed with the SIU in 1978 aboard the Merrimac, operated by Ogden Marine. The Michigan native sailed in the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School, where he graduated from the bosun recertification program in 1993. Brother Parks was a resident of Portsmouth, Va. From 1974 to 1977, he served in the U.S. Navy. WALLY T. PONCIO Pensioner Wally T. Poncio, 80, died March 1. Born in Texas, he began sailing l with the Seafarers in 1960 from the port of Houston aboard the Galloway. The engine department member last sailed in 1978 aboard the Connecticut. a Connecticut Transport Co. vessel. Brother Poncio, who resided in Houston. began receiving his pension in August 1982. THOMAS A.. REYNOLDS Pensioner Thomas A. Reynolds, 69, passed away March 2. Brother Reynolds started his career with the SIU in 1964 in · the port of Houston_ His first ship was the Del Oro. operated by Delta Steamship Co. The Texns native worked in the deck department, last sailing in 199 I aboard the USNS Denebola, a Bay Ship Management vessel. From 1946 to 1956, he served in the U.S. Army. Brother Reynolds was a resident of Houston. He retired in December I f""""'?;;;:;"""""';;;=;;:o==,,.., tional conference at the Lundeberg School in 1970. Prior to his retirement in October 1980, he signed off the Pensioner Delos Snead, 81, died April 6_A native of Virginia, he joined the Seafarers in 1955 in the port of Bal Ci more. BroLher Snead ~ailed as a member of the steward deparrmenr. A resident of Chesapeake. Va., he began receiving his pension in May 1982. CALVIN B. STEWARD Pensioner Calvin R Steward, 82, passed away January 12. Born in Canada, he begnn sailing with the SIU in 1967 aboard the Searrain Tl!XnS. He worked in the engine department and attended an educa- Sea-Land Consumer. Cove Spirit. Brother Steward was a resident of Lisbon Falls, Maine. PEDRO SUAREZ Pensioner Pedro Suarez, 82, died February 3. Brother Suarez joined the Seafarers in 1948 in the port of New York. A native of Spain, he sailed in the steward department and began receiving his pension in March 1977. He was a resident of La Coruna, Spain. AARON L. TIIlBODEAUX Aaron L. Thibodeaux, 43, passed away March 25. He graduated from the Lundeberg School's entry level training program in 1974 and joined the SIU in the port of Piney Point, Md. His first ship was the Bradford Island. Starting out in the steward department, the Louisiana native later transferred to the deck department and upgraded at the Lundeberg School. Brother Thibodeaux was a resident of New Orleans. MARNEEN B. TIERNEY Marneen B. Tierney, 49, died January 18. A native of California, she started her career with the Seafarers in 1996. Sister Tierney sailed primarily on American Hawaii Cruise vessels as a member of the steward department. She was a resident of Honolulu. LEONARD R. TITTLE Leonard R. Tittle, 50, passed away February 23. A resident of Honolulu, Brother Tittle began sailing with the SIU in 1986. He worked in the engine department as an electrician, last sailing in 1992 aboard the Salernwn, operated by Transoceanic Cable Ship Co. ALBERT J. VAN DYKE Pensioner. Albert J. Van Dyke, 81, died March 31. Born in Pennsylvania, he joined the Seafarers in 1946 in the port of Mobile. Ala. ==---' He sailed in the deck department and began receiving his pension in November 1987. Brother Van Dyke was a resident of Seattle. 1993_ DELOS SNEAD Wells sailed as a member of the engine department. Prior to his retirement in May 1978, he signed off the ROBERT L. WELLS Pensioner Robert L. Wells, 80, died March 19. A native of Florida, he joined the Seafarers in 1947 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Brother Wells worked as a chief steward, Inst sailing aboard the Pride of Texas, operated by Utan Navigation_ A resident of Bayou LaBatre, Ala., he began receiving his pension in June 1982. During World War II, he served in the U.S. Army from 1943 to 1945_ RONALD R. WELLS Pensioner Ronald R. Wells, 84, passed away March 18. He began his career with the SIU in 1961 from the port of Jacksonville, Fla. Brother During World War II, he served in the U.S. Navy (1943 to 1945). He was born in the British West Indies and was a resident of Lake Park, Fla. WILLIAM M. WHITE Pensioner William M. White, 84, passed away December 17, 1997. Brother White started his career with the SIU in 1956 ======= in the port of San Francisco. A native of Kansas, he worked in the deck department, last sailing in 1977 aboard the Pennsylvania, an Alpin Steamship Co. vessel. He was a resident of Oakland, Calif. and retired in June 1983. INLAND DAVID J. DOMANGUE David J. Domangue, 41, passed away March 30. A native of Louisiana, he began his career with the Seafarers in 1974 from the port of New Orleans. The deck department member upgraded at the Lundeberg School an raduated from the towboat operator ram there in 1977. Boatman Domang last sailed in 1992 aboard an Allied Towing Co. vessel. He was a resident of Sugarloaf, Calif. LAWRENCE C. FRANCIS Pensioner Lawrence C. Francis, 69, died April 24. Boatman Fr · Joined tfie SI() in 1963 in Port Arthur, Texas. The Texas native sailed as a chief engineer and began receiving his pension in June 1989. He was a resident of Jasper, Texas. JAMES R. KELLY Pensioner James R. Kelly, 68 passed away April 12. He joined the Seafarers in 1961 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Boatman Kelly sailed as a tug· boat captain, primarily aboard vessels operated by Curtis Bay Towing Co. The West Virginia native served in the U.S. Army from 1946 to 1947. A resident of Chesapeake, Va., he retired in April 1988. STANLEY C. KUPNICKI Pensioner Stanley C. Kupnicki, 88, died April 19. Boatman Kupnkki joined the Seafarers in 1955 in the port of Baltimore. A native of Pennsylvania, he last sailed in the deck department as a mate. A resident of Baltimore, he began receiving his pension in October 1974_ EDWARD T. LAIRD Edward T. Laird, 57, passed away October 18, 1997. He graduated Continued on page 21 July 1998 �empts., ti pa,SJlile; .... ~tidn,, opaasio/1~- because of space soir_ie _will be·omitted. Ships mm :fimt.am:. rerlawed by the union's contract dep,rllJJBlJcl~. . . Those issues requiring ~ttentlon or resolution 11re address~d by the union · · upon receipt of tfJ_e shi/Js' minutes. The minutes are then forwarded la the Seafarers LOG tor publicm;oii~ HM/ ASTRACHEM (Hvide Marine), February 2-Chairman Tom Banks. Chairman noted training record book (fRB) applications available through bosun. Deadline for getting books is August 1. Hvide Marine announced HM/ Astrachem leads entire fleet with NO lost time due to accidents. It also has highest safety record. This directly reflects on professionalism of officers and crew. Crew members requested union send out annual statements on status of money purchase pension plan accounts. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made to change Welfare Plan to cover prescriptions for dependents. New mattresses needed for rooms and new reefer needed in galley. Also, ice machines require maintenance. Vote of thanks to fine steward department, led by Chief Steward Luis Escobar. GALVESTON BAY (Sea-Land Service), April 12-Chairman James E. Davis, Secretary Andrew Hagan, Educational Director Miguel Rivera, Deck Delegate Albert Balatico, Engine Delegate Robert Laidler, Steward Delegate Kenneth Bethea. hairman briefed crew on shipping rules and travel arrangements regarding upcoming layup in Bremerhaven, Germany shipyard. Educational direcror reminded rew members to upgrade at Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md_and to apply for TRBs by Auguu I deadline_He abo mM~M tmportanc~ of donating to SPAD f6t' j6b i~curity, No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks given tl'> steward department for great food and keeping ship in top condition_ LIBERTY $t:A (Liberty Matttittt¢ CQrp,), April 5--Chairman John Neff, Se\;reiary Ray Connelly, Educational Director Nathaniel Gaten Deck Delegate Omaha lledda. Engine Delegate Ter~nee Fvrd, Steward Delegate P. R. Men~. Dis1;1,.1s:sion held regarding garbage control aboard ship. Educational director advised members to continue upgrading slcills at Paul Hall Maritime Center. Treasurer announced $70 in ship's fund. It was recommended that a list be started of possible' movies to pur,hase. Some questions raised r(!garding OT in engine and stew· Personal ROBERT CALVIN PRITCHETT Anyone knowing the whereabouts of Robert Calvin Pritchett is asked to pfrau contact Mildred Haynes at ( ]34) 479-5'260 ot Junja J(JftttJ(Jn at (334) 452-2684. July 1998 ard departments. Otherwise, no beefs. Job welt done by all crew members, especially by steward department and Chief Cook Mena. Steward Ray Connolly presented with award for job well done by Bosun Neff. MAERSK TENNESSEE (Maersk Lines), April 19-Chairman Mauro De La Cerda, Secretary John Q. Lee, Educational Director Scott E. Speedy. Crew reported room ice machines need larger transformers to work properly. Treasurer announced $716 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members look forward to meeting with patrolman at payoff in Miami. SEA-LAND EXPRESS (SeaLand Service), April 26Chairman Mark L. Lamar, Secretary Mike Meany, Educational Director Herman Manzer. Chairman stated trip has been very good to date, with great crew, food and steward department. Secretary echoed those sentiments, thanking crew for enjoyable trip. He also expressed pleasure with new steward assistant, Joan Riley, and to professional job performed by chief cook. Educational director reminded crew members to advance skills at Paul Hall Center. Deck delegate reponed disputed OT. No beefs or disputed OT reponed by engine or steward delegates. Old exercise machines in crew gym are broken and need ro be replaced . SEA-LAND NAVIGATOR (SeaLand Service), April 26Chairman Edward M. Cain, Secretary Lynn N. McCluskey, Educational Direcror Mark Serlis, Deck Delegate Walter Price, En~ine Dele~ate J. Sprama, Stew~rd Delegate J.P.. Manandic. Chairman read president's report from Seafarers LOG. Secretary noted smooch trip with good crew on board and working wetl rogether. Educational director advised all members to obtain TRBs and to continue upgrading to hone skills at Paul Hall Center to further their careers. Treasurer announced $40 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Communications read from headquarters advising all ships' masters to enforce "no smoking" in crew lounge and messhalls. Vote of thanks given to steward department far job wel I done. Next payoff scheduled in Tacoma, Wash. CLEVELAND (Sta.lift, In~_ ), May 6-Chairman Fareed A. Khan, Secretary Miguel E. Vinca. Educational Director ~nnis SW()ttU, D~k Delegate David J. Garoutte, Engine Delegate Davon MrMillan, Steward Delegate Donald Sneed. Chairman thanked everyone for job well done. Secretary stated payoff to be held following room inspection by master and patrolman. Educational dir~b.'.)r ~tressed impDrtartce of upgrMing skills in Piney PL>int. Some disputed OT reponed by declc delegate. No beefs or disputM OT reported in steward or engine departments. Clarification of contract requested regarding delayed sailing, restriction to ship, and longshore and penalty rates. Crew reported concern about starboard gangway ladder. Vote of thanks to steward department for fine job. Next port: Houston, Texas. COAST RANGE (Crowley Petroleum Transport), May 31Chairman John Mossbarger, Secretary Hans F. Schmuck, Educational Director Alex Resendez III, Deck Delegate Jeff B. Turkus, Engine Delegate Giuseppe Ciciulla, Steward Delegate Richard Walker. Chairman received clarification on new contract. He also reminded crew about necessity of getting TRBs by August 1 deadline. Educational director told crew of opportunities available at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made for new mattresses. Vote of thanks given for steward department's great job and for the 2,307 meals served during month of May. Next ports: Long Beach and San Francisco, Calif. GALVESTON BAY (Sea-Land Service), May 23-Chairman James E. Davis, .Secretary Andrew Hagan, Educational Director Miguel Rivera, Deck Delegate Albert Balatico, Engine Delegate Rashid Ali, Steward Delegate Kenneth Bethea. Vessel has just come out of two weeks in shipyard. Chairman informed members about Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993. Educational director urged members to upgrade skills for better paying jobs. He also advised them of August 1 deadline for TRBs. Some disputed OT reported by deck delegate. None reported in engine or steward departments. Ice machine in need of repair and new vacuum cleaner requested. While ship was in Bremerhaven, Germany shipyard, cookout was held at local seaman's club. A life ring signed by ship's crew memberg wag given co club_Next pon: Charleston, S.C. HMI DEFENDER (Hvide Marine). May 30-Chairman Robert Coleman. Secretary Kim DeWitt. Chainnan announced upcoming payoff in Tampa. New dryer is expected within 30 days . Educational director covered number of topics, including upgrading at Lundeberg School, importance of comriburing ro SPAD and need to keep abreast of union policies. He abo noted August 1 is deadline for TRBs. Steward delegate stated one-hour notice must be given for early meals. Requests made for new furniture in crew lounge and additional movies on board. HMI PETRACHEM (Hvide Marine), May 17-Chairman Kenndh McLamb, Setretary Colleen Mast. Deck Delegate John Cook. Engine Delegate Mark Roman, Steward Delegate Leicy M. Jone~ . Chairman announced receipt of update on zcards' expiration dates. Members should be sure to check expiration date on baclc of card and renew if n~essary. He stated payoff will probably be in Houston at end of month_ Secretary noted he has all necessary forms and applications for medical claims, Piney Point, etc. Educational director reminded members to take advantage of Lundeberg School to increase job ~kill~ and security. No heefs or disputed ITT reportM. suggestion made for everyone to read president's report on page 2 in Sea/are.rs LOG regarding bill being submitted to Congress that affects all Seafarers. Crew members should check with Houston patrolman to see how they can help. Discussion held about next tankcleaning job, which will be a big one. Steward department thanked for keeping ship so clean. Everyone was asked to try and help maintain it. SEA-LAND ENTERPRISE (SeaLand Service), May 7-Chairman Elex Cary Jr., Secretary J. Roman Jr., Educational Director Richard W. Risbeck. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center and donate to SPAD. He also asked that everyone respect "no smoking" policy. Secretary urged mem- working crew. Educational director reminded members to upgrade at Piney Point, stressing that education is key to future success. Suggestion made that hazardous pay for helo ops should be part of future contract negotiatons. It will be brought to attention of contracts department. Several complaints voiced regarding lack of movies, books and gym equipment and that EPA adjustments are past due. Vote of thanks given to steward department for great food. Next port: Baltimore. LNG ARIES (Energy Transportation Corp.), June 7Chairman Rafael M. Pereira, Secretary Doyle E. Cornelius, Educational Director Rene R. Spirit Pays Off During a recent payoff in Elizabeth, N.J., crew members aboard the Sea-Land Spirit join Patrolman Jack Caffey Jr. (standing far right) for a group picture. They include (from left, kneeling) Electrician Mohamad Alsinai, SA Eugene Perez Jr., AB Erving Davis, (second rolw) AB Joseph Dallas, AB Mitchell Santana, Bosun Ralph Gibbs, Caffey and (back row) OMU Ken Harder. bers to aply for TRB. Deadline is August 1. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested letter of clarification regarding sea watches. Steward department thanked for good food and good trip. Next pons~ Oakland, Calif..; Honolulu; and Guam. USNS STALWART (Maersk Line), May 19-Chairman Kenneth Boone, Secretary John Neal, Deck Delegate Tyrone Jackson, Engine Delegate Clarence Ritchie, Steward Delegate Myron Spivey. Chainnan thanked steward department for excellent food throughout trip. He also tallced about new Maerslc Line RO/R.Os and urged members to donate funds to SPAD to promote a strong U.S. merchant marine. Secretary reported one washer and one dryer out of service. Both should be repaired or replaced while ship in Panama. Educational director strongly urged crew members to take advantage of upgrading facilities at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer Tom Bowman announced $88 in ship's fund. New movies are expected to arrive in Panama. Communications from headquarters read. Contracts department thanked for quick response to question raised in last minutes regarding STCW. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next ports: Panama and Norfolk, Va. WRIGHT (American Overseas Marine), May I I-Chairman Mike Proveaux, Secretary L. Oram, Educational Director C. Wharton, Deck Delegate James Blanchard, Engine Delegate Mike D' Angelo. Steward Delegate Debra Gardiner_ Chairman thanked hard Rosario, Deck Delegate Stephen Votta, Engine Delegate Riley Donahue, Steward Delegate Judith L. Chester. Captain Hoffmann attended beginning of meeting and thanked everyone for job well done. Chairman echoed sentiments of thanks and reminded crew members to leave rooms clean when disembarking in shipyard. Secretary thanked chief cook and all three SAs for good work. Educational director stressed importance of applying to Paul Hall Center for upgrading programs. Treasurer announced $337 in ship's fund. No beefs reported. Disputed OT in steward department settled to everyone's satisfaction. Members were advised to check z-cards and renew before they expire. OVERSEAS JOYCE (Maritime Overseas), June 5-Chairman Richard Bradford, Secretary Michael Gramer, Educational Director James R. Smart. Chairman advised crew of arrival in Portland, Ore. on June 6 with payoff upon arrival. Educational director spoke about importance of upgrading skills at Lundeberg School. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Seafarers LOG distributed and dis,ussion held regarding union issues. Motion made and seconded that if company can afford to pay mates and engineers to perform routine maintenence overtime at a respectable rate, then company should be able to afford pay raises for unlicensed crew. Vessel next heading for Toyohashi, Japan. Seafarers LOG 19 �All Seafarers Must Have TRBs By August 1 WHEN: As of August 1, 1998, every Seafarer who sails deep sea, inland or Great Lakes should have a training record book (TRB). WHAT: TRBs contain personal identification as well as list all relevant training, drills and exercises completed by individual Seafarers during their entire maritime career. It helps standardize proof of documentation for port state control under both the International Safety Management Code (ISM) and the 1995 amendments to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for mariners (STCW). WHY: The TRB is a member's personal property and is to be carried by the individual to his or her respective ships. The SIU is providng these books so mem- hers will not have to carry individual documents, certificates and other paperwork when they report to their vessels. HOW: TRBs are distributed via SIU halls and the Paul Hall Center to whichever pon is designated by an individual Seafarer as his or her home port. Members will sign a receipt indicating they have received the booklet. Original TRBs are issued at NO CHARGE to members, although Seafarers applying for the booklets must send two color, pass. port-size photos with their applications. (There is a $25 charge for replacement books if lost). All members who have not submitted an application should do so as soon as possible. (The application form at right may be cut out and used as an official application.) r-------------------------------------, Training Record Book Application ~~ Middle ~~ Date of Birth _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ SSN - - - - - - - - - - - - Home Phone Number~------------------------~ Address_~~~~~~~--~~~--~~~~---~--------Street City Zip Code State Height (inches) _ __ Weight _ _ __ Hair Color _ _ __ D Yes D No Have you ever attended any SHLSS Upgrading Courses? D Yes D No Are you a graduate of the SHLSS entry level program? Book Number Home Port Eye Color _ _ __ Department (Where you want book sent to) Along with your completed application, please send the following information: 1. Copy of USMMD (Z-card) front and back 2. Two (2) passport size photos 3. Copy of your STCW certificate (if applicable) 4. Copy of your SHLSS school card (if applicable) 5. Proof of any training received other than at SHLSS (certificates, cards, DD-214, etc.) (if applicable) Signature: - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Send application to: SHLSS - ADMISSIONS Attn: TRB P.O. Box 75 Piney Point, MD 20674 --.. or give completed application to port agent If the above application is not filled out completely and the requested information sent, the application will be considered invalid and void. This blank form may be copied. 7/98 L-------------------------------------~ Crane Dept. Hoists Mon -Savi Solution Refurbishment Helps Keep Sea-Land Terminal on Sc .. t£c;.•~ Certificates of recognition were i;;ire5tmted in March to six shoregng members for their d~dicated ~erviee to bea-Land in excess of 10 yur~ ~aen _ The certificates were presented by Ri<;k Satava Sr., vessel superintendent, to (from lttft) Ronnie Woodruff (1 O yeara), Ken Kramli~h (10 YHr1), Tom Kelton (11 yeara), Jim Dandy (12 years) and Vern Pouls~n (13 years) _Not shown is Ole Poulsen (10 yHr$,) Plan Your Piney Point Vacation Now A fun-filled. memorable vacation for the entir~ family doe~ nor have to be expensive, especif\lly for Seafarers who have access to a beautiful facility with all the amenities of a fine resort-the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. There is still time for Seafarers and their families Lo plan their own special holiday at the union facility_ The 1;ost is $40.40 per day for ca~h SIU mcmbt;r and $9 .4.5 per day for a spouse 6'nd for each child_ (There is no charge for children I l years of age or younger_) These prices include all meals. Housing the nation's largest rraining facility for deep ~en and Qr~ttt La.kes unlicensed mariners as well as inland waterways boatmen, the Paul Halt Center is composed of administrntivc {lnd edu~ationa1 buildings. a library and maritime museum and a six-srocy traitting and recreation center on more than 60 acres of waterfront property. A number of the rooms 20 Seafarers LOG in the training and recrearion cenrer are set aside during the sum· mer month~ for vacationing SIU members and their families_ Each room contains two double beds, color TV, bureaus, desks and a table with chairs. On the premises arc an Olympic.size swimming pool, outdqor tennis and basketbalJ courts, a. state-ofthe-art he~lth spa and plenty of space for peaceful walks or jogs on the beautifully landscaped grounds. This peaceful setting provides many opportunities for water and land-based e,.peditions. The center even has a marina where vacationers can take a boat out for the day to sail arout\d the region or look for a good fishing spot. Entertaining day trips throughout hi~toric southern Maryland and the Washington, D.C. metropotitan area can quickly fill up any vacation time. _ To create your own unique vai;ation this summer, call the Seafarers Training & Recre~tion Center at (301) 9_94-001 O_ More than a year after members of the Sea-Land crane maintenance department in Elizabeth, N_J_ redesigned and relocated everything on t e a block of the company's six cranes, smooth operations continue at the busy container port. One might call it a case of no news being good news. But there had been plenty of concern when Sea-Land first realized it needed to raise the cranes in order to accommodate its own Champion-class ships as well as Macrsk's M-class vessels. Re-routing them to a different port literally would have cost the company millions of doltars per year. Sea-Land initially decided to build new trolleys and headblocks for three or four of the six crane~, thereby enabling the spreader to gQ six feet higher_ However, it became apparent that such a tack not only would be costly, but also would mean diverting the vessels for many months_ Crane maintenance members, induding Seafarers and members of the Marine Engineers' Beneficial Ass()cia.tion, then developed an alternative. They redesigned and relocated everything on the headblock of each of the six cranes, but without changing the trolley. This gained the needed height increase in time to avoid re-routing the ships-and it did so at about one-twentieth the cost of the original plan_ A Sea-Land spokesperson described the operation as .. nothing short of fantastic" and praised att involved for their "innovatiM and initiative." He also noted the major cost savings involved, plus the fact that service continued without any disruption. A team effort by the crane maintenance engineers and others saved big bueks for Sea-Land. Helping get the job done were (from left) Paul Keffer, Frank Monteiro, Art Omdahl, Vinny Carrao, Doug Jimene2'., Kevin Murphy, Joseph Negron and Abraham Alfaro_ Above: The refurbished setup gained much-needed space that allows crane department members to work Champion,. and M-class containerships. Left CME Joseph Negron assisted with redesign of the headblock. "It was a dirty job," he said with a laugh. Supervisors, engineers and CMEs all contributed to the successful conversion of. the cranes. Pictured here are CMEs Pete Fried, Abraham Alfaro, Vinny Carrao. Art Omdahl, Louis Nieves and Lenny Steinhardt; Engineers Charlie Priaco and Doug Jimenez; and Supervisors Jim Nightingale and Kevin Murphy. July 1998 �Final Departures Letters to the Editor (Editor's note: the Seafarers LOG reserves the right to edit letters for grammar as well as space provisions without changing the writer's intent. The LOG welcomes letters from members, pensioners, their families and shipmates and will publish them on a timely basis.) Thanks to SIU for Article on Class Project On behalf of the survivors of the Class of 1942 of the U.S. Mer-;hant Marine Academy, I wish to thank you for publishing the announcement of the availability of our recently completed history project to CD-ROM technology (see May 1998 Seafarers LOG, page 20). This CD gives us the opportunity of sharing with Seafarers the experiences of some of the officers--and possibly with the sons of some Seafarers who never had the opportunity to hear directly from their fathers the stories of life at sea in those difficult days. Perhaps some of your members also would be interested in finding out more about U-boats and the role the SIU played in the war effort. They might want to check out the international web site devoted to "U-boat War 1939-1945" at http://www.uboat.net. A.J. Snider III Birmingham. Ala. thanks to Vice President George McCartney for a job very well done, both as vice president and on the executive board of the SIU. We send him our best wishes and good luck in his retirement. Andrew H. Reasko, Retired Recertified Chief Steward Steve Krkovkh, Retired Chief Electrician John Curlew, Retired Recertified Bosun Seafarers Scholarship Is Greatly Appreciated I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Seafarers Welfare Plan for the letter of congratulations to my grandson, Gerard Quinn, for the scholarship he was awarded. I would also like to thank the Board of Trustees of the scholarship program for selecting Gerard to receive this scholarship. Additionally, I would like to thank the Executive Board of the Seafarers International Union for making it possible for members and their families to pursue their academic dreams. The scholarship is greatly appreciated and, once again, I thank you. Peter Loik Baltimore, Md. ... Scholarship Winner Giv es Cre dit to SIU V P George McCartney We are three retired SIU brothers who would like co give our It was certaily a pleasure to have received a note of congratulations the other day regarding my Seafarers scholarship award. I am very honored and thankful for your personal attention on my behalf. · The scholarship is yet another great benefit of having been a part of the Seafarers International Union. Fourteen years ago as a trainee, in my own cynical tendency, I asked myself: Why would the SIU include a third mate's education as part of its curriculum when the obvious next step for the successful candidate was to leave the SIU for a licensed union? It has long since become clear to me, however, that the SIU does indeed take a sincere interest in the pursuits and goals of its membership, even if it advocates saying "goodbye." I do not wish to say goodbye to the SIU, but I foresee that day fast approaching. I credit the SIU with having given me the opportunity to live my dream, one I had harbored since childhood when my father first told me his "sea stories." I will always recall the invaluable experiences and memories at sea that shaped my life and taught me what no classroom could convey. I would not be where I am today without the SIU. I want to thank President Michael Sacco, the entire SIU membership and its staff for their support and generoisty. It is greatly appreciated and always will be . I only hope that wherever the winds of time take me, I can make all of you proud of your "old shipmate." Keith W. Finnerty Baltimore, Md. ·Know Your Rights · · . FINANCIAL REPORTS. The consritucion of che SIU Atlantic. Gulf. Lakes and Inland WaLern DisnicL makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership's money and union finances_ The constirurion requires a detailed audit by ccrtit'icd public accountants every ycor, which is to be sub- . Continued from page 18 from the MC&S training school in 1972 and joined the MC&S in the port of Seattle, before that union merged with the SIU's '-----======·; AGLIWD. The Arkansas native later transferred to the inland division and sailed in the steward department, primarily aboard Crowley Towing & Transportation Co. vessels. Boatman Laird was a resident of Los Angeles. 1 , 1992. CHARLES G. SHAW ;. Pensioner Charles G. Shaw, 79, died April IO. Boatman Shaw began his career with the Sea·' farers in 1967 from the port of ==----''---...;;;;;;;;;;;;== Norfolk, Va. The Virginia native sailed as a captain and began receiving his pension in October 1980. He was a resident of Sugar Hill, Ga. trtittcd to the membership by the secretary-treasurer_A yearly finance committee of rank- and-flle members, elected by the tions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boar. Members should know their contract rights, as well as cheir obligations, such as filing for overtime (OT) on the proper sheets and in the proper manner. If. at any time, a member believes that an sru patrolman or other union official fail~ to protect their contraccual rights properly, he or she should contact the neare~t SIU port a.gent_ membership. each year examines the finances of the union and reports fully their findings and recommendations. Members of this commiuee may make dissenting repons, :ipecific rMOrr'tlth~ndntion:i and :Jcpnrntc findings. EDITORIAL POLICY - THE SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article ~erving the pDlitital purpo~e~ of any individual in TRUST FtJNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters Distrkt 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 e;w;penditures and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various Lrust funds. SHIPPING RIGHTS. A m~mbcr's shipping right~ and ~eniL>rity arc protcctM exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should ger co know their shipping righrn. Copies of chese comraccs are posced and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violacions of Lheir shipping or seniority rights as contained in the \;Olllra\;ts between the union and the employers, they sho1,1ld notify the Scnfan:n Appeals Board by certified mAil, rc;t1,1m receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez. Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Amh Way C~mp Spring~, MD 20746 Pull copies of contracts as refetTed to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafare rs Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU conrracts are available in all SIU h;\llS, These ~ontra\;tS spedfy the wages and condi· July 1998 ., STEPHEN M. PLASH Pensioner Stephen M. Plash, 69, passed away October 6, 1997. He began sailing in the deep sea division in 1951 • \ aboard the Seatrain Havana. The Texas native later transferred to inland vessels and graduated from the towboat operator course at the Lundeberg School. Boatman Plash sailed primarily aboard G&H Towing vessels as a captain and last signed off the F.E. Haden in 1983. A resident of Santa Fe, Texas, he retired in July .. the union, offi~er or member_ It also has refrained from publishing anicles deemed hannful to the union or ics collective membership. This established policy has been reaffinned by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its ranks, one individual co carry om this responsibility. PAYMENT OF MONIES. No monies are to be paid to anyone in any official capacity in the SIU unless an official 1,.mion receipt is given for same. Under no circumstances should any member pay any money for any reason unless he is given such receipt. In che event anyone atcempcs co 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 suth payment, thi~ should immediately be reported to union headquarters. CONSTITUTIONAL RICHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SID 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 headquaners. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal CHARLES D. STOWE Pensioner Charles D. Stowe, 72, passed away February 28. Born in North Carolina, he joined the SIU in 1966 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Boatman Stowe sailed as a captain, last working aboard McAllister Towing Co. vessels. A resident of Hatteras, N.C., he retired in January 1989. From 1943 to 1966, he served in the U.S. Coast Guard. HAROLD E. WALL Harold E. Wall, 38, died October 19, 1997. A native of Louisiana, he started his career with the Seafarers in 1984 in the port L.:.-.=---==--= ·"";_J of New Orleans. Boatman Wall sailed as an engineer. GREAT LAKES JAMES A. GIBSON Pensioner James A. Gibson, 79, passed away March 12. He began his career with the Seafarers in 1955 from the port of Detroit. The Virginia native worked in the engine department, last sailing aboard a Kinsman Transport vessel. A resident of Rose Hill, Va., Brother Gibson began receiving his pension in April 1983. ..----.,,.~~=,----,.,,., AnANTIC FISHERMEN JOSEPH F. PALAZOLA Pensioner Joseph F. Palazola, 84, passed away March 16. A native of Boston, he joined the Atlantic Fishermen's Union before it merged with the SIU in 1981. A resident of Gloucester, Mass., he began receiving his pension in January 1979. · rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are -;!early set forth in the SIU constitution and in the contracts whh;h the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently. no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex., national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds arc used to further 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 American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should suppon SPAD to protect and funher his or her economic, political and social interests, and Ameri-;an 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 ro union records or information, the member should immediately notify SIU President Mi-;hael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auch Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. Seafarers LOG 21 �Lundeberg School Graduating Classes ~· .;....x_._ ,..... HARRY SEAFARERS LU ND EBERG LIFEBOAT SCH OOL CLASS 576 Trainee Lifeboat Class 57~raduating from trainee lifeboat class 576 are (from left, kneeling) Christopher Burich, Nelson Martin, Mark McNabb, Mary Bado, Robert Rocanelli, Randy Diaz, Jesse Proetto. (second row) Ben Cusic (instructor). Michael Blue Jr., Kimberly Mendonca, Shaun Bonefont, Shannon Bonefont, Jack Drossos, (third row) John Conn, Keithen Pugh. Zachary Henning. Ryan Palmer. Antoine Robinson and Nathaniel Salter. FOWT-Earning their FOWT endorsements on June 12 are (from left, kneeling) Taylor Watson, Alex Benge, (second row) Davon Brown, Daniel Ahsan, Ludivico Castillo, Dennis Middleton, (third row) MicMel Davidson, Rodney Panai;iera, Mic;hael Williams and Dwight Ward. Tanker Assistant DL-SIU members completing the tanker assistant DL course on May 15 are (from left, front row, kneeling) Vincent D'Amelia, Wan Salim, Doyle Stanley, (second row, kneeling) Fahd Saleh, Gabriel Williams. Mark Stabler, Gary Hirsch, Joseph Welle Ill, Robert Pesulima, (third row) Jim Shaffer (instructor), Michael Hill, Leonard Bonarek, Douglas Felton, Stephen Harrington, Dawn Marie. Hill, Thomas Minton, Harold Sebring, (fourth row) John Dunavant, Robert Goodson, Robert Hurysz, Thomas Parisi, James Doyle and Nathan Hollander. Celestial Navigation-The course in celestial navigaton was completed May 29 by (from left) Joseph Butasek, Michael Smith, John Shivers and Marvin Chester. At right is their instructor, Brad Wheeler. Advanced Firefighting- Marking their graduation from the advanced firefighting Mur~e M May 1 are (from left, sitting) Jack CooJ;ler, Richard Riley, Jose Quinones, Winston Thompson, Amy Rippel, Mary Lou Smith, (second row) Rick Redmond (instructor), Paul Diesner, Paul Jagger, Stephen Blanchard, Antonio Perez, Amir Kasim, . (third row) Bruce Heath, John O'Shaughnessy. Frank Revette. Donald Peterson and Bryon O'Neal. ' p' ~ Upgraders Lifeboat-SIU members completing the upgraders lifeboat course on May 30 are (from left, kneeling) Ronnie Hamilton, Edward Jaynes, Edward O'Reilly, Arthur Gibbs, Noe Caballero, James Davis Jr., Tom Gilliland (instructor), (second row) Mark Witas, James Baker, Raymond Oglesby, Angel Figueroa, Kenneth Grose, Gregory SampsM, Phillip King and John Vegh Ill. Able Upgraders Lifeboat-Upgrading graduates of th~ May 30 lif~Mat class are (from left. kneeling) Ben Cusic (instructor), Ramli Sulaiman, Robby Lapy. (second row) Joseph Welle Ill, Humb@rt6 Gramer. 22 L6p~~' Gregono Cloner. Armando Sacasa and Dale Seafarers LD& Seaman- Seafarers graduating from the able seaman (;lass on May 15 are (from left, sitting) Elmo Davis. Eric Overby. Clarence Fortt. (second row} StepMn Swinton, John Vegh 111, Charles James. Joseph Riccio, Jose Calix and T~m Gilliland (instructor). Government Vessels-Receiving their endorsements from the govenment_ vessels course in May are (from left, sitting) Joseph Laine, Gary Hirsch, Peter Westropp, Jose Calix, (second row) Ronald Lupinacci, John Walsh, Charles Rhett Davis, Charles Skeen, (third row) Mark Cates (instructor), Robert Goodson and Angel Figueroa. July 1998 �LUNDEBERG SCHOOL 1998 UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE Safety Specialty Courses Start . The following is th~ ~chedule for c1~ss~· s begi~~ing in Aug~st, September and October at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship located at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. All · p~~grarn.~ a~~.: ge.~~ed !9)JPP~.ove the job skills of Seafarers and to promote the . . . American . rriarithne 'ind\istry. · ... ..... · ·· .· ·. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the mem. pership, th~J~arj~i1,11e}ndustry and-in times Qf conflict-the nation's security. ·<: ·Sti.ui~tm(.~tt~md'ing any of thes~· classes should' check in the Saturday before. · their course's start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morn- · Course Date Date of Completion Tanker Familiarization/ Assistant (DL) August 17 September 14 October 12 September 5 October 3 October 31 LNG Familiarfaation October 26 October 30 Bas,ic, Firefighting August.JO . September 7 September 21 October 5 August 15 September 12 September 26 ._:': .:.:~ng . ~.f. th~·:· ~!art dates, . ... . .. .. . '" $ea.f~~rs who have any questi<:ms r~garding the upgrading course§ <iffei~d . althe ... . L~mleberg School may calJjhe a~missions office at (301) 994-00iO. . · .... . '"'' . . "'" . A,,µ~t3 Advanced Firefighting . "' October 10 August 15 September 12 October 24 August 31 October 12 Start Date· Date of Completion.·::·. August 28 September 25 October 22 AugustlO September7 Government Vessels ·.Octobers odober2 September 28 . :: J\.~gu~t:io : : · August 22 · 'September 19 · October 17 September 1· October 5 Recertification Programs Engine Upgrading Courses Date of Completion Start Start Da.t.e of Date Completion September 21 October 30 September7 November 27 August 10 September 4 Date Course . LNG Recertification (includes 2 weeks offirefighting) August 3 . August 21 Academic Department Cou~es,. Start .·::. High ·School-Equiyaleney"Program (GED) Name _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ _ __ _ _________________~ Addr~ss _ _ __ _ _ _ __ __ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ __ With chis application. COFIES of your discharges must be submitted showing sufficient time to qualify yourself for the course( s) requested. You also must submit a COPY of each of !lit= following: the first page of your union book indicaling your department and seniority, your clinic card and the front and back of your z:~card as well as your Lunde berg School identification card listing the course( s) you have taken and completed. The admissions office WILL NOT schedule you until all of the above are received. COURSE Telephone _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ __ If che following information is nOI filled processed. Seidat Securiry # END DATE DATE Date of Birth _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Lake~ Member D Det:p Sea Member D BEGIN Inland Waters Member D out 'ompletely, your application will not be Book# _ __ __ _ __ __ _ SeniQnty ---------'~----- Department _ __ _ _ _ __ _ U.S. Citizen: Yes CJ No Cl Home Port Endor~cmcnt(s) or Liccnse(s) MW held - - - - - - - - - - -- - - -- LAST VESSEL: - -- - - - - - - - - - - - Rating: _ _ __ Ar~ you~ sr~duati: Qf thi: SHLSS trainee prl'lgrAm7 D Yes Dace On: _ __ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ DNo Date Off: If yes, class# - -- - - - - - -- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Have you attended any SHLSS upgrading Murs~s? D Yes DNo SIGNATURE _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ DATE If yes, course(s) taken - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- NOTE: Transponation 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.- Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman D Yes D No Firefighting: D Yes Primllry language spoken July 1998 Endorsem~m? D No CPR; D Y~s D No - RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATION TO: Lundeberg School of Seamanship. Admissions Office PO. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075. 7/98 Seafarers LOii 23 �I I Summer Vacation for Seafarers And Their Families There is still time to plan a family holiday this .summer at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. For additional information, see page 20. Safety Is Tantamount for.Crowley Seafarers SIU Members, Company Celebrate F or Seafarers working at the Crowley Petty's Island facility in Pennsauken, N.J., safety is more than a term. It is a way of life. "We are very safety conscience," noted John Wozunk, the chief shop steward for the nearly 100 union members who load and unload barges and ships, maintain containers and do other jobs at the site across the Delaware River from Philadelphia. Wozunk. an SID member since 1978, has worked at the New Jersey compound for 15 years. He and others recalled the differences in the way safety concerns now are being handled as compared to the early days during a June 9 celebration for the workers' putting in 452 consecutive days without a lost-time injury. "The company is very willing to listen," stated Shop Steward John Gallagher, who has been working at Petty's Island since 1984. "We used to have a terrible record. Now, no one can touch us. We are one of the best in the world," he added. "This is a record for any Crowley site," pointed out IO-year vr;tcran Timmy Burns, another shop steward. he trio, joined by other Seafarers. said the turnaround in the facility's safety record occurred about five or six years ago follow• ing a series of injuries on the job. Safety awareness ~ommittccs were r;rcat· union m~mb~rg joined management officiab to discuss what could be done ed in whi~h to make the site safer, thus morn productive. Now safety meetings are held regularly before operations get under way. uThc company came to the union for input," Wozunk remembered. "They wanted co know what we thought and started implememing some of our ideas. They took us very geriomly_.. . . ---- ~ Without Lost-Time Injury at Petty's lsJand The 452-day mark eclipses the previous record of 291 days attained by the crew. "We are very proud to hold these marks," Gallagher said. "Everyone here works hard to keep this a safe site." The action of the Seafarers is not lost on Crowley. Besides throwing the afternoon luncheon on a workday-complete with live music-company officials presented each worker with an award to thank them for their efforts. "You are great people with a great attitude," proclaimed P. Elliott Burnside, president of Crowley American Transport. "This is an incredible accomplishment." Burnside also read from a letter written by Thoma~ B. Crowley Jr., president and CEO of the parent Crowley Maritime Corporation. ••safety continues lO be a key issue at Crowley. I am proud to be associated with you," wrote Crowleyt who apologized for being out of the country on the day of the celebration. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel saluted the SIU members for their efforts. "You have done and continue to do a tremendous job here," Heindel told the Seafarers. "I look forward to coming back for the c:dcbrntion when you break this record." Bill Dougherty (right} receives his safety award from Mike Hopkins (left), Crowley American Transport's vice president and general manager of operations, and Elliott Burnside, president of the company. Left: Enjoying the daY.' tivities are Joe s (left) and oey. Wozunk stated the safety program has evolved into the system in place today. Union members serve a year on one of the various safety committees designed to make the facility a better place to work. When the year is over, another SIU member takes the · seat on the committee to provide new ideas and information to th~ Right: No good meal is complete without dessert. Checking out the cake and fresh fruit are (from left) Tim Hughes, Carl Wolfe, Billy Mulholland and Dennis Saggese. group. > $Qme of the Seafarers who work at the Petty's Island complex for Crowley American Transport gather around SIU Ser;retary·Treasurer David Heindel during a luncheon thr6wn ~y tM MmpMy to celebrate a record 452 consecutive days without lost time due , to injury. The members said the record was accomplished because the union and the company work well with each other to ensure safety for all who work at the Delaware River roll-on/roll-off facility. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1990-1999 Description An account of the resource Volumes LII-LXI Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993; Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource July 1998 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES CLINTON ANNOUNCES NEW PROGRAM TO FUND DREDGING IN NATION’S PORTS NEW COMPANY FORMED TO MOVE ALASKAN OIL BP, MOC, KEYSTONE JOINTLY OPERATED FLEET WILL PROVIDE JOB SECURITY FOR SEAFARERS SIU-CONTRACTED COMPANIES TO MANAGE 55 RRF SHIPS CROWLEY CHRISTENS HIGH-TECH TUGBOAT SLATER BACK REFORM BILL HERB BRAND PASSES AWAY NEW ALASKAN RIDING GANGS DRAW PRAISE FOR WORK ABOARD TANKERS BOATMEN AT BISSO, HVIDE, MORAN RATIFY CONTRACTS CALIFORNIA VOTERS, NEVADE JUDGE REJECT EFFORTS TO SQUELCH VOICE OF WORKERS CLEVELAND CREW PROUD TO SUPPORT U.S. POLICIES AND SIU TRADITIONS 5 UNION-CREWED VESSELS JOIN U.S.-THAI OPERATION USNS CAPABLE LIVES UP TO ITS NAME WELFARE PLAN LAUNCHES MONEY-SAVING PRESCRIPTION PROGRAM FOR PENSIONERS QUALIFIED RETIREES WILL SAVE OUT-OF-POCKET EXPENSES ITF REPORT REVEALS ROUTINE LACK OF REST ‘TRUSTY’ JOHN J. BOLAND HELPS BOOST LAKES STONE TRADE TO RECORD HIGH UNION JOINS IN OBSERVING MARITIME MEMORIAL DAY VA CLARIFIES HEALTH-CARE QUESTIONS ELECTRICIAN EARHART CAPTURES ‘DEEP FREEZE’ ON VIDEOTAPE 30-YEAR SEAFARER DEJESUS EYES RETIREMENT LNG TAURUS REACHES 900 DAYS WITHOUT LOST-TIME INJURY AFL-CIO PRAISES ILO’S DECLARATION SIU SHIPS HONORED FOR 1997 RESCUES Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 07/01/1998 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 60, No. 7 1998 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/37c7d149fe4d3750cbf6b8f195988eac.pdf 8898941eec99d96c85be5967c22a037e PDF Text Text WYl\Y.seafarers.org Volume 61 Number 7 Christenings Signal The tanker HM/ Brenton Reef (center) and the tugboats Atlas (left) and Scout (right) recently joined the Seafarers-contracted fleet, marking more jobs for SIU members. Additionally, as this issue of the Seafarers LOG went to press, The Delta Queen Steamboat Co. (also an SIU-contracted company) announced it will launch the Columbia Queen to provide riverboat passenger cruises in the Pacific Northwest, starting in April 2000. Page 3. After instructors at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education conducted the final equipment checks at the new Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School, classes there officially began in late May. Thus far, the new addition (located in Valley Lee, Md., near the Paul Hall Center's main campus) has impressed students and guests alike, including legislators, administration officials and the head of TRANSCOM. Pages 12-14. Merger Talks Under Way Between SIU and NMU_Page2 �President's Report Signs of Success It has been a slow, tough campaign, but America's union movement is showing signs of continued growth. Last month, a federal agency released to the public the fact r---"""C'"""-.....,...,,,,""""" that workers are holding and winning more representation elections than in previous years. And these elections are for an everincreasing number of working men and women. During the 1980s and early in this decade, all you would hear and read in the news was that labor had lost its clout, that unions were Michael Sacco obsolete. Well, that certainly is not the case now! The proof is in the numbers. Last year, union membership overall increased for the first time in years. The AFL-CIO didn't make up this fact. It came from the government's Bureau of Labor Statistics. The trend is continuing this year. In Los Angeles, 75,000 home health care workers voted to join a union because they wanted dignity and respect on the job. In Puerto Rico, 66,000 teachers, cafeteria workers, secretaries, maintenance workers and others with the education department won the right for union representation. Miners, grocery workers, hotel employees, government workers and so many more are saying they want a voice in their workplaces. They want what Seafarers have: solid contracts with good wages and benefits. The SIU has been a part of the growth in the nation's union movement. Just look at the next page. New vessels plying the waters. Another riverboat on the way. All of these represent more jobs, more opportunities and more growth for the SIU. Since the beginning of the year, the Seafarers LOG has steadily announced new cargo ships, new tugs and new passenger vessels coming to companies contracted to the SIU for crewing. That's progress. The union pledged to find more jobs for Seafarers so they will be ready to meet the challenges of the 21st century. To meet that task, the SIU has been upgrading its union halls while the Paul Hall Center has expanded with the opening of the fire fighting school as well as continuing its updating of courses. The SIU has quite a list of accomplishments so far, but we are in no way ready to rest on our laurels! There is so much more to do and many more opportunities to investigate. Just like the SIU, the AFL-CIO is not stopping to catch its breath. The fight at the Avondale Industries shipyard is one example of how much work still has to be done. Despite those workers voting overwhelmingly for representation, the company continues to manipulate every loophole it can to keep from negotiating a contract. It has been six years since the vote, yet the workers remain strong. They are resolved to win this battle and get what they deserve. These men and women-along with the tens of thousands of others who have just gained recognition or are fighting for itprove the labor movement is a vital force in America's business and economic life. For our present members and those to come, the SIU and the AFL-CIO will continue to make sure working people have a voice at their workplace, are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve and provide for their families in a manner in which they can be proud. Volume 61, Number 7 July 1999 lhe SIU on line: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN I 086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (30 I) 8990675 . Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998 and at additional offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 520 I Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Daniel Duncan; Managing Editor, Jordan Biscardo; Associate Editor/Production, Deborah A. Hirtes; Art, Bill Brower; Administrative Support, Jeanne Textor. Copyright© 1999 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD All Rights Reserved. 2 Seafarers LOG Talks Under Way Concerning NMU Merger with Seafarers Sill President Michael Sacco and NMU President Rene Lioeanjie have met to explore the possibility of the NMU merging with the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District. The presidents have created committees to study such a merger. Among the topics included in the discussions are training for the members, job security, seniority and combining of various operations. No time table or deadlines have been set for these talks. Since the affiliation of the NMU with the Seafarers took place last year, the reaction by members from both unions has been positive. Seafarers have welcomed NMU members to upgrading classes at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. An agreement has been reached between the newly created Alaska Tanker Company and the SIU and NMU which covers crew members sailing from both unions. In both of these cases, rank-and-filers of the two unions are standing side-byside learning in the classroom and working aboard ship. Officials from the SIU and NMU have initiated merger talks. Meeting last month at SIU headquarters are (from the left, clockwise) NMU counsel Larry Brundick, AFL-CIO Maritime Comm. Exec. Dir. Tai Simpkins, NMU Pres. Rene Lioeanjie, NMU VP Charles Stewart, NMU Agents Ike Williams and Rusty de Roussett, SIU Sec'y-Treas. David Heindel, SIU Exec. VP John Fay, SIU Counsel Leslie Tarantola and SIU VP Contracts Augustin Tellez. Avondale Bills Navy $5.4 Million To Continue Fight Against Unions Pro-Ltlbor Vote Has Been Denied for Six Years June 25 marked the six-year anniversary of the date on which employees at Avondale shipyard in New Orleans voted for union representation. The extent to which the company has used every imaginable stalling tactic to avoid the outcome of the vote is considered by many a sadly extreme story in its own right. However, the announcement last month that Avondale billed the U.S. Navy $5.4 million to pay the shipyard's anti-union lawyers shed a bizarre new light on the case. Continued on page 4 Seafarers show their support for Avondale workers during a recent demonstration near the New Orleans shipyard. Pictured from left to right are Recertified Steward Ernie Hoitt, AB Charles Troutwine, AB Randy Bolling, AB William Bolling and Pensioner Beau James. Tax Bill Ottered ta Make Janes Act Vessel Construction Easier Congress is considering tax legislation to make it easier for U.S.-flag shipping companies to build new vessels for the Jones Act trades. Introduced last month by Rep. Jim McCrery (RLa.), the U.S.-flag Merchant Marine Revitalization Act (H.R. 2159) already has drawn bipartisan support from Reps. Wally Herger (R-Calif.), William Jefferson (D-La.) and Neil Abercrombie (DHawaii). McCrery told his fellow members of the House of Representatives when he presented the measure that the bill "is critically important to the modernization and growth of the United States maritime industry, our nation's fourth arm of defense. "I am convinced that the best way to ensure that our nation continues to have the militarily useful commercial vessels and trained and loyal United States-citizen crews we need to support our interests around the world is to enact those programs and policies that will better enable our maritime industry to flourish in peacetime," the Louisiana congressman added. "I am equally convinced that one important way to do so is to provide a tax environment for our maritime industry which more closely reflects the favorable tax treatment other maritime nations provide their own merchant fleets." H.R 2159 would alter the present Capital Construction Fund (CCF) law to make it easier for U.S.-flag shipping companies to deposit income earned from their U.S.-flag vessels into the pre-tax account that can be withdrawn later to construct Jones Act vessels in U.S. shipyards. McCrery said the change in the CCF law, first implemented as part of the Merchant Marine Act of 1936, would assist U.S.-flag companies in their efforts to modernize the domestic fleet. (The Jones Act, part of the 1920 Merchant Marine Act, states that goods moved between two domestic ports must be carried aboard U.S.-flag, U.S.-crewed and U.S.built vessels.) By expanding the type of income eligible for deposit, U.S.-flag shipping companies engaged in the Jones Act trades will have a stronger source of capital to build new vessels needed in the next century. "This change would be good for the whole industry," noted SIU President Michael Sacco. "It creates and ensures jobs for American shipbuilders as well as American mariners." Another provision of H.R. 2159 would change existing law relating to the payment of a 50 percent ad valorem duty on the overseas repair of U.S.-tlag ships. Under the present law, this 50 percent duty must be paid to the U.S. Treasury for non-emergency repairs made in a foreign country's shipyard. The legislation offers an alternative allowing for the payment of the duty directly into a CCF account, thus providing a direct benefit to U.S. shipyards. H.R. 2159 has been assigned to the House Ways and Means, Armed Services, and Transportation and Infrastructure committees for consideration. No hearing date for the measure has been scheduled. July 1999 �NEW SHIPS MORE JOBS Fifth 'Double Eagle' Christened; Crowley, G&H Launch New Tugs On the Atlantic, Pacific and Gulf coasts, Seafarers recently welcomed new additions to the SIU-contracted fleet. Signifying more jobs for SIU members, the new vessels are the "Double Eagle" tanker HM! Brenton Reef, operated by Interocean Ugland Management for Hvide Marine; the tugboat Atlas, operated by G&H Towing in the Houston area; and Crowley Maritime's harborclass tug Scout, based in Long Beach, Calif. "As always, the SIU is proud to provide the best-trained mariners in the world to crew the new tanker and tugs," said SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez. "We welcome the jobs and the responsibility of helping ensure safe, efficient operations." f"dth Tanker Recertified Bosun Victor Beata and Chief Steward Michael Pooler each expressed favorable impressions of the HM! Brenton Reef, slated to begin its first voyage as this issue of the Seafarers LOG went to press. The 620-foot tanker, which features double-hull construction and state-of-the-art electronics and safety systems, successfully completed sea trials in late May and was christened June 18 at Newport News (Va.) Shipbuilding. It weighs 46,000 tons and can carry various chemicals in its 14 specially coated tanks. Additionally, the ship has a beam of slightly less than 106 feet and can travel at up to 16 knots. Like its four SIU-crewed predecessors in the Double Eagle program, the HMI Brenton Reef "responds to the mandate of Congress and the American people to build double-hull tankships that will transport petroleum and chemical products in U.S. waters in the safest manner possible," commented Jean Fitzgerald, chairman, president and CEO of Hvide Marine. "Her entry into the Jones Act market marks another step forward in the evo1ution of environmentally friendly marine transportation." Atlas: Strong Impression Captain Nelson "Frenchy" Breaux has sailed aboard a number of new tugboats, but he rates G&H's twin-screw Atlas at the top of the list. "Everybody's enjoying it. It's everything that can be expected and more," he remarked. Breaux said the Atlas "is very modern, especially when it comes to safety features. For instance, it has internal heat sen- sors throughout the boat hooked into all three alarm panels. There are also internal smoke detectors. "The interior of the boat is really comfortable, too, and I believe that promotes safety. When a crew feels comfortable, they work better." Christened earlier this year during a gathering of approximately 250 guests, the 96-foot tug performs harbor docking at several Texas ports including Houston, Galveston, Freeport, Corpus Christi and Texas City. "The Atlas truly is state-ofthe-art," observed SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, who attended the christening ceremony in Galveston. "As a former engineer, I was very impressed with the engine room. The crew quarters and galley facilities are first-class, also, and there's easy access for maintenance and repair to all the systems." Built at Main Iron Works in Houma, La., the Atlas has 3,900 horsepower and can travel at greater than 13 knots. It was christened in memory of Newton Rayzor, chairman of the board of directors of Intracoastal Towing & Transportation Corp. (for which G&H operates the boat) who passed away in February. "Mr. Rayzor was a good and fair employer," Corgey noted. "The SIU always had a good working relationship with him." He added that the eight Seafarers who participated in (photo by Jim Hemeon) The SIU-crewed HMI Brenton Reef successfully completed sea trials in late May. The "Double Eagle" tanker was scheduled to start its maiden voyage late last month. the christening "did an outstanding job representing the union and the company in a professional, courteous way." Those SIU members included Breaux, Mate David Andrisek, Quartermaster Sean Arbogast, Quartermaster Jon Crampton, Asst. Engineer Tim Dement, AB Larry Hadley, Chief Engineer Jimmy "Indiana" Payne and Oiler Brian Taylor. New Harbor-Class Tug In Southern California, the newest of Crowley's SIUcrewed harbor-class tugs also garnered praise. Continued on page 4 ~ l 'I l I The harbor-class tug Scout (center) joins Crowley's fleet in Long Beach, Calif. Delta Queen Announces New Riverboat far Fleet SIU-Crewed Vessel Will Sail in Pacific Northwest Operated by G&H Towing in the Houston area, the Atlas is a welcome addition for Seafarers, including crew members (kneeling, left to right) Capt. Nelson "Frenchy" Breaux, Mate David Andrisek, (standing) Oiler Brian Taylor, Chief Engineer Jimmy "Indiana" Payne, AB Larry Hadley, Quartermaster Sean Arbogast, Asst. Engineer Tim Dement and Quartermaster Jon Crampton. Celebrating the christening of the Scout are (left to right) Jim Penny, Crowley operations manager in Long Beach, Calif.; Nick Marrone, SIU VP West Coast; Capt. Wayne Berry, a Seafarer who sails aboard Crowley tugs; and John Cox, SIU port agent in Wilmington, Calif. July 1999 Seafarers will be crewing next year the latest addition to the Delta Queen Steamboat Co. fleet-the Columbia Queen. As the Seafarers LOG went to press, Delta Queen's parent firm, American Classic Voyages Co., announced its plans to offer overnight passenger service to the Pacific Northwest aboard the new riverboat. Delta Queen is an SIU-contracted company which also operates the Delta Queen, Mississippi Queen and American Queen paddlewheel steamboats along the Mississippi River and its tributaries. "This announcement by Delta Queen and American Classic Voyages shows their continued confidence in the fine American mariners who crew their vessels," SlU President Michael Sacco stated when the announcement was made. "The Columbia Queen once again demonstrates this union's commitment for new jobs for the membership," he added. The Columbia Queen is scheduled to begin service in April 2000. The 218-foot vessel will be able to carry 161 passengers in its 81 staterooms. The riverboat was designed by the same firm that created the American Queen, which began service in 1995. The vessel will be based in Portland, Ore. It will sail along the Columbia, Snake and Willamette rivers, offering vacation packages to Mount St. Helens National Monument, the Columbia Gorge, Mt. Hood, Washington state wine country, Astoria, Ore. and Lewiston, Idaho. Besides adding this fourth riverboat to its fleet, Delta Queen presently is building the first two of five coastal cruise vessels scheduled to begin service in 2001. These 225-passenger ships will sail along the Eastern seaboard and the Pacific Coast. American Classic Voyages' other subsidiary-American Hawaii Cruises--operates the SIU-crewed SS Independence. Earlier this year, the company signed an agreement with union-contracted Ingalls Shipbuilding for construction of the first two U.S.-built deep sea passenger vessels in more than 40 years. The first of these ships, which will sail around the Hawaiian Islands, is expected to board passengers in 2003. Please be advised that SIU headquarters and all SIU hiring halls will be closed on Monday, August 16, 1999 (unless an emergency arises) for the observance of Paul Hall's birthday. Normal business hours will resume the following workday. Seafarers LOG 3 �Bosun Vern Poulsen Honored By Tacoma Propeller Club Not much surprises Recertified Bosun Vern Poulsen, who has seen just about everything during his 50-year maritime career. But the Propeller Club-Port of Tacoma, Wash. recently caught him off guard when the organization presented its 1999 Master Mariner Award to the longtime Seafarer. The annual award recognizes various contributions to the U.S. maritime industry. "It was very, very much a surprise. I had no idea, but it was nice," said Poulsen, who has been part of the Sea-Land shore gang in Tacoma for 15 years and a member of the Propeller Club nearly that long. "Vern deserves the acclaim. He's a great guy and a wellrespected member," noted SIU Assistant Vice President Bob Hall. Poulsen, 65, joined the SIU in Seattle in 1961. He first sailed in the galley before switching to the deck department and working his way up to bosun. (Poulsen completed the recertification course at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime . Congratulating Recertified Bosun Vern Poulsen (center) on his award are SIU Asst. VP Bob Hall (left) and Sea-Land VP Gary Ritzman. Training and Education in 1974.) Asked about his fondest sailing memories, he replied, "They're all good memories, although I [particularly] liked the SL-7s." The veteran Seafarer also quieted a rumor about his supposed upcoming retirement. "I'm just a kid, I'm not retiring," he said with a chuckle. "In fact, I just made a trip on the (Liberty ship) Jeremiah O'Brien." A Ship By Any Other Name ... Bosun George Jordanides snapped these photos of the ~repo~i­ tioning ship Calvin P. Titus as it became the Mf!ersk ~nzor:a m Sunny Point, N.C. The containership, us~ally stat1c:ined in .sa1pa~, was renamed in early April. Its sister ship, the Enc G. Gibson, 1s scheduled to be renamed the Maersk Alaska this month while overseas. Poulsen actually was on vacation during his 27-day stint aboard the historic vessel, based in San Francisco. He volunteered to help paint the ship, which still makes trips each month around the San Francisco Bay. "I was one of the youngest guys on that ship, and we worked 15 hours a day," he noted. "The best thing was I got paid the same as the captain: nothing. "Honestly, I' 11 treasure the experience." Avondale Workers Still Denied Contract Continued from page 2 Apparently, such reimbursements are allowable according to federal contracting rules, although the Navy reportedly warned Avondale that it may deny future reimbursements if they are deemed "unreasonable." The Atlas, operated by G&H Towing in the Houston area, i~ bo!h comThe story broke in midfortable and comes equipped with many safety features like internal Safety problems at Avondale lndus~ries were .the focu~ of a Workers heat sensors and smoke detectors. June, after Sen. Edward Memorial Day rally in New Orleans m late Apnl. The shipyard recently Kennedy (D-Mass.) asked for a was fined $537,000 by the government for safety violatio~s. Seven breakdown of Avondale's pro- workers have died at the facility this decade. Below, SI~ re~1ree Beau posed reimbursements for its James (left) joins fellow trade unionists at the rally, which included a scheme to deny union repre- memorial march (above). Continued from page 3 "Another interesting aspect sentation. According to news is that they use the latest tech"This is something that I Christened in May, the 105- nology in lines. The stem line is reports, Kennedy argued that find especially troubling. They taxpayers should not pay for foot Scout operates in Long made out of the same material get away with [the anti-union such expenses. Beach and Los Angeles along used in bulletproof vests. It The Defense Contract Audit campaign] because American with three other Crowley har- floats, yet it's stronger than Agency officially has labeled taxpayers are footing the bill," bor-class tugs. A fifth is due out steel. Unbelievable." the proposed reimbursements Wellstone said on the Senate this month. About 200 people attended as "unresolved," although it has floor. "The maneuverability of the Scouts christening. "The Navy and the Coast these boats is incredible, as is Like the other Crowley har- "not identified a basis under Guard are effectively subsidizthe 360-degree visibility," said bor-class tugs, the Scout can (current regulations) to disaling Avondale's illegal unionKerry DeMatos, who sailed perform ship escort at greater low them," stated Navy busting campaign," he continSecretary Richard Danzig in a with the SIU for 16 years before than 10 knots. It possesses ued. "Avondale gets about 80 becoming Crowley's senior port 4,800 horsepower plus the latest letter to Kennedy. percent of its contracts from the In an unrelated matter, Sen. Paul Wellstone (Dcaptain in Long Beach last radar and other telecommunicaNavy for building and repairing Avondale recently agreed to Minn.) voiced outrage at the October. "They don't have pro- tions equipment, and was built pellers, so they can go in any at Nichols Bros. in Freeland, notion of tax money covering ships. If it weren't for the become a wholly owned subUnited States Navy, Avondale sidiary of Litton Industries. Avondale's legal expenses. direction. Wash. probably wouldn't exist. Litton also had attempted to "This poster child for bad acquire Newport News (Va.) corporate citizenship is brought Shipbuilding, but that proposal Seafarers Mark Maritime Day on USNS Indomitable to you courtesy of the failed. Similarly, a planned A series of ceremonies American taxpayer." merger between Avondale and marked National Maritime The senator also pointed out Newport News Shipbuilding is Memorial Day in Washington, that Avondale last year came off. D.C. last May. One of the under fire in federal court for Meanwhile, the AFL-CIO events took place at the numerous unfair labor practices organized a "community hearWashington Navy Yard, where the SIU-crewed USNS and safety violations. ing" in New Orleans on the Indomitable, operated by "On the one hand, the sixth anniversary of the Maersk Line for the Military National Labor Relations Board Avondale vote. Local workers, Sealift Command, was feaand OSHA (the Occupational clergymen, political represe~ta­ tured. Three Seafarers workSafety and Health Admin- tives and labor officials ing aboard that vessel were at istration) find Avondale in fla- (including AFL-CIO Secrethe ready to assist visitors on shipboard tours. They are, grant violation of the law. On the tary-Treasurer Rich Trumka) from left, AB Bobby E. Kelly, other hand, the Navy keeps spotlighted the need to protect EU Elliott A. Rhodes and rewarding Avondale with more workers' freedom to join a Bosun Robert Taylor. union. contracts." ...... ) New Additions to SIU Fleet 4 Seafarers LOG July 1999 �Realities of Runaway-Flag Shipping: Masked liunmen1 No Food or Wages NY Times Article Reveals More FOC Victims Even in Russia, the Inter- and chairman of the ITF's national Transport Workers' Seafarers Section. "It's important Federation (ITF) exhibition ship enough that the ITF launched the Global Mariner continues gain- Global Mariner, and there's no ing North American publicity for doubt the ship has generated a lot its campaign against runaway- of coverage, especially during the tlag shipping. past half-year." On May 22, The New York The SIU is one of the more Times published a detailed piece than 500 transportation-related about the runaway-flag Lakhta, unions affiliated with the whose Russian crew members London-based ITF. The union, for have not been paid in a year and decades, has partaken in the fight who recently were threatened at against runaway-flag shipping. gunpoint with eviction from the FOC Nighbnare badly rusted vessel. The ITF The article by Russell called attention to the Belize-flag ship when the Global Mariner Working disclosed that the docked nearby in Vladivostok, mariners aboard the cargo ship Lakhta "are a year behind in their Russia. The New York Times' article wages, and the owners no longer delves into the broader issue of provide food or water and once runaway-flag shipping-also even tried to evict the crew at known as flag-of-convenience gunpoint. The ship is caked in shipping-while using the Lakhta rust, and even her basic seaworcase as an example. The newspa- thiness is in question. The hatch per touches upon the Global covers over the cargo holds do Mariner, which has traveled not fully close, a problem that halfway around the world to pub- could swamp the ship in high 1icize the ITF's 50-year fight seas." As often happens in such against the runaway scam. This marks the continuation of cases, the crew "has not been able a wave of similar coverage that to figure out just who owes them began late last year and has con- the wages." In February, they tinued fairly steadily since then. sued the charterer, Dellner Other newspapers including the Shipping Co. of Russia, for more Houston Chronicle, Baltimore than $82,000 in back wages but a Sun, New Orleans Times- judge threw out the case. Dellner, which chartered the Picayune and many more have been joined by network television vessel from Seattle-based Caribnews affiliates in covering the bean Maritime, claimed the previblight caused by runaway-flag ous charter operator owed all but shipping (see box). In many 40 days' worth of wages. After cases, the stories were publicized the judge's ruling in mid-March, the company persuaded the court nationally. "Publicity is an important part to send a bailiff and 13 masked of the campaign. It raises aware- gunmen to the ship. When a television crew and a ness, which is a step toward correcting the problem," said John lawyer for the mariners arrived a Fay, SIU executive vice president little while later, the rifle-toting In the News Some recent high-profile cases involving runaway-flag ships • The New Carissa runs aground at Coos Bay, Ore., spilling 70,000 gallons of heavy bunker fuel and touching off weeks of nationwide coverage. Partly as a result of the incident, legislation is introduced in Congress to protect U.S. ports from similar mishaps. • Battling malnutrition and many other health problems, the crew of the disabled Delta Pride finally comes ashore-nearly a full year after being abandoned in Mexico by the ship's bankrupt owner. Unpaid for two years, the crew subsisted on rainwater and fish that they caught. • A fleet-wide conspiracy at Royal Caribbean Cruises involving environmental crimes is detailed in a Sunday New York Times article. The Miamibased company, fined a record $9 million for pollution incidents, saves about $30 million a year in U.S. taxes by registering its ships in Norway and Liberia, the article notes. A follow-up article points out that the 17 major cruise lines pay practically no income tax even though they are based in this country and 90 percent of the passengers are American. • The National Transportation Safety Board calls a two-day hearing about the Carnival cruise ship Ecstasy, which caught fire last year shortly after departing Miami. At the hearing, the Ecstasy's captain acknowledges he initially refused help from the Coast Guard to fight the blaze. He also told investigators he maintained a minimum speed out of Miami, despite black smoke and flames pouring from the aft mooring deck, in case he had to steer the vessel to keep the smoke from blowing across the ship. • The tanker Campo Duran is detained in Baltimore because of numerous safety problems. They include oil leaking into the bilge, which cannot be cleaned because of a faulty water separator; lack of fresh water; a malfunctioning main engine; a broken radar plotting system; an uninstalled emergency towing system; a lifeboat blocked by stacks of 55-gallon drums; no heat; and widespread unsanitary conditions. July 1999 individuals (some of whom reportedly had climbed the masts and threatened the crew) as well as the bailiff left the ship. The ITF's inspector in Vladivostok is assisting the mariners, while personnel from the Global Mariner donated stores and money. Runaway-flag ships are carriers operating under the flag of a non-traditional maritime nation, yet owned by a citizen or citizens of another country. Financially strapped nations sell the use of their flag to shipowners, who register tonnage in those countries in order to take advantage of less stringent labor, safety, regulatory and tax standards than if that vessel were registered in the owner's nation of citizenship. The ITF Global Mariner has gained publicity for the organization's campaign against runaway-flag shipping-a campaign actively supported by the SIU. Cases like that of the Lakhta, spotlighted recently by The New York Times, help reveal the runaway-flag scam. Battling the 'Millennium Bug' U.S. Parts Will Remain Open When Clack Strikes Midnight Coast Guard Says It Is Ready -· for Y2K Even as the U.S. Coast Guard continued conducting Y2K tests at sea and ashore last month, the Department of Transportation (DOT) announced that U.S. ports will remain open on January I, 2000. However, the Coast Guard also warned that "where there are concerns for safety, operational restrictions could be imposed by the local Coast Guard captain of the port." Such constraints may include anchoring outside a harbor, sailing at reduced speed, one-way traffic lanes or extra tugboat assistance, among others. The announcement took place June 15 in Southern California, where Coast Guard officials carried out two days of Y2K tests throughout the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach as well as aboard the Seafarers-crewed APL Singapore. SIU-contracted Crowley Marine Services also took part in the exercises, which involved simulated oil spills, engine failures and electronic communications obstacles. Maritime concerns about the so-called millennium bug- potential disruptions stemming from computers and other electronic equipment that misreads the year 2000 as 1900-include possible collisions, spills or traffic jams in harbors. Virtually any system that supports shipping or cargo handling is susceptible, including navigation and engine control systems, cargo gauging equipment, vessel traffic management tools, and communications devices. The industry is far from alone in tackling the Y2K issue. According to revised estimates released last month by the White House, the U.S. government will have spent at least $8.06 billion working on Y2K fixes. Notwithstanding the problem's breadth, DOT Deputy Secretary Mort Downey and Coast Guard Rear Admiral George Naccara expressed confidence that U.S. port operations would run smoothly through the new year and beyond. Downey pointed out that the cooperative efforts from different sectors of the industry have yielded substantial progress in readying for the year 2000. "We believe we are well on our way to having a (maritime) transportation system that will operate properly before, during and after the millennium change," he stated. Naccara, the agency's chief information officer, said, "Rather than interrupt U.S. port activities on January I, the Coast Guard will gather and assess information on operators' Y2K preparations, and impose operational restrictions only ifthe operator's level of Y2K preparedness raises safety concerns. The idea is to have a consistent, nationwide approach that will protect life, property and the marine environment while recognizing the importance of ocean transportation to the nation's economy." He added that the Coast Guard has worked on its Y2K plans for about two years. Seafarers LOG 5 �From St. Marys to St. Mary's ~ . .·· Alaskan Ledlow Looks Forwanl ~ - -- ~, f ~ ... ~-3 Al.AIKANA!llltll.IST »·~~ af ~lrOhtl.or;".d , !N ..... i !91Ct~d~:WO. ~.tlC4tbeptm--- : 2fHl~1'1N;r.S~~·t..... f -- Val .. s • wa!ltt hMno~;::~.t=:=:=:: I To New Career as SW Member When Chris Ledlow climbs the gangway this summer as a member of the engine department crew for the first time, it will be the culmination of his dream to obtain a skill that opens the whole world to him. Ledlow, a graduate of unlicensed apprentice class 583, is an Alaska Native who had spent most of his life in the Yukon River village of St. Marys in the southwestern comer of the state prior to his arrival at the Paul Hall Center in St. Mary's County, Md. last year. The 20-year-old has become a celebrity of sorts in his home state because of the career path he has chosen. He had a feature story published about him April 12 in the Anchorage Daily News. Then, that city's NBC television affiliate shot a day in his life at the Paul Hall Center, running the video on June 3. "I hope this lets others in Alaska know the possibilities they have with the SIU and the merchant marine," the unassuming Ledlow told a reporter for the Seafarers LOG. "My village only has a couple hundred people. I could work in a grocery store, at a cannery or my father's garage and that is about it. When I heard about Unlicensed Apprentice Chris Ledlow tells a television reporter why others from Alaska should attend the Paul Hall Center. this, I wanted to try it and see what I could do." Ledlow found out about the unlicensed apprentice program through SIU Anchorage Representative Harold Holten. Holten has been working with Alaska-area private industry councils to recruit young men and women from the state to become merchant mariners. Alaska has high unemployment As instructor Mark Cates offers directions on forklift operations, an Alaskan television crew works on an "up-close-and-personal" shot of Chris Ledlow. statistics compared to the rest of the country. The SIU recruitment effort has the blessing of the state's congressional delegation-Sens. Ted Stevens (R) and Frank Murkowski (R) and Rep. Don Young (R)-as well as Gov. Tony Knowles (D). In fact, the joint venture received national recognition in March from the National Association of Private Industry Councils for its success. When Ledlow began his work in the first phase of training, he had no idea in which department he wanted to sail. That changed during his phase two experience aboard the Great Land, a vessel operated by TOTE. "I got to work in all three departments, which is part of the program. But I could not believe my 30 days were over so quickly when I was in the engine department. I felt I had only been there two weeks. I knew that is where I wanted to be," Ledlow recalled. Upon his return to the Paul Hall Center, he dedicated himself to learning as much as he could to begin his new career in the engine room. That training allowed him to be among the first to battle a blaze in the Eternal Flame bum building on the grounds of the new Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School. "It was incredible. I couldn't believe how hot it got in there. Then they told me it was only 300 degrees, but it could be turned up to 1,600. I wouldn 't want to feel that." During his interviews with the Alaskan media, Ledlow was asked what differences he had encountered during his education at Piney Point. "The salmon. It doesn't taste the same in Maryland as it does back home in Alaska. But I've gotten used to it." Paul Hall Center's Russell Honored on Memorial Day The Anchorage Daily News ran a feature story about Unlicensed Apprentice Chris Ledlow when he returned to Piney Point for phase three training. Apprentices Learn Maritime History During a recent trip to the port of Baltimore, students in the final segment of the Paul Hall Center's unlicensed apprentice program learned about contemporary maritime happenings and industry heritage. The students met with SIU members and officers aboard the USNS Capella (below), where they reviewed various aspects of shipboard work. They also toured the historic Liberty ship John W Brown (top photo), currently staffed by volunteers. On the World War II-era vessel, the apprentices gained new appreciation for the role of the U.S. merchant marine in national defense Posing for a photo aboard the Capella (bottom photo) are (from left) Capt. David Kelly, Chief Mate Michael Murphy, Unlicensed Apprentice Melvin Ratcliff, Paul Hall Center Instructor Shannon Twigg, Chief Steward John Walsh and Bosun Gary Clarke. He Was Among the First U.S. Troops Called to Action in South Korea Many Seafarers know Albert Russell as the face of security at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. However, few know that the man in the guard house is a decorated Korean War hero. Russell was honored with other American veterans in St. Mary's County over Memorial Day. All of them were in a feature photograph printed in the local newspaper, The Enterprise. In July 1950, Russell was among the first wave of American troops sent to South Korea following the invasion from the north. He was a corporal in the U.S. Army's 21st Regiment of the 24th Infantry Division when he was wounded by shrapnel from mortar fire just days after landing in South Korea. (During that same engagement, 6 Seafarers LOG his overall commanding officera general-was taken prisoner.) Russell told a reporter he never felt like a hero. " I was sent over there to do a job and I did it," the soft-spoken Russell said. "I'm proud of what I did for my country." Russell received the Purple Heart and Cluster for his multiple wounds. After recovering, he continued to serve in South Korea until July 1951 . He was awarded the Bronze Star, Combat Infantry Badge and many citations for his duty. He was discharged in July 1952. Russell has been part of the security staff at the Paul Hall Center since August 1970. But this is not his first stint at that location. Shortly after being released from the Army, he land- Paul Hall Center Security Guard Albert Russell displays his Purple Heart, Bronze Star and other citations he earned during his tour of duty in the Korean Conflict. ed a job at the old torpedo testing range-on the same location as the center-in the Navy gun factory from 1953 to 1957. July 1999 �Watchman Vlado Lazarevski Kinsman Independent Oiler William English Kinsman Independent Fireman John Rittinghouse Kinsman Independent Low water levels on the Great Lakes have impacted cargo movements, but for the most part it has been "business as usual" for Seafarers sailing in that region. In April, there was an 8.6 percent cargo downturn in iron ore, coal and stone compared to the same time last year. Some 14.8 million tons of cargo were shipped on the Lakes that month. As of mid-June, Lakes cargo movements were down about 13 Despite cargo movement that trails the record paces of recent years, Seafarers remain very active on the Lakes, including aboard the Kinsman Independent (right photo), the Adam E. Cornelius (above, towed by an SIU-crewed Great Lakes Towing tug) and many other vessels. . I ) ...:'~ percent compared to the 1998-99 shipping season. A Lakes trade association pointed out that besides low water levels, the drop "also reflects the fact that the winter of 1997-98 was extremely mild and thus dry-bulk trades resumed ahead of schedule." Additionally, dumped foreign steel continues impacting the Lakes fleet, although some nations have slowed their steel exports to the U.S. Watchman Nick Velkoff American Republic Porter Julius Najera Kinsman Independent SIU Rep. Don Thornton, Oiler Charles Lesley Kinsman Independent Deckhand Musid Musleh American Republic Watchman Raymond Spooner American Mariner Chief Cook Abdulwahab Mutahr, Asst. Cook Paul Paton Alpena Deckhand Donald Sausman Kinsman Independent July 1999 Seafarers LOG 7 �Steward Has Loving Message During Black History Month Commemorations of this year's Black History Month extended far beyond U.S. shores, thanks in part to Saundra Leonard. The chief steward gave a heartfelt speech February 28 in Diego Garcia during a shoreside celebration of the month designated for reflection upon the his- tory, teachings and other contributions of African Americans. Organized by a U.S. Navy officer, the event drew approximately 250 people, including other speakers. "Something's always happening on the island," noted Leonard, who was sailing aboard the Buffalo Soldier-a ship Chief Steward Saundra Leonard is congratulated for her remarks by AB Gregory Bamfeld (left photo) and AB Allan Green. named in memory of African American cavalry units who served in the untamed western U.S.-<iuring Black History Month. "This particular ceremony brought tears to people's eyes." A frequent upgrader at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, Leonard told the audience that she has witnessed a disturbing deterioration in human interaction. "Especially in the 1980s, drugs and crime and other undesirable things came into our community (in Southern California), and things just fell apart," she said. "We stopped loving ourselves, our mothers, fathers, sisters and brothers." Leonard suggested that acceptance and religious faith are vital to societal improvement. "Stop looking at the color of a person's skin, and try to see the beauty in The SIU-crewed prepositioning vessel Buffalo Soldier is named in memory of black Army veterans who served in campaigns throughout the then-untamed western plains. a person," she advised. "If we of all races don't start loving one another, this world will never change .... Love of self and of God is the only thing that's going to bring happiness." Listeners responded to Leonard's remarks with loud applause. The concept for Black History Month came from Carter G. Woodson, founder of the Association for the Study of Negro Life and History in 1915. In 1926, he secured government recognition of "Negro History Week" honoring the contributions of black Americans. Woodson picked a week in February because the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass occurred during the month. In 1976, spurred by the renamed Association for the Study of Afro-American Life and History, the commemorative week expanded to a month. The SIU-crewed Buffalo Soldier, operated by Red River Shipping Corp. for the U.S. Military Sealift Command, is named after the all-black 9th and 1oth Cavalry Regiments created by the Army Reorganization Act of 1866. The units served until just before World War II. Cape Trinity Crew Awarded Certificate of Excellence The SIU-crewed Cape Trinity, one of 91 ships in the Ready Reserve Force (RRF) owned by the U.S. Department of Transportation's Maritime Administration (MarAd), is often called upon to support military exercises. One recent operation, howev- er-transporting a complete, rapidly erectable, 500-bed hospital to Norway- earned the ship's crew a certificate of excellence, presented personally by Maritime Administrator Clyde J. Hart Jr. Using the vessel's huge stem ramp, about I 00 vehicles and 400 The SIU crew aboard the Cape Trinity recently was honored for its outstanding performance in support of a military operation. With the crew are Maritime Administrator Clyde J. Hart Jr., MarAd Central Region Director John W. Carnes, Apex Director of Marine Operations Robert Kunkel, SIU VP Dean Corgey and Assistant VP Jim McGee. containers were rolled on the ship in Virginia and offloaded in Norway. Two weeks following Hart's visit, the master, crew and managers of the Houston-based cargo ship also were honored, this time by the U.S. Navy's Fleet Hospital Group. A plaque was presented to the ship during an informal ship ceremony by Deputy Maritime Administrator John E. Graykowski. Ninety-five percent of the material needed in a military deployment must be sent by sea, Graykowski stated. "We are proud that the Cape Trinity has demonstrated how well suited the ships are to respond to any contingency." Six of the 91 RRF vessels are based in Houston, and of those, three, including the Cape Trinity, are managed by Apex Marine Ship Management, LLC for MarAd. Each of the vessels flies the RRF readiness flag, signifying that, in a national defense emergency, it will fill out its crew, take on stores and fuel, and be ready to sail in 96 or 120 hours. Proud of their union and their vessel are some of the crew members aboard the Cape Trinity, an RAF ship honored for its military support. From the left are Chief Electrician Gabriel Arhin, Recertified Bosun Billy Eastwood, GUDE Edward Shamburger and QMED Ross Hardy. El Yunque's First Call Following the presentation of MarAd's certificate of excellence to the crew of the Cape Trinity, that agency's administrator, Clyde J. Hart Jr., poses with (from left) SIU VP Dean Corgey, Assistant VP Jim McGee and MarAd Central Region Director John W. Carnes. One There When You Need Him The AFL-CIO recently reported that, when 100 delegates to the Steelworkers civil rights conference began demonstrating in support of locked-out workers at the Kaiser Aluminum plant in Gramercy, La., someone called the local sheriff's office. When the sheriff arrived, he called for backup-not to arrest the demonstrators, but rather to protect them from traffic on the busy fourlane highway. It so happens the sheriff is a former member of the Steelworkers and once served as grievance chair at that same Kaiser plant. B Seafarers LOG The newly contracted El Yunque, operated by Sea Star Line, recently made its first call at Port Everglades, Fla. Pictured in the galley during that stop in May are (from left) Chief Steward Matthew Scott, SA Charles B. Collier and Chief Cook James Kasha. July 1999 �Captain C.R. Balomenos complimented the Liberty Sea '.S' crew for a "very good voyage" that took place this spring. The SIU-crewed vessel is operated by Liberty Maritime Corp. ALL IN A DAY'S WORK: Above and left, Seafarers including Bosun Harold Sebring and AB James Deano clean the holds. AB Dave Hetrick moves to the next task on the Liberty Sea. Right: Hands-on experience is a key part of the Paul Hall Center's phase two training for unlicensed apprentices. Here, apprentices Chad Warren (left) and Ronald Gloston (right) join AB Robert English in cleaning the holds. Enjoying lunch are (from left) QMED William Parker and GUDEs Terrence Ford and Louis Green. 66,000 in Puerto Rico Win Union Elections In one of the biggest unionization efforts ever, an overwhelming majority of voters chose union representation in elections last month covering 66,000 Puerto Rico Department of Education employees. Teachers, cafeteria workers, maintenance personnel and clerical employees voted by an 85 percent margin to join unions. They will vote again this fall to decide which union represents them in each unit. According to a news release from the AFL-CIO, the election was part of a two-step process created by the passage last year of a law giving public employees in the territory the right to form a union. Approximately 150,000 public employees in Puerto Rico are eligible for union representation under the new regulations. The vote involving the Department of Education, which ended in mid-June, was the first conducted under the new law. Elections for other departments will follow, noted the labor federation. The vote ·counts among the four groups were: teachers, 29,058 yes to 3,538 no; cafeteria workers 5,144 yes to 547 no; July 1999 Doing their part to make the vessel a good feeder are (from left) Chief Cook Luis Caballero, Chief Steward Charles Scott and GSU Wilfred Lambey. maintenance employees, 3, 150 yes to 312 no; and office workers, 2,500 yes to 445 no. Eighty percent of eligible voters cast a ballot. "We want a union contract so we can build the best possible future for ourselves, our families and the children we teach every single day," stated Nancy Cardona, a teacher in San Juan. AFL-CIO President John Sweeney pointed out, "These employees know that ~union will mean better jobs, enhanced schools and stronger communities throughout Puerto Rico. "The overwhelmingly positive vote spotlights these workers' ardent desire to have a greater voice on the job." There are approximately 1,600 schools in the Puerto Rico system. The Department of Education employees are forming unions with the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) and the United Auto Workers (UAW). (See page 10 for related story.) USNS Bob Hope Does 'Fleet Week' in NY Posing for a photo after a union meeting last month aboard the USNS Bob Hope are (front row, from left) SIU Patrolman Jack Caffey Jr., OS Bryan Gaddis, Bosun Terry Evins, SAD. Williams, (back row) SA Roy Warren and AB Bob Day. The USNS Bob Hope, pictured last month in New York during the Navy's "Fleet Week," is one of four vessels in its class crewed by Seafarers. The newest one, the USNS Mendonca, was christened in April. Greeting a visitor at the gangway are (from left) Bosun Terry Evans, AB Lumumba Lasana, Navy Sailor Laurie Brindle, Storekeeper Gary Bruber and AB Eric Overby. Seafarers LOG 9 �More Workers Say 'Union Yes' The national federation of trade unions last month reported that new government data show workers are conducting and winning more union elections than in previous years. The AFL-CIO, of which the SIU is an affiliate, also pointed out that the elections cover increasing numbers of workers, according to statistics compiled by the U.S. Bureau of National Affairs from National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) data for 1998. Employees secured union representation in 1,653 elections, or 51.2 percent of balloting in 1998, compared to 1,591 elections, or 50.3 percent of voting in 1997. The number of elections in 1998 increased to 3,229 from 3, 160 in 1997, a 2.2 percent increase. Additionally, the federation noted that workers last year won half of the campaigns involving units of 500 or more employees -a high point since such statistics have been tracked. Those figures "are good news for American workers, because growing unions mean better jobs and stronger communities," said AFL-CIO President John Sweeney. "Unions are on the right track, and are reaching out more than we have in years. We should celebrate this news by redoubling our efforts." The highest win rate was in the finance, insurance and real estate industries, where workers won nearly 84 percent of 31 elections. Workers won more than half the elections in health care services; general services; transportation, communications and utilities; retail; and construction. Moreover, the NLRB statistics do not include some of the largest organizing wins in 1998 which occurred under the National Railway Labor Act or through employer recognition of majority worker support outside an election process. In total, more than 475,000 workers joined unions in 1998, according to the federation. And, as previously reported in the Seafarers LOG, union membership rose for the first time in years in 1998-by more than 100,000 -according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data released earlier this year. The number of union members in the U.S. rose from 16.1 million to 16.2 million. Unfon density in the service sector-the largest sector of the economy-rose for the first time, from 5.4 percent to 5.6 percent. Safety Drills on Sea-Land Expedition Water survival drills are a staple aboard SIU-crewed ships, as participants eagerly hone their skills for a scenario they hope never occurs. Recently, Seafarers on the Sea-Land Expedition executed a regularly scheduled lifeboat drill (top photo) while the vessel was in San Juan, P.R. Above left, Recertified Bosun Ismael Rivera and AB Efrain Alvarez secure the boat following the drill as others observe. Above right, Oiler A. Omer and AB Roger Plaud grease the wire while the boat is retrieved from the water. Below, Alvarez performs maintenance that is a standard part of the drill. Wilmington Seafarers in Korea .......~~/UJ Four self-described "proud members of the SIU" from the port of Wilmington, Calif. recently posed for this photo while waiting for a flight connection at the airport in Ulsan, South Korea, shortly after signing off the Sea-Land Challenger. Pictured from left to right are AB Dominic Sanfilippo, AB Frank Cammuso, Chief Steward Terry Allen and AB Amin Hussein. They returned to the vessel about three weeks later, Cammuso noted. Pidare roanell • ..... Relmring in Piney Point Picture yourself and your family by the pool, at the beach, on a picnic. Or picture yourself and your family exploring Civil War sites, checking out dinosaur bones at the Smithsonian Institution, catching a foul ball at a Baltimore Orioles game at Camden Yards. All these activities-and more-are possible day trips when you vacation at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. The cost is just $40 per day for each SIU member and $10 10 Seafarers LOB per day for a spouse and for each child. (There is no charge for children 11 years of age or younger.) These prices include all meals. There is still time for Seafarers and their families to plan to spend up to two weeks of their summer vacation in Piney Point. To turn your pictures into reality, call the Seafarers Training & Recreation Center at (301) 994-0010 or send in the reservation form now. r-------------------------------------, SEAFARERS TRAINING & RECREATION CENTER Vacation Reservation Information Name: ---------------------------------------------------------------------~ Social Security number: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Book number: ___________________ Address: Telephone number: ----------·----------------------------------Number in party I ages of children, if applicable: - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 3rd choice: _ _ __ 1st choice: ________ 2nd choice: _ _ __ Date of arrival: (Stay is limited to a maximum of two weeks) Date of departure: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Send this completed application to the Seafarers Training & Recreation Center, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674. 7199 -••~L-------------------------------------~ July 1999 �6011't Services Division Member Writes Novel About Subic Bay For some mariners, writing is a means of passing time, whether it involves poems, stories or letters. For Anthony R. Mills, a member of the SIU's Government Services Division, it is a serious avocation. Mills recently penned a 344-page novel titled "Subic Bay, The Last American Colony," published by Noble House of Baltimore. Billed as "an historic and personal look into naval base living," the book draws upon Mills' eight years of experience sailing out of the Philippines. In a letter to the Seafarers LOG, Mills Jim THE LAST AMERICAN COLONY noted that the book is available via numerous internet sites (including borders.com and amazon.com, for instance) or through the publisher's toll-free number: 1800-873-2003. Price varies by seller, as some offer discounts off the $27.95 cover price. A promotional flyer for "Subic Bay, The Last American Colony" describes it as "a remarkably vivid retrospective novel about the American naval base and the people of Olongapo, Philippines. Cultivated over 50 years, the mixture of civilians, naval personnel, and Philippine nationals bred an inter- From Portugal to New Orleans -;h r-·-. dependent and colorful community residing in the area. Mills' penetrating narrative explores the lives and relationships of this unlikely cultural assortment and examines the bonds which made its dissolution painful for so many. "Centered around the activities of the USNS Spice, a United States Navy supply vessel and its crew members, 'Subic Bay' steers readers through the waning years of an historic American era covering the period from the early 1980s through the Desert Storm conflict in 1990 until the installation shut down in 1991." Recertified Bosun Cesar Gutierrez sent these photos to the Seafarers LOG showing the Liberty Star's recent voyage from Portugal to New Orleans. In top photo, the bosun preps mooring lines for arrival. Above left, Deck Maintenance Ivan Aguilar helps ready the vessel for docking in New Orleans. Above right, Unlicensed Apprentice Joel Encarnacion demonstrates that shipboard life may include the occasional barbecue. Great Lakes Towing Turns 100 Mills wrote the book to provide "an historic and personal look into naval base living." Anthony Mills, AB and author, most recently sailed aboard the USNS Tippecanoe. Taking Advantage of Technology American Steamship Company Adds Defibrillators to Vessels Donation Made to High School for Computer Upgrades SIU-contracted American Steamship Company (ASC) is taking advantage of modem technology while helping others do the same. The company recently announced that its 11 self-unloading vessels plying the Great Lakes have been equipped with automatic external defibrillators (AED}-portable devices used to treat individuals when in cardiac arrest. "ASC has adopted this program to increase the odds of saving lives," the company said in a news release. "The AED could mean the difference between life and death for crew members aboard Great Lakes vessels. Published medical research suggests that many heart attack victims would likely survive with early defibrillation." The machines are compact and weigh only a few pounds. ASC noted that "advances in technology have streamlined and simplified these devices to a point where the AED will walk the user through a simple, step-by-step process with voice and visual prompts. Once sensor pads are placed properly on the victim's chest, the AED analyzes the heart rhythm in seconds and then determines if a shock is warranted." Meanwhile, ASC and its parent organization recently donated July 1999 Taking part in the ceremonial opening of the ASC-GATX Media Center at St. Mary's High in Lancaster, N.Y. are (from left) American Steamship Company President and CEO Ned Smith, St. Mary's Principal Patrick Brady, and St. Mary's Board of Trustees Chairman Thomas Malecki. $15,000 to a Lancaster, N.Y. high school, with the funds spent on computers and internet access. In May, ASC and GATX Corp. made the donation to St. Mary's High, a 95-year-old Catholic school believed to be the oldest such facility in the nation. The grant is part of a philanthropic program in which the companies regularly participate. St. Mary's spent the money to network its entire computer system, establish internet access throughout the school, update various computer equipment and purchase software. Altogether, SIU-contracted Great Lakes Towing officially turns 100 years old on July 7. The Clevelandbased company owns and operates tugboats serving dozens of ports. Among those currently in service are (above) the new ZTHREE and (at right) the Montana. Pictured below, from the Seafarers LOG archives, is a late1970s shot of Great Lakes Towing boats docked in the Cuyahoga River. the new and upgraded purchases were dedicated as the ASCGATX Media Center. The school plans to add internet-related courses to its curriculum. Ned Smith, president and CEO of ASC (which is based in Williamsville, N.Y.), said the St. Mary's grant is part of a "contributions program that focuses on education, the environment and on strengthening families. This grant will help promote student and teacher excellence in the ever evolving world of computer technology." Seafarers LOii 11 �Upgraders, Apprentice So far, the newest addition to the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is living up to its billing. The Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School, a one-of-a-kind facility that replicates shipboard fues and other marine hazards, officially went into use early last month. Upgraders and students in the center's unlicensed apprentice program are utilizing the Joe Sacco School's modem classrooms, water survival trainer, maze building, bum building, damage-control area and fire props to boost their safety skills and knowledge. "It's a wonderful fire fighting school, probably the best in the world," said Certified Chief Cook Don Irvine, one of the first upgraders to train there. A member of the SIU since 12 Seafarers LOG 1981, Irvine noted that the stateof-the-art facilities are maximized by the instructors. "That's what I liked best-the teachers listen to the students very well. There's good communication between the instructors and the students," he noted. Located in Valley Lee, Md., just down the road from the Paul Hall Center, the fire fighting chool boasts a unique design that specifically recreates shipboard environments. It is being used for the basic and advanced fire fighting classes as well as the STCW basic safety, lifeboatman/water survival and government vessels courses. "I think it's great," declared Wiper Wayne Abell, moments after completing drills using a fire hose and fire extinguisher. "It's very realistic, and I'm sure [the instructors] could crank it up even more." Unlicensed Apprentice David Green chuckled when recalling his experience in the maze building, a two-story facility with a modifiable interior that figures to challenge even the most direction-savvy Seafarers. "It's amazing and really tricky," said Green, who nevertheless finished his drill in respectable time. During the exercise, "everything is black, so you have to feel all over the place. It was nerve-wracking at first. I had gone through with a flashlight and it was easy. It's a different story without that light." Lolita Thomas, who sails in the steward department, summarized the feelings of her classmates in the STCW basic safety class when she proclaimed, "It's a really good school and I'm glad we have it. It's good for us." July 1999 �·~· ?') fire Fighting & Pictured on these two pages and the next page are the first classes to utilize the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School. The photos were taken from late May to mid-June; they include an STCW basic safety course and an unlicensed apprentice class. July 1999 Seafarers LOG 13 �• Training Begins at the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School Students use extinguishers and hoses to combat different types of fires that may occur at sea. ,_ Gen. Tony Robertson emerges from the burn building after a firsthand look at a fire fighting drill. Slater, Robertson, Abercrombie Commend Fire Fighting School Representatives from Congress, the administration and the military recently praised the opening of the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School. Secretary of Transportation Rodney Slater, Air Force General Charles "Tony" Robertson, who heads the Transportation Command (TRANSCOM), and Rep. Neil Abercrombie (D-Hawaii) commended the Valley Lee, Md. facility in recent correspondence with SIU President Michael Sacco. Slater said the "state-of-the-art, environmentally secure training facility is a fitting tribute to the years of dedication and commitment Joseph Sacco gave to this union and Hands-on instruction is a key facet of training at the new facility, as demonstrated by instructors John Smith (third photo above) and Stormie Combs (two photos directly above). 14 Seafarers LOG Sensors inside the control room of the burn building (fourth photo above) help provide a realistic but safe training experience. Rep. Neil Abercrombie said the new school is named in memory of "a remarkable man," Joe Sacco. to the men and women who are sailing aboard ships on the deep sea, Great Lakes and inland waterways." He further pointed out the school "will guarantee that our (mariner) work force continues to be the best trained in the world." Following his inspection of the school in late May, Robertson described it as a "national treasure" that will benefit "merchant mariners . . . and our country." He also applauded the mission of the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (which encompasses the fire fighting school) as well as its staff and the rest of its facilities. Abercrombie, a strong supporter of the U.S. merchant marine who personally knew Joe Sacco, said the school is a fitting tribute to "one of the most beloved figures in the U.S. maritime industry and the American labor movement.. . . His tireless efforts to improve the lives of the men and women of the SIU made for a full life of service and commitment to the values we cherish and the nation we love .... "May those who pass through these doors emerge with their skills enhanced and their dedication to safety strengthened." Joseph Sacco was the SIU's executive vice president when he passed away in 1996. SIU President Michael Sacco (right) and SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez (center) discuss the school's uses and objectives with Gen. Tony Robertson. DOT Sec'y Rodney Slater noted the facility will help uphold U.S. tradition of welltrained mariners. July 1999 �Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea MAY 16 - JUNE 15, 1999 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C 19 8 5 3 1 DECK DEPARTMENT 9 5 3 0 7 0 4 0 0 8 8 15 11 7 9 14 5 22 16 26 IO 13 17 Port New York Philadelphia Baltimore Norfolk Mobile New Orleans Jacksonville San Francisco Wilmington Tacoma Puerto Rico Honolulu Houston St. Louis Piney Point Algonac Totals 22 6 6 6 11 16 IO 4 9 37 12 27 33 10 12 6 IO 6 6 5 27 15 6 27 3 2 3 242 4 2 128 11 11 2 9 3 3 5 11 l 3 85 Port New York Philadelphia Baltimore Norfolk Mobile New Orleans Jacksonville San Francisco Wilmington Tacoma Puerto Rico Honolulu Houston St. Louis Piney Point Algonac Totals 13 0 3 7 8 9 7 4 6 8 6 I 0 3 0 IO 11 3 13 7 9 10 0 1 15 6 4 3 5 12 O 8 8 0 11 14 6 0 2 0 7 1 l 2 l 118 100 34 16 6 4 0 3 2 12 6 5 2 10 5 Totals 13 18 5 13 20 1 2 200 5 9 I 5 4 9 9 6 10 5 2 105 6 IO 7 2 IO 13 12 18 24 2 10 19 7 8 7 12 14 3 16 8 9 21 17 21 2 3 2 2 3 0 8 4 11 3 3 0 5 2 2 2 New Bedford ..........Tuesday: August 17, September 21 2 1 105 1 3 416 l 5 I New Orleans ...........Tuesday: August IO, September 14 180 110 70 0 11 s 5 2 4 3 0 7 14 12 8 13 1 10 5 1 4 5 4 2 0 9 13 37 14 18 15 4 6 6 0 2 4 1 1 22 6 3 3 7 6 IO 7 8 21 3 4 6 l 2 2 196 0 0 2 0 0 0 90 20 47 144 51 0 7 0 4 0 0 36 0 s 1 5 13 7 10 l 8 6 0 13 5 3 22 1 11 15 2 2 2 l 2 3 l 7 1 0 1 29 26 4 3 5 3 5 14 l3 12 5 7 12 3 11 8 2 65 2 0 15 38 13 3 178 168 542 457 316 0 0 4 4 3 0 0 0 2 IO 1 4 I 2 34 7 l 25 0 2 4 7 2 0 2 12 0 0 1 9 13 9 0 5 6 14 0 0 112 2 1 47 7 116 1 2 37 354 9 2 1 8 4 25 48 28 6 6 7 3 2 2 6 0 2 12 6 5 0 9 36 0 2 9 0 0 0 6 4 15 0 0 19 60 212 438 7 I 2 11 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 3 17 3 0 0 I 0 0 2 0 3 0 2 11 7 0 2 0 0 0 5 2 9 0 7 11 7 0 1 4 7 0 4 6 6 0 5 3 3 0 0 0 51 23 5 0 4 3 I 0 0 0 0 0 12 II 0 0 0 2 0 0 101 32 112 210 Mobile .................... Wednesday: August 11, September 15 New York.. ..............Tuesday: August 3, September 7 20 2 4 2 0 IO 6 3 0 9 2 0 248 73 35 11 59 0 0 44 9 4 ] 4 l 3 7 18 6 13 12 25 25 18 8 6 8 22 14 IO 5 46 15 90 7 4 18 0 11 80 2 287 246 940 656 428 4 0 0 0 San Juan ..................Thursday: August 5, September 9 St. Louis .................Friday: August 13, September 17 Tacoma ................... Friday: August 20, September 24 Wilmington ...............Tuesday, August 17* Monday, September 20 Each port~s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals STA LEYB OW Please contact Evelyn Brandenburg of San Pablo, Calif. at (510) 724-9851. EDMOND HAWKINS Please write your children at 54 Saw Mill Drive, Berkeley Heights, NJ 07922. DOUGLASA.HUNDSHAMER Please give your mother, Verna Hundshamer, a call at (315) 458-5326. JOHN POMEROY Please call Jim at (734) 254-5048 regarding the 25th lntricarb reunion to be held next year. Cl--111111111 LOG-A-RHYTHMS ... Sea · 0 14 12 Phitadelphia ............ Wednesday: August 4, September 8 (•change created by Paul Hall birthday holiday) 5 4 1 2 Jersey City .............. Wednesday: August 18, September 22 San Francisco .........Thursday: August 12, September 16 5 3 4 1 0 0 Jacksonville ............ Thursday: August 5, September 9 Norfolk ...................Thursday: August 5, September 9 19 l 11 Houston ..................Monday: August 9, September 13 0 7 8 0 l Honolulu .................Friday: August 13, September 17 2 3 0 2 0 Duluth ..................... Wednesday: August 11, September 15 24 I 3 2 Baltimore ................Thursday: August 5, September 9 2 3 10 *"Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **"Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. July 1999 17 8 16 21 16 21 7 Algonac ..................Friday: August 6, August 10 4 2 94 0 6 7 1 0 0 4 (•change created by Labor Day holiday) 11 48 10 2 5 8 11 0 15 3 18 s 5 61 50 44 52 24 7 Piney Point ............. Monday: August 2 Tuesday, September 7* 3 5 2 8 9 13 12 2 13 7 7 7 4 49 2 4 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 7 6 10 2 0 3 0 2 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 13 17 7 4 14 Totals All Departments 2 20 10 Port New York Philadelphia Baltimore Norfolk Mobile New Orleans Jacksonville San Francisco Wilmington Tacoma Puerto Rico Honolulu Houston St. Louis Piney Point Algonac Trip Reliefs STEWARD DEPARTMENT Port New York Philadelphia Baltimore Norfolk Mobile New Orleans Jacksonville San Francisco Wilmington Tacoma Puerto Rico Honolulu Houston St. Louis Piney Point Algonac Totals TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C August & September 1999 Membership Meetings Deep Sea1 Lakes, Inland Waters 20 2 11 15 s 4 0 by Judy Merwin Sometimes I wonder why ... Why we cant see things through another s eyes? Why it seems wrong to care, To want to shoulder the burdens they bear? Some of us flee to the sea, Seeking a healing that floating upon it brings. Gathering our strengths and will to survive, Rising and sleeping with the tides. Working and eating as the vessel rolls and pitches, Thinking about the things that our lives delivered Praying/or our loved ones and all those of the places we visit, Channeling the Universes energies like the goods we deliver. Wondering why things didn't work out the way we planned? Why we are reluctant to plan again? One by one we begin to see. And open anothe,. s eyes to see. Judy Merwin is an OS working on upgrading to AB. She currently is sailing aboard the USNS Capella. Seafarers LOG 15 �Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes Seatare1S 1ntematlonal Onion Dll'fldory MAY 16 - ... Michael Sacro President ·· · . CL - JQhn Fay · · · .Executive Vice President Secretary~Treasurer Augustin Tellez L- Company/Lakes *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP David Heindel JUNE 15, 1999 Lakes NP - Non Priority TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP Vice President Contracts Jack Caffey Vice President Atlantic Coast Byron Kelley Vice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone Vice President West Coast Kermett Mangram . Vice President Government Services ... HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs. MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St Clair River Dr. Algonac, Ml 48001 (810) 794-4988 Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac 0 29 10 0 14 8 0 5 2 0 12 25 DECK DEPARTMENT 0 15 3 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 12 4 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 3 0 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 3 5 0 14 7 0 2 4 0 2 2 0 9 20 Totals All Depts 0 60 45 0 12 27 33 0 *"Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **"Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. 33 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #IC Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters MAY 16 - BALTIMORE 1216 E. Baltimore St Baltimore, MD 21202 (410) 327-4900 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C DULUTH 705 Medical Arts Building Duluth, MN 55802 (218) 722-4110 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St. Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 122 l Pierce St. Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JERSEY CITY 99 Montgomery St. Jersey City, NJ 07302 (201) 435-9424 MOBJLE J640 Dauphin Island Pkwy. Mobile, AL 36605 (334) 478-0916 NEW BEDFORD 48 Union St New Bedford, MA 02740 (508) 997-5404 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd. Harvey. LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St. Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes, Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes, Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast GuJfCoast Lakes, Inland Waters West Coast Totals 0 I 0 42 I 44 0 0 0 26 0 26 0 0 0 0 23 0 23 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 10 0 3 13 0 2 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 JUNE 15, 1999 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 0 0 3 14 0 0 5 4 19 1 7 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 0 0 0 8 0 0 0 0 0 8 0 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 0 0 0 0 0 6 0 0 0 2 28 8 38 0 2 0 3 5 0 0 0 0 16 0 0 16 0 0 0 15 0 10 25 0 3 0 0 3 18 0 0 0 0 0 0 18 0 0 1 0 0 0 72 Totals All Depts 1 7 5 93 1 15 33 *"Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **"Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. 29 PIC-FROM-THE-PAST PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St Philadelphia, PA 19148 (215) 336-3818 PINEY POINT P.O. Box 75 Piney Point, MD 20674 (301 ) 994-00 I 0 PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave. Ft. Lauderdale. FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16~ Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave. St Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave. Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 WJLMINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave. Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 16 Seafarers LOG These photos were sent to the Seafarers LOG by retired Captain Raymond P. Karlsvik of Raymond, Wash. They were taken in Okinawa, Japan at Christmas time 1951 aboard the Ponce de Leon, a Waterman C-2. The group photo shows crew members gathered in the messroom following a holiday meal. Bosun Hans Skaalegaard-Jansen (left) and Karlsvik are in the photo at right. In a note accompanying the photos, Karlsvik writes that Skaalegaard-Jansen was a very good bosun-"truly a sailor's sailor." He also was a fine marine artist and went on to pursue a career as such. Karlsvik, an AB (blue ticket) at the time, found his way to Sea-Land Service, Inc., where he spent 28 years. As a captain, he helped bring three of the new Sea-Land ships from Sturgeon Bay, Wis. to Tacoma, Wash. for the Alaska trade On one trip to Green Bay, Wis. to captain another of the ships, Karlsvik writes that he went to the hotel closest to the airport, and upon entering the dining room, came upon a beautiful painting of a square-rigged ship. "My first thought," he writes, "was that it looked like something Hans would have painted and, upon closer inspection, I found his name on it." Small world! July 1999 �- Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who .have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard US-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways 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. ne recertified bosun is among the nine Seafarers announcing their retirements this month. Representing 37 years of active union membership, Recertified Bosun John S. Bertolino is a graduate of the highest training available to members in the deck department at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Including the recertified graduate, five of the retiring Seafarers sailed in the deep sea division, three shipped on inland vessels and one plied the Great Lakes. Among the retiring pensioners, five worked in the deck department, while two each shipped in the engine and steward departments. On this page, the Seafarers LOG presents brief biographical accounts of the retiring Seafarers. O DEEP SEA JOHNS. BERTOLINO, 61, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1962 from the "' port of New York. His first ship was the Robin Gray, a Moore McCormack Lines vessel. Brother Bertolino is a graduate of the Andrew Furuseth Training School. Born in Pennsylvania, he sailed in the deck department and upgraded his skills at the Harry Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md., where he graduated from the bosun recertification program in 1980. Prior to his retirement, he sailed aboard the Sea-Land Atlantic. South Glens Falls, N.Y. is where he calls home. ROBINSON CRUSOE, 61 , joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards (MC&S) in 1965 in the port of San Francisco. Born in Alabama, he worked in the stew- INLAND ard department, last sailing as a chief cook aboard the Overseas Juneau. Brother Crusoe has retired to Carson, Calif. TOMAS ESCUDERO, 70, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1970 from the port of New York. Brother L__-===---...J Escudero worked in the engine department and upgraded his skills at the union's school in Piney Point, Md. A native of Puerto Rico, he last sailed in 1985 as a chief electrician aboard the Santa Paula, a Delta Steamship Lines vessel. From 1949 to 1954, he served in the U.S. Army. He makes his home in Bethlehem, Pa. ROBERTN. FULK, 65, started his career with the SIU in 1958 in the port of Houston. Starting out in the inland division, he later began working aboard deep sea vessels. Born in Indiana, he sailed in the deck department and upgraded his skills in Piney Point, Md. From 1950 to 1951, he served in the U.S. Army. Brother Fulk last sailed aboard the Overseas Vivian. He resides in Palestine, Texas. EVANS SMITH, 68, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1991 . His first ship was the Cape Florida, operated by International Marine Carriers. Born in Trinidad, he worked in the deck department, last sailing aboard a Crowley Marine Services vessel. He has retired to Ocala, Fla. Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG 1941 Following certification by the labor Board in the Robin Line election, the union, on July 21, signed a full agreement with the company. The contract included the closed shop, hiring through the union hall and top wages and working conditions that compare favorably with the best in the industry. ARTHURD. HANN, 63, first sailed with the Seafarers in 1979. Boatman Hann worked ======:=J in the engine department and sailed primarily aboard various tugs operated by Crowley Towing and Transportation Co. From 1952 to 1960, the Massachusetts native served in the U.S. Marine Corps. He makes his home in Olar, S.C. HORACEC. LaFRAGE, 63, joined the SIU in 1952, sailing aboard deep sea vessels. He later transferred to the inland division as a member of the deck department. From 1960 to 1962, he served in the U.S. Army. Prior to his retirement, Boatman LaFrage sailed aboard the Mars, a G&H Towing Co. vessel. Born in North Carolina, he has retired to LaMarque, Texas. CHARLOTTE SUSAN WOLFE,64, began her career with the Seafarers in 1988. Sister Wolfe started working in the steward department and later transferred to the deck department. She last sailed aboard the Geary, operated by Orgulf Transportation Co. A native of West Virginia, she makes her home in Ripley. 1964 The new SIU hall in Norfolk, Va. was dedicated in ceremonies attended by officers of the SIU, members in the area, representatives of the trade union movement and repre· sentatives of government. A part of the SIU's continuing building program, the new Norfolk hall is a direct consequence of the increased deep-sea cargo movements and the parallel rise in the membership of the SIU throughout the Hampton Roads-Norfolk area. The new fully air-conditioned building includes an expanded hiring hall, a general meeting hall capable of handling .300 persons, new recreational facilities, accommodations for a snack bar-cafeteria, a 40-car parking lot, landscaped terrace, and other necessary July 1999 - ~--­ PI ans are being made for the restored Liberty ship John W Brown, currently docked in Baltimore, to travel throughout the Great Lakes next year. GREAT LAKES Factory Tours -" lfr-ni.hl' \ 1·and' fJrtun . u.tL1al1d, cahr : 1<~>«'11 ·, 1976 (From Paul Hall's president's report, published a few months before Eleaion Day) "Right now the SIU is enjoying good shipping as a direct result of our fight for a fair shake for the U.S. merchant fleet. But f"f this good shipping does ~ro y not mean we can sit back •~ f and rest. We have worked too long and hard to rebuild this industry-to foster a sense of cooperation for the mutual benefit of all segments, to create a stable industry capable of taking advantage of new opportunities and to build an effective legislative program-to jeopardize it now by succumbing to a sense of false security.... "We must, as we have done in the past, pitch in with all the aid and support we can muster because only through our own efforts can we protect what we already have won. And more importantly, only by proving ourselves capable of supporting our allies in the upcoming elections will the SIU eventually realize the goal we have struggled so long to achieve-a strong, healthy and vital U.S. merchant marine." la,..,..,, l;J\ Stl'cl r.o_ ...;a..i1.bi.a:a1ln":q'f\aJ'fqufrrlfl; ~"llrrn t·:u pl:inc (\UJ1 ... ~lint.Tr•a I Slrt!bt'lr:las..r;;lJOo- Carnlru!. ' -~ Htiria:!iiih.nh bltllri,.. f,vrrrU, \\ .:h<.h. I•, r.bthf""'n Mdrl JOJ. UIJk'rirh A Ara&;~ ((R11,...11irSlu;::rr """"""1 lo;it. l..,.rrl>lB iOll f) Hotels, ~ "ldr-·• .... lht "' =~e11:.~: ;:::-;:: • Ci111r l)tM"rlll \Ln, l.ttOJ. • = ii & .. 11; Oh111tarr~ iltllf ltra~" , . ._ .. .,,~ij;_ botrh Hhw 11-c-.,nr... r.., ..u". 1,..lao11 tw;1r•~-.1mtwr. \t•mot t'rrBr"tt111an· lt!rrf kr"-UO , f;hM.11 lk.ac·b kr"Urt tUur 11'-anta Rraf'h l:lub & \llf,t.... 'I rhPll.f". \, r.u, 1. c....,••• u 1r.1) rrsma1 , 1Cindllua11J.l'W°llk1lllhl~·l'u{>- ~1;:-~~·. '::~~~11~1~~==. )\ i ~ ; ~=;~-~~. \n\1~~r~~ Uf1ro1J. ~\.llW,..:, -'uftt-t. W"a~atll"'t"· c :wttl f\,J\ HOid. ~I Juhn>1. \I ~~;;~::,~=~,~~::f~,'r.u~.~~:;: - -- ~ tlu.;lllnj!.. \Urh .. '\t""ll<"fM"l'h-r t11u1\l' \ '·· f.a ...t (l!!\cl.and, Ohla: lialr'm :~u~::~~ ,~::-~:;~!;!;~ tuAa-f'\Lff,aal~•.-r:-i<i·Jiri. ln-,-~~~~.':~L~P~~~r;~ llllt"rJt.alhntwif r1·t0(hal Wall:.i.liL \l r~l 1tf.a-\1r~lnf" \\.:MrUtu1t ~rts \\llloam•.l.anc, O.rr .. l,el\C'r f'a\ltllL f l "a.hf (\1.ll'foll).. ".. 11U \(11'UI llUPlli'l#tflJn r.i .. '\~hlaU. ' ••lrilf1 - ~t\ir.11.llaf, (< ~t I 11 C' "OIULC';.~(:.ounJ\. lntnft.'.lfknt.il f"C'-"Uul l~.nllr); "ts. Summer Music Festivals llluahlrn: l>L"-lr1rl er 1!41•••t•- , 1.. 1an1J-1; millnt~hrd ~\ UJ.;)(I. ta 1'1'-Y..•C'rrunlu. rltf'nlr l ~•J•rl ll•tlrt z: - \kJ.:.1 ~llUlt'T' FNA.al 1\\ 'hkltr.UllJ :;-:;;::~;:.,··~:\:=' 111•<-o-l.uri"" ~ '•ods\"""· · h...na1 ,....., '"""""1 I Worker/Union Monuments --- "''"' """'" '\lut..lfll'-"°"'".tD),l"a.trlfS\lUphi11\ llUl lbl" t S # r1u,,.uli1. llucrlt1 kio itllld Uc \1r;la U-.1• l~urlin!f'Jtni•. \IOJlllf'•1• ~:~~!~~~~~~~~~.'1-~~~ l t -. City & County Parks 1>111r.....,_.~'4!yilo"' dut\-.1.Louk-,\lk.J,.\ (hcfl •nrlrl· OMf•U n ..., .---.-.4...L...-~ t klrk'\-U,A\ii.;na. \urt. J":t GEORGE A. COYER, 62, joined the Seafarers in 1961 in Toledo, Ohio; Detroit; Erie, Pa.; Cleveland; Buffalo; Toronto; Montreal; and Halifax, Nova Scotia. Mariners with current z-cards are needed to fulfill Coast Guard regulations for crew complement. For more information, contact Rick Bauman at Project Liberty Ship, P.O. Box 25846, Highlandtown Station, Baltimore, MD 21224, telephone (410) 661-1550 or ( 410) 558-0646. Younger mariners who thought they missed their chance to sail aboard historic Liberty ships may get the opportunity after all. The John W Brown, based in Baltimore, is seeking active mariners to crew the vessel for segments of a trip throughout the Great Lakes planned for next year. The voyage tentatively is scheduled to begin in May 2000 and end in August, with stops in l\oorkl.1'-Nlr\ provisions for the full servicing of the membership and the handling of union business functions. •u H. •M ~ •f"f ~· Liberty Ship Needs Crew For Voyage on Great Lakes l S \l\ttl. llen\ rr& l 1hil.nk'IJ1btJ. f \i kurrav ol Et1ff<1\htJ::, \~a,.hifttl&ft 1J C. · t:)ecolOJ1f rr.=================================:;;t r·u •s n• school in Piney Point, Md. He last sailed in 1977 as a captain aboard a Great Lakes Dredge & Dock vessel . Brother Coyer served in the U.S. Army from 1954 to 1957. A native of New York, he has retired to Oswego. the port of Buffalo, N.Y. Brother Coyer sailed in the deck department and upgraded his skills at the l =~4; :~ra:~~ lcnMI \ni I~ \u•. · ~\kl 2Q!;fUJ t'I' Miscellaneous khlul.-1 (111.:.:hl•nd l''Jrl.1. h1tll1tH\l;1rrb ~\mpbllD\ nl Uu Praftlr tfl~llr-rsJ; \tar~la••-:'uinmn \tu trft',..1 U\<Jlllt11nrc); \tati!'ltCh· llll" Ll ~-8&!it{tJO t:arh \ltJ~lr U:~r.· r.rHflrJ. Taft11h·•uoll O.rn11\t. \111Df'50l a-\11Rnr ... u1;s 1..-rhr .. 1ra -"'ll•H.nrrrr .. 1 1\1111nr.1puli!oJ: ' f'" "".\lfct-';UUr ,.c •.hamhr-r \ht.."11 !~•Ir lr-t: '""' lorL-1\Jrd \IUMC" f-1""l1\al i \9MIW\.d1• WI lhNl"'ll). RMI'\ '""' f,fl t'tnbk (flrofi\l. fJIJtJl._lUQla 1n ... 11tullua1Ct;o1ula•11ua1. Junrln ttoflJkl !Bfllt.dul. \Janb 1:n,1rr t't•.. ll\JI i\1•Y1. ,,,,~ flh) SJ r .ii I u ~.t ~·rr rn r Museums (Ill Rur\, -" t.:1111 lf.111 irf Farar . \rt., •I•' t:~t-L•nd l'.c»•iel:!\lu-...an1 .. r1:1a,.~. and tbll rrt -" lif'nrr & lodu,lt\ f1nm::. \L \hi..,..11119' \lui'l·m \r1. ""\urt.f.1h Pennsylvania AMMV Chapters Seek New Members Active and retired merchant mariners residing in Pennsylvania are invited to join. their local chapter of the American Merchant Marine Veterans (AMMV). For more information, contact AMMV Regional Vice President John Manfredi at (724) 941-9537, or write to him at 121 Marion Dr., McMurray, PA 15317-2921. Brother Manfredi (who formerly sailed with the SIU) will put prospective members in touch with the AMMV chapte located nearest to them. Seafarers LOG 17 �- Final Departures DEEP SEA DAVE AWAKUNI Pensioner Dave Awakuni, 83, passed away April 21 . Born in Hawaii, he joined the Marine Cooks & Stewards ~ (MC&S)in · ,~Ill 1948 in the port of Seattle. The steward department member last sailed aboard the Manulani, operated by Matson Navigation Co. Brother Awakuni was a resident of Seattle and retired in July 1987. OTIS C. BAILEY Pensioner Otis C. Bailey, 74, died April 17. A native of Virginia, he first sailed with the Seafarers in 1944. Brother Bailey worked ='--------===== in the engine department and upgraded his skills to a licensed engineer. Prior to his retirement in August 1990, he sailed aboard the USNS Bellatrix, an International Marine Carriers vessel. He made his home in Suffolk, Va. r--:;;;;;;p;;::;;=;::;;;;;;;-~"" ELBERTJ.BLACKBURN Pensioner Elbert 1. Blackburn, 72, passed away April 15. He started his career with the MC&S in 1958 in the port of San Francisco. '----=-====_J His first ship was Matson Navigation Co.'s Matsonia. The California native sailed in the steward department and upgraded his skills at the Harry Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. Brother Blackburn last sailed aboard the President Chester B. Arthur, an American Ship Management vessel. He was a resident of San Francisco and began receiving his pension in November 1993. During World War II, he served in the U.S. Coast Guard from 1944 to 1946. JUNIUS C. BROWN Pensioner Junius C. Brown, 83, died January 7. Born in Louisiana, he began sailing with the MC&S in 1946. He worked in the ==--===== steward department, last sailing aboard the Santa Mercedes, operated by Delta Steamship Lines, Inc. A resident of San Francisco, Brother Brown began receiving his pension in January 1982. DEAN D. DOBBINS Pensioner Dean D. Dobbins, 65, died April 18. He began his career with the Seafarers in 1957, sailing from the port of Tampa, Fla. :__.::====i Born in Ohio, he worked in the engine department, most recently aboard the Richard G. Matthiesen, operated by Ocean Ships Inc. Brother Dobbins was a resident of Stockton, Calif. and retired in March 1997. From 1952 to 1956, he served in the U.S. Navy. WILLIAM DESOUZA Pensioner William Desouza, 80, 18 Seafarers LOS passed away recently. Brother Desouza joined the MC&S in 1951 in the port of San Francisco after graduating from the MC&S training school in Santa Rosa, Calif. A native of Hawaii, he last sailed aboard the Santa Maria, a Delta Steamship Lines vessel. A resident of San Francisco, he started receiving his pension in December 1987. CLAUDE J. DOCKREY Pensioner Claude J. Dockrey, 70, passed away April 24. Born in Shawnee, Okla., he started his SIU career in 1966 in the ======= port of Wilmington, Calif. His first ship was the Vantage Progress, a Pioneer Maritime Corp. vessel. Brother Dockrey sailed in the deck department and upgraded his skills in Piney Point, Md. He graduated from the bosun recertification program there in I 988. Prior to his retirement in November 1994, he signed off the Sea-land Innovator. He made his home in Shawnee. JOSEPH J. GADSEN Pensioner Joseph 1. Gadsen, 81, died April 5. Brother Gadsen first sailed with the MC&S in 1951. Born in South Carolina, he worked in the steward department, last sailing aboard the President Coolidge, operated by American President Lines. A resident of New York, he retired in July 1975. TERRY HILTON CHARLES P. LORD Pensioner Charles P. Lord, 85, passed away April 23. Born in Illinois, he joined the Seafarers in 1944 in the port of New York. •=='-------== He sailed in the engine department and upgraded to a licensed officer. Prior to retiring in August 1978, Brother Lord sailed aboard the Overseas Anchorage. He was a resident of Orange City, Fla. FRED MARTIN Pensioner Fred Martin, 85, died July 6, 1998. He started his career with the MC&S in 1947 in the port of San Francisco. The New York native worked in the steward department, last sailing aboard the President Taylor, an American President Lines vessel. Brother Martin made his home in San Francisco and retired in February 1972. MONT McNABB i,iiiiijiii~~I Pensioner Mont McNabb, 76, passed away March 31. Brother McNabb began sailing with the Seafarers in 1946 from the i....;__..;_,_;:.=;____ __J port of Baltimore. A native of North Carolina, he worked in the deck department, last sailing aboard a SeaLand Service vessel. During World War II, he served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1945. A resident of San Francisco, Brother McNabb started receiving his pension in January 1976. Terry Hilton, 27, passed away April 18. A native of Mississippi, he began sailing with the Seafarers in 1991 from the ====-==== port of New York. His first ship was a Pacific Gulf Marine vessel, the Pioneer Contractor. Brother Hilton worked in the deck department, last sailing aboard the Maersk Colorado. He was a resident of Vancleave, Miss. Pensioner Cosimo Melpignano, 73, passed away March 23. Born in Italy, he graduated from the Andrew Furuseth Training School in 1959 and joined the Seafarers in the port of New York. He sailed in the engine department and frequently upgraded at the union's school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Melpignano returned to his native country when he retired in January 1983. DONALD JOHNSON ROBERT W. MEREDITH Donald Johnson, 52, died April 12. Born in Alabama, he first sailed with the SIU in 1974 in the inland division and ~----'--"--~later transferred to deep sea vessels. He worked in the steward department and upgraded his skills in Piney Point, Md. A resident of Pascagoula, Miss., he last shipped in 1995 aboard the USNS Regulus, a Bay Ship Management Co. vessel. From 1969 to 1970, he served in the U.S. Army. r--._.,;;:;;;;;;;;;;;m.---, Pensioner Robert W. ROYE.JONES Pensioner Roy E. Jones, 75, passed away April 10. He joined the Seafarers in I 952 in the port of Baltimore. His first ship ---===----' was the Jefferson City, operated by Victory Carriers. A native of South Carolina, he sailed in the engine department. His last ship was the cable ship Long Lines. During World War Il, he served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1945. Brother Jones was a resident of Baltimore and began receiving his pension in August 1988. COSIMO MELPIGNANO Meredith, 74, died March 23. He joined the SIU in 1967 in the port of New York. His first ship was the =;;;;__-==:.....;;;:....-==East Point Victory, operated by Hudson Waterways. Born in California, he sailed in the deck department. Prior to his retirement in April 1993, he signed off the Sea-Land Innovator. Brother Meredith was a resident of LaPine, Ore. JOHN G. MERLO Pensioner John G . Merlo, 86, passed away February 11. Brother Merlo began his career with the MC&S in 1946 in Portland, Ore ""'--==-i He first sailed aboard the Drew Victory. Born in Italy, the steward department member last sailed on the Mariposa before retiring in August 1978. Brother Merlo made his home in Rupert, Idaho. GEORGE P. MULLEN Pensioner George P. Mullen, 86, died November l 0, 1998. He first sailed with the MC&S in 1955, aboard the President Johnson, an American President Lines vessel. Prior to his retirement in February 1977, the steward department member sailed aboard the Colorado. Born in New York, Brother Mullen was a resident of Wickenburg, Ariz. Missouri, he sailed in the steward department and upgraded his skills in Piney Point, Md. and graduated from the steward recertification program there in 1982. Brother Tinsley last sailed aboard the Liberty Spirit, a Liberty Maritime Corp. vessel, before retiring in January 1991. He made his home in Seattle. ROBERT M. POWERS FERNANDO VALLE Robert M . Powers, 62, died April 25 . Born in Pennsylvania, he graduated from the MC&S training school in Santa Rosa, Calif. and joined the MC&S in 1972 in the port of San Francisco. Starting out in the steward department, Brother Powers later transferred to the engine department and upgraded his skills in Piney Point, Md. A resident of Honolulu, he last sailed aboard the Sea-Land Trader. From 1956 to 1959, he served in the U.S. Marine Corps. Fernando Valle, · 64, died April 26. He started his career with the SIU in 1963 in the port of New York. He ; first sailed aboard the .________J Mermaid. During his career, he worked in the deck and engine departments and was active in union organizing drives. Brother Valle was a resident of Bayamon, P.R. JACK D. ROBISON Jack D. Robison, 55, passed away April 23. Brother Robison began sailing with the Seafarers in 1987. His first ship was the USNS Triumph, operated by Sea Mobility. A native of Washington and a resident of Spanaway, he sailed as a member of the deck department. From 1961 to 1965, he served in the U.S. Navy. EDWARD J. SINGLETARY Pensioner Edward J. Singletary, 85, died May 7. He began his sailing career in 1937, priorto joining the SIU in 1939 as a i..:=::...=-=:::.=-..==.i charter member. He sailed from the port of New Orleans. During his career, he . worked in the engine department and was active in union organizing drives. Prior to his retirement in August 1964, Brother Singletary signed off the Penn Vanguard, operated by Penn Maritime Co. He made his home in Bay Saint Louis, Miss. MARTIN E. SNYDER Martin E. Snyder, 42, passed away April 29. A native of Maryland, he graduated from the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School's training program in 1977 and joined the SIU in the port of Piney Point, Md. His first ship was the Banner. Brother Snyder worked in the deck department and upgraded his skills at the school. A resident of Baltimore, he last sailed aboard the Richard G. Matthiesen, operated by Ocean Ships, Inc. ROBERTO G. TIAMSON --.-~iiial Pensioner Roberto G. Tiamson, 81, died May 3. Born in the Philippines, he joined the SIU in 1948 in the port of New Orleans. He worked in the engine department and upgraded his skills in Piney Point, Md. Prior to his retirement in February 1980, Brother Tiamson last sailed aboard the Santa Mariana, a Delta Steamship Lines, Inc. vessel. He was a resident of San Francisco. EDWARD TINSLEY Pensioner Edward Tinsley, 67, passed away May 17. Brother Tinsley began sailing with the Seafarers in 1964 from the port of Seattle. Born in FREDERICK VOGLER Frederick Vogler, 55, passed away April 18. A native of California, he joined the Seafarers in 1967 in the port .___ __;;___..:;;;~--=.__, of San Francisco. His first ship was the Long View Victory. Brother Vogler sailed in the engine department and frequently upgraded at the union's school in Piney Point, Md. Befure retiring to Chino, Calif., he sailed aboard the Sea-Land Innovator. From 1960 to 1964, he served in the U.S. Navy. LYLE W. WILLIAMSOM Pensioner Lyle W. Williamson, 78, died A ril . Born in Illinois, he first sailed with the SIU in 1951. During his career, he worked in the ""'"--"-----~""" engine department and was active in union organizing drives. A veteran of World War II, he served in the U.S. Navy from 1939 to 1945. Brother Williamson was a resident of Harbor City, Calif. and began receiving his pension in October 1969. INLAND DENNIS L. COX ---.3imiiii'iiii~I Dennis L. Cox. 33, passed away October 9, I 998. A native of Texas, he joined the Seafarers in 1982. Boatman Cox worked in both the engine and deck departments and last sailed aboard a G&H Towing Co. vessel. He was a resident of Brazoria, Texas. BENJAMIN F. ROUGHTON Pensioner Benjamin F. Roughton, 74, died April 15. He joined the SIU in 1961 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Born in North . Carolina, he worked as a tugboat captain, last sailing aboard a Curtis Bay Towing Co. vessel. Boatman Roughton made his home in Chesapeake, Va. and began receiving his pension in September 1984. July 1999 �Digest of Shipboard "Union Meetings The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard · minutes as possible. On occasion, because ol space /Imitations, some will be omitted. Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union's contract department. Those issues requiring 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. GUAYAMA (Navieras NPR), March 24-Chainnan Ray Gorju, Secretary Richard E. Hicks, Educational Director Francis C. Quebedeaux. Chainnan reported March 26 arrival and payoff of ship in Jacksonville, Fla. He reminded crew members to separate plastic items from regular trash. Discussion held regarding anti-terrorist courses mentioned in president's report in Seafarers LOG. Educational director urged crew to take advantage of that course and others offered at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Some disputed OT reported in engine department. None in deck or steward departments. Vote of thanks given to steward department for job well done. ROVER (Intrepid Shipping), March I 4-Chairman Daniel P. Hecker, Secretary Juan B. Gonzales, Educational Director Vernon Edwards, Deck Delegate Richard R. Grubbs, Engine Delegate Clarence A. Knight, Steward Delegate Don Drew. Chairman thanked all hands for professional work. Some disputed OT reported in deck department; none in engine or steward departments. Request made for more reading material as well as spare VCR and new furniture for crew lounge. Repairs needed to lifeboats and ship's steps. BLUE RIDGE (Crowley Petroleum Transport), April 18Chairman Al Alwaseem, Secretary Ron Malozi, Educational Director Charlie Dahlhaus, Deck Delegate James Barrett, Steward Delegate Chris Boronski. Bosun announced payoff in Houston. He recommended everyone read president's report in LOG. New mattresses received and distributed. Secretary noted stores arriving in Houston with plastic refuse and soiled linen being offloaded. He reminded crew members to dispose of plastic items in proper receptacles and not dump trash in water. Treasurer announced $150 in ship's fund. Some disputed OT reported in engine department; none in deck or steward departments. Request made for new VCR for crew lounge. Steward department thanked for excellent food service. Steward, in tum, thanked crew for great job and hard work. HM/ DEFENDER (Hvide Marine), April 25-Chainnan Juan Castillo, Secretary Steven Wagner, Educational Director Richard Gracey, Deck Delegate John Yates, Engine Delegate Patrick Carroll, Steward Delegate Ernie Batiz. Chainnan announced captain holds payoff at first port after or on last day of each month. He urged everyone keep safety a top priority. Secretary stressed importance of upgrading skills at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT. Several suggestions made to be sent to contracts department. First is not to hold up payoff waiting for patrolman due to short stay in port and frequency of payoffs. Second is to have more flexibility in vacation time. Third is if someone wants to contribute more funds to money purchase pension plan, they should somehow be able to do it through vacation checks. Final asked for review of retirement age. Engine room members July 1999 reminded to use starboard entry into engine room after 1800. All hands asked to help DEU by keeping heads and showers clean on main deck. Next ports: Tampa, Fla. and Lake Charles, La. EL MORRO (IUM), April 27Chainnan Steven Copeland, Secretary Kris A. Hopkins, Educational Director F. Dougherty, Deck Delegate Angelo Wilcox Sr., Engine Delegate Daniel Campbell, Steward Delegate Robert G. Mashmeyer. Secretary stated exercise equipment purchased last trip and thanked all those who donated funds. Educational director urged members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer announced $20 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested clarification on ship's organizational status. They also asked for bus to provide transport to and from gate and ship in Blount Island. Vote of thanks given to vacation-bound steward. Steward, in tum, thanked his crew-Chief Cook Mashmeyer and SA Porifio Alvarez-for hard work. Next ports: San Juan, P.R. and Jacksonville, Fla. LIBERTY STAR (Liberty Maritime), April 26-Chainnan Angel L. Rivera, Secretary Lee N. Frazier, Deck Delegate Stanley Daranda, Engine De egate rank T. Kraemer. Secretary announced payoff April 28. Fresh provisions expected at dock. Next trip is to Haifa, Israel-approximately 45 days. Educational director reminded crew members to donate to SPAD and also that it's never too late to attend union upgrading classes in Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department given vote of thanks for very good work. MAYAGUEZ (Navieras NPR), April 25-Chairman Mike Carrano, Secretary Gwendolyn Shinholster, Educational Director Michael Martykan. Chainnan announced payoff in Jacksonville, Fla. April 30. He urged members to read LOG and keep up on union rules, policies and new issues. Secretary advised everyone to attend Paul Hall Center and utilize "everything our union has built for its membership." Educational director stressed safety aboard ship (including removal of lint from dryer which can lead to fire) and also reminded crew to better their skills at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion for contracts department to look into vacation pay after 60 days' seatime. Crew also requested clarification of STCW expiration and submitting TRBs for signoff at sea. Vote of thanks given to steward department for job well done. Crew asked for second dryer and new couch. MAERSK TENNESSEE (Maersk Line), April 25-Chainnan Mark Holman, Secretary Dwight Wuerth, Educational Director Pat Scott, Deck Delegate Anthony E. Simon, Engine Delegate Jean C. Horne, Steward Delegate Stephanie K. Hendrick. Chairman read president's report from March LOG and discussed with crew. He announced payoff in Charleston, S.C. April 28 and mentioned new mattresses and room refrigerators on order. Chairman saluted OVA Jean Horne on acquiring GED. Secretary mentioned he was at MTD meeting in Miami where discussion was held regarding new ships and new jobs and that SIU was commended for job well done in past for manning needed vessels to support U.S. troops. Educational director reminded everyone to keep documents up to date and report any possible safety hazards (like cables in or near water). Treasurer announced $I95 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made to check money purchase pension plan contributions from Maersk and to decrease seatime needed for vacation and retirement. Crew members also advised to keep shots updated so as to avoid illness while in South America. Vote of thanks from chainnan to entire crew for pulling together to make good voyage and to Chief Cook 'Hendrick for job well done. OVERSEAS CHICAGO (Alaska Tanker Co.), April 26--Chairman Jessie L. Mixon, Secretary Gregory S. Lynch, Educational Director Mark Sawin, Deck Delegate Ahmed A. Mihakel, Engine Delegate Edward Wisenhant, Steward Delegate Mario A. Firme. Chainnan announced payoff after discharge of cargo in Anacortes, Wash. Discussed fonnation of new company, Alaska Tanker Co. (based·· in Beaverton, Ore.), from merger of Maritime Overseas Corporation and Keystone Shipping. Awaiting word from union as to effect merger will have on membership. Secretary assured crew members that contract still good through June 16, 2001. Ship rerouted from Richmond, Calif. to Femdate-Cherry Point for cargo offloading. Educational director reminded members to be aware of necessary training requirements for tanker shipping and keep endorsements updated. No beefs or disputed OT, although watchstander requested clarification of wheel relief during watch. Crew noted communications from Contracts VP Augie Tellez regarding vacation plan. Vote of thanks to steward department for job well done. OVERSEAS OHIO (Alaska Tanker Co.), April 19-Chairman Tim Koebel, Secretary Jeff Smith, Educational Director Byron Elliot, Deck Delegate Carl Sands, Engine Delegate Mike McN ally. Chairman read letter from VP Contracts Augie Tellez regarding resolution of longtime dispute over what constitutes cargo watch for bosun and day men. He also announced ship now operated by new company, Alaska Tanker, and had no word as yet on how this would affect existing contract. Forms for upgrading, medical, vacation, registration available from bosun. Crew related beefs with captain regarding reimbursements for travel. Discussion held on new passenger and tanker vessels mentioned in April LOG. Suggestion made that contracts department look into having vacation payable after 90 days seatime. Room inspection policy of obtaining slip signed by steward or bosun and given to captain to be continued. Crew requested tape rewinder. Vote of thanks given to steward department for extra effort and fine cuisine. Next ports: Ferndale and Tacoma, Wash. SEA-LAND CRUSADER (SeaLand Service), April 22Chairman Roberto Diaz, Secretary Joseph P. Emidy, Educational Director Kevin Cooper, Deck Delegate Angel R. Camacho, Steward Delegate Luis A. Lopez. Everything running smoothly, according to chairman. Educational director encouraged crew members to upgrade at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made for additional information on money purchase pension plan. Most members have not received statements regarding their accounts and also want to know how to withdraw or add to account. Next port: Elizabeth, N.J. SEA-LAND ENTERPRISE (SeaLand Service), April 23--Chairman Hayden Gifford, Secretary Franchesca Rose, Educational Director Ray Chapman, Deck Patriot shipshape after period in yard. Vote of thanks also given to steward department for great job. Next port: Oakland, Calif. SEA-LAND PERFORMANCE (Sea-Land Service), April I l Chainnan Jim Scheck, Secretary Ralph Thomas, Educational Director Win Rousseau, Deck Delegate Jose A. Tobio, Steward Delegate John M. Platts. Chairman noted everything running Pfeiffer Galley Crew Garners Praise , t d The chief officer aboard the SIU-crewed R.J. Pfeiffer recently put in a good word for Seafarers who comprise the vessel's steward department. In a note to the Seafarers LOG, J.W. ~ert commen~d the work of (from left) Chief Cook Ruti Demont, Chief Steward Ph1~p Lau and Assistant Cook To-Nu Wallace. "This gang deserves a word of thanks and recognition for the outstanding job they have ~one in keeping all hands fat and sassy aboard the Matson flagship R.J. Pfeiffer. There is not a better feeder in the fleet." Apparently, they have a sense of humor, too, as evidenced by Demont's and Lau's Tshirts (which read in part, "You kill it, we grill it"). Delegate Manolo V. Delos Santos, Engine Delegate Elisana Silvano, Steward Delegate Romeo Manansala. Chairman and secretary stressed importance of attending upgrading courses at Paul Hall Center. New mattresses on order. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port: Oakland, Calif. SEA-LAND EXPEDITION (SeaLand Service), April 2IChainnan Mike Rivera, Secretary Pedro Laboy, Engine Delegate Jorge E. Bermeo, Steward Delegate Fernando L. Vega. Chairman urged crew members to upgrade skills at facility in Piney Point. He also stressed importance of supporting union by contributing to SPAD. No beefs or disputed OT reported. President's report from LOG regarding new passenger vessels read and discussed. This is monumental move for industry and shows our political strength in Washington, D.C. is paying off. Thanks given to Mike Sacco and union membership for hard work. Suggestion made to request contracts department look into raise in pension due to increased cost of living. Steward department thanked for excellent job, especially Steward Laboy for his exquisite culinary skills. SEA-LAND PATRIOT (Sea-Land Service), April I I-Chairman Shawn T. Evans, Secretary Ruben Casio Jr., Educational Director B. Baltic, Deck Delegate Richard Volkart, Steward Delegate Horst Baetjer, Steward Delegate Ernest Polk. Chainnan thanked crew for good trip. Suggested everyone read LOG to stay up-to-date on events in union and maritime industry. Educational director advised crew to watch safety films, report any damage or hazards to department head and upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer announced two new bicycles and dart board purchased for use by all. New movies expected in Long Beach, Calif. Some disputed OT reported in deck department. No beefs or disputed OT reported by engine or steward delegates. Request made for additional information on money purchase pension plan. Thanks given to GSU for getting smoothly aboard ship with good crew and no beefs. Payoff expected in Jacksonville, Fla. Secretary recommended crew members upgrade at Piney Point every available opportunity and help job security by contributing to SPAD. Educational director advised all hands to keep pay vouchers and Coast Guard discharges in case of discrepancies about sea time. Treasurer announced $80 in ship's movie fund. President's report from LOG read by chainnan. Crew agreed that awareness of piracy should be concern of all seafarers. Thanks given to good steward department for job well done, especially for recent shrimp feast. SEA-LAND PRODUCER (SeaLand Service), April 21-Chairman Joel Lechel, Secretary David Cunningham, Educational Director Keith Jordan, Deck Delegate Danny Miller, Engine Delegate Victor Sapp, Steward Delegate Cliff Elliott. Bosun reminded everyone of April 23 payoff in Jacksonville, Fla. Also stated ship loading stores there for 28 days. Educational director reminded apprentices to keep learning, now that they have rotated into final department of their three-month stay aboard ship. Treasurer announced ship's fund is low. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun read two letters from VP Contracts Augie Tellez about how to improve meetings aboard vessel as well as president's report from latest LOG. Suggestion made to ask contracts department to look into reducing seatime needed for retirement. DEU reminded everyone to help with housekeeping duties (return dishes to lounge, remove earplugs and paper towels from clothes prior to using washing machine, separate plastics from regular trash). Bosun thanked Chief Engineer Ed Robinson for preparing and cooking pig for last barbecue. He also thanked steward department for all their help as well in making ''this barbecue hard to beat." Next ports: Jacksonville; San Juan, P.R.; and Rio Haina, Dominican Republic. Seafarers LOG 19 �~- -~. ~~--- I Letters to the Editor (Editors note: the Seafarers LOG reserves the right to edit letters for grammar as well as space provisions without changing the writers intent. The LOG welcomes letters from members, pensioners, their families and shipmates and will publish them on a timely basis.) - Savannah Contributed To WWII Liberty Fleet The following article about Liberty ships is something the members may enjoy reading. I worked at Southeastern Shipyards, building some of these ships. I signed on my first ship November 19, 1945 as an SIU member. It was the Liberty Ship Augustus P. Loring. I joined her in Charleston, S.C. We took a load of coal to France. While waiting at anchor off Le Havre, around Christmas, a mine sank a Robin Line ship. It was reported that no one was injured. I don't recall the ship's name, but it was close by us. We heard the explosion and felt the concussion. I enjoy the LOG and look forward to reading it each month. Thank you for keeping all the readers well informed. Pensioner Thomas A. Brown Savannah, Ga. Editor s note: The following article by James Mack Adams is reprinted, with permission, from the Islands Closeup section ofthe Savannah (Ga.) Morning News, May 6, 1999. Their cargo holds bulging with supplies destined for foreign ports, they sailed the treacherous and perilous wartime seas. Their distinctive silhouette and light armament made them easy prey for roaming German U-boat "Wolf Packs" and enemy dive bombers. They were the Liberty Ships that composed America's Liberty Fleet that transported much-needed supplies to troops overseas during World War II. The names "Liberty Fleet" and "Liberty Ship" were coined by Adm. Emory Scott Land, chairman of the United States Maritime Commission. A total of 88 of these Liberty Ships were built in Savannah between 1942 and 1945. Each launching was a patriotic celebration attended by dignitaries and well-wishers. Cheers and applause erupted from the throng as each new ship was christened by a bottle of champagne before it slid down the slipway into the embrace of the waiting river. They were given names to honor persons well-known in Georgia history such as the SS Lyman Hall, SS Button Gwinnett, SS Casmir Pulaski, SS Florence Martus, SS George Whitefield and others. The christening and launch of the SS Juliette Low on May 13, 1944 was said to be especially festive. In the crowd were hundreds of Girl Scouts and their leaders. Given the honor of breaking the bottle of champagne across the bow was Juliette's niece, Mrs. Samuel C. Lawrence of Charleston, W. Va. America's first Liberty Ship, the SS Patrick Henry, was launched from the port of Baltimore on September 27, 1941. Several hundred more of these merchant vessels were built at American ports and put to sea during the course of the war. Many of them ended up at the bottom of the sea. Just prior to America's entry into World War II, the U.S. Maritime Commission awarded shipbuilding contracts to several firms. One of these contracts was given to Savannah Shipyards, Inc. To help its chances of being awarded the contract, the Savannah company built its own three-slipway yard-without any federal funding. This move, however, did little to change the commission's lack of confidence in the company's capital structure and management. Savannah Shipyards, Inc. was required to show full staffing and to complete the required facilities within 30 to 60 days, or risk losing the contract. The company failed to meet the ' specified deadline, but the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor prompted the Maritime Commission to re-evaluate the situation in Savannah. The commission was granted the authority to take possession of the project, complete the facilities, and award the management to a new company. Savannah Shipyards, Inc. challenged this move in court, but their suit was unsuccessful. The company was awarded a substantial compensation. In January 1942, a leading construction firm was engaged to complete the shipbuilding facilities. Management was turned over to a group of experts who reorganized the yard and renamed it Southeastern Shipbuilding Corp. The first Liberty Ship to be launched from Savannah's Southeastern Shipyards in May 1942 was appropriately named the SS James Oglethorpe, for -~-----------~~--~--- and Georgia's wartime economy. It is estimated Savannah's founder. Unfortunately, this first that a total of 46,766 workers vessel did not survive the war. were employed in shipbuilding in The Oglethorpe was torpedoed Savannah throughout the course and sank as it crossed the of the war. This generated a total Northwest Atlantic on a voyage payroll amounting to $112 milfrom New York to England. lion. Workers invested some of Only two other Liberty Ships their pay to help finance the war launched from Savannah were by purchasing $11 million worth sunk as the result of enemy of War Bonds. Workers earned an average action. They were the SS John Treutlen and the SS Jonas Lie. weekly pay of $100-considered Most of the other vessels were a very respectable wage in those either scrapped or converted to days. other uses at the end of the war. Because of the shortage of During 1943, even though the male workers, women worked Savannah facilities were only half alongside the men, performing completed, Southeastern deliv- tasks that had been previously ered more Liberty Ships than any considered "men's work." of its rivals. Racial segregation being on The 88 vessels produced by firm footing in Savannah in the Southeastern Shipyards during 1940s, African-American workthe war cost just over $2 million ers had little hope of rising above each to build. The U.S. Maritime custodial or helper jobs. Commission paid the company a People flocked to Savannah to standard fee for each completed work in the shipyards. As the ship, and bonuses if they were wartime population of the city completed earlier than scheduled. swelled from 96,000 to 175,000 Due to the fact there was little between 1940 and 1944, new or no variation from one Liberty housing had to be constructed. Ship to another, they could be Some of the housing projects produced in rapid cookie-cutter were meant to be only temporary. fashion. The typical Liberty Ship On September 13, 1945, the measured just over 441 feet in end of an era was marked by the length and had a beam of just launching of the SS Half Knot, the under 57 feet. They could carry last Liberty Ship to depart about 9,000 tons of cargo at a top Savannah. speed of 11 knots. After peace returned to the Since they were primarily merworld, Southeastern was one of chantmen, and not intended as 4 pyards closed and their war ships, the vessels carried very properties b the War Assets light armament to fight off an -acre site attack. Their primary weapons Administration. about two miles west of ah were 20 mm and 40 mm guns, was purchased by the Savanna three-inch 50 caliber, and fiveinch 3 8 caliber. On board was a Port Authority and Industries detachment of 24 Navy seamen Committee for $357,112. The and one officer assigned to main- area was later occupied by ,Georgia Ports Authority, Union tain and operate the guns. The Southeastern Shipyards Camp and Intermarine USA. The era of the Liberty Ships is was Savannah's largest employer s during World War II and wielded an important part of Sa an enormous impact on the city's long and colorful mantime history. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership's money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the 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 recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District are administered in accordance with the provisions 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 disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval 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 shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively 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 employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified 20 Seafarers LOG mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 520 I Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers 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 filing 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 SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful 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 responsibility for Seafarers 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 OBLIGATIONS. 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 headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION - SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect 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 Michael 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. July 1999 �SEAFARERS PAUL HALL CENTER 1999 UPGRADING COURSESCHEDULE The following is the ~chedUie for cla$se.S from July through the end of the year at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. All programs Recertlflcatioa Programs Course Sta_, Date Date of Completion Bosun Recertification August23 October4 are geared to improve the job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. · . ·· ·· · ···· Safety Specialty Courses · Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and-in times of conflict-the nation's security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday be/ore their course's start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Course Start Date Date of Completion Tanker Familiarization/ Assistant Cargo (DL) August2 September 27 November 1 August 20 October 15 November 19 Basic Firefighting July 12 July 16 August 6 October 1 October 22 November 26 Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may calJ the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. August2 September 27 October 18 November 22 Deck Upgrading Courses Start Date Course Date of Completion Able Seaman September 20 October 29 Radar Observer/Unlimited July 12 August 9 September 4 July 23 August 20 September 15 Radar Recertification (one day) July 23 August 19 October 14 Automatic Radar Plotting Aids (ARPA) July 26 August 23 October 18 July 31 August 28 October23 July 12 Advanced Firefighting Engine Upgrading Courses Start Date Date of Completion Fireman/Watertender & Oiler August 9 October 11 September 17 November 19 Marirte Electrical Maintenance I September 20 October29 QMED September 13 December 3 Power Plant Maintenance September 27 November S Refrigeration Systems Maintenance November 8 December 17 STCW Basic Safety (refresher) Steward Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Galley Operations/ Advanced Galley Operations (Every week, starting Jan. 11) July 5, 12, 19, 26 August 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 September 6, 13, 20, 27 Certified Chief Cook/ Chief Steward July 12, 26 August 9, 23 September 6, 20 (Every other week, starting Jan. 11) July 30 July 12 August 16 September6 September 27 November 1 November 8 November 29 Government Vessels Lifeboatman/Water Survival Course July 23 August 13 September 24 Novemberl9 August 2 September 13 Novembers Tankerman (PIC) Barge September 3 Septern her 24 October 15 November 19 November26 December 17 July 12 August 9 September 6 October4 November 1 November 29 July 23 August20 September 17 October 15 November 12 December 10 July 12 July 16 Julyl6 July 30 August 2 August 9 August30 September 20 September 27 October 25 November 1 Novembers November22 November29 December 13 August 6 August 13 September 3 September 24 October l October29 November 5 November 12 November 26 December 3 December 17 July26 July 30 Academic Department Courses General education and college courses are available as needed. In addition, basic vocational support program courses are offered throughout the year, one week prior to the AB, QMED, FOWT, Third Mate, Tanker Assistant and Water Survival courses. An introduction to computers course will be self-study. --~-------------------------------------11n~nAg11u~ UrUIJltt ADD'{l/9ATlftU rrj lllHI IUff lffU With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty (120) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, and qualifying seatim~ for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. All FOWT. AB and QMED 'Ul,p/icqnts must submit a U.S. Coast Guard tee qf $135 with their llJWlication. The pqyment should be matle with a montzy order on{v. payable to LMSS. Name Address COURSE Telephone----------Deep Sea Member D Lakes Member BEGIN DATE END DATE Date of Birth - - - - - - - - - D Inland Waters Member D If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed Social Security# Book# _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Seniority _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Department _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ U.S. Citizen: Yes D No D Home Port Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? D Yes D No If yes, c l a s s # - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? D Yes D No If yes, course(s) taken - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? D Yes D No Firefighting: D Yes D No CPR: D Yes D No Primary language spoken - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - July 1999 LAST V E S S E L : - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Rating: _ _ __ Date O n : - - - - - - - - - - - Date Off: SIGNATURE _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ DATE NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only ifyou present original receipts and successfully complete the course. Ifyou have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. RETURN COMPLEI'ED APPLICATION TO: Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and &iucation, Admissions Office, PO. 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 Trai_ning an~ Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, of 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. 7199 Seafarers LOG 21 - �Paul Hall Center Graduating Classes SEAFARERS HARRY ;: !:. LUNDEBERG LIFEBOAT CLASS ·:_ ~; .. ==-SR~ Unlicensed Apprentice Water Safety Class 589 - Graduating from unlicensed apprentice water safety class 589 are (from left, kneeling) James Miller Jr., Derek Henderson, Chad Partridge, Andrew Straka Jr., Christopher Green, (second row) Donaldo Arevalo, Barry McCaslin II, Terry Rochester Jr., Jarian Hutchinson, DeMichael Dews, Ray Lewis Jr., Anthony Cruzvergara, Brent Morris and Lane Schroeder. STCW Basic Safety - Upgrading graduates of the STCW basic safety course are (from left, kneeling) William Allbiter, Derek Ross, Romulo Dalit, Roberto Contreras, Calvin Wagner, Malachi Tannis, Charles Tuck, Ella Hill, (second row) Oswald Chase, John Lavergne, Mike Croft, Ernest Costa, John Lee, Eddie Kilbury, Rodney Mccaslin, Ed Lobb, Stormie Combs (instructor), (third row) Lee Rogers, Gilbert Martinez, Jake Jarrell, James Fleming, James Odekirk, Dennis Johnston, Brian Bailey, Rogers Trahan, wallace Ashwood and Luis Bera. Basic Fire Fighting - Earning their basic fire fighting endorsements on April 16 are (in no specific order) William J. Bryan, Philip H. Diego, Hazel P. Galbiso, John J. Graham, Tina D. Larson, Michael R. LasDulce, Michael P. MacNiel, lsoline E. Major, Oscar Martinez, Rodolfo A. Orlanda, Kirt A. Pugh, Oscar L. Ramos, Elveme Ruter, Sonny 0. Austria, Mohamed M. Wasel and Gary A. White. Marine Electrican Maintenance I Basic Fire Fighting - Completing the basic fire fighting dass on May 7 are (from left, kneeling) Juan Ortiz, Patricia Geras, Owen Carr, Curtis Hintze, (second row) Arthur Stewart, Edward Whitfield, Claude Hollings, Stormie Combs (instructor) and Douglas Flynn. Engine department members receiving their marine electrical maintenance endorsements on April 16 are (from left) Howard Hendra, Dennis Adjetey, Mark Jones (instructor), Troy Fleming, Morris Jeff, Samuel Addo, Lonnie Carter, James Arlt and Rebecca Gaytan. Advanced Fire Fighting - Marking completion of the advanced fire fighting course on April 30 with their instructor, John Smith (far left), are (from left, first row) Marijan Masnov, Demetrius Simmons, Amin Ali, David Gray, Terry Smith, Husain Ali, Edward Rynberg, (second row) Ronald Oyer, Elmer Prestidge, Thomas Lester, Stanley Garnett, Jose Guzman and Dennis Flynn. .- Tankerman (Pl C) Barge - Mari trans - Boatmen who sail aboard Maritrans vessels completed the tankerman (PIC) barge course in Philadelphia on April 16. They are (in no specific order) William Richardson, George Lynch Ill, Karl Goldsword, Anthony Matthews, Ronald Oyer, Randall Johnson, John Dean, Timothy Purdy and William Conger. Tanker Familiarization/Assistant Cargo (DL)- Earning their graduation certificates for .completion of the tanker familiarization/assistant cargo (DL) course on April 30 are (from left, first row) Jim Shafer (instructor), Owen Carr, Richard Buchanan, James Prado, Pati Taototo, James Furby, Fahad Yahya, Anthony Jordan, Antonio Cooks, (second row) Christopher Barrow, Joseph Sotelo, Timothy Bixby, Joshua Davenport, Aaron Thomas, Thomas Larusso, Nabil Ahmed, Cole Bridwell, Christopher Ledlow, Clifton Doonis, (third row) Michael Snow, Joel Encarnacion, David Horton and Daniel Buffington. 22 Seafarers LOii July 1999 �Paul Hall Center Graduating Classes Water Safety - Upgrading ABs who successfully completed the water safety class on April 2 are (from left, first row) Artis Williams, Alfred Mcintyre, Jeffrey Peterbridge, Melvin Stegall, Billy Pinkston, (second row) Kevin Russell, Dionisio Batiz, Monte Burgett, Michael Payne, Denny Lewis, (third row) Raymond Kane, Thong Dinh, Byron Manuel, Abdul Hassan, Tommy Cuffee, Morgan Browne, (fourth row) Tom Gilliland (instructor), Laura Cash and Deborah Sutton. Chief Cook - Completing one of the required modules in the chief cook course are (from left) Cleotilde Mejia, Curtis Williams, Instructor-Chef John Dobson, Bienvenido Pagan, Alba Ayala, Dulip Sookhiram and Jasper Jackson. Welding - Engine department members completing the welding course on May 7 are (from left, first row) Samuel Addo, Kwasi Manu, Juntin Valencia, Mark Dumas, Sterling Adams, (second row) Lonnie Carter, Dennis Adjetey, Troy Fleming, Morris Jeff, Buzzy Andrews (instructor) and Ronald Garber. Chief Cook - Upgraders graduating from a module in the chief cook course pose with their instructor, Chef John Hetmanski (far left). The students are (from left) Donald Huffman, Louis Morris and Jimmy VVhite. Galley Familiarization - Unlicensed apprentices from class 588 complete their introduction to the galley department with Instructor-Chef Shannon Twigg (right). They are (from left, first row) Fahd Alsoofi, Pedro Ortiz, William Rozier, Martin Vargas Jr., James Brown, Ramon Thomas, (second row) James Brasher, Samuel Giles, Michael Humphrey Jr., Bruce Weathers and Marion Collins. Practicing Damage Control Students in a government vessels course learn damage control techniques, in this case how to stop leaks in a pipe. July 1999 Government Vessels - Upgrading graduates of the government vessels course on May 7 are (from left, front row) Wilfredo Acevedo, Juan Rivas, Tawnia Stucker, Glenn Williams, Edward Nelson, Mark Downey, Steve Kastel, Brian lsenstadt, Thomas Grosskurth, Victor Beata, Robert Wiles, Anthony Sabatini, Sean Cripps, (second row) John Gamache, Dana Washington, Ken Gilliam, (third row) Melvin Ratcliff, Andrew Seabon, Damon Panker, Jomo Young, Barry Larkin, Justin VonSprecken, Jason Gay, Philip Noto II and Carlos Ortiz. Seafarers LOii 23 �Summer at the Point There Is still time to plan a family holiday this summer at the Paul Hall Center In Piney Point, Md. For additional lnfonnation, see page 10. A service honoring U.S. merchant mariners took place May 22 at the American Merchant Marine Veterans Memorial (far left) in San Pedro, Calif. Above, SIU Wilmington Port Agent John Cox stands before the wreath presented by the Seafarers International Union. The event also marked the tenth anniversary of the dedication of the memorial on a site which soon will be home to the first National Merchant Marine Memorial Wall of Honor. The wall will list the names of the ships and the brave mariners who sacrificed their lives for their country during World War II and subsequent conflicts. With the port of Los Angeles/ Long Beach, Cali£ being America's largest and most active harbor complex, there is always something different going on at or around the Seafarers hall in nearby Wilmington. SIU officials are on hand to service incoming ships; register and dispatch members to crew the many vessels calling on the southern California port; help DEU Mark Ciciulla (left) and his brother, Second Pumpman Giusseppe Ciciulla, catch up on the latest union news during their break aboard the Coast Range. Seafarers file vacation, medical, pension and upgrading forms; and take care of other union business as needed. Officials and members also represent the union in rallies, picket lines and special events such as Maritime Memorial Day. The photos on this pa e show some of the recent routine and not-so-routine activities of Seafarers while in port. Above, two new members from Gulf Caribe, which runs a taxi service and assists in bringing ships into the moorings, are Operator Chad Thomas and Deckhand Tom Matlock. Right, preparing lunch for a hungry crew aboard the Coast Range is Chief Steward Hans F. Schmuck. On a break after securing the Coast Range at the El Segundo moorings are (from left) Bosun John Mossenberger, AB Rudolph Hernandez and AB Mike Ortiz. William J. Dean, bosun aboard the Sea-Land Defender, is happy to be in port. Bosun Kenneth McGregor stops in at the Wilmington hall to go over some paperwork. At the top of the Crowley Petroleum vessel's gangway are (from left} AB Paul Wills, SIU Wilmington Port Agent John Cox and SA Plaridel Cadiz. Richard Walker, chief cook aboard the Coast Range, has the ship's grill sizzling. I Above, AB Tom Filippone operates a winch to bring a submarine line (righ1) aboard the deck of the Coast Range. The Crowley Petroleum Transport vessel was at the El Segundo moorings, preparing to discharge its cargo to the nearby Chevron refinery. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1990-1999 Description An account of the resource Volumes LII-LXI Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993; Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource July 1999 Description An account of the resource HEADLINESTALKS UNDER WAY CONCERNING NMU MERGER WITH SEAFARERS AVONDALE BILLS NAVY $5.4 MILLION TO CONTINUE FIGHT AGAINST UNIONS TAX BILL OFFERED TO MAKE JONES ACT VESSEL CONSTRUCTION EASIER NEW SHIPS = MORE JOBS DELTA QUEEN ANNOUNCES NEW RIVERBOAT FOR FLEET BOSUN VERN POULSEN HONORED BY TACOMA PROPELLER CLUB REALITIES OF RUNAWAY-FLAG SHIPPING: MASKED GUNMEN, NO FOOD OR WAGES NY TIMES ARTICLE REVEALS MORE FOC VICTIMS U.S. PORTS WILL REMAIN OPEN WHEN CLOCK STRIKES MIDNIGHT COAST GUARD SAYS IT IS READY FR Y2K ALASKAN LEDLOW LOOKS FORWARD TO NEW CAREER AS SIU MEMBER PAUL HALL CENTER’S RUSSELL HONORED ON MEMORIAL DAY STEWARD HAS LOVING MESSAGE DURING BLACK HISTORY MONTH CAPE TRINITY CREW AWARDED CERTIFICATE OF EXCELLENCE 66,000 IN PUERTO RICO WIN UNION ELECTIONS MORE WORKERS SAY ‘UNION YES’ GOV’T SERVICES DIVISION MEMBER WRITES NOVEL ABOUT SUBIC BAY AMERICAN STEAMSHIP COMPANY ADDS DEFIBRILLATORS TO VESSELS UPGRADERS, APPRENTICES UTILIZE NEW FIRE FIGHTING AND SAFETY SCHOOL SEAFARERS IN AND AROUND THE PORT OF WILMINGTON, CALIFORNIA. Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 07/01/1999 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 61, No. 7 1999 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/5ac07abfe358685873db15a1d897a531.PDF bb0944f4b4354856bf66f5ecd3f8d88a PDF Text Text Mr.  Reynolds  Again  !ABERS JOQ  AN  EDITORIAL  If.  ?£•   •   OFFIOIAL ORGAN  OF THE ATLANTIC  AND GULF  DISTBIOT,  SEAFARERS' INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH ABIERICA  Senator  Robert  Rice  Reynolds  is  a  man  to remember.  Before  the entry of  the United States  into  the war  he  was  the  sponsor  and  leader  of  a  native  Fascist  movement  VOL  IV.  palled  "American  Vindicators." Since  the  war  he  has  soft­ pedaled his ideology  but has continued to push his  program.  Senator Reynolds' program  is simplicity  itself. It con­ sists primarily of  smashing the trade  unions and  all that or­ ganized  labor stands for.  IM  NEW  YORK,  N. Y„  THURSDAY,  JULY  2,  1942  No.  22  Consider Lifeboat  S.I.U.  Steward  Hero  'Skates' To Make  To Crew  But  Not  To  Launching Easier  Shoreside Authorities  '  Since  Pearl  Harbor  the Senator  has  been sounding off  about  this  being a  "War  for Democracy,"  but  this  doesn't  It  is  now  generally  known  that  mean  that  he  has  change,d  his stripes  and  suddenly  believes  the  United  States  Coast  Guard  is  Twenty­four SIU Brothers owe  their lives  to the cool­ in Democracy. Rather is Reynolds, like some others in 0)n­ seriously  considering  a  plan  which  ness  and  courage  of  Earnest  Oxley,  negro  Chief  Steward.  gress  and  the  National  Association  of  Manufacturers  and  would  require  all  merchant  ships  Oxiey, under almost  impossible circumstances, single hand­ to  install  vertical  fenders  or,  the  United  States  Chamber  of  Commerce,  sounding  like  "skates"  on  lifeboats.  It  is  con­ edly launched  a  life  boat  after his ship had  been  torpedoed  a  Democrat  in order  to hide his  program.  tended  that  the  use of  such  fenders  and  one  by one  pulled  24 of  his shipmates into  it from  the  would  make  the  boats  easier  to  This  week  Reynolds  introduced  a  resolution  in  Con­ launch  and  save  many  lives  ordin­ gress which  provides for  the "registration" of  all labor  or­ arily  lost  when  a  ship  is  torpedoed.  ganizations.  The  idea  of  "registration"  sounds  innocent  These  proposed  skates  are  bent  enough but it is, in  reality, a  means of  hog­tieing the unions  v/ooden  strips,  two  to  a  life  boat,  and  robbing  them of  all  economic  power  in  their  struggle  spaced  about  15  feet  apart, running  from  gunwale  tp the  keel  to which  for  better  wages  and  conditions.  • waters of  the  Caribbean.  Panel Admits  And  yet,  when  the  men  reached  a  safe  port,  Oxley  and  the  rest  of  Steel's Ability To  the  Steward's  department  had  to  fight  like  hell  to  keep  the  author­ ities  from  segregating  them  from  Fay Decent Wages  the  rest  of  the  crew  and  sending  they  are  attached,  or  under  and  them  to  a 4th  rate  rooming  house.  around  the  keel  to  the  opposite  The  citadel  of  the  open  shop,  But  here's  the  story  from  the  gunwale. They fit  snugly to the side  "Little  Steel,"  this  week  lost  the  beginning:  The  qualifications  of  union  officers.  of  the  lifeboat  and  make  possible  against  sliding  such  small  craft  down  the  first  round  of  its fight  At  5  o'clock  in  the afternoon  of  The method of  union elections.  union  organization  when  a  special  side  of  a  heavily  listing  ship  with­ June  17,  a  large SIU  freighter  was  Amount  of  initiation  fees  and  dues  and  methods.of  out  danger  to  itself  and  without  War  Labor  Board  panel  recom­ attacked  in  the  Caribbean  by  a  mended  that  the  workers  receive  probability  of  its  being  caught  or  Nazi  sub  which  sent  a  single  tor­ bookkeeping.  $ 1 per  day  wage  boost  and  that the  overturned  by' irregularity  in  the  pedo  crashing  into  No.  4  hold.  United  Steel  Workers  o f  And, in  the final  analysis,  would  give  the government  ship's  side.  Many  men  were  trapped  below  America  receive  a  maintenance­ deck  and  were  killed.  Those  above  such influence over  union affairs  as to enable  it  to even  de­ It  is  being  proposed  that  these  of­membership  pact.  were  thrown  into  complete  ton­ _termine. strike  policy.  skates  be  detachable  so  they  may  The  loss  of  the first  round  is,  fusion  because  of  the  complete  When  submitting  his  resolution.  Senator  Reynolds  be  removed  once  the  lifeboat  is  in  however,  by  no  means  decisive  and  lack  of  any  direction  from  the  of­ the  water.  the  steel  barons  are  girding  for  a  ficers.  said, "Qf  course, there are a  lot of  differences now  between  labor  and  capital,  but  my opinion  is  that labor  and  capital  Statistic  covering  tankers  show  real fight  when  the  case  comes  be­ Some  men  had  been  blown  over­ that  from  such  ships  lost  it  has  fore  the' full  War  Labor  Board.  board  by  the  explosion,  others  " should to a large extent forget their differences for the  time  been  possible  to launch  only  about  jumped  over,  some  hacked  desper­ being  and await  the settlement  of  them  until after  the ex­ one­third  of  the lifeboats  available.  While  the  special  panel  report,  ately  at  the  lines  holding  the  life  written  by  Arthur  S.  Meyer,  rep­ With skates, however,  it hoped  that  piration of  this war ..."  resenting  the  public  and  concured  rafts  . . . but  ttone  went  near  the  more  than  two­thirds  of  the  boats  in  by  Richard  Frankensteen  rep­ life  boats!  {Ccmtinued  on  Page  2)  could  be  launched.  It  seems  that  the  skipper  had  resenting  labor,  supported  most  of  the  demands  made  by  the  steel  called  the  ship's  crew  together  theT*  (Contmued on  Page 4)  (Continued  on  Page 4)  The Reynolds  bill would  dictate:  Life Insurance  Suspect Axis  Available Under  Sab Base Is On  New W.SJV. Fund  Brazil's Coastline  American  seamen,  now  covered  Reports  have  reached  maritime  by  a  $5,000  life  insurance  policy  circles in  the United  States  that  the  taken  out  by  the  operators,  may! Brazilian  Government  suspects  the  .  buy  additional  insurance  protec­j presence of  an  Axis  submarine  basp  tion directly "from  the Government  on  its  shores.  It  is  thought  that  under  a  new  fund  being  set  up  by  the  base  is  located  in  the  States  of  the  War  Shipping  Administration.' Maranhao.  The  W.  S.  A.  has  annoul.ced'  It  has  not  been  possible  that  the  lives  of  officers  and  sea­'  t o  determine  immediately  men  may  be  insured  in  amounts'  whether  submarines  are  operating  from  $1,000  to  $5,000  per  man.  from  the  base,  but  various  reports'  The  insurance  to  be  for  any  period  recently  are  declared  to  have  in­ 4  from  one'io  six  months.  The  pre­ dicated  the  possibility  that  Axis  mium  charge  will  be  $10  per  raiders  are  hiding  in  the  muddy  month  for  each  $1,000  of  cover­ waters  of  a  river  mouth  along  the  age.  swampy  shoreline,  and  refueling  The  following  officials  instruc­ there.  tions on  policy  application  were  is­ The area  under  investigation  was  sued  by  the  W.S.A.:  an  isolated  delta  of  the  Gurupy  .'  M  "Where,  officers  or  seamen  wish  River  which  forms  the  boundary  to  apply  direct  to  the  War  Ship  between  the states of  Maranhao and  ping  Administration,  application  Para  on  the  northern  coast  of  form  should  state  name  of  steam­ Brazil.  Naval  and  air  forces  (Continued on  Page  4)  (Continued on  Page 4)  ­  •  • i  THIS S.I.U.  SHIP, TORPEDOED  JUST  OUTSIDE  OF  AN  ATLANTIC  AMERICAN  PORT,  CAP­ S'lZED  IN  THREE  MINUTES,  TRAPPING  THE  BLACK­GANG  BELOW  DECK.  FORTUNATE­ LY  HELP  WAS  NEAR  AND  THE  GREAT  MAJORITY OF  THE CREW  WERE  SAVED.  AT  THE  RIGHT  CAN  BE  SEEN  A  COAST  GUARD  BOAT PICKING  THE  SIU MEN  OUT  OF THE  WATER.  I'  FOR  SOME  OF  THEM  IT  WAS  THE  SECOND  TORPEDOING  SINCE  THE  SUB  WARFARE  STARTED.  ­ , f­.' •  •  ^  'T'.'  • ' T*.  '  , '  ^  �Page  Two  THE  SEAFARERS'  LOG  Thursday,  July  2,  1942  1%  ALIEN  SEAMEN  SHANGHAIED  AND  FORCED  TO  WORK  LONG  HOURS  FOR COOLIE WAGES  Pullithea  bp  th9  I I." SEAFARERS'  INTERNATIONAL  UNION  OF NORTH  AMERICA  Atlcmtic and Guli District  : If  ii:­ I'  Vv'  ,  •   (From  PM)  to  their  country  of  origin,  because  told  him  to  see  the  Immigration  U.  S.  Immigration  authorities  these  countries  are  occupied  by  authorities.  He  was  then  detained.  HABRY  LUNDEBERG.  Intemcrtlonal President  are  contributing  to the  United  Na­ Hitler.  Poulsen  was—and  still ­is—anxious  110  Market  Street,  Room  402,  Son  Francisco,  CdlU.  tions'  shipping  bottleneck  by  help­ Under  a  new  interpretation,  not  to ship  out;  in  fact  he  was  piaking  ing  to enforce sweatshop conditions  yet  passed  upon  by  the  courts,  arrangements  when  arrested.  Now  'ADDBE83  ALL  OOKRFBPONDENOa  OONOERNING  TBIB  aboard  foreign  ships.  they  are  being  sent  to England,  on  he's  at  Room  222,  Ellis  Island.  PUBLICATION  TO I  Acting  in  behalf  of  penny­pin­ the ground  that  England  is  the seat  "THE  SEAFARERS'  LOG  The simple  statement  of  the  Im­ ching  European  governments­in­ of  the  various  governments­in­ migration  Service  that  the  aliens  P. O. 25. Station P. New York.  N. Y.  exile,  these  .authorities  are  com­ exile.  are  here  illegally  overlooks  how  Phone: BOwling  Green, 9­8346  pelling  alien  seamen  to  ship  out  United  Nations'  shipping  is  ad­ they  got  here.  Many' of  the  Nor­ aboard  old,  unsafe,  unsanitary  ves­ versely  affected  by  this  combina­ wegians  and  Danes  were  brought  sels  for  shockingly  low  wages  tion  of  circumstances in  two ways:  to  New  York  to  ship  out  on  ves­ Some  of  these  alien  seamen  have  Ships  ready  to sail  arc frequently  sels  built  or  commissioned  here.  been  virtually  shanghaied.  delayed  by  the  interference  of  im­ While  American  seamen  were or­ The  most flagrant  case  occurred  migration  officers.  ganizing,  the  Scandinavian  seamen  For  example,  on  May  14,  a  Pan­ last  week  when  100  Norwegian,  did  the  same  thing,  and  the  com­ Dutch,  and  Greek  seamen  were  amanian  freighter  (name  withheld)  panies  brought  over  scab  crews  to  f  {Continued from  Page 1)  taken  under armed  guard  to a  Brit­ arrived  in  Newport  News  from  It is  typical of  reactionary employer  groups  that  they  ish  merchantman,  deprived  of  their  New York. The authorities  prompt­ replace  them.  The  result  was  that  thousands of  launch offensives  against  the  workers  under  cover  of  dedi­ *ight  to  communicate  with  coun­ ly  locked  up  three  members  of  the  these  Scandinavian  seamen  were  sel  and  of  their  legal  right  of  ap­ crew  as  aliens  illegally in  the coun­ cation  to  the  tvar,  and  then  brapd  labor  as  unpatriotic  if  peal,  and  deported  to  England.  try,  although  they  had  been  ap­ forced  ashore  to  earn  a  living.  Some  married  and  bought  houses.  The  deportations  —  and  there  proved  at  the  beginning  of  the  it defends itself.  Some  became  skilled  workers,  par­ may  be  more—are  aimed  at  warn­ voyage.  The  ship  lost  two  days  be­ ticularly in  shipyards. Some  shipped ,  '  The Reyonlds' resolution  is now "in­committee." That  ing  alien  seamen  to  ship  on  ships  fore  the  men  were  released.  out  again,  when  they  could,  but  means  that  a  Senate committee  will  ponder  it  a  while and,  their  consuls  order  them  to  board,  Alien seamen,  anxious  to do their  their  vessels,  though  engaged  al­ or  else.  part  in  carrying  goods  to the  fight­ in all  probability, report it out on the floor  for a  full, dress  Immigration  authorities  arc  op­ ing  fronts,  are  either  barred  from  most  entirely  in international  trade,  rarely  went  to  their  homeland  as  erating  on  the  false  theory  that  so  doing,  or  unnecessary  obstacles  fight.  they  operated  out  of  New  York.  there  is  a  shortage  of  merchant  are  put  in  their  way.  Now  the  governments  of  these  Reynolds calls  upon labor  to "forget their differences  seamen.  For  example, Sven  Lund  Poulsen,  seamen  demand  that  they return  to  with  the  bosses.  Reynolds'  resolution  hardly contributes  to  There  is  a  shortage  of  seamen  a  Dane,  was  paid  off  by  a  Maritime  their, nation's  ships,  and  the  U. S.  this  end.  On  the  contrary,  it  is  a  dramatic  reminder  o:  who  will  work  under  sweatshop  (Commission  tanker  March  19.  His  Government  is  collaborating  on  conditions, or  who are  unwilling  to  ship  was  drydocked,  and  he  looked  those  differences.  take  greater  risks  than  the  usual  around  for  another  ship,  rather  the  squeeze  play.  And  unless  these seamen  ship out  hazards of  warfare. But  anyone  vis­ tha.n  wait  for  it.  Fle  was  getting  on  any  "rustbucket"  they  are  told  iting  the  hiring  halls  of  the  various  the  necessary  papers  when  the  maritime  unions,  arid  of  the  U.  S.  (Coast  Guard,  to  whom  he  had  ap­ to,  they  are  branded  unpatriotic.  Maritime  Service,  can  see  for  him­ plied  for  an  identification  card.  AMOS  LANDMAN  self  that  many  hundreds  of  seamen  are  clamoring  for  jobs  on  decently  operate  ships,  no  matter  how  great  the  submarine  danger.  The American Federation of  Labor scored  two notable  Immigration  authorities say  there  victories  in  the final  drafting  of  the  new  tax  bill  by  the  are  thousands  of  alien  seamen  here  illegally  and  that  under  the  law  House  Ways  and  Means  Committee.  there  is  no  choice  but  to  deport  First, it succeeded in knocking out  a  proposal to com  them.  Most  of  them  cannot  be  sent  AffiHatea vitth th9  American FeOeration ^f  Labor  Mr. Reynolds  Again  i  Itl^'  AFL  Wins Tax  Fight  Out of  the FocsT  by  X.  pel  labor  unions  to  pay  destructive  taxes  on  their  income  This was  a  variation of  the  bitter fight  which  reactionaries  NAM SPREADS  TORY  Tor months have been  waging against  the nation's  workers  TALES IN SCHOOLS  The  second  triumph  was  the  shelving, of  a  sales  tax  KENOSHA,  Wis.,  June  27  —  The  committee  tossed  this  iniquitous  levy  into  its  waste  The tentacles  of  the  National  Assn.  of  Manufacturers  have  stretched  basket  after  nearly five  months  of  jockeying  by  lobbyists  into  the  local  high  school  system  for Big  Business  to shift  the  bulk  of  the  war  bill  from  the  with  the  cooperation  of  the  Na­ tional  Education  Assn.,  it  was  re­ wealthy  to the  backs of  the  poor.  vealed  this  week  by Kenosha  Labor,  The  movement  to  tax  the  income  of  unions  was  in­ AFL­CIO  newspaper.  spired solely  by hatred of  labor and  not  by  a  desire to pro­ The  labor  paper  stated  that  cop­ vide  revenue  for  the government.  Those  who  conceived  it  ies  of  "The  Closed  Shop,"  NAM  jamphlet  characterizing  the  union  had in mind Alexander  Hamilton's dictum that "the  powei'  shop  as  a  "Hitler  method,"  have  jeen  distributed  at  the  Mary  D.  to tax  is  the  power  to destroy."  Seafarers' Log­ ­HONOR ROLL  •   G.  MELLFORD  $1­00  W.  ACKSON  1001  CREW  S.  S.  PLOW  CITY  20.50  F.  RIERA  E.  GORING  10O  ;  CREW  OF  S.S.  DEL  SUD  J,  KELLOGG  Ifcm; •  P'­'vlS­s­v  •  CREW  OF  S.S.  ALCOA  PROSPECTOR  CREW  OF S. S. ALCOA  RAMBLER  100  '  22.70  5j30  22M  41.00  $115.20  Headquarters  was  loaded  down  with  survivors  this  week.  It  was  one  round  of  Duplicate  books  and  listings of  brothers  lost.  Most  of  the  survivors  of  one  ship  came  in  with  shiners;  they  had  a  mix­up  at  a  bar  ih  Halifax.  The  boys  were  complaining  about  riding  on  the  train  for  3 8  hours' without  food.  They  don't  have  to  worry,  they  can  include  it  in  their  subsistence  bill.  Jack  and  Bill  Morris  were  glad  to get  back.  Brother  Langham  came  in  with  a  beard,  that  was  a  beaut. They  ^idn'c  have  a  good  word  for  the  old  man.  AAA  Tim  O'Donoghue  arrived  to  tell  us  of  the  brothers  lost  on  a  Hay­ wire  ship.  Richard  Rowan,  Carpenter  aboard  the  tub,  is  in  the  hospital.  Ivo  Starnadori  is  safe,  and  has  decided  to  retire.  We  hope  he  becomes  active  soon.  Nich  Blanche  is  still  sailing.  'Victor  Gustafson  was  won­ dering  how  Frank  Devlin  is  making  out  in  Norfolk.  John  Vechio  tells  us  he's  busier  than  a  one­arm  paper  hanger.  AAA  Bradford  high  school  by  G.  G.  Bob  Beattis  had  his  leg  broken  when  the  gunner  aboard  his  ship  irowne,  recently elected  local  vice­ forgot  about  him  as  he  was  crouched  passing .the shells  and  sming  the  president  of  the  NEA,  which  has  gun  at  him.  Eric  Moe  is  waiting  for  a  job  aboard  a  freighter.  "Shuffle­ started  a  series  of  joint  conferences  along"  Praetor,  (the  Don  Juan  of  the  older  Stewards)  is  wondering  with  the  NAM.  who stole those  golden  slippers  he  bought for  that  gal in  Harlem. Henry  When  Browne  handed  out  the  eaflets  in  his  business  .practice  Harris  G­64,  has  survived  his  second  torpedoing.  Thomas  Smith,  No.  classes  some  of  the  students,  whose  1280,  was  also  a  lucky  survivor.  Joe  Hart  invited  us  to  a  party  in  atliers  arc  unionists,  asked  why  he  Brooklyn.  He. had  us  acting  as  MC  announdrig  his  engagement  to  did  not  present  "the  other  side."  Frances  Porzio.  It  looked  like  a  convention  of  Hibernians  to see  all  the  Irowne  said,  "there  isn't  any  other  medals  being  worn.  side."  AAA  The  labor  paper  withheld  publi­ To Joe  Flannagan . . . Cuz informed  us  he  brought  eight  able  sea­ cation  of  the  story  until  school:  men  along  with  him  to  Philly,  in  order  to  help  you  crew­up  those  2  osed,  at  the  request  of  the  stu­ ships.  Incidentally,  Tom  Slack  tells  us  he  doesn't  want  to ship  out  of  dents,  who  feared  reprisals.  The  your  port  as  you don't  supply him  with  those dimes  for  beer. We  would  >a;per  said  the  piece  was  published  also  like  to  know  who  scared  the  Russian  Wolfhound  and  made  him  as  "tangible  evidence  of  the  efforts  jump­out  of  the  second  story  window?  made to turn  the children  of  Keno­ AAA  sha  citizens  against  the  unions  to  which  the  majority of  their fathers  AND  BY  THE  WAY,  DON'T  FORGET  TO  BUY  W'\R  jelong."  .  BONDSl  II  . if  \(  \  �mmmmmmmmmmm  Thursday,  July  2,  1942  ifpress&r":  THE  SEAFARERS'  LOG  Page  Three  SEAFARERS'  INTERNATIONAL  UNION  OF  NORTH  AMERICA  WHArS  DOING  Around  the  Ports  ATUUITiC  CDd  GDIF DISTBICT  ,  ­  ­J" I  .­j  Secretary­Treasurer's Office  NEW  ORLEANS  word  and  a little  consideration  now  also  some  headaches  as  there  are  and  then,  but  you  can  bet  your  never  too  many  men  hanging  By  bottom  dollar  it  will  be  to get  us  around.  I  guess  the  S.I.U.  wiU  have  a  few  of  the  new  ships  that  "BUCK" STEPHENS^  to  sail  some  rust  bucket  and  not  come  out  of  this  yard.  The first  them  thinking  of  us  as  individuals.  ship  comes  out  in  60  days  and  af­ Not  very  many  ships  paying  off  One  of  our  brother  members  ter  that  every  30  days.  here  at  the  present  time,  but  quite  c'ame  in  recently  from  a  torpedoed  a.  few  jobs  and  beefs  with  the  new  ship and  he  went  to a  drug store  to  Everybody  is  now  rushing  to  get  the  Seaman's  Passport  as  the  ^hips  that  are  coming  out  quite of­ get  a  tube  of  tooth  paste,  he  was  deadline  is  almost  here  so  the  pass­ ten.  Will  crew  up  about  4  within  told  he had  to have an  old  tube  be­ port  office  is  busy  but  the  hold­up  fore  he  could  have  a  new  one.  It  on  getting  them  is  about  3  or  4  the  next  few  days.  was  a  pity  he  didn't  think  about  weeks.  The  S.I.F.  assessment  is  .  We  have  quite  a  few  boys  out  that  when  he  was  torpedoed  so  he  coming  in fairly  well  as most  mem­ in  the  hospital.  Had  23  book  could  have gone  back  to get  Itis  old  bers  want  to  get  it  paid  so  it  will  members  out  there  last  Friday. The  tube.  Maybe  Duke  can  do  some­ go  over  the  top.  hospital  here  is  just  about  filled  to  thing  about  this  while  in  Washing­ capacity  with  men  from  the  ships  ton?  But  if  nothing  can  be  done,  torpedoed  in  the  Gulf  and  the  seamen  will  probably  have  to  carry  Caribbean.  Had  a  pretty  long  con­ their  tooth  paste  around  with  them  versation  with  Kurt  Gonska,  No.  so  in  case  they  are  torpedoed  they  72­A,  who  lost  his  arm  in  a  re­ can  get  a  refill  when  they  come  cent  sinking  in  the  Gulf  and  was  ashore.  pretty  bad  off  for  a  few  days.  He's  I  close  with  hopes  of  someone  doing fine  now  and  feels  pretty  devising  a  means  of  rationing  'red  good,  he's  even  surprised  himself  The  Recruitment  and  Manning  tape'  so  we  can  get  under  way  with  what  he can  do  with one  arm.  division  of  the  Maritime  Commis­ He  told  me  to  give  the  gang  his  to  win  this  war.  sion  received  two  regional  directors  best  rgeards  and  to  carry  on  from  this  week,  it  was  announced  by  the  PROVIDENCE  where  he  left  oflf,  because  he'd  office  of  Admiral  Emory  S.  Land,  never  be  able  to  go  to  sea  again.  By  War  Shipping  Administrator.  The  He's  sure  got  what  it  takes  and  new directors  are, Guy E.  Needham  J.  E.  LAPHAM  is  taking  it  with  his  chin  up.  All  for  the  Pacific  District,  and  Jacob  the more power  to him and  his kind  Baker  for  the  Atlantic  Coast.  and  let's  hope  that  some  day  they  Well,  things  are  going  along  Baker  will  have  his  office  at  45  will  be  repaid  for  what  they  have  P/retty  good  here  in  this  port.  Sev­ Broadway,  New  York  City.  had  to  go  through.  Anyone  know­ eral  of  the  men  who  were  in  the  To  Baker  and  Needham  will  go  ing  Kurt  should  drop  him  a  line,  hospital  are  now  out  and  doing  it  will  sure  help  to  cheer  him  up.  fine.  Everybody  is  glad  on  that  the assignment  of  routing all  mari­ He's  in  room  No.  403,  Marine  score  but  then  when  we  read  about  time  school  graduates  onto  the  many  new  ships  being  built  for  Hospital.  the many  of  our other  brothers  who  the  Maritime  Commission.  They  Read  an  article  recently  by some  are  not  so lucky,  it  hurts.  will  also  have  general  supervision  The  new  Liberty shipyard  is  now  over  the  problem  of  manning  all  guy  that  had  a  brainstorm  wanting  to  put  the  merchant  seamen  in  going  along  full  blast.  It  startec  ships,  union  and  non­union,  and  uniform  so  they  could  be  distin­ Saturday,  a  week  ahead  of  the  reg­ those  of  the  foreign  allies  of  the  guished  from  civilians.  They'll  ular  time.  It  will  go  on  a  24­hour  United  Nations.  probably  want  us  to  stand  inspec­ working  schedule,  at  present  no  tion  like  they  do in  the  Navy. Just  OJie  knows  wlio is  to get  any  of  the  give  us  a  higher  bonus  and  never  ships  but  the  Maritime  Commis­ mind  the  uniforms,  social  gather­ sion.  I guess  soon  we  will  know,  as  P7113  ings,  tea  parties  and  what  have  I  understand  the  Eastern  is  to  get  GEORGE  WM.  ORR  7C  >you.  When  seamen  get  real  scarce  3  ships  from  some  yard.  This  will  HENRY  GELINAS  7C  ^  they'll  probably  give  us  a  kind  sure  put  this  port  on  the  map,  and  ERNEST  J.  V.  GELINAS  Boom  218 —  2 Bton* SBrmt  Wow York  City  P. O. BM  25. Stotioii  P  Phonot  BOwUng  Groon  1  ••  i  • 'l  DiREGTORY  OF BRAJTCHES  BBSNCH  WEW  TOBB ....  n ­  J, r  • •   —  eavnS52^  TAvreii^^^  iVoA­  PHONE  BOwI^ng  Greon  9­BSi6  BOwling  Green  9­3430  Llberly 4057  Manning 3572  Calvert 4539  Lombard  7651  ^ ......Norfolk  4­1083  ­2?^  Chartros St  MAgnolia  3962  oJ.?  ­  Savannah  3­1728  ­  206 So.  Franklin St  .... .Tampa MM­1323  55  Conception St....Dexter  1449  GALVESTON  ADDBESS  .B StoDo  SL  Dispotchor'o Office  Atlcmtio  Are  St  2014  Market  Street  Golvoaton  2­8043  I  lit Memory e| These  Land Appoints  Two New Regional  Brothers Lost At Sea  Maritifne Officials  Due To Enemy Action  DO  NOT  SHIP  CHARLES  D.  HANLEY  A  REMBNDER  Any  member  of  the  SlU  who  accepts  transportation  money  from  an  operator  to  get  to  the  point  of  debarkation  of  his  ship,  and  then  refuses  to  sign  on,  shall  refund  the  transportation  money  to  the operator  and  shall  be  fined  $25  by  the  union.  A  member  delaying  a  ship  or  quitting  without  notice  in  ac­ cordance  with  the  ship's  articles  and  the  union  contract,  shall  be  placed  on  trial.  If  the  member  is  found  guilty  of  the  charge,  he  shall  be  suspended  for  30  days,  plus  a  $20  fine  for  the  first  offense;  six  months  suspension  and  a  $50  fine  for  the  second:  offense;  and  for  the  third  offense  he  shall  be  expelled  from  the  Union.  Adopted  at  Agents  Conference  in  Savannah—Ratified  hy  the  membership.  /  Rules on  Personal  Effects:  IF  YOUR  SHIP  IS  SUNK  AND  YOU  LOSE  YOUR  GEAR,  YOU  ARE  ENTITLED  UP  TO  AND  INCLUDING  $250  COM­ PENSATION  ONLY  IF  YOU  HAVE  MADE  OUT  A  LIST  AND  VALUATION  OF  YOUR  BELONGINGS  AND  FILED  IT  WITH  THE  SKIPPER  BEFORE  SAILING.  FAILING  THIS,  YOU  ARE  ENTITLED  UP  TO  AND  INCLUDING  $150.  IF  YOU  FAIL  TO  LIST  AND  FILE  YOUR  GEAR,  THERE  IS  NOTHING  THE  UNION  CAN  DO  TO  AID  YOU  TO  COLLECT  MORE  THAN  THE  $150.  Rides on  Death  Benefits: >  ALWAYS  NAME  A  BENEFICIARY  FOR  YOUR  $5,000  GOVERNMENT  INSURANCE  IN  CASE  OF  DEATH  AT  SEA.  ­MANY  CASES  HAVE  BEEN  HUNG  UP  FOR  MONTHS  BE­ CAUSE  OF  THE  FAILURE  OF  A  MAN  TO  NAME  A  BENE­ FICIARY.  PROTECT  YOUR  FAMILY  BY  NAMING  A  BFNE­ FICIARYI  7C  PERSONALS  WILLIAM  SUTHERLAND  ANTHONY NICH  JOHN GOURDIER  WILLIAM  McKEE  EUGENE nOMINQUEZ  JESSE  J.  ELSHICK  ROBERT KLINE  HARSTEN JOHANSEN  NIELS L. BORREGARD  CHARLES GROUSE  E. BYERS  JOHN  CASSEL  FERGUSON  ISMAEL  FILIMENO  JOSEPH  MCLAREN  AMOS CHISHOLM  EMERSON CHURCH  H. W. KELLY  BOBBY  CLARK  Bcs'n  T R  A *  B'  A* B  A*  B  A* B*  n* s'  oiler  Water Tender  Fireman  FiremaS  Winer  Messi4n  Messman  steward  2nd Cook  Messman  Messman  iS  JOHN  (PADDY)  HEALY  /  J.  (SCOTTl)  WEIR  J.  P.  CAMPBELL  R.  MAYO  lYcitGrt^ndpr  W.  HENDRICKS  OTIS LESTER  .  . .a  EMIL JANKE  J. TAlTE  CHARLES MYERS  LAWRENCE  GRAY  You  have  a  check  in  Headquar­ ters  office  for  bonus  money  due  you.  Pick  it  up  as  soon  as  you  can.  ALBERT  J.  WADE  It  is  im.portant  that  you  see  the  Sec.­Treas.  In  Room  213,  2  Stone  Street,  New  York  City.  Fraternal Greetings and Thanks  To  the  Seafarers  International  Union  Dear  Sirs  and  Brothers:  We,  the  undersigned,  are  Canadian  seamen  who  recently  delivered  a  ship  to  Murmansk.  We  were  returned  to  North  America  as  passengers  aboard  a  ship  manned  by  members  of  your  Union.  We  want  to  say  that  the  entire  crew  was  100%.  They  were  both  good  seamen  and  good  union  men.  They  treated  us  very  well  and  we  want  to  take  this  means  of  sending  to  them  our  heartfelt  thanks  and  warmest  fraternal  greetings.  P.  J.  GROGAN,  Fireman  JAMES  HENRY  ROBERTS, Trimmer  HARRY  E.  HUBERT,  A, B.  DAN  O'BRIEN,  Asst.  Cook  ON IAS  HEFFERN,  A.B.  Fireman  Messman  Fireman  Messman  stewaS  Messman  YB  Chief  Cook  A!R  CGIVIPENSATION  RULES CLARIFIED  The  Maritime  War  Emergency  Board  has  ruled  that  a  man  does  not  have to  lose his  life or  be com­ pletely  disabled  in  order  to  be  cov­ ered  by  the  present  insurance  pro­ visions.  Tlie  loss  of  a  leg  or  hand  or  eye  "due  to enemy  action" also entitles  a  man  to  compensation.  The  fol­ lowing  table  gives  a  list  of  the  amount  due for  various injuries.  Life  Both  hands  $5,000  5,000  Both  feet  5,000  Both  arms  Both  legs  5,000  5,000  Both  eyes  5,000  One .  hand  One  arm  One  foot  One  leg  One  eye  2,500  3,250  2,500  3,250  2,250  Seamen  are entitled  to  the  above  sums  if  the  loss  occures  within  90  days  after  the  injury  is  received.  ­'JL  �THE  SEAFARERS*  LOG  Page  Four  Thursday,  July  2,  194^2  3  >  J  Labor Union Front  Life Insurance  S.I.U«  Steward  Hero  Available Under  To Crew  But  Not To i ill  New W.S  Fund  Shoreside Authorities  Pegler's Boss  Fires  Pressmen  The  strikers  report  for  work  {Coniinued  jrom  Page  1)  {Continued  from  Page  1)  regularly,  seventy­five  on  each  of  three  shifts,  but  stand  at  their  ship  line,  vessel  upon  which  officer  day  before  for  a  life  boat  drill.  In  holding  a  life raft  close  to the  ship  places  or  walk  about,  doing  no  or  seaman  is  employed,  amount  of  the  best  brass  hat  manner,  he  had  so  the  older  man  could  jump  on it  insurance  requested,  period  for  announced  that  if  the ship  was  ac­ if  he  failed  in  launching  the  boa^  work,  it  was  said.  The  Newspaper  Pressmen's  which  insurance  is  requested  and  tually  attacked,  he.would  shoot the  Oxley  pulled  Battle  into  the  boat,  Union  (AFL)  has  protested  to the  name  and  address  of  beneficiary.  first  man  that  moved  toward  the  and  between  them  they  rowed,  Publishers'  Association  of  New  Such  application  must  be  accom­ life boats  without  orders from  him.  around  and  pulled  to safety  all  the  York  the  proposed  dismissals  of  panied  by  a  certified  check  for  nine  pressmen  by  the  New  York  crew  in  the water.  24  men  climbed  The  ship  was  settling  rapidly  premium.  WorJd­TeJegram,  a  Scripps ­ How­ into  the  life  boat,  and  were  res­ PONTIAC,  Mich.,  June  26—  "The  policies  issued  will  cover  after  the  explosion,  the  boat  deck  cued  10  hours  later  by  a fishing  ard  paper  which  peddles  the  anti­ was  awash  within  3  minutes.  It  smack  that  saw  their  distress  sig­ labor  poison  of  Westbrook  Pegler.  Officials  of  the  Yellow  Truck  &  only  loss  of  life  and  will  not  in­ Coach  Go.  said  today  they  had  clude  inquiry,  disability,  illness  or  looked  like  the  ship  would  go  nals.  Reeves  H.  McGillicuddy,  union  down  taking  all  her  lifesaving  .X  agreed  to  pay  night  shift  workers  other  claims."  When  the  crew  was  landed  at  a  president,  said  that  a  special  meet­ equipment  with  her  and  leaving  for  20  minutes of  time  lost  during  ing  of  the  Publishers'  Association  the  crew  struggling  alone  in  the  safe  port,  the  crew  was  taken  to. a  a  practice  blackout,  and  that  11,­ would  be  held  this  week  to take  up  water,  many  of  them  without  first  class  hotel to  rest  up.  That  is,^­ 000  strikers  would  return  to  their  all  but  Oxley  and  the  members  of  the  question  of  the  firings.  lifebelts.  war  production  jobs  tomorrow.  his  steward's  department.  They"  Sidney  Whipple,  stooge  to  Lee  Earnest  Oxley  is  not  a  young  A  local  union  leader  described  were  loaded  into  cars  and  taken  to  Wood,  executive  editor  of  the  man,  and  he  isn't  a sailor.  But  he's  the  company's  refusal,  at first,  to  a  4th  class  rooming  house  which  World­Tclcgram,  refused  to  com­ jeen  going  to  sea  as  cook  and  pay  wages  for  the  blackout  period  wasn't fit  for  the worst  gas­hounds  ment  to  the  reporters.  steward  for  many  years  and  he  last  Wednesday  night  as  the  "last  on  the  waterfront,  leave  alone" '  could  teach  many  a  cocky  kid  a  straw"  in  a  series  of  grievances  maritime  heroes.  {Continued from  Page 1)  thing or  two.  .  described  as  minor  in  nature.  The  Oxley  immediately  protested  and''  He  took  the  situation  in  at  a  company,  in  today's  conference,  union,  it  constitutes  only  a  recom­ demanded  that  he  and  his  mates­ consented  to  negotiate  the  remain­ mendation  and  can  be  reversed  by  glance,  the  fact  that  the  officers  receive  as  good  quarters  as  the  rest  lad  funked out,  the fact  that many  ing  differences,  involving  seniority  the  War  Labor  Board  itself.  of  the  crew.  A  strike  of  building  and  main­ wage  differentials  and  inter­depart­ This  is  one  of  the  most  import­ men were in  the water  and  he" knew  It  was  all  pretty upsetting  to the  .  tenance  men  employed  at  Park­ mental  transfers,  Monday.  ant  cases  to come  before  the Board,  some  of  them  couldh't  swim,  and  authorities.  Having  a  hero  on  their i .  chester,  the  Metropolitan  Life  In­ Pickets  who  had  enforced  the  since  it  posed  the  entire  issue  of  the  fact  that  it  was  still  possible*  hands  that  objected  to  a  fourth  surance  Company's  housing  devel­ strike  since  a  general  walkout  fol­ the  right  of  workers  to  increased  to launch  the  life  boat.  rate  rooming  house  was  something  •   opment  in  the  E. 1  remont  section  lowed  a  series  of  brief  sitdowns  by  wages  to meet  the increased  cost  of  Oxley  ran  quickly  to  the  boat,  they  hadn't  expected.  But  Oxley  of  the  Bronx,  was  called  yesterday  night­shift  workers ­  this  morning  living.  It appears  now  that  the steel  t  was  swung  out  but  lashed  hadn't  braved  a  torpedo  merely  to ,  by Local  32­E  of  the Building  Ser­ were  withdrawn  from  the  vicinity  industry  will  mobilize  all  of  its  re­ again­ct  the  ship.  Oxley  hacked  at  be  frightened  by  a  couple  of  shore­  .  vice  Employes  Union,  A.  F.  of  L.,  of  the  plant  as  soon  as  word of  the  sources  to fight  the case  and  tie the  the  line's,  cutting  himself  in  the  side  stiffs  . . . and  he held firm.  J*  /  after  negotiations  between  the  agreement  was  brought  to  them,  workers  to present  low  wage scales.  process,  and  swung  the  boat  free  Result?  All  the stewards  depart­ ^  Tlic  panel's  report  placed  em­ just  as  the  ship  listed  sharply  to  management  and  the  union  ended  police  said.  ment  were  lodged  in  a first  class'  '  phasis  upon  the  huge  profits  being  port.  The  falls  fell  free,  Oxley  in  a  deadlock.  During  the  day,  the  pickets  had  hotel,  given  the  best  of  food  and^  .  Parkchester  is  the  largest  single  turned  back  office  workers  and  piled  up  by  the  steel  companies  jumped  into  the  boat  and  shoved  treatment,  and  returned  to  New  housing  development, in  the  coun­ others  seeking  admission,  to  the  during  this  war.  It  exploded  any  it  away  from  the sinking  ship.  York  by first  class  transportation,  •   try,  embracing  10,700  apartments  plant,  but  there  were no  reports of  pretense  they  might  make  in  re­ A  member  of  Oxley's  steward  Brother  Oxley  had  won  his  bat^.*  gard  to  their  inability  to  meet  the  department,  young  James  Battle,  sheltering  35,000  persons.  The  ele­ violen,ce.  tie,  both  at  sea  and  ashore.  • I  vators  are  self­service.  Roger  J. Emmert,  vice  president  cost  of  the  wage  boosts.  The  re­ was  in  the  water  and  had  been  '/  Local  32­E  was  chosen  by  the  and  factory  manager  of  the  com­ port  listed  the  following  1941  1.  435  employes  of  the  development  pany,  said  the  strike  brought  oper­ profits  of  the "Little  Steel"  group:  $119,7^,000  SAILING VESSELS  as  their  collective  bargaining  agen­ ations  of  the  plant  to  a  standstill.  Bethlehem  Steel  Republis  70,280,000  cy  in an  election  conducted  by  the  He  said  all  its  facilities  had  been  f­ PLANNED  Inland  38,079,000  State  Labor  Relations  Board  last  devoted  to  the  production  of  ve­ Youngstown  37,624,000  Febi­uaiy.  hicles  for  both  the  Army  and  the  The  panel's  report  predicted  that  The dire shortage  of  present  ton­ According, to. John Geier,  section  Navy.  the  1942  earnings  of  the  steel  nage  serving  the  Latin  American  chairman  of  the  local,  250  men  companies  would  even  exceed  these  routes  has  brought  to  the  fore  the  {Continued  from  Page  1)  walked  out  yesterday  after  "the  figures.  The  panel  revealed  that  possibilities  of  utilizing  schooners  management  refused  to  negotiate  are  engaged  in  a  minute  search  Bethlehem  would  make  six  times  and  auxiliary  sailing  vessels  for  demands  submitted  in  good  faith.  the entire  Gurupy  delta  region  but^^  more.in  1942  than  its  10  year  av­ commercial  export  shipments  to  the  naval  and  air  commands  refflsfli  erage,  Republic  13  times  more,  South  America.  to  say  whether  a  submarine  base  The  Government  contemplates  WASHINGTON,  June  26  —  Youngstown 20  times more  and  In­ has  been  found.  the construction  of  a fleet  of  1,000  The  Capital's  day­long  taxi  strike  land  3  times  more.  The  Gurupy  delta  would  ^ •   was  settled  yesterday  when  the  Cyrus  Ching,  industry  member  sailing  schooners  to  carry  products  roughly,  the  center  for  a  radius  of,'  House  District  Committee  agreed  of  the  panel,  of  course,  dissented  from  Central  and  South  America  action  southward  toward  ST.  JOSEPH,  Mo.—Faced  by  a  to  allow  the  city's  hack  drivers  to  from  the findings.  He  could  hard­ to  the  Gulf  ports.  and  northward  toward  the Guianis,  recall  movement  launched  by  or­ charge  present  fares  pending  fur­ ly  deny  that  the  Steel  companies  Government  agents  are  said  to  cutting  the  South  Atlantic  trade  ganized  labor  here,  Mayor  Phil  J.  ther  study  of  the  new  fare  system  could  afford  to  pay  the  in­ be  inspecting  shipyards  and  port  routes.  Welch  and  city  councilmen  gave  ordered  by  the  Public  Utilities  crease  wages,  but  he  strongly  con­ facilities  in  the  Caribbean  at  the  All  Axis  submarine  attacks  asr  up  an  attempt  to  crush  the  A.  F.  Commission.  The  cabmen's  union  dejuned  the  maintenance­of­mem­ j^resent  time,  and  it  was  learned  ,well  as  Brazilian  air  force  attacks  said  the  new  rates,  which  would  bership  plan  which  would  serve  to  that  several  schooners  of  300  to  of  L.  Firefighters'  Union.  and  sinkings  of  enemy  submarine  .  The  ma'ydr  and  council  members  have  been  effective  yesterday,  safeguard  the  union  members  from  500  tons  are  already  under  con­ have  occurred  in this  region.  agreed  to  recognize  the  union,  re­ would  cause  drivers  to  lose  money.  open  reprisals  from  the  bosses.  struction in  the Dominican  Repub­ It  was learned  recently that  there  .  instate  six  discharged  unionists  and  lic.  have  been  mysterious  movements  inaugurate  seniority  rules  in  the  of  unexplained  small  surface  craft  UNSUNG HEROES  fire  department.  In  turn,  labor  which  were  believed  might  be  cajr­ Maritime Eiagle  on  dropped  the  recall fight.  Here's  to  the  men  of  our  merchant  marine,  ^  rying  fuel  and  food  to  a  rcndez­  ;  Wage Award  Made  In  Blackout Strike  Panel Admits  Steel's Ability To  Pay Decent Wages  Parkchester Is Hit  By  Service  Strike  Suspect Axis  Sub Base Is On  Brazil's Coastline  Armistice  Reached  In  \Yashington Cab Strike  Firefighters' Union  Cows  Hostile  Mayor  Steel Sit­Down Spreads  COATESVILLE,  Pa.,  June  19—  The sit­down  strike of  open  hearth  workers  at  the  Lukcns  Steel  Com­ pany  plant  has  spread  to  22­5  men  from  seventy­five  and  threatens  to  force  a  shut  down  affecting  5,000  workers  on  war  production  within  a  week,  it  was  declared  today  by  a  spokesman  for  the  company.  New War Stamp  Whose  hearts are  as  brave  as their  eyesight  is  keen!  They  are  shot  at,  torpedoed,  and  roasted  in  oil  But  they  always  come  back.  Hitler's  U­boats  to  foil!'  vous  with  submarines  along  lonely  j  inlets  where  trees  hide  the  shore­ The  maritime eagle,  official  sym­ line  from  observation.  bol  of  the  Maritime  Commission  Attacks on  shipping  off  the Bra­ has  been  chosen  by  the  Postmaster  zilian  coast  have  diminished  since  General  as  the  basic  design  for  the  the  Brazilian  Air  Force  and  United  new  war  stamp  to  be  put  on  sale  States  Naval  Patrol  planes  attacked  July  4;  •   four  submarines  and  definitely  The  eagle  to  be  used  will  vary  sank  two  late  in  May.  No submar­^  from  the  maritime eagje  by  the  re­ ines  were  reported  sighted  thus  far .  moval  of  the  anchor  and  substitu­ in  June,  but  several  attacks  ion  tion  of  the  words  "Win  the  War"  shipping  have  been  reported,  with  instead  of  "Ships  for  Victory."  at  least  one  sinking.  They  are  spindle­shanked, spavined  and  rough in  their  talk.  But you  don't  need  degrees  where the  submarines stalk  . . .  You  need  only  guts,  and  they've  plenty  of  that  With  their  nondescript  garb  and  non­uniform  hat!  So  here's  a  salute  to  that  hard­fisted  crew ...  ,  "  The  army  would  flunk  them—the  navy  would,  too;  Out­gunned  and  out­motored  by  submarine  foes  They  put back  to  sea  with  their  thumbs  to  their nose!  —N. K.  I  r • .• • lA'­thtn'­  —  •   � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1939-1949 Description An account of the resource Volumes I-XI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. BCC The name(s) and email address(es) of the person to whom the email was blind carbon copied. 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Title A name given to the resource July 2, 1942 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Description An account of the resource Headlines: MR. REYNOLDS AGAIN CONSIDER LIFEBOAT 'SKATES' TO MAKE LAUNCHING EASIER SIU STEWARD HERO TO CREW BUT NOT TO SHORESIDE AUTHORITIES PANEL ADMITS STEEL'S ABILITY TO PAY DECENT WAGES LIFE INSURANCE AVAILABLE UNDER NEW W.S.A. FUND SUSPECT AXIS SUB BASE IS ON BRAZIL'S COASTLINE AFL WINS TAX FIGHT ALIEN SEAMEN SHANGHAIED AND FORCED TO WORK LONG HOURS FOR COOLIE WAGES NAM SPREADS TORY TALES IN SCHOOLS LAND APPOINTS TWO NEW REGIONAL MARITIME OFFICIALS COMPENSATION RULES CLARIFIED IN MEMORY OF THESE BROTHERS LOST AT SEA DUE TO ENEMY ACTION PEGLER'S BOSS FIRES PRESSMEN PARKCHESTER IS HIT BY SERVICE STRIKE FIREFIGHTERS' UNION COWS HOSTILE MAYOR WAGE AWARD MADE IN BLACKOUT STRIKE ARMISTICE REACHED IN WASHINGTON CAB STRIKE SAILING VESSELS PLANNED STEEL SIT-DOWN SPREADS MARITIME EAGLE ON NEW WAR STAMP UNSUNG HEROES Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. IV, No. 22 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 7/2/1942 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America 1942 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/baee2f62112efab61fe5caa0db14613e.PDF e9b8880c679eec89b677f512c9227397 PDF Text Text .-J.-:- r A Wg:< ^ ] -•• '"f-i 5AKBRS Jocf OFFICIAL GROAN OF TOE ATLANTIC AND GULF DISTRICT, .SEAFARERS' INTERNAWONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA V. NEW YORK^ CTKIDAY, JULY 2, 1943 No; i4 Passes Fascist Labor Bill House Committee Studies Job Insurance For Merchant Men The fascist Smith-Connally bill is ndw the law of the land, having been overwhelmingly passed by both houses of Congress over a Presidential veto last week end. But this is not the end, for labor will continue to battle the repres= sive measures by all available weapons. William Green, President of the AFL, warned Con-^ gress that labor would "rebel momentary confusion and defec­ against it" in event the bill was tions in the ranks, but the entire history of the American labor J "Washington, D. C.—The House sub-committee on merchant marine and fisheries passed—and rebel we will. movement is such that one thing is conducting hearings on unemployment insurance benefits for merchant seamen. Hear­ The legislation won't work—^it is certain, the reactionary labor can't work as long as there exists ings started Thursday, continued on Friday and will be held again next Monday. haters in Congress and their capit­ ill this country free and democrat­ There are two proposed drafts; Committee draft No. 1 was drafted by Mr; Murray ic unions. It may succeed in har­ alist masters are due for a lacing. "The effect of the bill," declar­ Lattimer of the Railroad Retirement Board at the request of the Social Security Board, assing union leaders, in creating ed N. Y. State Federation Presi­ and will here after in this report dent Thomas A. Murray, "is to. be known as No. 1. Committee benefits payable to the seamen un­ impose involuntary servitude on draft No. 3 was drafted by Dr. der that draft were not as liberal the American workers." Gray of the N. Y. State Unem­ as draft No. 1. This the workers will not accept ployment Commission at the re­ lying down. Committee bearing on theie quest of the IJf^ar Shipping Admin­ Collective bargaining will be bills ended this week with no istration, and will here after in impaired, union men will have to prospect of either measure be­ this report be known as No. 3. Dr. operate in the shadow of prosecu­ ing submitted to the House at Gray had previously submitted^ an­ tion, employers will double their this session. other draft, committee print No; anti-union provocations, but the 2, he made some changes and later Mr. Gregory Harris, represent­ workers will fight back and defend submitted committee print No. 3. ing the Pacific American S.S. own­ their way of life—make no mis­ J-, r."" '•'a. Mr.. Johnson, the representative ers association, stated that they •'4,e peub, -y b, ,, take about that. V. a. of the Lakes Carriers Association, were in favor of No. 3, they also We have been told that the bill who represents the'largest group of opposed the union hiring hall clause was aimed at John L. Lewis and "O/, •V. • 'O , steamship employers in the United in that draft. They also were 5"^ the members of the United Mine States, stated that they were in fa­ favor of the rest of the draft* be­ W<vkers of America. This is true vor of No. 3 but opposed, -the cause the benefits._.payable. under an-.so far as the-miner: have been union hiring hall clauses. The rea^ No. 3 were not as liberal as No. 1. in the vanguard of labor's fight son that they were in favor of the He also challenged the legal right for justice and the bosses hoped {Continued on Page }) rest of the draft was because the that by smashing the miners they could smash all labor. - But even if the miners hadn't been forced out on strike by the coal operators, even the auto and rubber workers and the machinists and the teamsters and the seamen NEW YORK — Union officials endorsed! NORFOLK—"Red Lea,d" Anderson, notorious. Wat­ had passively retreated before each new boss offensive, the Smith-Con­ completely the request of WSA Administrator erman Line Bucko skipper and log book expert, arrived in nally bill would still have passed [Edward Macauley last week that seamen takNorfolk three weeks ago with the usual cargo of beefs, a the Congress in some form. For ling newly coiumissioiicd .veswell-filled log book and a stack of charges against th^ crew. turn to shipyards and sign coasl-f the goal of these gentlemen is the [seh out of the shipyard to wise articles on another newly, On the other side of the picture, however, were a set of complete smashing of the unions [loading poiis remain on the commissioned vessel, etc. charges and specifications fiW for all time. [ships for the first offshore 2. The efficiency is impaired by j the practice of such seamen leav-J It is a finish fight and no con­ the crew agamst Red Lead. ge„ i„ ^Red Lead's" quarters. [ operation. ing the vessel at the loading pory Two logs against ordinaries for cessions by labor (short of com­ Tlie seamen who leave the Macauley urged that Let this be an object lesson. Skip­ at the loading port do not failing to respond promptly to the plete dissolution) -will appease Isign oM-sl)ore articles to prevent the rcplacemejj call of the whistle were upheld in pers are subject to rules the same I delay caused by the signing , on of ities of the i these gentlemen. as unlicensed men. When they vio­ I replacements and to maintain the ly-commissij an inspectors hearing and "Red What is to be done? Smith and I complete efficiency of the vessel. the repli Lead" smiled happily. His charges late these rules make then answer Connaliy and their henchmen ing the I He pointed out, "Obviously the re- opqr of inefficiency against the 2nd. to the proper authorities and stick must be removed from office. j placements, particularly during the Mate were then dismissed and the around until the case is prepared. • initial phase of the offshore ope Henceforth labor must see that jtion, cannot ^tch smile faded.' "Then came the rev-, The crew stayed long enough in' Congressmen wear the union. label. I of the crew yr.hich olution" and "Red Lead" himself this case to accomplish the desired No finks in the plants and- on I vessel from the slj result. w,is on the' carpet being crossthe ships—no finks in Congress! Commcntinjf They failed in another obliga­ examined by Marty Trainor, Nor­ Itional Seci •Smith stated; tion to themselves and their union folk Agent. |in this comi . "You - can't dp this to me—ay brothers, however. The crew was receiv; vont lisden to. no union agitators' largely composed of SUP members fumed the indignant Bucko; "Ay apd permit men, plus a few SIU As has been predicted by the vent to, sea before the mast." Alas West Coast black gang book mem­ and alack,. however, he was forced bers. Protested overtime amounted Seafarers Log many times, the War to listen and to try and defend to over a thousand bucks. MUCH Shipping Administration is now This.reproduction of a PILOT article graphically shows how the OF THIS OVERTIME y COULD lobbying in Congress for an enor­ himself. His ship sailed again and up to HAVE BEEN COLLECTED 'N.M.U. leaders 'slavishly bow before- each new- ukase handed down mous increase in its appropriation. by the W.S.A. Last week the 8.1.U.'denounced the W.S.A. demand the last minute it looked as though HERE IN NORFOLK IF THE The WSA. plans to use the rtioney for deep-sea articles at port-of delivery, as a move to chisel the "R^d Lead" had beat thg rap. He CLAIMENTS WOULD HAVE to build ships—to be sure—but al­ signed on the new crew and his STUCK AROUND. Now they ' seamen out of conditions. But the rank and file seamen's rights and so to continue and expand its fink conditionsare not factors-lo influence the sell-out artists in the smile had almost returned-when he are scattered -from hell to break­ training program. Undaunted by N.M.U. was called back to the inspector's fast and reluctantly Norfolk has the fact that it can't place the office, relieved of his license for a to forward-the, overtime claim, to­ men already graduated from its irrespective of the policies of "No-coffee-time" and his coterie, period, of thirty, days and told to gether with this article to head­ schools, the RMO is asking $72,the S.LU. will continue to fight the W.S.A. every time that outfit quarters. STICK AROUND 000,000 for its training fund. pack up and get gone. attempts to chisel the seamen (and this is about every day in the The ship sailed with full crew BROTHERS AND SETTLE The total appropriation asked by week). ninety per-cent. book members and YOUR BEEFS IN THE PAY­ the WSA for the comiqg year is a The law allows men who sign coastwise articles to sign off whop skippered by, a new skipper. The OFF PORT. It relieves pressure cool" 2 billion dollars. This- is a Mate who had also been on charges on already overworked. headquar­ -the ship goes dfep sea. -^We will continue to demand that Maeauley boost of almost 100% over last observe the law. v . )-ears appropriation. was exonerated but as a result of ters and makes things better for all. by Matthew Dushane Unionism—-N.M.U. Brand "Red Lead" Anderson Receives A Vacation ; < i> V'-' !'• T.. •\i^| ShipsFrom Yard Stay On For Offshore Trip ALL ABO.OARD FOR THE GRAVY TRAIN ..,>•'•'•'J. J �THE SEAFARERS* LOG. Page Two and in the news reel, lo and beholdl I saw no other than the NMU difr patcher sending out three men toj Once in a lifetime we hear of some ship and they were sent tOj things that are worth repeating, som£ ship by plane. Also on thcuii here's one; Ralph Piehet, OS, sailed sweat shirts was the great and re^ on a convoy from up North and nown N.M.U. emblem of whiclj the ship was sunk. Time went by they are very proud. iand the man was given up as lost, Boy that gave me a pain in ths his wife notified and in time the in quite a while and we are short Benjamin Bourne, and all the over­ were drunk on paying off, and one ^when I see that kind of ad­ check was sent out. On one eve­ of all rated men, having to get time was agreed on. But when the of those two was a S.I.U. member vertising. I see that kind of adning that the favorite indoor sport mes: from all over the Now Eng­ pay-off got under way the black who joined her at Bombay and the has got to get their own members in England was standing by the gang were short from 6 to 15 hours other fellow said he was going to to advertise and solicit members in radio listening to the German land area. apiece, and when we took this up get a book in the S.I.U. as soon as that manner, right then and there JOHN MOGAN, Agent squawks go off the air, the sup­ with the skipper, low and behold he was able. I would never join that outfit. Oh, posedly dead Bro. Piehet was heard I went aboard this ship, the first well, we will still continue as we if the First, Second and the Chief SAVANNA broadcasting over the air from a hadn't gone ashore. However, we N.M.U. ship I was ever aboard, to have alwayr been doing and in the German prison camp, asking that help olit the S.I.U. man in settling end we will have accomplished Shipping in the Savannah dis­ were able to straighten out the big­ tf anyone heard him/to please no­ his beefs and did manage to get in more than they can ever realize gest part of it because it was over­ tify his wife and babies of his trict has greatly increased in the time that had been worked after a few good words before the N.M. or can compete with. Namely, bet­ whereabouts. A bombardier in a last couple of months. Even had a the ship had arrived in this Port, N. Patrolman got wise to me and ter contracts, wages, living condi­ Flying Fortress heard the report couple of ships come in here and but still we had to relay part of it had me chased ashore by the Coast tions and working" conditions. and because he too was from the pay off. Had the S.S, Delaires of to Hawk in New York. But had Guard. The old man held the men Two or three days ago I got H crescent city, in the next letter to the Mississippi Co., and S.S. James an official of the company been three days before paying them off very great surprise when I was at­ his mother he told her and she call­ Hoban of Waterman Steamship present at the time of the pay-off without giving them the three days tending the Agents Conference in ed to bring the good news in person. Co., with quite a few hours of I believe that all the overtime pay. New York. A few days ago Bro, Upon arrival she found that wel­ overtime in dispute but every thing would have been squared away. Steady as she goes and let us Blinkie Roberts took a jeffi om onq come as she was, that the news had was settled satisfactorily to every As I write this I have just been hope for a time when we can get of the South Atlantic S.S. Co.*i preceded her. Mrs. C. Danils of 70 one concerned. informed by the Brothers of James these N.M.U. boys on a real Union ships and I was not expecting tqi Shipping for the future looks Rains' Av., "Worksop, Notts, Eng., Hager that he passed away June ship and show them how a real see him for at least thre or fouT had heard the news broadcast and very promising but at the present 28, 1943. Brother Hager was Union is in operation. months at the earliest. But by] had immediately written to Mrs. time I have nobody on the beach. known to many a Philadelphian as George, I saw something that look­ EMILIO DI PIETRO, Am still looking for all kinds of Piehet. "Slack-Away-Red" and I am sure ed like an Admiral coming down Patrolman. For the information of you salt rated men. that his passing will be a shock to Piatt St. and who do you think ii: It should also be brought to the water birds, Worksop is in the coal his many friends sailing out ot this was—^none other than Mr. RobcrtI After the last war was over our mining section. (I know because I attention of these young fellows Port. who left as a fireman and canui fighting men, composed mostly of was privilaged to read the letter) that arc coming from the Mari­ The terrible Greek (George abor, came back to this country back as an Admiral with enough and the Lady who <lid the writing time Schools and shipping out on Karpetos) is still in dry-dock here gold on him to sink a barge. Tltj stated that she is a coal miners our contract ships, that they do and I believe he is getting ready to only to find it in the hands of gals have almost got- his lead pen­ wife. Further, for you salty guys, not have to report back to the Re­ ship again as it was overheard by racketeers, gangsters, and their cil worn out from taking telephone I bcleive that this is one of the cruiting and Manning Organiza­ Hodge that he stated to another 3olitical stooges. TTiese stooges numbers. sure fire proofs of the solidarity tion to ship out, that thfey can re­ member, "Let me take a look at )assed laws at the command of Well, that's all from this port. existing btween the workers of the port to any Union Hall along the her and I will tell you whether I these cut throats. Later, scandals I hope to have some interesting; of teapot domes and such began world that has come to my atten­ coast to ship out, and ship almost to come to light. An aroused news for nexf week. any time they check on the ship- want to make her or not." tion during this squabble. "Well, today being Monday there D. L. PARKER, Agent. A further evidence of solidarity: {wng list. Also some of our book isn't much doing around the old public, in which labor played no One morning upon entering the members are reporting to the Re­ Port but we have been informed mean part, began the twenty year NORFOLK: hall I am met by the query, cruiting and Manning Organiza­ by the powers to be that they ex­ war to. get the country back into the people's hands. About as much "Where are your old clothes?" Up­ tion to be shipped out. These pect a slew of ships in here soon. Plenty of men come and go in on a little checking I find that the members should discontinue this Well, their isn't much more news, jlood was shed in the course of Norfolk but damn few stick this twenty years as there was by practice immediately as there are local U.S.S. has inserted an article so until next time, steady as she our boys over there. Apparently around more than two or three enough jobs for all Union members in the local press asking the kind goes. days—^principally because _of the history is about to repeat itself. citizens to donate light weight old in all Union Halls along the coast. HARRY J. COLLINS, Our benevolent politicians at high price of pork chops and over­ Steady as she goes, clothes to wear while the officials Agent "W"ashington have recently passed crowded conditions. The beer joints of the U.S.S. are attending banCHARLES WAID, the anti-strike bill. A coincident is close at eleven P.M. and they arc iquets, etc., asking for more old Agent that Hitler and the "ILL DUCK" generally sold out long before that. clothes, so they can attend more BALTIMORE passed just such laws immediately In addition, any eating or drinking hanq say who the hell started PHILADELPHIA place is generally packed five deep. this merry-go-roimd. Maybe they The S.S. City of Dalharc is own­ after they took power. We won­ Shipping is good with a betteif der who or whom are planning to still don't remember that the Well, here we go doing business ed by the U. S. Lines which has an selection of ships than almost any Unions stated at the inception of at the same old place again. Broth­ agreement with the famous N.M.U. take our country over again. The other Port. Anyone that want voters left in this country should this organized charity racket that er Gillis has severed his relations This ship just came back front a any kind of job from a two-stackef make it their duty to see that every we have been and still are able to with the United Seaman's Service. 115.-2 months trip. They were in on down to a towboat can get it politician is ousted that .voted for take care of our own. He was formerly connected with port .three days before a patrolman that vitdous bill. Do this before it here. In Port now ,and calling fta In line with this, I made a trip that organization as Chief Sanitary even went down to the ship and over to Camp Kittiwake last Sun­ Engineer. He states that his rea­ when he got there all he asked for is too late. For you may not have crews, are the usual half dozen Lib­ day as quite a number of stories sons for qutting were that he was to see the men's books and the opportunity to do so if they erties, and a couple of C-2's. Ilii were being spread about this set­ wanted to get back to the line of when each delegate showed their are re-elected. Also, they should the last week over seventy m,rt have been shipped from the hatt up. The only trouble I could find production. reports to him, he said that all demand the law be repealed. although a good percentage were It is labor's duty to defend the after talking to our mmbers (ex­ We have a brand new situation books will have to be paid up be­ gains of labor. Most of our brave trip-card and Maritime Commis­ cepting the usual squawks wUch here in this port, when a ship fore the men could leave the ship. any sailor has) was that they could comes in from a foreign trip the When they showed him all the fighters whom are now at the va­ sion trainees. There is ninety miles of water­ not find Logs even though there Captain and the purser take all the beefs, he just looked them over rious battlefields would want it this front to cover here. Try and cover was an abundance of Pilots around. records of the pay, over time draws and said he cotild not do anything way. Certainly they would not a ship at New Port News and an­ hke to return home and find that More on this later. Outside of this, and what have you, to their New about them because "we are at other at Berkley the same day anA everything they fought for was in Fm thinking of getting torpedoed York office and the next day they war." you will work until midnight, yet: vain, and certainly they also would (Royal St.) just to get out there The Captain had the crew work­ bring back a payroll that was made it often has to be done. TTiis port like to come home and return to for a while, it is the berries. up in the companies office and pro­ ing ten hours a day from Bombay civil life to a job that had the same wants a special box in the Log in­ ' ARMY, Agent ceed to pay the crew off. Where to Baltimore, 2 hours as emergency or better conditions and pay as be­ structing all crews coming into the rub comes the company officials lookout in addition to their regu­ fore they left. This is really what Hampton Roads ANYWHERE toj BOSTON in New York have cut a few hours lar eight hour, trick, using the they are fighting for—7 economic call the hall at once. If ships are from their overtime, but nobody "safety of the ship" gag. But the security. So voters make it your missed here it ie because, no one a^ Has been some time since Boston seems to know just what overtime gun crew only sto^ two hours out business to see that they get it. the hall is notified and the hall is had anything in the Log, but the company has cut, or just what of every twelve as lookout, as they open from eight to five every day JOSEPH FLANAGAN, brother, the reason is that nothing for. All that the members know always do. except Sunday, or unless both the Agent Agent and Patrolman have to bo The N.M.U. claims to be a nice has happened until lately. is that the total amount of his But now with all the shipjMng overtime does not jibe, and to fur­ Union to be a member of, but if busy paying off or signing on dif­ and dispatching going on, we in ther make things more complicat­ that is the way they treat their TAMPA ferent ships. Boston are having our hands full, ed there is no official from the members, they .would be wise to _The Fairisle came in with a lofi especially with a few members get­ company's office in New York have that Captain get a crew from Things around this port are of collectable overtime plus the the S.I.U. on that ship so he could about as dead as a las; year's bird usual beefs found on "Red Lead" ting drunk and missing watches, present at the payoff. also refusing to obey the orders of When the agent confronts the be put in his place and get ac­ nest. We are getting quite a few Andersen's ships. But the question the Officers of the ships. We all Captain with the short overtime he quainted with a real Union crew. of the Tampa boys here that have is: How in the hell can the beefs know that they think they are is told that if the man in question There wasn't a beef settled in fa­ been gone six months or more, and be. settled and the overtime collect­ Little Tin Gods and all that, but has any overtime coming to him vor of the members of the crew of from what they tell me they had ed when the crew dumps every­ with the C. G, on your tails, do he can go to New York and settle that ship, the Company winning quite a bit of experience in various thing in the Agent's lap and thefi what they tell you and take it up it with the Port Captain. Pretty all of them. parts of the world. never shows up again. Now I know why the N.M.U. later in Po^. When paying off in cute I calls it. Of course, as I see Bro. Marvin Swint has been "tell­ If anyone wants to ship and se­ the past few weeks there has been it a Patrolman or an Agent can al­ has so many ships, they have noth­ ing us some wierd tales of his ex­ lect the kind of ship he wants, this quite a few of the members with 6 ways get to the Captain before he ing but South St^, and So. Broad­ perience. There is one thing that is the place—AND DON'T FOR­ nionr:hs probation put on them, takes the payroll to New York to way bums similar to No Coffee Joe I can say, our members are not so GET TO CALL THE HATT' also a few with the seamen's papers have it made up and see if the over­ when he shipped out last from the publicity minded as the N.M.U. WHEN YOUR SHIP HITS THIS time is all in order. This has been old I.S.U. Hall, The entire crew, Commrats. Invoked. PORT. ^ Shipping and business is the best done on one ship in particular, the with the exception of two men, I attended a show the other day MARTY TRAINOR, Ageni NEW ORLEANS WHArS DOIwG Around the Ports ! Ps: P;^i. II •J.'•I V Friday^ July 2, 1945 y ':-,y �BBB THE SEAFARERS' LOG Page Three House Committee Studies Job SEAFARERS LOG Insurance For Merchant Men Published by the (Con/inueJ from Page 1) of the XJiliOu hiruig hall 'bciug uScd by the government as an employ­ ment agency for seamen being en­ titled to any unemployment bene­ fits. Mr. Callahan of the Maritime exchange in New York, an employ­ er organization, also went down the line with the employers, and had the same argument. All the employers' representa"tives that have attended this hear­ ing so far, and who have testified, are all in favor of No. 3, but are all opposed to the hiring hall clause. They have contended that under No. 1 the seamen would be en­ titled to too many benefits, and that it is a steal of funds that the ^ployer is contributing. From the general gist of their testimony it seems that they are all in favor of unemployment insurance, but they do not want the seamen to receive any benefits, or at least un­ less they are company stooges. Regarding the hiring hall I have tubmitted the following.statement: "Wo are in favor of unem­ ployment Insurance. However, we feel that the Union Hiring Hall is our greatest protection against unemployment, and we feel that any unemployment in­ surance scheme that interferes with the Union in maintaining their hiring hall is unsatisfac­ tory. We would rather not have any unemployment insur­ ance if, in order to secure any unemployment benefits, our members would have to lose the protection they now enjoy un' dec the Union hiring hall." documented under U. 8. Mari­ time laws, and spersts offshore, coastwise, intercostal. Great Lakes, rivers, bays, and sounds,' be included in any unemploy­ ment insurance bill that may be submitted to Congress, pro­ vided they are not covered by any State unemployment com­ pensation act." Under No. 3, the Great Lakes are covered, but only during the season. I also contended that the men need the benefits after the sea­ son closes, as during the season they would all be working and would not be in nwd of any bene­ fits as bad as they would need them when they are not working. addition to that, after liis suspen­ sion, he would be required to ac cumulate another 140 working days before he would be eligible to any benefits. My statement on the disqualifi­ cations: "We are opposed to any bill that is encumbered by disquali- ^ fications, and recommend that the employment practices of the industry be given consid­ eration and that when ever Ships Articles terminate, em­ ployes who do not re-sign ar­ ticles for another voyage, are to be considered quajified for benefits after the usual two weeks waiting period." SEAFARERS' INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH. AMERICA Atlantie and Gulf District Affiliated with the American Federation of Labor HARRY t-UNOEBERC ------ President 110 Market Street, San Francisco, Calif. JOHN HA-V^K ------- Secy-Treas. p. O. Box 25, Station D., New York City MATTHEW DUSHANE - - - "Washington Rpp. 424 5th Street, N. "W., Washington, D. C. Directory of Branches BRANCH NEW YORK PHONE ADDRESS 2 Stone St. Diapatcher'e Office BOwIiing Green 0-3430 Aaent BOwlina Green S-M37 330 Atlantic Ave Liberty 4057 14 North Gay St. Calvert 4539 6 North 6th St Lombard 7651 25 Commercial PL Norfolk 4-1083 309 Chartras St. Canal 3336 215 East Bay St. Savannah 3-1728 ..423 East Piatt St Tampa MM-1323 S8 So. Concaptlon St.#... Dial 2-1392 45 Ponce de Leon Puerto de Tlerra 219 20tfa Street Galveston 3-8043 2021 S. Federal Highvray. .Ft. Lauderdale 1601 Under No. 3, any seamen who BOSTON makes a trip and his articles ter­ BALTIMORE PHILADELPHIA minate, and is offered employment NORFOLK NEW ORLEANS or an opportunity to re-sign on SAVANNAH TAMPA for another voyage and refuses to ^nnn g re-sign on would not be entitlec PUERTO RICO GALVESTON to any benefits. FT. LAUDERDALE Under No. 1, after the complet­ Under No. 3, the River boat­ ion of a voyage, or a man quits men would be out entirely. In the vessel, he would have a two weeks PUBLICATION OFFICE: majority of cases the States do not waiting period before he would be ROOM 213, 2 STONE STREET cover them, and they would be the entitled to benefits. All unem­ New York City BOwling Green 9-8346 forgotten men under this bill. ployment insurance laws have Under No. 1, they are covered two week waiting period before if they are on a scow ten net tons any claiment would be eligible to or over, and all river boats that benefits. CIO Longshoresmen. on the Pacific would be entitled to benefits if hi* hire men on them are ten net tons Under No. 3, a claiment woulc Coast, the NMU would not be en­ union or any other union is out or over. The men that Brother have to work 140 days before he titled to any benefits, but the SIU on strike. The employers blew? Biggs has in the SIU on the Miss­ would be entitled to any benefits, & SUP members would be entitled their top on this part of the bilL issippi River are covered by tliis Only one State of the 48 States to benefits because the union on Under No. 3, before any claim­ bill. that have unemplo)rment insurance strike is CIO. The Pacific Coast ent would be entitled to any bene­ Under No. 3, the employer have such a qualifacation, and that Marine Firemens, Oilers, Water- fits, the employer must be notified tenders, and Wipes Union, would in. writing that the seamen wh(»a would be compelled to contribute State is Ohio. 3 per cent to the fund, and the Under No. 1, the time requirec be entitled to benefits regardless he had employed requested unem­ employe would be compelled to before any claiment would be elig­ of whether the AFL or CIO were ployment benefits. This means that contribute 1 per cent to the fund. ible for unemployment benefits is on strike, because they are not af­ all kinds of loop holes would bo: filiated with any national union, encountered by a seaman seeking Under No. I, the employer 90 days. Under No. 3 the union hiring would be compelled to contribute This is one of the reasons that and are independent. benefits. The employer certainly^ hall is, guaranteed. On page No. 3 per cent, and the employee the employers are against No. 1, it This proposal encourages unions would be in a position of block­ 50, 4th, 5th, 6th lines of No. 1, would not be required to make any requires a 90 days working period to remain independent, and 'not ing benefits to claiments that they the following lines were deleted, contributions. accumulated time, and they woulc affiffiate with any national organi­ would not care to see collect. "EXCEPT INSO FAR AS ANY I have submitted the following be eligible. Under No. 3, it is 140 zation, and discriminates against Under No. 1, the employer SUCH SYSTEM IS FOUND BY days, hence the employers favor the AFL and the CIO. statement; would never know who has apphedi TFIE BOARD TO INCREASE No. 3. "We are opposed to any con­ Under No. 1, a claiment would for benefits. THE BENEFITS TO BE PAID Under No. 3, any person who is tribution being made b^ the not be entitled to benefits due to In comparing both there draftsi> UNDER THIS ACT." With these in seasonal work, would oxily be employe towards any unem­ stoppage of work because of a it can readily be seen the reason words deleted from No. 1, the eligible during the seai^on. This ployment Insurance fu.nd, as it Union hiring hall is also protect­ would mean that vessels on the strike in the establishment, prem­ that the employers favor No. 3 is not the general practice un­ ed, and has no strings attached. Lakes, and in the Alaska trade, ises, or enterprise at which he is because the employers and inde­ der present State laws of the Un(fcr No. 3, the only fishermen claiments would only be eligible employed, provided, that this dis­ pendent union have all the advan­ qualification shall not apply after tages of the benefits, and it is nat­ 48 states that have unemploy­ that would be included are fisher­ during the season. the end of the month beginning on ural that the employers favor a ment insurance benefits. Only men who do not work on a share My statement was as follows: the day on which the board finds bill that encourages independent 4 States, California, New Jer­ and share basis, and they would "We are opposed to any bill such stoppages of work began. sey, Rhode l^and, and Ala­ unions, as the employer womd have only receive benefits during thie wherein certain claiments bama, require the employes to After thirty days the claiment an easier time to knock them over. fishing season. would be classed as seasonal contribute to the State unem­ That would eliminate all the workers, thereby disqualifying ployment insurance funds." fishermen who are affiliated with them, and they would not be the SIU, as they all work on a share entitled to any benefits." Had a conference this past week with Captain Edward Macauley The employers all beefed about and share basis. It~~would also the contribution. They expressed chairman of the board, and brought to his attention that the seamea Under No. 1, there is no dis­ eliminate them from receiving any the fears that with the employes in the last war had a better insurance policy than they have now. qualification for seasonal workers, benefits after a fishing season is not contributing they would in Under Public Law No. 20-65 the Congress approved June 12^ closed. My contention is that the the near future be required to in­ any time they are out of work they 1917, seamen were entitled to some of the following benefits: only time that a fisherman needs crease their contributions. The would be entitled to benefits. "Section 3 (A) in case of death, permanent disability which Under No. 3, any member of benefits is after a season closes, as maritime employers are the only prevents the person injured from performing any and every kind any organization who is affiliated during the fishing season they employers who have not been con­ of duty pertaining to his occupation, or the loss of both hands, both would not need any benefits as tributing to any unemployment with a national organization, and arms, both feet, both legs, or both eyes, or any two parts thereof, some union of the nationl orgnithey would all be working. fimds, all other employers have for the payment of an amount equivalent to one years earnings of zation is out on strike, thereby' Under No. 1, all fislietnien who been contributing for the past causing the seamen to be locked the insured, as fixed in the articles of the voyage (herein after rework on vessels of TEN NET eight years. fered to as the principal sum), but in no case shall such amount be out, they would not be entitled to TONS or over and the vessel is Under No. 3, any seaman-who any benefits. more than $5,000 or less than $1,500." documented under the U. S. mari­ had his certificate suspended by Example — If the International time laws, would be entitled to the Coast Guard would not be Longshofemens Association (AFL) 'resent Policy MWEB First Policy MWEB Public Law 20, 1917. benefits, and there are no seasonal eligible for any benefits until his or any other AFL union is out on 100% Life 100% life 100%' . requirements attacted to it. They suspension period is complete. He strike and SIU or SUP (AFL) re­ Life ioth Hands, or both would be entitled to benefits any would then have to accumulate the spect their picket line, or the SIU time that they are out of work. All original time required (140 days) or SUP is locked out (Layed Off) Arms, or both legs, fishermen affiliated with the SIU before he would be entitled to any we would not be entitled to any M)th feet, or both ditto eyes 100% ditto would be entitled to benefits un­ benefits. benefits, because the union that is 65% ; ditto ditto Arm . der No. 1. Under this draft, a seaman who out on on strike is affiliated with 50% ditto ditto I submitted the following state­ would have been to sea for 140 the AFL. However, the NMU dand 50% 40% Foot 50% Foot oot . ment on the men we wanted cov­ days, and he may have taken a (CIO) would be entiteld to bene­ 65% 65% 65% Leg .. ered: few days off in some foreign port, fits because the union that is out 45% lye .. 35% Eye 45% Eye . "I have been instructed to upon his return to the U.S. the on strike is AFL, and not affiliated urge your committee that all Coast Guard may suspend his cer­ with the CIO. The same would Under th^ first policy issued by the board it will be noted that for merchant seamen, fishermen, tificate for TIF TEEN OR apply to a tinion that is affiliated these same percentages it was foot 50%, and eye 45%. It will also be and river boat men, who are em^ THIRTY DAYS. He wohld not with the CIO, if a union was oui noted that through a Congressional act during the last war it was, ployed on all American vessele be entitled to any benefits, but in on strike was affiliated with the OSS of foot 50% and loss of an eye 45%. Under No. 1, they would also be included on the Great Lakes, and there would be no seasonal re­ strictions attached to them when the person would be entitled to benefits. They would be eligable any time the)' are out of work. Maritime War Emergency Board: Vt-M • -J*." A �MONEY DUE Seafarers* Log- Out of the Focsl by i-. X. Mrs. Scaifc has been looking out for the welfare of the SIU boys, inviting them to parties at the Cosmopolitan Club, and treating the boys first rate. Everytime the boys come back from one of her parties, t|iey tell of what a swell time they had. Our thanks to you, Mrs. Scaife and keep up the good work. Mae Dillon at the Furuseth Club got some piublicity by having taken good care of a British seaman's two children. The boys at the SIU want to-say hello-to Mae, and tell her to keep up t good work. H k'B'' f W-- w & ii- ^ I The following brothers are now sailing as licensed officers: R. Langford, Paul Jones, Leroy (Rah Rah) Parrish, Bill Edwards, Doug Muncaster and Vince Yakavonis. Joe Hart is studying for his 2nd Assistant's ticket. Joe has become a Bcnidict and says he has reformed. We wish him luck. Karl Johnson is going to New London for his 2nd Mate's ticket. Dusan (Chili) De Dusin, who was ashore for 18 months recover­ ing from an injury has finally sailed with his buddy Arthur Thompson on an Alcoa ship. Mae Sclar has been seen at the Somerset having tea. Red Brady and Mike Walsh made a trip on the same ship and were such good boys that the Captain called them Gentlemen. Tish, Tish. ib • STEPHEN MORGA^N, KNUT CATO, E. M. ALLAIN: You havo two months, nino days difference in Fireman and Watertender pay, and one month, nine days bonus coming from the Waterman Line. * e e I •, i'Will Print Amendments In Next Issue of Log I. PHILLIP POSSIN See the Secretary-Treasurers' of­ fice next time you are in New York. 'erne RAY PUGH See the Secretary-Treasurer's of­ fice next time you are in New York. The amendments to the Atlan­ tic & Gulf Constitution drafted by the Agents Conference, will be printed in the next issue of the Log. They will be printed for the purpose of general discussion. The amendments will appear on the next regular ballot for ratification by the membership. HONOR ROLL CREW S.S. RICHARD H. LEE Deck Department which made lest voyage on S.S. George Gale -has overtime coming from Mississ­ ippi Line. * * * * * Oilers on last trip of S.S. Del Norte have overtime coming. Col­ lect from Mississippi Line, 17 Bat­ tery Place, New York City. •* * » em* ^Firemen on S.S. Richard Alvey have overtime coming. Collect Bull Line, New York City. . » * * Crew S.S. -Francis Marion have attack bonus due. Collect Robin Line, New York City. Firemen and Ordinaries on S.S. Livingstone have overtime due. See Goffin, New York Branch. Crew S.S. John Stevens and S.S. Pan Gulf have attack bonus com­ ing. Collect Waterman Line, 19 Rector SL, New York City. CREW S.S. CHIPPEWA 19.00 r. 1J.0(^ ; 12.6^ M MURR 10.00 H. PRICE 6.00 P. G. BUFORD , J.OO A. ROMEJKO 5.00 X BOUT^I , 5.00 H. L. NICHOLS J. S. HART « « « J. McLEON: Four hours due from Mississippi Shipping Com­ pany, « ' « h.iio CREW S. S. LAFAYETTE .......J. tf.OO; Deck & Engine Dept. S.S. Samuel Griffin having personal effects claim see Robin Line claim agent, 39 Cortland St., N. Y. C. Steward Dept, S.S. Broholt Liv­ ingston have overtime coming. Col­ lect Bull Line.. H. A. STRAUS: Overtime comng. See Goffin, New York Branch. ; 30^ CREW S.S. WALTER E. RANGER SIMON WILLIARD * T. RAYMOND: f42^ coming from the S.S. Tarleton Brown. $78.00 CREW S.S. JAMES GUNN Steward Dept. S.S. Fitzburgh Lee have money due from Smith & Johnson, 80 Broad St. e see #. CREW S.S. FLOUR SPAR Entire Deck Department of S.S. Josiah Parker has overtime due. Gollect Mississippi Steamship Com­ pany, New Orleans. « The oldest of the four Jernigan brothers was recently lost through enemy action. Earl Brown, one of the best cooks in the SIU fleet, was recently declared lost. The ship has been overdue 7 weeks and has been officially declared lost. It is the first Liberty ship to lose an entire crew. Earl was only married three weeks before he sailed on that ill-fated ship. All his friends in Baltimore will sure miss him. We extend our sym­ pathy to both his wife and his family. W Friday, July 2, 1945 THE SEAFARERS* LOG Page Four 4.5(1 : J. ARSENAULT ^ 4.0(^ ,. 4.0(i T. TETONIS CREW S.S. JEAN L. S. BUGAJEWSKI A. C. JUtCHESS E. ERIKSON J. LYNN ! J. W. PICON ....:. FRANKIE G. HEGMANN C. M. RODRIQUES B. G. MORANO F. J. KEAVFENY ; E. M. SCHIBICQUE J. BLAKEY M. WERCKSHAGEN : C. S. ALBERTSON CRFW S.S. RAPHEAL SEMMES S. BAN WORT G. SCHMIDT T. J. TIGHE r 4.00 4.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 3.00 2.()0 2.0^ 2.00 2JOO 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.00 2.0> l.OO 1.00 l.()0 ...' ! ; : r. $276.50 RA1.0. TRAINEE'S CONCEPTION OF A SHIP U.S.5. &ULL3M1P c.acg HULL 1313^ ;lr V V . -: • •' W''''' KB-:..T; • .-•v. U-.> i;. - • • i ' i . • • • T'-.• ,.,1 .• . . .• 'r \ • - • . - '7; '•ly/TiiF niii iiii I .... � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. 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Title A name given to the resource July 2, 1943 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. V, No. 14 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Description An account of the resource Headlines: CONGRESS PASSES FASCIST LABOR BILL HOUSE COMMITTEEE STUDIES JOB INSURANCE FOR MERCHANT MEN "RED LEAD" ANDERSON RECEVIES A VACATION UNIONISM--N.M.U BRAND ALL ABO-OARD FOR THE GRAVY TRAIN R.M.O. TRAINEE'S CONCEPTION OF A SHIP Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 7/2/1943 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America 1943 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/f63a85b35d9103ab34676cb10785479a.PDF 4ae47c954fcc44fc274b3355d44eddb3 PDF Text Text Official Organ of ihe Atlantic and Gulf District, Seafarers International Union of North America VOL. X V Itl^ NEW YORK. N. Y„ FRIDAY. JULY 2. 1948 No. 27 A & G District' Wins Union Hiring Hall • NEW YORK—^The Seafarers International Union rocked the maritime industry this week with the dramatic announcement that the Union Hiringr Hall will be retained in its contracts with member companies of the Atlan­ This week the Atlantic & Gulf District of the Sea­ tic and Gulf Ship Operators Association. Agreement between the Union and farers International Union hurdled one of the biggest the Association, representing nine major companies, came after almost three obstacles in the path of maritime labor. It came through weeks of negotiations during which the SIU committee firmly refused to with a contract calling for retention of the Union Hiring discuss any other issue until its demands for the retention of the hiring Hall in clear, unmistakeable terms, despite the wave of hall had been recognized. anti-labor repressions which have been sweeping the The new agreement, specified as "Article I - Employment," was accept­ nation. ed by the Union membership in all Atlantic and Gulf Coast Branch meetings >«last Wednesday night. The SIU agreement with the operators on the Hir­ Still The Leaders ) ing Hall issue is notable on two counts: First, it provides for the employment of seamen through the Union Hiring Hall. Second, it gives the SIU the right to re-negotiate any or all sections of Article I of the contract dealing with employment on seven days' notice to the operators. To say that these provisions of the contract are unique is a sheer understatement.- But they are consistent with the SIU's long-established position as the leading waterfront organization. For years now the Seafarers has been»setting the pace in maritime, and seamen throughout the nation have been benefitting from the accomplish­ ments recorded by the SIU. (Continued on Page 15) SIU Petitions For Elections On 9 CS Ships •V The Seafarers International Union has petitioned for a. collec­ tive bargaining election in that part of the Cities Service fleet not covered by the Union's cer­ tification received in February. 'The request, along with pledges, was submitted to the National Labor Relations Board in New York la?t Thursday. An informal hearing in the NLRB regional office is ex­ pected shortly. The petition was necessitated by the NLRB's refusal to recog­ nize the SIU as collective bar­ gaining agent for the eight ships acquired by the company since the Union came through with 83 per cent of the votes cast in a fleet election this past winter. In addition to the eight, an­ other ship—the Lone Jack—will have to be voted, because she did not make port before the ballot­ ing deadline date in the previous certification election. Cuba Distilling A collective bargaining election has been ordered on the vessels of the Cuba Dis­ tilling Company by the Na­ tional Labor Relations Board after study of the petition presented by the SIU. Dates for the election will be set by the NLRB re­ gional office in New York. Men on the company's ships are asked to remain until the election is held. With the central issue settled to the Union's satisfaction, discussions on other contractual issues are now in progress. Should no agreement be reached on wages and working rules by July 30, however, the present" contracts will be modified to include Article 1, and will "remain in effect until agreement is reached until either party notifies the other in writing that negotiations for such an agreement are stalemated." Companies covered by the agreement are the Alcoa Steam­ ship Company, Bull Steamship Corporation, Baltimore Insular Line, Eastern Steamship Company, Bernstein Shipping Company, South Atlantic Line, Smith & Johnson, Seas Shipping Company and Seatrain Lines. i SIU JUSTIFIED The Seafarers' latest precedent-making achievement justified its unwavering stand that the Union Hiring Hall had to be resolved first and foremost. All other issues, the SIU held, were incidental •by comparison. The crux of the new agree­ ment is stated in Section 1, deal- ^ ing with the manner in which the company will procure per­ sonnel. It specifies "the company agrees to secure all rmlicensed personnel through the Hiring •Halls of the Union." As the SIU negotiating com­ mittee pointed out, "this is the first time the words 'Hiring Hall of the Union' have ever been used in any maritime con­ tract." ^ Another remarkable feature of the new agreement is Section 7, which gives the Union the "right to re-negotiate any part or all of Article 1," with dis" cussions to begin within seven days after the Union has notified the companies of its intentions. The Union victory, however, is not one-sided. The Union Hir­ ing Hall is much respected ay • among management officials who recognize the fact that this meth­ od of hiring has produced stabil­ ity in maritime. Under the Union Hiring Hall, ship operators are assured of being furnished responsible, com­ petent crews to man their ships, a fact which many of the com­ panies have openly acknowl­ edged. The success of the negotiations demonstrated what can be ac(Continiied on Page 15) our //aq/ssf/Z/Hiere/ " 2 �THE Page Two SEAFARERS Friday. July 2, 1{ LOG This is cuhat ilie SIU AeS Pistri^ has preseirvfed... "ThfiG?. peirsotmei roug. :^^jrom io secui-e oU tinlicezLseci Le KirirUi Halloj? theuniOMi. J of-6heASG conttacf w/t2i {Jt& Opemfoi^sAssA G£^ Sfij^ fffy\ •! /M /fj - and this is hour the ojorks,.. TheSecrfarer ifebo»ivte +he Union Holl — CheckSs hisaeay in+hc ba^age troSvn - 11 is+ens a)ith+he \d re^is+en ispcrfchei'. '_ He attends unibnmeet- 'Whileon+he beach he ings whife oshai'eandiie^ relates in +he Recireatron TOoiferjitibin. policies. Dec^c. Thisis (X)ho(t-H^ , 'f Hinnig Hall nrveans: EquoTjob irjghts-fbir all- Ho-favoritism — Mo shape-up - hto piece-ofte — tlie DeimQcra+ic wag of Shipping! On-hapof+he |is1-, he thirou)Sin-forajob - ' . '-'.'T. t, ..V . • ond Qets itandis off te his ship with hisgear. The •£ irston+he beach is the / iirsToine out. ; �Friday, July 2, 1948 THE SEAFARERS HEADING FOR HOME VV , \ V < y f '/• '' LOG Page Three What Union Hiring Halls MeanToWorking Seamen One Seafarer who really knows pretty big changes in the food what the Hiring Hall has done situation aboard ship met his for seamen is Brother Raymond eye, not to mention his stomach. Perry who made his first trip "In the twenties we had the back in 1922. old two-pot system," he says. Brother Perry left the sea in "For the officers there were al­ 1929 when things were still ways steaks and chops, and for done in the old way. What he the crew it was mostly mulligan saw when he came back in in one form or another and wa­ tery rice pudding. 1943 was a ^revelation, and in his opinion all the improve­ "You could tell the day of the ments in wages and conditions week by what they gave you to hinge on the Hiring Hall. eat. On the banana boats, which "When I started sailing in '22,' I sailed in some when I first Perry recalls, "you brought your went to sea, we used to keep a own linen if you had any, and bunch of bananas in the foc'sle your own tin cup and plate. on the way back. We'd live on The ships didn't even have toi­ the bananas, the rest of the food lets. was so bad. "If you wanted a bath, you "But that was before we had grabbed a line and a bucket, the Union Hiring Hall and Ro­ hauled up some sea water and tary Shipping to give us a chance RAYMOND PERRY made out the best you could. to use our weight to raise wages "Maybe the young fellows go­ and change conditions. Bound for the Stales, Ralph Youlzy (left) and Robert ing to sea nowadays don't be­ had no real protection because "We lived in dirty stuffy Boutwell (center), both of whom were cleared of charges lieve it, but there was no over­ you had no Union Hiring Hall. foc'sles, six or eight men to one time in the old days and you The Hiring Hall is the salvation foc'sle. There wasn't much in arising out of the accidental drowning of a launch captain in took your thirty bucks a month of seamen. Georgetown, British Guinea, are shown on -the deck of the the way of light at night. There SS J. W. Cullen with Brother Riley, a crewmember. and liked it. "Sometimes you were hired were no fans for runs in the "Perhaps the worst thing was off the dock by a shipping mas­ tropics and not much heat for Boutwell, who was acquited by a Georgetown jury in the way you got your job. Th^re ter, a port captain or whoever winter trips. February returned to testify at Youtzy's trial in May. Through­ were several ways of getting a else might be in charge. You "When I came back to the sea out the trials messages of sympathy and support poured in from Seafarers convinced of Youtzy's and Boutwell's innocence. ship but they all were bad. You could hang around the dock for in 1943, I really was surprised. days at a time, in hot weather, I didn't even have to bring my cold weather, dry weather or own aprons. wet weather. There was no Ro­ "Another thing I found was a tary Shipping either. little attention to medical care. Sometimes you were hired That was an improvement the out of a ginmill. I remember Union siu-e has won. Merchant seamen are subject mission's New York offices are may volunteer for a year's serv­ NO MEDICAL CARE when 1 first went to sea as an to the draft which became law located. He must show at least ice and escape the draft later. "I remember one trip when OS. 1 used to ship out of Bos­ last week, unless the President one y^r of continuous service So far as is known now. Sea­ ton where there were some wa­ I wrenched my ankle. There was farers within the 18-25 age group of the United States rules that to get the Certificate. terfront saloons that served as nobody to take care of me. The seafaring is an essential occupa­ If he has to use the mail, he must register. Saloon Messman poured a bottle crimp halls. tion. Veterans of the armed foi'ces can send an application along "A crimp would buy you some of iodine over the ankle and told The Washington Representative with the discharges—again photo­ with one year of service in peace bum drinks and first thing you me to soak it in hot water. But of the SIU is pressing hard for stats will do—to the following or 90 days at any time between knew you were on a ship and I had to stand my watch. I was December 7, 1941, and Septem­ headed out. Maybe you weren't an OS then, and the Mate roared ; such a ruling and a decision is address: ber 2, 1945, will not be inducted. expected within a couple of Seaman's Wartime Service, The SIU is pressing for seamen quite 'shanghaied' but there that nobody was sick on his weeks. wasn't much difference. Shipping ship imtil he dropped dead. Benefits Unit, Ma^e Personnel For reasons of its own, the Section, U, S. Mamlme Commis­ who sailed in the war to be that way you had no protection "So I kept on working, my placed in the same classification. at all. The Hiring Hall changed ankle swollen from the wrench 'Maritime Commission is also sion, Washington 25, D. C. and blistered from the hot wa­ '/ seeking deferment for seamen. In addition, the President is all that." ter I soaked it in. Finally the MIGHT GET MARRIED V In addition, the Commission is authorized to defer married men, MISTAKEN LADY Captain had no choice but to urging that seamen who saw acAs the draft is written, men those in essential occupations or Asked to comment on the ar­ leave me in a hospital down in V tive service aboard merchant in medical or scientific work or ticle Elinore M. Herrick wrote Costa Rica. ships between May 1, 1940, and 19 years old through 25 can be study. for the New York Herald-Trib­ "We don't have things like July 25, 1947, and who hold Cer- inducted into the Army for one High school students will be une, charging that the weakness that now because the Union has tificates of Substantially Continu- year on September 22 or after. 1 ous Service, be placed in the The registration machinery deferred until they are 20, and of the Union Hiring Hall was stopped them. But of all the Un­ J same classification as men who probably will be set up to start college students until the end that jobs could be bought and ion victories, the central one is sold and proposing that hiring the Hiring Hall. Wages, over­ served in the Army and Navy. operations in August, however, of the college year. be managed by the Coast Guard, time, night limch and everything Merchant seamen can only and all men 18 through 25 must Possibly the failure to exempt Perry had this to say: else stem from the Hiring Hall hope that the President will find register. But the 18-year olds seamen specifically was part-and"If we ever lost the Hiring them essential to the ships they won't be called right away—not "The lady is way out of line. parcel of the thoughtless haste in Hall, whether to the companies until they are 19, although they sail. Her Coast Guard idea is com­ which the Draft Act was passed, or to the Coast Guard, we would pletely phony, as any seaman observers feel. But they, point have a tough time surviving as could tell her. The Coast Guard out that the President'^ power to seamen and we would be beaten is trying to get control of the exempt married men, men in as a Union." merchant marine. They want to scientific or medical research and make it like the Navy with a men in essential occupations lot of military nonsense. And should cover seamen whose wortc is essential to, the nation, and The Union Hiring Hall would was the most efficient way of those brass hats would work who are the first to be hurt any be a fine thing if it weren't con­ hiring personnel for the mari­ hand in glove with the com­ panies. Seafarers in Ihe Port of war. trolled by the Union, according time industry. After pondering "What's more, I'd like to know New York are reminded that to Elinore Morehouse Herrick, a the subject, she hit on the Coast where the lady got the idea that GET YOUR CERTIFICATE ihe Recreation Hall (third former chairman of the New Guard. jobs could be bought and sold deck) remains open every Seafarers who sailed during York State Labor Board and now Madame Herrick claimed that in a Union Hiring Hall. I don't night until 11 o'clock. the war and have not obtained an employee of the New York the Union Hiring Hall was all believe any job ever was bought There are plenty of facili­ Certificates of Substantially Con­ Herald Tribune. wrong anyway because the Union in a Hiring Hall. Our officials ties to help while away the tinuous Service should do so at In an article published in the abused it. are elected by the rank-and-file, evening. There's a fairly once, Joseph Volpian, SIU Spe­ Herald Tribune of June 25, and they know damned well well-stocked library, and a "Jobs," she wrote, "can be cial Services Representative, ad­ Madame Herrick not only they'd be thrown out if they goodly number of technical vises, especially if they are under reached the above conclusion but bought through the union officers sold a job. of the hiring hall, and the offi­ books. Cards and games are 26 years of age. proposed a startling remedy. "In fact, it would be the 99- available and the soft-drink cers can show favoritism even Any Seafarer who sailed be­ Why not turn the Hiring Hall year club in a hurry for every­ machines are kept filled. if no money passes hands." tween the critical dates, May 1, over to the Coast Guard? the body concerned, if a job ever Or if you just want to sit Wh^re she got this idea she were sold in an SIU Hall." 1940, and July 25, 1947, can get good lady suggested back and be entertained you didn't say, but it is clear that What set the lady off on the his Certificate from the Maritime TWO POTS can fasten your eyes on the she knew nothing about the subject wajs the Taft-Hartley Act, Commission in New York or television screen. SlU's Hiring Hall and Rotary which she approves. She thought Perhaps the thing that Brother Washington . At any rate, you're wel­ If he is in New York, he can that the Union Hiring Hall was Shipping System. What rank- Perry, who is a Chief Steward take his discharges, photostats outlawed by the obnoxious law, and-file Seafarers thought of her now, really knows better than come — every night until wiU do, to Room 924 at 45 Broad­ but that some sort of Hiring Hall notions can be read on page 15 anything else is food. When he eleven. came back to sea in 1943 some way where the Maritime Com-^ ought .to lj)e maintained since it of this isue. Seamen's Draft Status Not Clear 0 Lady Labor 'Expert' Advotates Hiring Halk Run By Coast Guard ,0 Come OR Up �Page Four By AUGUSTUS H. COTTRELL T W E S «^ # A R E R S Fuel needed for the planes can be figured at about 63 gallons of high-octane gasoline and lubri­ cating oil for each plane to each gallon of fuel oil for the cargo ship operation. Cost of the plane fuel, of course, greatly ex­ ceeds the cost of an equal amount of ship's fuel oil. For the ships, about 8,250i000 gallons of fuel oil would be needed each month in hauling the required tonnage. The planes would require an estimated 504,800,000 gallons of gasoline and about 15,100,000 gal­ lons of lubricating oil each month. This is only slightly less than the monthly rate of 660,000,000 gallons of petroleum prod­ ucts used by all of the armed forces during the peak year of World War II. L i> G Triday, July 2, 1948 who are lobbying for them and ing millions in profits, and it I American ships :carry to other who, quite naturally, advocate need never be feared that a lands, we receive 'in return essen* air power over sea power for the shipowner is going to change his 'tials that range from our morn­ moving of cargoes to distant tactics when the change will put ing cup of coffee to rare metals lands, would make a study of the his ledgers in the red. for atomic research. situation and know whereof they Sometime back we had a great Countries must send their speak before! they start scream­ hullabaloo about Howard Hughes goods to us in order to procure ing their "landlubber" heads off and his great cargo-carrying the wherewithal to pay for the for planes to move cargoes, they plane. This plane was supposed things they need from us. And would instantly see that, if to revolutionize the moving of we need their products also, for planes were ever used in the goods to foreign lands. we require for our own national majority over ships, it would At the last report the plane protection and standard of living only serve to put hundreds of skimmed along a few feet above articles and supplies which must more ships in use, serving and the waters in a trial run. Noth­ be procured abroad. servicing the planes,, and count­ ing has been heard about it Ships have been carrying on less more seamen would have since. this commerce since before the employment. Kaiser was also going to move days of the proud Clipper Ships, Whereas it would only require the freight of the world with and ships will continue to carry 80 cargo ships to move the car­ giant cargo-carrying planes, but on the trade of nations. COST PROHIBITIVE goes in question by sea power the rusty old tramps, patched with red lead, and the fast In this atomic age of speed, jet alone, it would take 234 tankers modern cargo ships and the gaily propulsion, cargo carrying planes and 10 additional cargo ships to keep the air transport function painted passenger ships' are still and rockets the proud ships of plowing the seven seas and sup­ the American merchant marine in motion. plying the world with what it vWll always stand out as the And yet it has been shouted needs. principal cargo carriers of the by some, "We don't have to de­ TRADE NECESSARY world. pend on the merchant marine, America grew up on salt water. They will never be replaced by we can ship cargoes by air." The world trade of ships keeps lighter than air or heavier than How utterly ridiculous this The cost sounds in view of the authentic millions of Americans employed, air cargo carriers. from the highest to the lowest, alone would be prohibitive and figures and analysis as set forth. and in all walks of life. the cargoes lost would be un­ And still with the untold mil­ In return for our products that told. lions that would be involved in an air movement of cargoes, -r there are those who have the audacity to grumble about better BY SEA wage scales and conditions for BY AIR 80 cargo ships merchant seamen. 12,078 planes 8,400 seamen 329,400 flight and ground crew­ INTO BANKRUPTCY 8,250,000 gallons of fuel oil men, If the shipowners suddenly de­ per month. 519,890,000 gallons of gasoline cided to convert from seapower 20 trips per month and oil per month. to airpower they would go bank­ No tankers 32,941 flights per month. rupt overnight. In the moving 234 tankers of cargoes by ship they are niak- There seems to be more and more talk about. substituting air­ craft for cargo ships as long range transports. The suggestion has even been made that planes take over the task of carrying cargo from the United States across 6,600 miles of sea to Australia. The army airmen figured the comparative costs of moving 100,000 long tons a month by air and by sea. A few of the figures follow: The job of supplying Austral­ ian bases was found to require either 80 cargo ships or 12,078 transport planes. Shipment of supplies would call for 20 cai'go vessel sailing a month for the roundtrip and would involve a total of 80 ships in constant use. TANKERS NEEDED Shipment of the same amount Tanker ships then would be of cargo by air calls for 32,941 required in large numbers jiist airplane trips a month. On the to supply gasoline and oil for the basis of a TVa-day roundtrip, plus 2% days for overhaul, each plane planes at overseas bases. That would require 10 days for a would call for 234 tankers, or about three times the number complete cycle. of ships needed to do the orig­ 12,078 PLANES inal supply job by sea. Thus, in order to operate the This tanker requirement is needed 1,098 flights a day, 10,980 planes are required for ac­ based on a need for 437,521,984 tual operation. Then, to cover gallons of gasoline and oil at normal attrition and planes out overseas fueling points each of service for major repairs, this month. The fuel would be car­ total must be raised to 12,078 ried by large tankers, with 130 sailing each month. planes for the air operation. As an average of 1.8 months is If air transports were used, required^ for the round trip to moreover, about 8,000 . planes would be in the air at all times Hawaii, New Caledonia, Aus­ over the 6,600-mile route—or at tralia or other fueling spots, a least one plane for each mile of total of 234 ships would be kept the Paciflc between San Fran­ in constant operation. On the other hand no tankers cisco and Australia. would be required for the sea And a plane would be land­ operation, as the cargo ships do ing or taking off every 40 seconds not need to refuel during a from each end of the route every roundtrip voyage to Australia. hour of the day and night. In addition, the overseas Manpower needed for the air operation would amount to 39 groundcrew personnel needed for times as many men as for the the air operation requires 35,292 shipment.s by sea. Moreover, a,tons of supplies each month, inlarge portion of the present total eluding provisions. This would keep ten more available force of trained airmen cargo ships in continuous opera­ would be needed for the air­ tion, or would involve about a transport job. 50% increase in the number of Cargo ships carrying the same These are the Union Brothers currently in the marine hospitals, I- - shipments would require approx­ planes used. as reported by the Port Agents. These Brothers find time hanging imately 8,400 seamen in all. Fi^ PLANES IMPRACTICAL plane crews five men and some­ Conclusions of the Army Air heavily on their hands. Do what you can to cheer them up by times more are required for each Forces study were that, even writing to them. plane — the pilot, copilot," navi­ with an unlimited number of B.. FREDERICKS gator, radio .engineer and flight cargo planes available, supplying SAN FANCISCO HOSPITAL WILLIAM H. KUMKE engineer. J. HODO a full-scale overseas base by air EDWARD L. PIERCE These men are not permitted is impractical. W. WATSON THOS. S. JOHNSON to fly more than 120 hours a E. MELLE If the vast amount of fuel PAUL R. SAHR month and, since actual flying needed were somehow obtained D. P. GELINAS M. J. LUCAS time in the 7y2-day roundtrip many more ships still would be P. TRASNUL ANTHONY J. TANSKI flight averages 80 hours, each needed to carry gasoline and oil 4. i 1 LOYD^E. WARDEN crew could complete only P/s to overseas refueling points than SAVANNAH HOSPITAL GUY G. GAGE trips each month. H. R. BELL are needed to carry the supplies M. J. LUCAS TWO CREWS TROY THOMAS by sea instead. C. H. JONES Thus, it would be necessary to F. T. ALKOFER What this all means is that, in T. A. HOLMES have two complete crews for the field of long range transport, i 4 t O. FARRARA each plane, one set at each ter­ air power has basic limitations. NEW ORLEANS HOSPITAL THOR THORSEN minus. In all, the 10,980 operat­ E. LIPARI The 100,000 ton cargo problem B. TAYLOR ing planes require 109,800 flight- involved would have to be multi­ :J. DENNIS RICHARD KAVANAUGH C. MASON crewmembers, as against the 8,- plied many times for a war effort G. F. COBBLER R. F. BLACK 400 ship crewmembers. the size of the last European EDW. J. CAROVA A. LOOPER In addition to the 4kght crews, conflict. RAYMOND CARPENTER C. ANDERSON each plane would require an­ What air power can do to win WILLIAM R. HARE B. G. TEMPLEMA^r other 20 men on the ground modern wars is important, but GEO. H. SEEBERGER RALPH PIEHET along the route. This includes this official study indicates that CHRIST B. VIKEN V. P, SATAJNGS personnel to handle maintenance, sea power still is to play a vital L. C. HOLMES C. GREEN cargo, weather ^ reporting and part in peace and in war, even C. R. GRIMES . communications. though any future conflicts are to STATEN ISLAHD HOSPITAL T. J. TASSIN They would have to be located be fought mainly in the air. H. L. SEYMOUR • C. O, LYNSKY at San Francisco, Honolulu, Can­ MORE SHIPS NEEDED G. SORENSEN ' F. PREZALAR ton Island, Nandi, New Caledo­ STELLY C. FOREMAN • J. M. GARDNER The comparative scale on this nia, and Williamtown in Austra­ F. NERING lia. Total flight and ground-crew page indicates the enormous ext 4 4 E. OLSEN personnel for the air operation pense to the taxpayer when BALTIMORE MARINE HOSP. JOHN L. FAX S. HEIDUCKI comes to about 329,400 men, all someone in Washington gets up THOMAS BRYANT G. FINKLEA of them highly trained techni­ and starts shouting about using A. E. YOUNG J. McNEELY planes as cargo carriers instead cians. WILLIAM T. ROSS, D. DeDUISEN This total is about the strength of ships. MYRON E. FOLTS J. L. ROBERTS Now if some of the aircraft of the entire present U. S. Air ROBERT A. POMERLANE manufacturers and the legislators T. ZEMBRUZUSKI Force. Comparison Between Air and Sea Carriers Meo Now la The Mmne Hospitab Hospital Patients When entering the hospital notify the delegates by post­ card. giving your name and the number of your ward. Mimeographed postcards can be obtained free at the Social Service desk. r'lX 'i:! 4 Staten Island Hospital You can contact your Hos­ pital delegate at the Staten Island Hospital at the follow­ ing times: Tuesday — 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 5th and 8th floors.) Thursday — 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 3rd and 4th floors.) Saturday — 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. (on 1st and 2nd floors.) E. T. BROWN M. F. MORRISON H. WHITE A. J. SACCO E. PETRICELLI H. CHRISTENSEN G. VECCHIO P. DAUGHERTY Bt F. DeLlMA C. NANGLE W. J. HUNT R. PEPIN A. BJORNSSON A. DUDDE B. KOSOW W; PERRY S. RIVERA i 'I,;, GALVESTON HOSPITAL A. E. MOULTON WARREN W. CURRIER J. M. DOONER LAPERHOUSE FOSTER COMMANDER S. 4. X MOBILE HOSPITAL H. ALLMAN J. B. McGUFFIN O. M. RAYNOR C. P. VARN A. C. McALPIN H. L. JACKSON "y'ir- " ..i ' . �'i"-'• Friday. July 2, 1940 T KB SEAPARERS LOG Page Five Port Galveston Very Unhappy Over Sorry Shipping Situation By KEITH ALSOP GALVESTON — Still waiting | Also coming in for much atfor the much-publicizetl Marshall. tenlion was the question of the Plan to get under way, Galveston Purchase of^ better and more convenient Branch Hall. Apparhas not yet come out of the ship­ ently the excellent building the ping doldrums which enveloped Union acquired in Nfew Or­ this area several weeks ago. On leans has made the men more % the basis of present indications conscious of the advantages of By EARL (Bull) SHEPPARD ' great help while the men are getting a helluva big play . no improvement appears likely owning our own Halls. •NTirur /^DTITAKTO ou" " Waiting for regular runs. from the Brothers. In this weaActivity in the local labor for a month or so. , . . . IS membership here went on ther, especially, the showers are scene centers around the coming e rescen class lay-up jobs the proving to be a considerable ' The McKittrick Hills, a Pacific convention of the Texas State 0 ing I S own in 1 y, an very ew oo mem- g3j.j^g gg standby jobs, thereby convenience and comfort. Tankers job, was in here last Federation of Labor, AFL, to be ers are ° spen oo gyowing each and every member Quite a a few have 'qjuiie lew Brothers rsrotners nave week to payoff, sign on and then held in Fort Worth. Val James much time on the beach while „ a crack at the laj^-ups, along come in here from Mobile and," shove off again. The payoff was was elected to represent the Sea­ waiting for jobs. with the standbys. although they feel they have a? farers International Union in this On the average, we are ship.clean, all beefs being of a minor port. European' runs are plentiful swell Hall in that port, they ping approximately the number out of here right now. About seem pretty certain it can't come nature and settled to the satis­ of men we register—the varia­ CULPRIT CAUGHTnine out of every ten Alcoa up to the building we have here, faction of the crew. tion either way is slight. The ships that payoff in this port Before making any statements The Brothers will be happy to only ship laid up on us during LIVELY MEETING. make a run to Europe, then to to the effect that Mobile will know that the contemptible char­ the past two weeks is the SS the Islands for a load of bauxite, have the best Hall when it is The last general membership acter who had been stealing gear Cape Friendship of the Isthmian Alcoa is getting plenty of ERP finished, the officials there should meeting in this port was high­ from the Hall was caught last Steamship Company. She was a cargo for their runs to Europe, remember that New Orleans Wednesday night. The culprit, ^ beat-up scow so it wasn't too lighted by considerable discus­ The company is keeping their considers its Hall the best—bar A. B. Odland was stopped as he' much of a loss. ships on a steady run from the none sion on the manner of registra­ tried to make a getaway after he There are still two C arras Gulf to Europe, to the Islands tion for jobs, with many view­ forced entry to continue his tankers here with standby crews ano back to the Gulf. ,. , , , , ^ „ "ice Hall, but we also know that points being aired by the Broth­ thieving. Since he is an alien, aboard awaiting orders. It is All ships Mheduled to payoff appreciate the buUdlng expected that these two tankers, he is to be deported. ers. " m the ncKt two weeks are His operations extended over which are waiting to receive see the place. Even the pictures a period of two months, during cargo, will be loaded up and cept1 , for the possibility of a appeared In the LOG can't, shipped out in the near future. which time he got away with stray vesse coming m to lay j^ly do It justice, Prospects for the next two up, no SIU ships are expected some twenty seabags, causing , Brothers are invited to many members to ship out weeks look okay, with two pas- to go to the boneyard during! schooner rigged. His deportation senger ships scheduled for next the couple of weeks immediately "P this port. You will see what week—one for Monday, the other gjjggjj won't make anybody unhappy. good use your ten-dollar build­ Among the Seafarers ai-ound for Tuesday. ALCOA NOTE ing assessments are going to. GOOD SOURCE the beach at the moment are The Alcoa passenger ships will In fact, the membership here is Brothers J. Smot, F. Aderhold, A pretty good source of ship­ start running into Mobile on' very much in favor of having By STEVE CARDULLO S. H. Cooper, H. Adell, O. W. ping at the moment for our their next voyages out. This will'similar Halls in all ports, SAN FRANCISCO—-We've had Ori\ J. W. Reilly, J. Monast, J. members are the lay-up jobs. not hurt shipping too much be­ THAT'S ALL BROTHER a busy week with sliips in tran-,Byrd, J. Givens, and T. McCann. The Mississippi Shipping Com­ cause men from this port will For the seamen who are a sit, and payoffs on ships coming As of June 19,. several of our pany and the Strachen Shipping be able to payoff here, if they little short of cash, Nev/ Or­ in from both the East Coast and members were in the Marine Company have contracts for the leans has changed in the past the Far East. However, there Hospital here in Galveston. They majority of lay-up jobs in this few weeks from a fair port to are A. E. Moulton, Warren Cur- port. were not too many A&G Distriet j ^ Brothers a place where six-cent beer has Due to the fact that most of e-eased to exist. members on any of these vessels. Commander, Laperhou^e and the lay-ups are NMU or West Things in the alley were just Moreover, shipping has slowed Foster. Perhaps some of their Coast ships, we are not losing getting back to normal and we down somewhat. Nevertheless, a shipmates will drop them too many jobs. Standby jobs are were looking forward to the . , , i i. • a line. They'd appreciate receiv- coming in here at the rate of rated man always can get out m . ULT i. nickel beer when up jumped the ^ ^ mg mail from the boys. two to four ships a week — a short order, especially if he's a devil—the six-cent glass of suds is now eight coppers. Black Gang man. About all we can say now The SS Pennmar, a Calmar that we have plenty of in New ship, was in wilii "Woof Woof" Orleans and the rest. of LouisiGale still in command. "W&of so desire, by giving the company ana is taxes. Under the new Woof" is up to his old trick of a 24-hour notice. Governor, Earl Long, a brother By CAL.^ TAiNNER agitating any crew he gets; But However, we are sort of sorry of the late Huey, we have had this time he Jias a good crew following taxes imposed inMOBILE was about the finest to see this development, since aboard that isn^t having-anyw The . , , — Shipping in , . this . • Department „ the ships involved are now in jgg^. oouple of weeks: Pennmar will receive a lot of P^^^ picked up quite a bit in afloat. very- good- shape, with damned r « , ^ , However, the rest of the pay- Txi, r 1.1 . ... I A sales tax, increased to four careful attention when it is on past week, at least comlittle trouble occurring, on either . xv, j i, t'his coast as long, as Gale is on shii^mgr the week ofife,and allL thei sigoons were just of them dollar; a ten-ceni before. Wb had eight payoffs, bbout as good; What beefs we With ihe settling of the Elee' seven signons and shipped up- encountered were minor ones iclan-s: heef on. the MV Del «"» "ents tax; an • We have most of the Isthmian ^gj-ds of 225 men, nearly three easily settled. In fact, the Alcoa „ 1 J1eight-cent tax on a pack of Oro, there are no beefs pending • „ scows straightened- out to "a point times as many as the week be- Puritan had practically as 1, . port. . The mt- crew ofjt xi. cigarettes, uo from five cents, m this the " ' ' cx to. where' the officers work- in hai> foj.g smooth a payoff as the Madaket, Cape Friendship can collect ^^st, but not least, is the admony with the crew. Moreover, next week looks to and the- Stewards Department their overtime by contacting the ^itional three cent tax on a be about the same, which is also came in for special "praise. Isthmian Steamship Company, NEAT PAYOFF fairly good news for this As yet the threatened strike of 71 Broadway, New York City. Take the case of the San An- crowded beach, the bauxite workers at- the Alcoa The Black Gang time for this gelo Victory. On her previous . . , plant has not started, and we vessel was signed and approved trip she came in loaded down What is happening is that are hoping that the company with beefs. This time she paid begmnmg to get a few will see the light before any­ on this end, but the phony off with a minimum of disputes, t^o^e Marshall Plan cargoes thing happens and that. the dif­ Skipper refused to sign the Deck Departments time. and paid off as smoothly as anybeen dfeammg about aU ferences ran be ironed out. It was therefore referred to these months. We sure hope we thing you ever saw. The baukite plant is going full SIU Headquarters in New York, keep getting them so we can . Incidentally, the Serang on the move out some of the men who blast. The Alcoa ships are un­ with the New Orleans Branch San Angelo was "Johnny the have been on the beach a long, loaded as fast as they come in, recommending that it be signed Greek," and he certainly brought time. The present cargoes and some of them-go back out in on that end. ballast, the company is in such a in a clean ship. There's no mistaking the fact are mostly grain and flour. hurry to get the ore: that the membership in the Port Aboard the SS Monroe Victory SMOOTH PAYOFFS On the organizing stage-, the of New Orleans is mighty pleased bottle of beer, so that the sixwe found some performers, all in MAW shoregang is going strong. with the new Hall. All hands cent bottle is now eight. the -Deck Department. They The payoffs included' one IsthThis outfit really is going to ex­ are taking a personal interest in There's a pleasant note to were fined by the membership mian, two Alcoas and five Waterpand in' the near- future. the place. close with, however. Little or and placed on probation for the mans. We signed on five W&terThere still are plenty of oldTo date we have not had to no trouble with gashounds exists balance of the trip. mans and two Alooas, and. had a timers on. the-beach even if ship­ bring' anyone- before a commit­ in this port. The membership's But except- for, the performers ^unch of ships in transit includ- ping.- is a weer dab better. You'd tee for defacing or destroying actions in cutting out the per­ there was nothing, wrong with.i"g SUP tanker, find. W. M. Hayes, W. Weaver, any of the gear or the prop­ formers has brought very good the Monroe. Incidentally, H., D. By and large, the payoffs were |Willie' Reynolds, W. Rollins, J, erty. The membership is show­ results. The membership has Higginbotham, G. Wermuth, Carl !very smooth, with the one'aboard T. Mills, J. C. Thompson, G. W. ing great pride in their outstand­ curbed the, actions of these birds Bell, E. L. Eriksen and G. Camp-^ the SS Madaket,. a Waterman Stroeckar,. Lotus Stone, C. Mat- ing building and their going all- ashore and on fhe ships. Drinking bell,were doing, a. fine job aboard Khip, the cleanest The-ship was thenyj -A-. Chappell, W. H. Harh- out to see to it that it is kept is, of course, okay but it doesn't her teaching the permits how to absolutely beef free, and, the by,, R. Arnall and H Wentzell. clean, and- in good order. mix with business or Union af­ be good Union men. [crew insisted that the Stewards And you!d find a-lot of.others. The hot and cold showers are fairs. Shipping In New Orlenns Is Holding Own Frisic Shinting Slows, Except For Black Gang ERP Grain Movements Give Shipping Boost To Port Mobile �Iv''" THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Six I Port Montreal Settles Last Beefs On Philae INDIAN SEAMEN TAKE CUE FROM SIU 'PHONE: 2 5 5 3 2 Movie Schedule j.v, • ' i'-. "The Lost Jungle," an ac­ tion-packed, tense thriller of an intrepid man searching for his daughter who is lost in the hostile world of fierce beasts, starring famed liontamer Clyde Beatty. Also "The Screw Driver." a rollicking Woody Wood­ pecker cartoon; and "Melody Moments," a lively musical interlude, featuring Gene Krupa and his band. This program will be pre­ sented for the membership on the 3rd deck of the New York Hall tomorrow: SATURDAY. JULY 3 at 12 noon. All hands are invited to attend the movie tomorrow and each Saturday thereafter. Enjoy the best available in sound film entertainment — at no cost — in the comforts of your own Union hall. Watch this space each Fri­ day for the ^nouncement of the following day's pro­ gram. - PRC8IOCNT CAPT. R. R. MEMERY 2ND FLOOR, 204. HORNBY ROAD. OENCRAU UECRCTARY MONTREAL — The MV PhUae hit this port on a Thursday, and paid off the following Monday. There were transportation and overtime beefs aboard, her which we took up with the ship's Mas­ ter and the company agent, and managed to settle to everybody's satisfaction. The linen beef was settled so well that each man received eight dollars instead of the two dollars the company had written down. On the transportation beef, all men signing on in foreign ports were given first-class transpor­ tation by air unless they pre­ ferred a ship, in which case they were given the difference in cash. The SIU obtained obtained temporary visas for Canada for those who did not wish to return home. The company is paying subsist­ ence while the men remain here, and if the men have not shipped by the expiration date of the visas they will get transportation too. The payoff was okayed by the entire crew, most of whom pocketed an extra 200 dollars as a result of Union representation. Ship's Delegate Jan Van Den Berg did a fine job, and the Sec­ ond Engineer proved to be a man who understood the Union way of doing things well enough to deserve mention. The Philae is being transferred to Norwegian registry, and a crew from the Norwegian Sea­ men's Union will man her from now on. Shipping in Montreal is very "slow. In fact, it does not even exist and we don't know when it will. Incidentally, we're still doing business at the same old stand— 1227 Phillips Square. 'GRAMS: 'OCEANITC* THE MARITIME UNION OF INDIA By ALLAN MacDONALD SIU WINS THE EXTRAS Friday, July 2. 1948 D. MUNGAT ^ ^ REF. NO. ^ The Patrolmen Say— Wise pFecautlon With shipping slowing down, and the warm dog-days of sum­ mer setting in over the hinter­ BOMBAY. 22. 6. 48. land, a good many Brothers are getting jobs ashore—or just head­ ing back to the fields and streams, the mountains and talltimber for an indefinite vacation. Mr. Paul Hall, If you' should be one of these. Secretary - Teasurer, Brother, don't forget to retire Seafarers International Union of Hofth America your book! > That vaca.tion can mighty ^ Atlantip and Gulf -District, easily stretch out to six months 5i, Beaver Street, or a year and, as you know, if •NSW YORK 4. N.Y., U.S.A. your dues get over six months in arrears, it'll cost you a twentyfive dollar fine to get squared Dear Sir, away again and if it's a year * you're OUT. A copy of the Seafarers Log dated So before you join the back-tothe-soil-movement, or take a Friday, March 12, 1948 arrived here yesterday. fling at that tough old job of In hehalf of this Union I send you our heartiest making a living on land, get your dues and assessments squared congratulations on the wage increase as away, your strike clearances published in the Log and all good wishes for the stamped in, and theri take your future• book up to the sixth floor of the Headquarters office, 59 Beaver ' Street, New York 4, New York, I was greatly impressed by the article ! (or mail it in) and have it prop"Strikes and Stsike Strategy" and in particuler jerly retired. by the record of your fights and help given Freddie Stewart to other Unions. It is likely that we may also be forced into taking industrial action .not only to improve the conditions of our members but also to preserve the very existance of this Union. I'would, therefore, be obliged if you would permit us to reproduce the, relevant portions of this article to educate our membership. Yours faithfully, eneral^Secretary* Further acknowledgement of the SIU's far-flung prestige comes from Bombay, where the Maritime Union of India is showing interest in Seafarers policy and educational program. Above letter, from D. Mungat, general secretary of the Indian Seamen's union, requests per­ mission to reprint portions of "Strikes and Strike Strategy," an SIU booklet published recently and available to all hands. The SIU promptly forwarded its okay for the project. Prove identity To all members who have checks held for them at branch mail rooms: Port Agents will not give out any mail containing checks, unless the addressee shows sufficient evidence of his identity, such as Union book, seaman's papers, discharges, etc. An instance has been re­ ported of an envelope con­ taining a check being picked up by a phony who later forged a signature and cashed it. To prevent a recurrence, checks will be given only to the person to whom it is addressed, and the only after full identification is made. New York Shipping Begins To Move Agnin After Bod Weeks By JOE ALGINA One of the ships to come out of lay-up this week was the Gadsden, American-Eastern's heavy lift special ship. She has a 18-months charter to carry lo­ comotives to Turkey. The clean payoffs of the week go to a couple of Waterman ships and a Bull Line vessel. The Afoundria and Bessemer Victory, Waterman, came in and paid off without anw trouble other than the usual T^nor beefs. The Helen, too, was a joy to the eyes of the Patroipien. NEW YORK—This week in­ stead of reporting shipping at a standstill, as was the report for the past several weeks, we can safely say that the shipping has gotten off its back and has reached its knees. It's just bare­ ly creeping, but we hope it gains strength and will be jogging along before long. In spite of several lay-ups this week, the ships gained through the good work of the Organizers, plus some of the ^.others that have been in lay-up; have bright­ STICKING AROUND ened the shipping picture con­ Unfortunately, the Afoundria siderably. will be around port for awhile Even the alien Brothers, for until •she receives new orders, whom shipping has been very and the Helen is headed for laytough, have found it much easier up for an indefinite length of to grab a job during the pa^t time. week. It's good to see these Brothers Another fond' farewell was go aboard the ships, but it is given the SS Alcoa Cavalier. still important that they take' She has made her last voyage steps toward securing their ci­ out of New York and will ope­ tizenship papers. Shipping is rate out of the South from now never again going to be what on, A lot of feUows had made it was awhile back, so aliens homes aboard her, and were should prepare for the days of sorry to see her drop New York tough shipping. as, the home port; but we aren't really losing the Cavalier, so there is no loss. Once more here's a reminder to crews going ashore— Make sure that there is a sail­ ing board at the gangway be­ fore taking off to do the town. We've had a lot''of beefs on this matter and there is only one sure way of clearing it up. Instead of taking the word of the First Assistant or the Pur­ ser as to the sailing hour, raise LOOKA iXe SMIPtfb/ AAIDTO/HF IS WOE I your voice a little and yell for, a sailing board. It'll insure your catching the ship in time and with all hands aboard. Even if you're always on hand when the ship leaves, there might be a few Brothers who got the wrong dope. There's no sense in sailing shorthanded. This should eliminate this prob­ lem. Here's another thing to re­ member at the end of the voy­ age: Be sure you are present at the. payoff. It's hard to imagine men missing the payoff, but it happens all the 'time. As a result they lose out on disputed over­ time and other money rightfully theirs. It's a long, hard pull to collect dough once the payoff is over. SAVE THE PATROLMEN Another reason for being there, and this one for the Pa­ trolman's sake, is so you can pick up your book or permit. Often Patrolmen find them­ selves weighed down with books and permits left with the Dele­ gates, but never claimed. Not only does the poor Patrolman have an aching- back, but back at the Hall he has a file cabinet bulging with unclaimed books. Be at the payoff and save money. �-Friday. 'July, 2<, 1948 THE SEAFARERS • L OC Page SeTen SiU-Contracted Companies: South Atlantic South Atlantic Steamship Line, eighty-one SIU members on eight vessels lost to enemy ac­ tion, were killed or reported missing. To belter acquaint the SIU membership with the ships they sail and the SIU con­ tracted companies behind them, a series of short articles on these companies and their ships is being run in the LOG. WAR LOSSES The eight ships lost to enemy action were the Benjamin Smith, lost January 23, 1943; the James Oglethorpe, lost March 16, 1943. the Richard Caswell, lost July 16, 1943; the Joseph Wheeler, lost December 2, 1943; the Virginia Dare, lost March 14, 1944; the John A. Truetlen, lost June 29, 1944; the Henry Bacon, lost Some the companies have long and interesting records in American maritime history —-some of that history was made with SIU crews aboard the ships. -By the turn of the century, the revolution in transportation was in full swing. The horse and buggy were soon to be replaced by the automobile;' the airplane was ready to take to the air and wooden sailing vessels were fast being replaced by all-metal, steam-driven ships. Though wooden ships were be­ coming scarce in the world's shipping lanes, it was because of them, strange as it may seem, that the South Atlantic Steam­ ship Line came into existence. Cotton still reigned as King in the South, but a new industry— naval stores — was gaining strength. Pine pitch and pine tar were used extensively in the building of sailing ships, and the products of pine gum came to be known as naval stores. South Atlantic Steamship Line was organized in 1907 by a group of Savannah business men for One of South Atlantic, Steamship Line's four postwar acquisitions, the Southland, a C-2, poses for its formal portrait before entering service to European ports. types. Due to high building and operating costs of American ships and due to the fact that subsidies were furnished to foreign lines by their governments, competi­ tion by American ships was al­ most impossible. February 23, 1945 and the Wil­ liam J. Palmer, lost August 4, 1945. In reorganizing, following the war, the company disposed of its four owned Hog Islanders and purchased four C-2 vessels, the Southland, Southwlnd, Southstar and Southport. to discontinue its service to; In addition to the four comNorthern Europe and turn its pany vessels, the company, actvessels into other trades. Hit by, ing as general agent for the War the war-caused switch were the |Shipping Administration during Seafarers aboard the South At-, the war, operated as many as lantic ships, the company having fifty-two vessels. signed a contract with the SIU In 1944, the company was pi^eWith two chartered C-l-A ves­ However, the first World War sented with a WSA War Service made it necessary for the governThe other trade routes did not Certificate, "In recognition of sels and 13 chartered Libertys, ment to build a large fleet of produce the volume of business meritorious service to the United the company is once more oper American vessels to transportnecessary to keep the entire States of America in time of ating in the European trade. and supply our troops overseas. company fleet in operation, so all war. The two C-l-A vessels are the The building of 'this fleet brought vessels but four were sold. Those FINE CREWS CapeJSrome and Cape Race. about some revolutionai-y changes kept, the Tulsa, Shickshinny, in this country's merchant ma- Schoharie and Fluor Spar, were The libertys are Alexander S; In- commenting on the award, rine. operated during the entire war the company stated: "This recog­ Clay, Bertram G. Goodhue', Ed­ At the end of the war, like the P^"od, and although subjected to nition was largely due to • the win Markham, Felix Grundy, fine service performed by the Frank E. Spencer, Irvin S. Cobb, ,endof World Warn, the-governsubmarine warfare, and occa­ Seafarers who sailed these ships ^ment found itself the owner of sionally to attack by enemy air­ through the hazardous and dif­ James Swan, John W. Burgess, a large fleet of ships. Being an­ craft, none of the vessels was ficult conditions existing during Robert Stuart, Russell A. Alger, xious to dispose of the ships and lost, although two suffered some the war." Stephen Leacock, William Carson establish permanent American While sailing the ships of the and William R. Davie. Flag services in foi eign tirade, the damage by air attack. government allocated trade routes to various American com­ panies South Atlantic Steamship Line, in 1926, was appointed managing operators for the American Pal­ metto Line, a government-owned A familiar sight in European service from South Atlantic ports ports is the South Atlantic to the United Kingdom and con­ stack design. The stack is yel­ tinental European ports. In 1928, South Atlantic, to­ low having a black band at the gether with other shipping inter­ top followed by blue, white ests, purchased ten ships of the and blue bands. American Palmetto Line to be operated in the service already the purpose of handling export appointed by the government. shipments of naval stores from After the. purchase of- these South Atlantic ports to Europe. vessels, all of which were of the They felt that the building of Hog Island type. South Atlantic wooden vessels in Europe was' made improvements which in­ still continuing at a rate to make creased the speed of several of the export of naVal stores pi'o- the .ships, and installed refrig­ fitable. erated cargo space for the carIn entering th'e maritime field riage of Florida citrus fruit to the company did not make use of Europe. American vessels, primarily be­ FILLED OUT FLEET cause there were very few American Flag vessels operating About five years later, the in foreign trade. And like most company acquired two additional other shipping lines at that time. ships having refrigerated cargo South Atlantic Steamship main- 'space, increasing the size of its tained its service largely by the fleet to twelve ships. use of chartered foreign flag ves­ With this fleet the company sels. continued its service to Europe until 1939 when, with the pass­ COULDN'T COMPETE age of the Neutrality Act, AmeriA too-familiar scene to Seafarers who ran the U-boat gauntlet. This crew's ship didn't __ was up , until World War 11 _|Can Flag vessels were prohibited It that the company continued to ^ from carrying cargo into the war make it. Eighteen Seafarers, survivors of the torped^ Richard Caswell, are shown ready to charter foreign flag ships, by this zone. board the U,S. Navy vessel Barnegat. The-men were adrift on life rafts for six days, following time carrying cargoes of all I South Atlantic was then forced the sinking on July 16. 1943. 7i — —ITS: a —— -7- -—- —i-- o . w.. �J: m-'i-^•• Page Eight THE SEAFARERS LOG Friday* July 2, 1948 SBIPS'MINUTES AMD NEWS SS Southport Rams, Sinks Finnish Ship Crew In Channel Fog; Mine Menaces Rescue Holds Memorial Rites The SS Harry Peer's first two trips under the SIU banner were By GEORGE REOCH good ones, according to Worth Pittman, OS. Making our way through a peasoup fog in the English channel in the evening of The ship, a tanker belonging June 4th, our ship, the SS Southport, collided with the Finnish freighter Finnborg. to Oceanic Tankers which signed The Southport's bow cut through her midships like a knife through butter, causing the Seafarem tanker agreement recently, has been making thi-eeher to take water immediately® ahead. It's floating down on the week shuttles between Texas and and with such swiftness that her ship!" Florida. crew was forced to take to the What had been nervous ten­ Pittman signed on in New lifeboats at once. sion until then immediately be­ York originally, but the ship came near-hysteria. Immediately headed right down-the coast to We had left Le Havre after our ship was thrown into \ full the Gulf to carry oil from the discharging our cargo and were reverse. The small boats, drag­ Houston area to Jacksonville and in the Channel about 1 P.M. Due ged by our lines, were tossed Tampa. He paid off in Jackson­ to the fog we made oiur way like wood chips, while the men ville on May 22 and in Tampa blind, with the foghorn sound­ in the boats cursed and yelled on June 2. ing its blasts regularly. Once in at the top of their limgs. awhile we heard another ship Memorial Day found the Peer faintly, but nothing seemed After a few minutes we stop­ two days out of Houston and the ped and again lowered a ladder. entire crew took the occasion as riose to us. SS Harry Peer crewmember Slowly the occupants of all boats a solemn one for men who go It was after chow that we be­ A1 Lopez holds the floral were brought aboard. came aware of a ship approach­ down to the sea in ships. wreath which was cast upon We hustled the survivors into In a little ceremony which the waters during ceremonies ing well over to our portside. the messroom and plied them Pittman photographed for the in remembrance of SIU Bro­ Her horn could be heard dis­ with sandwiches, coffee, cigar­ LCXJ, Bosun Jack Christy gave a thers lost at sea. Services tinctly, but after a curious sil­ ettes and clothing. The clothing talk and floral wreath in memory were' held two days out of ence on her part, we were start­ was necessary as they were un­ of men lost at sea was tossed Houston, Texas on Memorial led to hear her blast loud and able to save , any belongings overboard. near. The Captain immediately Day. Their ship had gone down in rang for half speed. George Reoch, narrator of ten minutes. At 6:31, Bobo Merritt, fore- the Southport's harrowing They told us that the Finn­ peak lookout, saw a ship loom Channel experience, poses on borg was taking a cargo from out of the fog off the starboard deck for his picture. Brother North Africa to Finland. The wo­ and heading across our coiurse. man, we learned, was the Cap­ He phoned the bridge and Reoch was Night Cook and tain's wife. grabbed the rail, he was sure Baker on the Southport. After making the Finnish sea­ Last week the LOG reported American believes to exploit we would collide. Immediately men comfortable, we went for­ the strong protests of three mem­ slave labor. om: ship sounded three blasts ship. The lifeboat was guided ward to examine the damage to bers of the crew of the SS "If it should be necessary for and we went full astern. The by the calls coming from the our ship. Our bow had been Afoundria, a Waterman ship, ships' Captains to employ shoreother ship, however, held her other ship as her crew called gangs, then let them use Ameri­ torn from the 6 foot to the 22 coiurse and was halfway across for help in unison. Our boat, too, against the use of German "slave can labor at decent wages. Then foot mark. oyr bow before our momentum was soon lost in the fog. labor" in the British-controlled unemployment will decrease in carried us into her midships. Just then two small boats ap­ That was all we needed to the United States as every Amer­ peared, half-filled with water make us cautious during our re­ port of Hamburg. Hardly was ican worker get a living. EASY CRASH and in sinking condition. Both turn to the French coast. By the ink dry on the story before "The present practice in Ham­ It was a soft crash. Men were overcrowded with 28 men Sunday morning, after a slow a new protest arrived. This one burg is taking jobs away from standing on deck remained on and a woman. Lines from our and careful trip, we arrived in was signed by the entire Afoun­ American seamen. Instead of their feet. Nevertheless, our C-2 ship were thrown to them and Cherbourg. After giving the dria crew of 28 men. employing one or two more sea­ cut deeply into the other ship. pails for bailing were lowered. Finns a hearty breakfast we put The latest protest against the men to a ship, the employers them ashore. goings-on in Hamburg is sub­ We could see her housing Then a ladder was put over the stantially a recapitulation of now can get all this work done At present we are in drydock side. splinter like cardboard. Out of abroad at what aftiounts to prac­ a great gash in her side poured One man came aboard, then for patch repair. How long we what was said in the earlier tically no expense. a stream of phosphate, leaving a second started up the ladder will be here is anyone's guess. ones: that in the British-run "As our Union always has a yellow wake in the water as when suddenly the ladder broke We are just thankful that we are ports of Germany, the Mastei's worked for better conditions and of American ships are hiring she continued on her course. throwing the man back into the still in the land of the living. German workers and paying more jobs, we must resist any In ^ minute she was lost in the boat, almost causing it to cap­ them a few cents apiece a day attempt to break down our gains. size. fog. to do chipping, scaling and other The shipowners gradually will Our ship stopped, the lifeboat By this time our lifeboat pull­ crew ships with' fewer men if jobs. standby signal sounded. We im­ ed along side and the Chief this practice is allowed in foreign' The Afoundria men point out ports. Our policy is increased mediately lowered a boat, which Mate in charge of the boat call­ that not only does this set a pre­ employment for American sea­ put off in the direction of the ed to the Captain, "A large mine cedent that could spread to the men. detriment of American seamen "While theie are seamen wHo Word has been received of the sailing elsewhere, but that it favor such practices, their view sudden death in Nuevitas, Cuba, does the Germans no good either. results from a failure to think of Seafarer Paul Hunt. He was They' feel that the work should the thing through. No seamen, a member of the Stewards De­ be performed by the crews, or, and no shipo'wner either, who partment of the SS Noah Web­ if that is impossible, by shore- thinks carefully on this matter side labor in American ports. ster, Waterman. could advocate continuing it." The complete text of the Frank Gardner, who was Chief Steward on the Webster, wrote Afoundria cx-ew's resolution fol­ to Hunt's parents telling them lows: the details of his passing, and "In the years that have passed also telling how his shipmates since the end of the war, it has To insure payment, all had rallied around to see that been a general practice of Cab- claims for overtime musf be the funeral and other matters tains on American ships to ein- turned in to the heads of de­ were properly handled. ploy shoregang.s in foreign ports. partments no later than 72 . This has been especially true in hours following the comple­ Gardner later received a mov­ the British Occupation Zone of ing letter from Paul's father, tion of the overtime work. Germany. f;^ Louis Hunt, of Deer Park, Ohio. As soon as the penalty i&i;-' "If you know of any of Paul's work is done, a record should 30 TO 1 buddies who would drop me a be given to the Department Ijpe," wrote the elder Hunt, "it "In this zone, any Captain can head, and one copy held by The Southport as she appeared before leaving Mobile on would help us to better bear our employ 20 to 30 men for wages the mA doing the job. In addition the depart­ what proved to be an almost-disasterous trip. Feeling of the sorrows." Apparently, just Deer equivalent to what one or two Si:American seamen make a day. mental Park, Ohio, is address ^nough. delegates should crew was that if they had not struck the Finnish ship, they Paul Hunt joined the SIU in We feel that this practice is check on all overtime sheets might well have gone on to hit the loose mine floating in Boston in 1943 and sailed in the against what our Union stands 72 hours before the ship their path, The Southport has now completed patch repairs Stewards Department. He was for. Furthermore, it is contrary makes port. to what any right-thinking 23 years old. in Cherbourg and is on her way back to the Stales. •'tl More Afoundria Men Blast Use Of Cheap Labor Abroad Paul Hunt Dies In Cuba; Member Of SIU 5 Years yi' r:<l li] i'! On Overtine r- *• -i-JI �Friday, July 2, 1948 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Nine 9* Digested Minutes Of Sill Ship Meetings • STEEL FLYER. May 14— Chairman Ross Rhady; Secretary Paul Chavez. Few disputed hours in all departments. Ap­ proved repair list. Hot water sit­ uation to be taken up with Patrolman. Elected Chester to be Ship's Delegate. Carried mo­ tion by Raffoon, seconded by Morris, that men try to get room allowance for period in January when there was no heat aboard. Delegates to get new reading ma­ terial for next trip. Milk to be bought in sanitary containers in­ stead of five-gallon cans. if if if ALCOA PIONEER. April 11— Chairman Red Collins; Secretary Eddie Caudill. Department dele­ gates reported everytthing okay. Voted for porthole screehs to be obtained at first U.S. port, and for keys to crew's quarters. Collins elected Ship's Delegate. Departments to take turns clean­ ing laundry, and the messhall be kept clean. Voted to hold meet­ ings every two weeks. Discuseion of various Union matters under Good and Welfare. Min­ ute of silence for departed Brothers. ing ship's gear or interfering with shipmates while drunk would be fined and the fine would be turned over to the strike fund. Issues of the April LOG were received in Rotter­ dam, and the membership, many of whom stood picket duty, were glad to hear of the outcome of the UFE strike. One minute of silence for Brothers lost at sea. if if if Good and Welfare: Vote of thanks for Chief Steward and his staff for the good food and serv­ ice they put out during trip. One minute of silence for Brothers lost at sea. XXX MAIDEN CREEK. May 23— Chairman Antonio Schiavone; Secretary Ifiobert G. Vamon. The Delegates reported disputed over­ time would be checked and ready for the Patrolman upon arrival. Good and Welfare: The cramped condition of the Bosun's, Deck Engineer's, and Cook's foc'sls was discussed and it was decided to report the 'matter to the Patrol­ man. Motion was made to re­ quest the LOG to print an article of clarification on painting done by the Steward Department. It was moved that the slopchest in­ voices be checked to ascertain if more than ten percent profit was being charged, and to endeavor to have the stale cigarettes changed for fresh ones. WFDIDITA^AINj ©MCE A/^CRETHe ASCr W PISTRICT lEAPS THE I WAY A/MERICA/S/ SEAMEAl. IM THESE •DAVS OF -lAFTHAt^TLEY AND OTHER AMn-i-ABoft ueSlSLAnOAiTHESlU CCWTINUES TV MAKE THE MAJOR ^AlNS OA) THE WATE.RFROMT/ PA\/lMC5THE WAV EDR THE OTHER 0^)/O^JS, THESE ARE FOWIERFUL WEAfC»S FOROI?6A/V/7IM6- SO SPREA'D THE WORD TO THE UAJORGANJlZED SEAMEAJ You MEET, AAD SPREAD THE UHIOAJ / C TRINITY VICTORY. April 25 —Chairman J. L. McHenry; Sec­ retary A. J. Yukniz. Delegates reported on Union status of members in their departments. New Business: covered mess room cleanliness, a general repair ist, and the posting of slopchest price lists. Good and Welfare: By HANK XXX An invitation was extended to JOHN RINGLING. AprU 23— department heads to attend one Chairman F. McGuire; Secretary An example of a powerful and effective defense of the meeting. One minute of silence P. Jakubcsak. Delegates re­ labor movement and especially the SIU membership is the for Brothers lost at sea. ported on Union standing of SIU's tremendous victory in keeping solid our traditional if if if members. New Busincs: Mo­ if if if STEEL DESIGNER. May 9— TRINITY VICTORY. May IB- tion to re'quest. Patrolman investi­ Hiring Hall. The sailors in other maritime unions are faced Chairman Vassar Szymanski; Chairman W. Lyons; Secretary gate the death of John A. Gibson, with fear, cohfusion and dangerous job conditions through Secretary E. Goslow. Few hours A. J. Yuknis. Deck and engine to find if he was a SIU member, the attacks by the shipowners and the communists. This is all of disputed overtime in depart­ department delegates reported and to ascertain why there was the more reason for all SIU Brothers to fully understand and ments and repair list to be disputed overtime. New Busi- no case history sent aboard on appreciate what the SIU Hiring Hall victory means in these turned over to Patrolman. Patrol­ ne.ss: Motion to request Master to him. Also to ask Patrolman to days of tough shipping, unemployment and dangerous antiman to check on money from have coffee urn changed, and find out why Brother E. Mattsprevious slopchest overcharges steam line installed in laundry. son was put on the ship as work­ labor hysteria. which was to go for athletic Good and Welfare: Motions that away when he needed medical ^ K i K ft equipment. Suggested that rooms adequate clothing be worn at attention. E. Abualy was elected be reassigned on a watch-and- meal times, that watch men use Ship's Delegate. Motion to Every SIU permitman and )300kman has the responsibility at watch basis. Voted to try to get showers as soon as possible after make up repair list and submit all times of honestly protecting the jobs, contracts and aims oJ an extra Messman.. Patrolman coming off watch. One minute to department heads. Good and the SIU by carrying out the SIU rules aboard ship and in the to check insufficiency of soap of silence for Brothers lost at Welfare: Members agreed to Union Halls. While in port, every oldtimer and youngtimer has supply. Washing machine to be sea. eave their quarters clean on day the opportunity to read his weekly Union newspaper and have left for next crew, with notice of payoff. Fines of ten dollars it mailed home free of cost. He also has the obligation to study to next crew to show apprecia­ against eleven crew members are the Union constitution, the shipping rules, and booklets explain­ tion by donations to LOG and to be turned over the the hospi­ ing how to become better Union men, how to organize new hospitals, present crew having tal fund. One minute of silence companies, how to be a shipboard delegate, etc. A tough Seafarer bought machine. Minute of observed for Brothers lost at sea. may be competent in his rating and a swell shipmate, but he silence for Brothers lost at sea. should not allow himself to be ignorant of his own Union rules XXX PONTUS H. ROSS, May 9— and programs. if if if WALTHAM VICTORY. Jan. 18 Chairman Smith; Secretary De —Chairman N. Fisher: Secretary XXX Sei. Deck Delegate reported C. V. Dix. Delegates reported on AZALEA CITY. May IS— overtime slips would be given Such ignorance fouls up the contracts and the smoothstanding of crew members. New Chairman L. S. Bugajewski; Sec­ for cleaning oil on deck. Good working apparatus of the SIU. whether it be ihe organizaTional Business; Jack Johns elected retary H. Hankee. Department and Welfare: It was agreed that program for getting more companies and jobs, the educational Ship's Delegate. Moriarity moved delegates reported all in order. Steward Department would paint program in protecting contracts, taking ccure of beefs in a that the question of more suit­ Ship's delegate reported that he out quarters, heads and showers, peaceful and sensible way or stopping gashound performers. able quarters for Junior Engi­ had talked to Captain and ob­ while the Deck Department We must emphasize that every Seafarer should understand one neers be taken up with the pa­ tained an issue of five cartons of would paint mess hall and rec­ big necessity: To protect the strength, the many victories in trolman upon arrival. Under cigarettes per person. Good and reation room. Crew members beefs, the powerful reputation and the current expansion of Good and Welfare it was decided Welfare: It was agreed that a were asked to return books and the SIU. He must at all times carry out his shipboard job that singlets and undershorts table be reserved for the 4-8 magazines to the library and not in shipshape SIU style and practice the same type of good could not be worn in the mess- watch at night in order that they let them accumulate in the unionism in every SIU Union hall. room at meal times; but that T- could be served first. It was ar­ foc'sles. One minute of silence shirts and tropical shorts would ranged for the crew aft to use observed for Brothers lost at sea. be accepted. The Deck Dele­ the Steward's department show­ Brother Bob High just sailed into town as "second mate" gate was asked to see the First ers because only steam and hot aboard a day coach of the Pennsylvania Raih'oad. Bob, who has Assistant about fixing the toilets. water was available aft. Since a quick-triggered sense of humor and the biggest and best "port­ One minutes of silence for Broth­ this situation is common on C-2's able slopchest" of all latest humorous events, is keeping Brother it was decided to register a com­ ers lost at sea. Pete Larsen and others in stitches. We recommend our "Cauli­ plaint upon return to the U.S. flower Award" for the best sense of humor to Bob... Brother in order to have the water line Charlie Scofield, the Electrician, just sailed in with his mustache' fixed. One minute of silence for ... Here are some oldtimers in town: Frank Fromm, E. McCarthy, departed Brothers. F. L. Ryan, L. Kimbriel, E. Sato, D. Lillje, J. R. Henchey, K. HAWSER EYE, May 6—Chair­ XXX Staalsen, M. Garcia, A. M. Anderson, A. Pipinen, .H. S. Bers, T. CAFF. MOHICAN, May 25— man P. Allgeier; Secretary Jos­ Salvatore, C. Hartman, T. M. Wabolis, J. Norgaard, L. Fi-anken, Chairman Chiaf Steward Nauja- eph Booker. New Business: Mo­ if X X T. Paul, C. O. Lee, L. P. Hogan, A. Magapagl, R. Baker, J. Tilden, McKITTRICK HILLS, May 25 lis; Secretary Rocky Basney. tions to discuss several Brothers J. Cegante, A. Petroe, F. J. Kroeker, C. Hunnicutt, C. W. —Chairman Jim Hammond; Sec­ Delegates reported on status of who had been loged for failure Rasmussen. to perform duties while drunk. retary Walter Haryek. Deck members and Steward Depart­ Delegate reminded the members ment Delegate reported 65 hours The Brothers were warned not to ft ft ft that all overtime must be turned disputed overtime. New Busi­ let it happen again or action The following Brothers will be receiving the LOG every in within 72* hours. Engine Dele­ ness: Motions for cleanliness of would be taken against them. week: James Wirtz of Pennsylvania, C. Hitchcock of New Under Good and Welfare the laundry, request for an extra gate asked that all performers York, Allen Rose of Virginia. Guy Wilson of Texas. Clinton Steward was requested to serve perculator, cups and glasses car­ be brought up on charges for the Mason of Florida, Fred Miller of California, Dewey Shaver of more cold drinks in hot weather, ried out of m room to be re­ good of the Union. Good and and the meeting was assui-ed by North Carolina. Frank Bachot of Louisiana, Alton Clement of turned before meal hours. Mo­ Welfare: It was decided that Louisiana, Wesley Young of Maryland. Howell Mauldin of the Steward of his full coopera­ tion that no one pay off until all ship's meetings be held every Tennessee. two weeks. Performers damag- disputed overtime .is settled. tion. CUT and RUN �-frt-7 Page Tea THE SEAFARERS Friday'-July 2'.19<I8 LOG THE MEMBERSHIP SPEAKS r• ;/*• tl Feels Men Getting Trayel Pay Should Pile Off Ship PART OF THE 'BEST CREW* ON THE HOOD Log-A-Rhythms ; To the Editor: idea. If you have an opinion, send it to the LOG where I can Back in 1941 in Mobile, if you paid off a ship with trans­ see it and where everybody can portation, you had to register at see it. I think this is an important the Hall and get your job off the issue, because I believe that the board if you wanted to stay on things like transportation which the ship. There was no taking the SIU has gained the hard the money and just staying way should be for the benefit of aboard whether there was any­ everybody, not for the benefit body on the beach or not. I think that's the way it ought of just a few individuals who J to be now. There should be a take advantage of a pretty good provision in the shipping rules deal. Henry Robinson covering this point. It should (Ed. Note: How about tak­ read somewhat as follows: ing a cue from Brother Robin­ A man must get off a ship son? Let him and the other after making a voyage whenever transportation is called for be­ Brothers read what you think. cause the ship pays off in a port Send your letters to the Editor. different from the one named in SEAFARERS LOG, SI Beaver St.. New York 4. N. Y. the articles. • Pictured here are a few of the crewmembers cf the A man who takes his trans­ Robin Hood, described by O. L. Stefansson as "the best crew portation and stays aboard is I have ever sailed with." Posing formally, above, are, left to doing somebody on the beach right, sitting—^L. Fisher, AB; O. Stefansson, Bosun: Bill, . out of a job. The guy on the Crewmessman; Bedroom Steward; and Smitty, AB. Standing— beach may have been waiting a B. Frew, OS; C. Carson, DM; C. Johnson, AB; and unidenti­ , long time. fied AB. BAD EXAMPLE What is more, the man staying To the Editor: aboard is setting a bad example which makes it hard for the Now that our committee is Negotiating Committee to im­ meeting with the operators for prove our wages and overall new contracts, we still have a working conditions. Transporta­ few irresponsible persons who tion is not a bonus, it's a guar­ per.si.st in staying drunk on the antee that a men gets to his job while aboard our contracted home port with his wages in­ ships. These men are refusing to do their work and forcing tact. other men to perform their du­ So I say again that the ship­ ties. The companies, of course, ping rules should require a man have full reports on all such paying off with transportation to cases. register and get his job off the We have the best contracts- in board SIU style. the maritime industry, but these SIMILAR RULING characters are hurting our This change I suggest is right chances of getting better con­ in line with the things we have tracts. These irresponsibles done already. It's like barring should be removed,, from the shipboard promotions. You re­ SIU—they are a distinct liability member how it used to be: a to our organization. guy who got next to the com­ KEEP LOOKOUT pany would gradually get him­ All SIU crews should watch self promoted up, doing every­ out for this kind of company Three members of the Robin Hood's Deck Gang shown thing the company way. stooge and report his actions to busy overhauling guy^ blocks and making rope slings. Left to I say we should ship SIU style the nearest Union Hall. They right—Jack, OS: L. Fisher, AB: and Claus, Deck Maintenance. right down the line. Personally should see that action is' taken Photos were submitted to the LOG by Joseph - Faircloth, I'd. like to know what some of by the membership in the one Baker on the Seton Hall Victory. Stefansson gave the photos the other Brothers think of this sure way of nailing them once to Faircloth when he returned to the U.S. on the Seton Hall and for all. Any person who after falling, ill in Lourenco Marques. At present he is in Sitting Pretty violates our contracts is. not the Staten Island Hospital. worthy of sailing with the SIU. Brothers, if the companies had control of the hiring, such ac­ tions would result in these men To the Editor: hears he hurridly relays to ^ the being fired and blackballed. Captain. Why, then, should we put up Just a few lines to the LOG We've been on this shuttle run and all Brothers to let everjmne with the likes of these men? know how. good or bad^ trip for over six months now and ANOTHER TYPE can be if you get a few phonys Another type of disruptor is topside. the former official of the Union First the Captain. Maybe some who spends his time blasting the of the brothers have heard of membership and its duly elected him. He was thrown out of the officials. Men like this are just Waterman fieet for smuggling as bad as shipboard performers. cigarettes into Germany. Now he Cases have cropped up in Boston is with . Alcoa. He's ho doubt and New Orleans of such disrup­ dreaming up a little racket to tive tactics. In both cases, how­ pull on this run. ever, the membership was quick The Chief Mate is as bad as to dispose of these characters. the Old Man. Of course,- he is Any other disruptors who show still an apprentice when it comes up to try to blast us will be to hardtiming the men, but he the Radio Operator has become Up from the depths for a handled in the same way by an is a studious one. He'll learn all so fast at speeding tales topside the tricks. breath of- air*. Biothex. Jones. alert membership... Brothers, do not let anyone The Radio Operator is learn­ that we are considering entering Fireman , on the Rufas W. him in the Olympic tryouts. Peckham. looks pleasant for. endanger our contracts by will­ ing his at the Mate's knee. In What event? , Why, bull throw­ the camera, of Doc. Pepper. fully disregarding union condi­ due time he, too, will be a rival ing, of course. The Peckhani. at the time, tions. Take immediate action to for the Captain in hardtiming. Crew of Ihe Right now he is playing "ears" was on its way to Nagoya, get rid of such people. SB Diamond Hitch LeRoy Clarke for the Skipper. Everything he Japan. Performers Harm Union, Contracts, Brother Charges I".' Hitch Has Many 'Hardtime Pupils' 7-v- What Some Would Like By "WANDERING SEAFARER' Said a bucko skipper To his bucko male: "We'll toast the future, • Sing our hymn of hate To the day when unions Shall be no more. And we'll be the masters Three miles off shore. "Here's to the soul Of Captain Bligh— Captain Ahab's own brother; —They did not die; Td hell with progress If we must explain The deeds we do. Which cause men pain. "We'll sail the ships With cat o' nine tails,_ A flogging for an answer. To make crews quail. We'll put God's fear In their very bones. And feed their carcasses To ol' Davey Jones. "We'll set the wages. And cut down the grub. We'll carve out a kingdom On each rotten tub; As gods we'll be. With the limit the sky. The past will be with us. Bye and bye. ;.Af' ^ "So here's to the Ahabs And the Blighs, Our souls are merged And they hover nigh; Down with the unions And modern, thought. That would curb our power . Which treasure bought." The Union answers. Clear and strong: "The laws of justice To all belong. As freemen we saily As patriots we stand Beneath starry banners Of our land." i , . Best Wishes To SIU From The Fitzgeralds To the Editor: We have moved from Washing­ ton to Nashville, Tenn., where we ai-e already getting, the LOG. Sp will you please discontinuesending it to our old address. We thank you for 'sending the paper to us, as we certainly en­ joy keeping up with the brothers at sea. We send our best wishes to the Brotherhood and to the LOG. G. M. Fitzgerald , �Friday. July 2. 1948 THE Seafarer Submits Poetry, Urges Members To Write To Ihe Editor: Enclosed you will find a poem that I have written recently. In the event that you find it suitable please place it in j:he LOG whenever there is enough space to do so. I have been in the SIU a year now, and it goes without saying that I find it to be a top outfit. This is the first time I ever have sent anything into the LOG. However I feel that each and every Brother should take time out and contribute some sort of article to the LOG, for the LOG, after all, is what we make it. Here is the poem: V A SAILOR'S THOUGHTS The restless urge to wander, The yearning to be free, Decided me to pack my gear And take a trip to sea. I wanted to journey To ^ands far away. Or perhaps Do It Now By an overwhelming vole on the Referendum Ballot, the membership of the Sea­ farers International Union. A&G District, went on rec­ ord to protect itself in the hard days to come by build­ ing up a strike fund and by providing shoreside oper­ ating bases. That means a $10.00 Strike Assessment and a $10.00 Building Assessment. Al­ ready many members have paid these sums. The operators will move without warning. It is our duty to be prepared. Pay the assessments im­ mediately. It is our insur­ ance for the future growth and strength of the Union. To the end of the rain­ bow, And tarry for'er and a day. SEAFARERS LOG Page Eleven Military Rules In Port Of Bremen Vague And Costly, Brother Learns To the Editor: J Due to the fact that a certain 'American ship did not carry During my ship's last stay of liquid penicillin in her medicine Oh many miles have I one week in the port of Bremen, chest, a crew member carried traveled. Since the day I first left Germany, several unhappy in­ I some himself. He had 500,000 home. cidents took place involving units, just sufficient to tide one And many sights have I merchant seamen from various person through an illness. It would have been hard for iseen ships. anybody to doubt the seaman's I n Shanghai, Paris and Nowhere is the old adage, statement of the facts. He had Rome. "Ignorance of the law is no ex­ made no effort to the conceal the However, dear Brothers, cuse," so religiously observed as medicine. That he intended it This I confess: in Bremen and Bremerhaven. for his own use seemed beyond Of the places I've looked at, Whether you are rrtaking your question. I love my home town the hundredth trip, and are wise to CONnSCATED best. all the military rules, or are making your first trip and don't Yet no amount of reasoning Some time I'll abandon know an iota about Bremen, you could save him from being fined. This life of a sailor, And settle, no more to roam. get the same penalty if you Nor could it save the penicillin No matter how far you crack one of the laws promul­ from being confiscated. gated by the military authorities. May fate be kind to this sea­ travel, And don't expect a fair break. You will find no place like man! May he have no need for home. During my last seven trips to the confiscated medicine while he F. P. Jeffords Bremen and Bremerhaven, I was is in regions where it cannot be told by various German citizens obtained. And may other sea­ and in some cases by my ship­ men save themselves from simi­ mates of the various regulations lar predicaments. They can save governing merchant seamen themselves easily enough by ashore in the American zone of turning penicillin or other medi­ Germany. But I never had read cines over to the Master or the a copy of any regulation nor Purser upon entering the Bremen seen any posted aboai'd ship or area. One ship made Hamburg in the elsewhere. To the Editor: British Zone before reaching POST RULES In the daily papers I read Bremen in the American. While about the new draft law. Sold­ in Hamburg, some of the crew iers and sailors who had a cer­ In fact, outside of a few para­ who had friends there acquired tain amount of war service are graphs printed on the back of my several German-made articles as exempted. Even the goody, shore pass, I have yet to be in­ gifts. Not knowing anything goody boys — the Coast Guard formed officially of the existence about regulations and having no of any such regulations. For that personnel—are cleared. reason, I suggest here that ship's intention of "smuggling" the ar­ Where the heck do we, the delegates re,quest ships' masters ticles anywhere, they made no merchant seamen, stand? or American authorities in Bre­ effort to conceal them. The crew was not informed of I am one of the many SIU men for copies of the rules gov­ the legal aspect of an economic members who is between 19 and erning merchant seamen. Those 25 years of age; and I am won­ rules should be posted in every transaction outside the American Zone, nor were they instructed dering just what is to become ship that approaches Bremen. to declare such articles. When of us. The incidents which took place the German customs men, under Perhaps Joe Volpian of the in Bremen during my last visit Special Services Department can would have been minimized and the supei'vision of an American give us the true low down in might have been avoided entirely official, found these articles, they the next issue of the LOG. if the crews of the ships involved FREE-WHEELING Thanks fw a wonderful news­ had been properly informed of paper. the rules. It is to save other Walter S. Blazer merchant seamen hitting Bremen (Ed. Note: See article on grief and material loss that I am submitting this letter. page 3 of this issue.) Brother Wants True Lowdown On Draft . Status confiscated them. The latest in­ formation I have was that the men involved were to appear be­ fore a U. S. military court in Bi'emen. I 'was told that one of the men claimed that he had a camera which he brought from the States confiscated, although he showed stateside pictures as evidence that he'd had it a long time. However, it was a German-made camera, and he lost it because he could not produce a bill of sale from the States. WORD OF WARNING To camera enthusiasts I say if you have a German camera don't bring it to Bremen unless you register it was the customs peo­ ple in the States before you leave. The last day we were in Bre­ men, several members of the crew of one ship complained to the chief German police officer that German guards at the dock were frisking American seamen and confiscating the few handfuls of extra cigarettes they found above the allowable three packs a man. As a result the practice was stopped and the guards involved were dealt with summarily. We were told that the German police on the docks did not have the right to confiscate cigarettes or anything else from an Ameri­ can citizen. If an American was found carrying prohibited ar­ ticles, he was supposed to be sent back to the ship, or the American military police were to be called to make Sn arrest. We could not confiim the legal aspects of this last information as we sailed shortly after the in­ cident occurred. Philip Reyes PETROLITE MEN It's All Very Clear Now — He's In The Marine Corpse To the Editor: Me: Excuse me, I'm in the merchant marine. She: Oh, where are stationed? Me: Here and there. She: Where's your uniform? Me: A dog bit the seat out of it and I'm having it fixed. She: Have you been on a big boat lately? Pity the poor seaman that meets an inland girl for the first time. Having been a Sealarer for the past four years I frequently find myself heading inland to drink in the cool air of the mountains and take a hike through the woods. But, as it usually happens, I find myself drinking something a little stronger than air, and the THlS AiEDAL THEY GAVE nearest I get to the woods is ME.Tbia.'SUIlMMlkkSthe sawdust the barkeep dumps IW UW1>ER.VM€ARI around every morning. But on with my story, N On these inland trips I usually meet a few of the local belles. These ladies know as milch about the merchant marine (what's left of it) as I do of the function of the female brain. The following is an account of Me: I was on a Campbell Soup a conversation I usually find my­ tanker last trip. self involved in: She: I'll bet you boys ate She: Do you work around plenty of soup, didn't you? (Ye here? Gods!) Me: No, I'm in the merchant Me: Yes, we had a soup pump marine. rigged up on deck. She: Oh, I know a fellow in She: I wish I were a man. I'd join the Marine Corps like you. the Marine Corps. He's ... Me: I'm in the merchant marine. She: How long have you been in the service? Me: About four yeai's. She: Are you going to retire on a pension? Me: I doubt it very much. She: What will they do if you stay over your leave? Me: They worry a lot. She: Where do you like to go best? Me: The Virgin Islands. She: Tee Hee! That's cute. Oh, there's Lulubelle, my girl­ friend. You must meet her. She's so sweet, you'll just love her. She: Lulu. This is Jack. He's in the Marine Corps. Lulu: Hello. Say, I know a fel­ low in the Marine Corps. Where are you stationed? . Me: I'm in the merchant ma­ rine hnd not the goddam Marine Corps! Lulu: Say, where's your uni­ form? Me: Ye Gods! Bartender, bring me another drink and make it double. Melvin G. Hartley During one of the few times ashore during an 11-months voyage, a couple of the Petrolite crew latched onto bicycles' and, with the aid of a guide, toured Casablanca. Perez, a local boy. on the left, poses with Petroliters Jack Maurer. OS. and John Crews. OS. Picture was submitted to the LOG by Brother Crews. �Pitge Twelve THE SEAFARERS LOG MADE FIRST SIU-CONTRACTED TRIP ON STEEL SURVEYOR Brother's Big Brainstorms RaftgeFrom B'way To Yo-Yo Ta the Editor; The crew of SIU men who look Ihe Sleel'S irveyor oul on her firsl SIU'-contracted trip. Brother Thurston J. Lewis, Deck Delegate, reported that the gang worked together well and went a long ways toward ironing , out the kink> aboard the newly-contracted ship. No names are given, but according to their rating, they are, left to right, front row—Maintenance, Engine Delegate, Galley Boy, Chief Cook, Maintenanc; and Acting AB; Back ro^ — Messboy, AB, Messboy, FWT, Steward, Jr. Engineer, Oiler, Oiler, FWT, OS and Second Cook. Surveyor's First Trip Under Sit One Long 'Battle Of The Agreement' Friday, July 2. 1948 ship is quite long enough. How about some fellows writing in their opinions on this questioq. How about a few blasts. Im'r agine one year on one ship! Never making a shoreside meetiing! Seldom reading a LOGJ Oh well, so it means job se­ curity. Another thing I am against ig unlicensed men eating topside, or going ashore with the ship's brains. This practice should stop now. Here are a few brainstorms. Yes, brainstorms. The first thing you should do is go see "Finian's-Rainbow," at the 46th:8treet Treater in New York. In the first act a man called Woody comes out on the stage arid introduces himself like this: "I am in the merchant marine. I am a union organizer." Now my thought is that we ought to persuade Woody to say: "I'm an 8IU organizer." It would sound better. YG-YO FOR FLATTIES Ready fbr the next? In the Did you ever notice the Neiy personal column of the LOG you can run an ad like this: "Lost, York police, standing on the one set of upper teeth. Finder corners swinging their, clubs en? pleesh weturn, rish. awaysh. dangering the very lives of pass­ ing pedestrians? Did. it ever ocIsh neesh em wery wadly." Or we can run one like this: 'Are. you .kmely? 8ee..Mabel, be­ Vo,Vo,/i?, fore paying bfif. I "listen to all beefs . and .will advice ..." And then, underneath: "Forget Mabel. See Irene. I serve coffee. Bring your friends." OKAY. JUST ONE You mean you can take an­ other? I'm surprised, but here it comes; In the money due column rim this: "Alec "Trissian has $35,000 coming in disputed overtime on his one-month voy­ cur to you that we could make a age." Side-splitting, isn't it? I million dollars off those guard­ ians of public safety? thought so. Bromo Seltzer! Bromo Selt­ There they stand swing the zer! Well you can see I'm try­ sticks, thinking no doubt of the ing. For breakfast we had il­ undented heads of thousands of legitimate Rice Krispies — snap, pickets. However, these guys crackle but no pop. The reason are human and they do go home I act like this is on account of nights like other people who my new walkie-talkie. It talks work ashore. all right, but the darned thing When a cop gets home, that won't walk. Ouch, you're hurt­ swinging arm of his must be ing my arm. Take a sedative pretty restless with nothing to and relax. twirl. Why don't we go into the Let the Union take a firm new yo-yo business? We could sell a stand, on that Chief Mate who yo-yo to every cop in New York, told the Congressmen in Wash­ and then to cops in other ports. ington that we wouldn't sail with A cop could swing his yo-yo at him on Pacific Tankers ships. home before the mirror and prac­ Let's tell him sure we'll sail with tice ugly strike-breaking faces on him on all the Pacific Tankers himself. there are. All he has to do is 'get Tell Rudy hello, and to hold himself a job. Let him find out my mail. I'll be away from New that Pacific Tankers went out of York for several months. business. Ed Larkin I believe- that one year on a that long but he was flabber­ We -thought that we got coffee ,To the Editor; gasted by the question, jtime every two hours, but found We are just completing a trip i "Well, we'll give them coffee that according to the agreement on the 88 8teel 8urveyor, ship we can work from 6 to 9 with­ 1 to keep the peace," stated the of the recently-acquired Isthmian I Captain. "But you are to be out coffee: We were chagrined line. We were duly warned by paid for eight hours and you when we were shown by the the Brothers making the last might as well work it." Mate. That made us decide to voyage that we might regret our The Mate, as usual, tries to I study the agreement more close­ trip. It was to be our first trip lyshy clear of any overtime in under the new Isthmian Agree­ ment. We were also told that lieu of the rest period. One We haven't seen, anything in the Mate was a phony claiming evening, when the delegate was the agreement to this effect, but to be an ex-SUP man. We agree on the wheel, he went up to 'when the Mate was asked for that if he was ever an 8UP argue with him. He staided to [overtime sheets, he answered, sailor, he is now ex'—but defin­ tell him to inform the, crew not j "Ys, I have some company over­ to put down for such overtime time sheets, but I'm not going itely. when they were on sea watches. to give them to you. You fellows Things were so-so during our He was arguing his point with (the union) are supposed to fur­ trip out. On leaving Bombay grand rhetoric; and supposed nish your own." the Chief Mate refused to knock logic, when the Junior Third I Well, here's to the 8IU. In a off the 12-4 watch at 11 o'clock Mate on watch jumped him.. few days we will be drinking as per agreement. He told the about talking to the helmsman to our Grand Old Union in 8avDelegate that he should read the at the wheel. That took the wind annah. We are eagerly looking agreement. Later he learned his out of his logic, but fast; It was forward to meeting a few of mistake and told the 12-4 if a sight to see. our Brothers there. they put down overtime he Thursion - Ji; Lewis To the Editor: We get meager news from the passengers, who may want to woidd make it hard for them. 8tates on the radio, but we have Deck. Delegate get home early: Bell to bell and strictly 15 min­ I am a retired member of the Sleel Surveyor heard rumors of a strike; When Cooperation and courtesy will utes for coffee. Kinda smells, the Delegate asked the Radio­ Seafarers and I am now running, be extended to you from the doesn't it? man about such news, the Radio­ moment you board our car at In Madras the 4-8 watch was man replied, "The first Officer BROTHER, IN ARMY, a limousine service. the gangplank until you arrive standing by to turn to from 9 has all of that dope;" We: have MISSES THE LOG If any of the Brothers are go­ at your doorstep. And Seafarere to 10:30 A.M. because the Mate been led to believe that the To the Editor: ing- home- after the payoff, we'll 'will' be given special prices. did not have them turned to. Mate had put the hush-hush on provide firstrrate service at very ' Incidentally, I joined the SIU Later, when he found we were him about issuing strike news , I have been in the army for moderate praces. Should any in New Orleans in 1942 and my about seven months now, and I to be in port overnight, he want­ to the crew. shipmates care to go home over book which carries No. 22739, I miss getting the SEAFARERS ed them to work that hour and I Now we are about four days the weekend while their ship, has been retired in good standa; half in the afternoon to com­ out of 8avannah and rather glad LOG. I had it sent home for is in port, they should call us irig. my parents to read, but if it plete their eight hours. The Del­ this trip, is coming to a close; would "be possible I would like for service. When you need transportation, egate told him the 4-8 watches to have another copy sent here. Should an arrangement be give us a call: De Carlo's LimoNOT BAD, OVERALL eight hours were up at noon and he had to go to the Captain All in, all, it has been better In fact, there, are two other Sea- made for our service and the sine Service, 900 East 163rd St., to make that stick. He did it than we expected. But we would jfarers here besides, myself, so if payoff then delayed, for several Bronx, New York, Telephone like' to warn anybody about to you could send three LOGs it hours or days, we'll stand by at DA 3-8726. though. Carlos Ibrain make a trip on, the^8teel 8urvey- would be very much appre­ no extra cost, ready to shove STHICT SCHEDULE off when you're able. or that. Chief Mate 8pence is a ciated. Stand-by has been- strict on the I hard taskmaster. He has all When I first joined the army If CHOW. TOO bridge. The Delegate had to go ready told the- Bosun that next was stationed so far. away from to> the Captain to get the last trip he intends to. run the Deck the coast that itr was-, impoasible- On long distance trips, ar­ stand-by knocked off long Department strictly from bell to for me to get any of the water­ rangements are made for suffi­ Membership, rules require enough to make coffee and tidy beU. front news. That's when a LOG: cient rest periods, coffee and every man entering the Un­ up the mesSt-oom for the oncom­ We believe that these ships would have looked like an old, doughnuts or equivalent^—at no ion Halls to show his Union ' charge to our customer. ing; watch; can be made into better, crafts friend. ^ hook, pro-book, pernpl card "Is there anything- in the for our Brothers to sail on if I would also like to have the If; after leaving the ship, you • or- white- card to the Door- • agreement that says we have to ! the fellows come aboard with address of the Union Hall in should wish to go shopping for man. Nothing else will be- ^ I., five them coffee?" the Captain their eyes open, willing to do New York. a period: of not longer than two ; recognized.. This is for the asked. their work in 8IU style, and David B. Moz«Ui hoursj. so that you. may look m e m b e r s h i p's protection.. "No sir, it was not thought to willing to help the Delegates presentable when you get* home, Don't waste the Doorman's Fort Monmouth. N^- J> be necessary," the Delegate said. keep the operators to the agree­ (Ed.. Noten TKr«B: Foil Mtui- our chauffers will go out. of their — or your own — time by "It has been the custom for the ment. mouth? Eoldier'aes^rers wiU be: way to assist you. Providing,, of arguing this point. Observe past hundred years." He was not We slipped up once when we reading their individual copies; course; this does not conflict the. rules; you make. ' sure it had been the custom for were s-r overtime after 6 P.M. of the LOG fromvnow on.) with the wishes of your fellow EroUier Provides Limousine Service MMibersbip Rules �-•y-r i •r:!' '''' Friday. July 2. 1948 THE Robin Kirk Crew Praises Steward, Three Fine Cooks To the Editor: The crew of the Robin Kirk wish to express their thanks to the SteWards Department for the swell food and courteous service that was extended during the past three-months trip. Oar Chief Steward, Joe Miller has done it again. The food was superb. Lobster tails in butter, milk three times a day, plenty of ice cream and, believe it or not, beer. Joe has proven again that he is our number-one Union Stew­ ard;' and the crew that sails with him is a lucky crew. Joe has three cooks that would put a lot of big hotels to shame: Chief Cook J. Bove, Baker D. E. Jessup .and Second Cook F. G. Rocafort. Our Skipper, Captain Scholder cooperated 100 percent; which proves that we can work to- gether. There, hasn't been one logging. Joe reports that our Skipper has never turned down a legi­ timate request. Anything rea­ sonable that has been asked for has been granted. Sending a wire ahead for milk to be on the dock is a very unusual pro­ cedure—but not on this ship! Our hats are off to a Skipper who has the crew's welfare at heart. P. Sudia A. T. Arnold Michele Amato SEAFARERS LOG LOG TO BE ISSUED WEEKLY IN DURBAN As a result of arrangements made with 'the Robin Line, bundles of the SEAFARERS LOG will be available shoitly to the company's vessels calling at Durban, Union of South Africa. Crews of SlU-manned ships may procure these bundles from T. McMurdo, acting manager for William Cotts and Co., Ltd., Robin Line agents in Durban. The first bundles of the LOG under the distribution agreement are now on the way and should be available shortly in the South African port. Thereafter, Mr. Murdo will have copies weekly. Elusive McGogle Brothers Have Mission Men Baffled To the Editor: I am writing this as helpful information for the rest of the SIU-SUP crews of mission-type tankers: We have a very good bunch of Engineers and men on here, and we all agree that the only trouble on this type is caused by two infamous characters, the Brothers McGogle. First, and leader, is Pinhead McGogle, who has a fat beUy, toothpick legs and gigantic feet, which he uses to kick out the blades of the turbines. SEAMAR*S COLD BOXES: A STUDY IN CONTRAST Grantham Retires Book; Goes Into Repair Business i'. He runs around in the steam lines and boiler drums kicking but tubes and knocking out joints. Then he sits up with a derby hat on the back of his head, a black cigar in his mouth, a pea­ nut-butter sandwich in one hand and a bottle of Schlitz in the other just laughing like hell while you sweat your very blood out trying to make repairs. THREE FEATTIERS. PLEASE Now Joe, who looks like his brother, wears a Napoleonic hat With three feathers in it. His famous stunts are throw­ ing grit in the bearings, messing up the fans on the boilers and kicking out the governor-tips on the turbines. He was caught the other day sitting on top of one of the '•UcwEST;Tw,you I'COtC. OOSTliKFA PEANUT &CT7ER. | •SAKIDWICM ' Chances are you don't lug around a refrigerator or vacuum cleaner in your seabag, but if you do and any kinks develop Bosun Bob and AB Ed must have felt like while in New York, there is a Old Mother Hubbard when they looked into Seafarer ready and waiting to the crew's icebox aboard the SS Seamar. handle your case, where the traditionally generous Calmar night Lonnie Grantham, a Seafarer lunch is kepL for several years, retired his But just to prove the Steward isn't such a book this week and hung out his bad fellow after all, they took a look into the shingle notifying one and all that Saloon ice-box (right). Sure enough. That he is available for the repairing gentleman's gentleman had taken good care and servicing of all electrical ap­ of the officers. pliances. He also installs refrig­ eration, air-conditioning systems, etc., and will handle repairs. He doesn't expect his brotherSeafarers will have much reason "Married her, too, I did. Mar­ liness again. I held her face in to .require his services, but if the To the Editor: ried her and got shanghaied back my palms and a large golden old electric shaver starts dig­ The alarm bells, the jar of on the same ship I'd left! earring fell into. my hand. The ging up the divot, Lonnie's the depth charges, the wild exigency man to set the blades to mowing of 20-mm's are the language of "I remember now that first next morning we were back on the sea; and I wore the earring smoothly once more. war. They are also the language night at sea. The spokes of the about my neck on a stout cord. of death. You never get used wheel felt good in my palms. STRONG UNION MAN to it; but when death is near, Everything was close-hauled, the "The Germans were, fighting in Always a strong Union brother, you get a certain feel for destiny. tack of the mizzen-topsail lifted the Crimea when I came again. Lonnie put His book in cold stor­ Things before and after, and a gently. The evening star before "The Come See Me Inn was in age this week with his dues paid place somewhere among the me. shambles; but I came onto her, up through December. A clear stars. ~"Mamba! I whispered; and I walking out of the sunset, on that record for all beefs, he won't be Old Hans knew it. And he felt a message throbbing in my lonely strand. Straight and cold, content to watch the future ones a black dress flapping about her put it into words one night on heart. fr.om behind a bogged-down gen­ the old Kofresi ("floating kofiin," legs, she walked to me, and put­ erator. "If^ the Union gets in­ we called it) over steaming mugs "No words. I never found the ting her arms about me, rested words or sought them. But there volved in any strikes, I'll be back of black coffee. We were in the was sorrow and sadness and her face on my shoulder without down to the Hall before the sweating, glaring messroom, and Greater loneliness a word. paint is dvy on the picket signs," outside, in the black night, the loneliness. than one can ever know alone. "As I took the cord and the he stated. silent wolf-packs stalked our ring from my neck it fell to a "The months and the years In the meantime he'll be. re­ wake. rock and flew apart revealing a ahead of us are like the wake of ceiving visitors and customers at tiny folded paper. She stared in "Back in 1904," he said, "I met a ship behind us. It was through 124 West 101st Street, New York horror as I opened it. Penned in a little black-haired girl in a flaming sea in 1918 that I sailed ..City. tiny letters was a message: Mid­ Sevastopol." He spoke to the back again. night, Aug. 8, 1918. throbbing of the engines, the faroff thud of depth charges, and his "And Mamba was waiting with "I looked at her speechless. old blue eyes were fixed on the a son—our son! Straiglj^ and 'Yes,' she said, 'his ship went blackout-out port as thouglt he tall he was, and doing convoy down the day you left.' And she To speed up as much as could see quite through it and duty in the Black Sea on a Rus­ sank down on the sand. possible the appearance in far, far beyond. sian destroyer. "We sailed in the morning, and the LOG a digest of their "We closed the Come See Me when I left her she looked at "Her name was Mamba, and shipboard proceedings all Inn and threw a party. Then crews are advised to send she ran the Come See Me Inn. A there were long walks with me long and searchingly and copies of their minutes direct cute little trick, then — like a Mamba along the sea in the said: 'This is good-bye.' " to the Editor, Seafarers Log, small, dark-haired doll she was. evenings during the two Weeks I The messroom was silent for a 51 Beaver St., New York Served vodka and ran a puppet was there. long time after Old Hans had show. Ay! Paid off a threefinished, the drone of the engines 4, N. Y, masted barque with kopecks in "The last evening we watched and the gurgle of water along Port Agents should also the sun dip into the sea. She the ship's side filled in the sil­ forward their copies of ship's my pocket. walked often here in the sunset, ence. "I was little more than a boy she told me. I took her in my minutes to the LOG as soon "But Hans," someone spoke up, as possible after receiving with clean-cut shoe strings, and arms and told her of the first the sweet smell of Stockholm tar night I was parted from her, and "We still may go to Russia this them. trip!" Any other material relat­ in my hair; and it wasn't long of the star and her message. She ing to the voyage, such as before Lwas top man with her. had known I would come back, "I'U never get to Sevastopol!" he whispered. "The Russians and the Japs she said. ktories, pictures, letters, etc., were at it, I remember, and can be sent- in with the "I spoke of our son, and she Hans was only man lost things were moving fast—^like grew rigid and silent. Suddenly that trip. Shrapnel off Gibraltar. minutes. now. I was swept with that cold lone­ (Name Withheld) A Tale To Be Told Over Steaming Mugs Of Coffee Time For Minutes Page Thirteen WOH dEtLV??/!! boilers opening the air vents and throwing in salt tablets. We have found out how to satisfy McGogle by getting an extra supply of peanut-butter and leaving a box of cigars out in the engine room. But, as yet, Joe has us stumped. What would you suggest? R. K. Breeden For the Crew SS Mission Purisima (Ed. Note: We suggest a long rest—take a nice, refresh­ ing ocean cruise.) SICK BROTHER DEFENDS MARINE HOSPITAL DOCTOR To the Editor: I understand' that the Pilot gave Doctor Boyd, Surgeon in the Galveston Hospital, a bad name. Doctor Boyd is as fine a doctor as you will find any­ where. I have been in the Gal­ veston Hospital for 15 days, and have received excellent treatmerrt. -Here's what happened: A couple of guys secured passes from this hospital, went out and got drimk, came back and raised hell. So he tossed them out. Exactly what they de­ served. We come to the hospital for treatment—not to get drunk If you obey the rules here you will be treated right The SIU won't stand for drunJcs in the Halls; neither will the Doctors stand for them in here. • I would like to thank all of the doctors and nurses for the attention they have given me. The entire staff is fine. Fredrick F. Farthing �THE SEAFARERS Page Fourteen LOG Friday. July 2. 1948 SEAFARERS LOG &• Published Weekly by the If' Ti'v SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA Atlantic and Gulf District h- i f Affilialed with the American Federation of Labor At 51 Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y. NEW YORK I I .'••'• S; .1 $3.00: C. R. Robertsor, $4.00; W. O. Ryan. $5.00; R. G. Aldrich, $5.00 L. H. Anderson, $7.00; J. H. Fryhock, $5.00; F. Aguilar, $3.00; J. S. M. Bag liazo, $5.00; F. R. Clarke, $2.00; E. Lashbrook, $2.00; J. Burnes, $2.00; V Reelan, $2.00; V. J. Helms, $2.00; N Dixey, $20.00; C. L. Ritter, ,$4.00; S A. G. Fernandez, $10.00; D. F. Rosen dahl, $5.00; W. Bruce, $6.00; T. Men doza, $5.00; R. C. Calvya. $5.00; O Nordness, $5.00; G. A. Oliver, $2.00 D. Kaline, $4.00; C. W. Ballard, $2.00 J. Edwards, $2.00; U. Strickman, $3.00 INDIVIDUAL DONATIONS Willie F. Walker, $5.00; G. Iversen. $5.00; J. C. Atherlon, $1.00; Alford Mickley, $2.00; Cpl. Joe .Young, $2.00; S. A. Johnson, $5,00; E. M. Villapol, $5.00; H. L. McGuade, $2.00; R. L. Plude, $3.00; M. T. King, $5.00; John R. Chaker, $5.00; G. J. Smith, $6.00; T. C. Flaherty, $2.00; V. A. Engel, $5.00; D. L. Wenger, $5.00; G. Galllano, $2.00; P. G. Daugherty, $25.00; P. A. Edgett, $5.00; Wm. Trout, $2.00; C, C. Hunicutt, $5.00; E. A. Trader, SS CORAL SEA $5.00: F. E. Edmonds, $5.00; W. H. E. Lu'hrman, $1.00; L. Parasamlis JPaas, $10.00; P. O. Gallant, $5.00; L. Martindale, $2.00; A. Pappas, $5.00; E. $2.00. SS WACOSTA J. Buchser, $2.00; P. J. Cleary, $5.00; D. L. Rood, $2.00; W. S. Perry, J. W. Broad, $5.00; R. J. Prideaux, $5.00; E. J. Soile|iu, $5.00; Leo Thomas, $1.00; C. C. Hagberg. $1.00; C. Mical$5.00; Herman Young, $5.00; A. R. lef, $2.00; A. Serpe, $2.00; W. Kiehl, Frebreg ,$2.00; M. A. Rodriguez, $2.00; $2.00; W. Peredia, $2.00; S. E. Joseph, H. S. Ricci, $5.00; D. A. Rundblad, $2.00; L. Lantis $,1.00; O. S. Stephen$5.00; Chin Wong, $2.00; Loo Teck $3.00; J. O'Brien, $1.00; F. W. Heck, Song, $2.00; W. R. Siebert. $5.00; $2.00; J. W. Marchando, $1.00; N. Francis Daniels, $5.00; R."" F. Eckert, Hermankevich, $1.00; A. Fase, $1.00. Landsman, $1.00; C. DeSilva, $1.00; G Gabling, $1.00; A. Lugo, $1.00; J. S. Mulero, $1.00; T, Cavanugh, $1.00; J L. Keelan, $1.00; E. Witko, $LOO;--'A. Sanchez, $1.00; R. W. Barnes, $2.00; L, Corne, $1,00; R. L, Perry, $1.00. SS MONROE G. Boucher, $1.00; C. A. $2.00; R. Arecco, $2.00; T. $1.00; A. Galzo, $1.00; P. $2.00; L. D. Mullis. $1.00; E. $.50; A. Arrogancia, $1.00; D, $200; L, R. Senanp, $1.00. Fleming, Radcliff, Thorsey, Dijesus, McElroy, SS SANDFORD DALE R. E. Lagerstrom, $1.00; C. Barley, $2.0fff F Devaney, $5 00; E L. Meyer, $1,00; W. W. Tomlinson, $5.00; P. J. Harden, $2.00; C. E. Olsen. $2.00; L. R. Robertson, $2.00; B. L. Duplantis, $2.00; E. Pedersin, $2.00. HAnover 2-2784 Entered as second class matter June 15, 1945, at the Post Office in New York, N. Y., under the Act of August 24, 1912. 267 PERSONALS LUIS RIVAS Get in touch immediately with Whitey Collins, care of Mrs. De Revuelta in New York. Tele­ phone RHinelander 4-9801. Top Labor Men Named To EGA Advisory Posts WASHINGTON — Top labor representatives in the adminis­ SS LYMAN STEWART ROBERT ALLAN McGEE tration of the Marshall plan for L. LaChapell, $2.00; K. Nikander, Get in touch with Marie European recovery were named $5.00; J. Hane, $1.00; J, B. Benier, $1.00. Doherty, 302 E. 38th Street, New recently. They are Bert Jewell M. V, MONTAUK POINT York 6, New York. for the AFL and Clinton Golden F. Barsezca, $2.00; W. V. Boulton, for the CIO. $5.00; J. T. Genaghty, $5.00; W. J. SS JEAN $1.00; R. Sturgls, $1,00. % % i Vance, $5.00; E. T. McCambridge, A. Rosa, $1.00; A. Lopez, $1.00; G. Golden and Jewell will both SS H. RICE $5.00: D. L. Newell, $5.00; R. P. Fon- W. Ehmsen, $1.00. be advisors to Economic Coop­ JERRY REESE Gordon E. Dalman, $2.00; S. J. Bartaine, $5.00. SS PURDUE VICTORY ras, $3.00; G. L. Esteve, $2,00; H. Myer, Get in touch with William eration Administrator Paul HolfSS STEEL DIRECTOR E. Lee Frazee, $1.00; R. J. Giustizia, $2.00; G, M. Thrasher, $2.00; M." R. Lundelof, c/o Dream Castle Bar, man with offices in Washington. A. Sasser, $1.00; V. Dyozulis, $4.00; $1.00; P. C. Willoughby, $2.00; K. Toni, Short, $2,00; F. F. Liles, $2.00; F. M. B. Thatcher, $2.00; L. E. Vaughn, $ 1.00. Lake Highlands, Lake Bert M. Jewell, an active Thompson, $1.00; T. D. Garrity, $1.00; Clear SS BELGIUM VICTORY County, California. A. Aarons, $1.00. unionist since 1905, is a member L. G. Colon, $1.00; A. Albe, $1.00; of the International Brotherhood R. A. Rhodes, $1.00; S. D. Ocasio, $2.00. of Boilermakers and the Iron SS PONCE DE LEON L. K. Lapham, $2.00; S. J. Salvagglo, Ship Builders Union. He has SIU, A&G District' $3.00; J, Bosclano, $4.00; W. J. been president of the Railway Jones, $2.00: C. V. Hall, $5.00; A. Employes Department of the BALTIMORE 14 North Gay St. Higham, $2.00; J. Blanco, $5.00; G. E. William Rentz, Agent Calvert 4530 Berry, $200; R. Ciymer, $2.00 H. F. AFL, and most recently has served sfe international repre­ BOSTON 276 State St. Narez, $5.00; W. D. Powell, $2.00; J. Walter Siekmann, Agent Bowdoin 4455 M. Tagriello, $1.00; M. Hook, $2.00; J. sentative of the Railway Labor GALVESTON 308%—23rd St. M. Gallagher, $3.00; W. D. Turner, Jr„ Executives Association. Keith AIsop, Agent Phone 2-8448 $2.00; A. Mannick, $2.00; F. Aponte, In that capacity Jewell parti­ $2.00; S. Manning, $2.00; C. Bracey, MOBILE 1 South Lawrence St. cipated in the formation of the $2.00; 'S. B. Baskin, $4.00; E. E. Phone 2-1754 Cal Tanner, Agent Roberts, $2,00; R. J. Desmore, $2.00; Confederation of Inter-American NEW ORLEANS.. . . .523 Bienville St. G. L. Fletcher, $2.00: H.. H, Hegler, Trade Unions, and is a member Magnolia 6112-6113 E. Sheppard, Agent $5.00; D. Thorton, $5.00; J. Reed, of the executive committee of the 51 Beaver St. $2.00; J. Harrison, $2,004 E. F. Carlson. NEW YORK HAnover 2-2784 $3.00; W. C. Coleman, $2.00; E. Borg, Joe Algina, Agent International Transportworkers NORFOLK 127-129 Bank St $5.00, THEY SHOOT HORSES. DON'T which was believed Impenetrable. Federation, to which most Euro­ SS HELEN Ben Rees, Agent Phone 4-1083 THEY? by Horace- McCoy; Also, due to the fact that 20 pean transit workers are affi­ M. A. George, $2.00; B. Edwards, PHILADELPHIA. . .614-16 No. 13th St. Penguin Signet Books, 144 volumes on the subject of sex liated. Lloyd Gardner, Agent Poplar 5-1217 $1.00; C. Horvath, $1.00; V. S. Weems, pages, 25 cents. will be published during the $2.00; L. Kotselis, $1.00; 5. Rivera, SAN FRANCISCO 105 Market St. $1.00; H. MacCormack, $2.00; S. next 28 years, the matter will Anyone who was around in Steve CarduIIo, Agent Douglas 2-5475 Melinsky, Jr., $2.00; L. Evans, $5.00; be before the American people the dark, depressing years, 1935 SAN JUAN, P.R 252 Ponce de L^on W. H. Williams, $2,00; J. Vertilla, Sal Colls, Agent San Juan 2-5996 $2.00; S. Jeliksze, $3.00; A. Rodriquez, in particular, will no doubt constantly. This alone, they be­ SAVANNAH 220 East Bay St. $1.00; W. Hussey, $1.00; K. P. Marple, nauseously recall that institution lieve, will serve to remove some Send in the minutes of Charles Starling, Agent Phone 3-1728 $2.00; H. P. Meyers, $2.00. known as the "marathon dance." of the hush-hush, superstition your ship's meeting to the SS KNOX VICTORY TAMPA 1809-1811 N. Franklin St. You flipped a well-bitten quar­ and misconceptions on the sub­ New York HaU. Only in that M. Iwasko, $2.00; F. Walker, $1.00. Claude Simmons, Agent Phone M-1323 ter to the highly hennaed cash­ ject. way can the membership act SS WALTHAM VICTORY HEADQUARTERS. , 51 Beaver St, N.Y.C. M. McMillan, $1.00; G. N. Drensky, ier and then watched a bunch By no means a substitute for on your recommendations, HAnover 2-2784 $4.00; S. Kadciola, $4.00; O. Olsen, of guys and dames dance them­ the full Kinsey Report, About and then the minutes can be SECRETARY-TREASURER $2.00; G. C. Lee, $'3.00; J. Wilaszak. selves into the ground, against The Kinsey Report supplements printed in the LOG for the Paul Hall $2.00; G. M. James, $2.00; E. R. RosaDIRECTOR OF ORGANIZATION benefit of all other SIU do, $4.00; T. LaPIant, $2.00; S. Gelak. a background of no little may­ it as a commentary for better Lindsey Williams understanding the mass of in­ crews. $2.00; E. Fresmick, $5.00; R. L. Mit­ hem. chell, $2.00; J. Autencio, $1.00; E, ASSIST. SECRETARY-TREASURERS And mayhem plays no small formation Kinsey has put forth. Zakrewski, $2.00; W. Rowland, $2.00; Robert Matthews J. P. Shuler part in this little piece about J. J.. McKenna, $1.00; J. E. Nordstrom, Joseph Volpian "dance marathon" out Los $2.00; C. V. Dix, $2.00; L. Mills, $5.00; a P. Moreni, $1.00; F. W. Harris, $3.00; Angeles way. If you can get SUP M. DeNicola, $2.00; B. Zagarda, $2.00, sentimental about those things, The SEAFARERS LOG as the official publication of the Sea­ SS ALCOA CAVALIER KOWOLULU 16 Merchant St. you'll probably call it a tragic R. Davis, $1.00; J, J. Giordano, $1.00; Phone 5-8777 farers International Union is available to all members who wish story. Anyway, most of those PORTLAND Ill W. Bumside St. G. F. Immel, $1.00; M. J. Olson, $1.00; to have it sent to their home free of charge for the enjoyment of Beacon 4336 C. Sausa, $1.00; M. FingeYhut, $1.00;'' involved come to pretty unhappy their families and themselves when ashore. If you desire to have RICHMOND, Calif 257 5th St. J. A. Golder, $1.00; E. W. Lundstron{, ends. the LOG sent to you each week address cards are on hand at -every Phone 2599 $1.00; R. Michalek, $1.00; E. H. DerYou'll probably find it hard to SIU branch for this purpose. SAN FRANCISCO 59 Clay St. mody, $2.00; D. Eiiigo, $1.00; A. Menfind fault with Author McCoy's Douglas 25475 dicini, $1.00; J. A. Muchlick, $1.00; However, for those who are at sea or at a distance from a SIU SEATTLE 86 Seneca St. P. Cortez, $1.00; J. C. V. T. Magde- title chdfte when you finish read­ hall, the LOG reproduces below the form used to request the LOG, Main 0290 lena, $1.00; J. V, Brooks, $1.00; L. Dur­ ing his breezily-written little which you can fill out, detach and send to: SEAFARERS LOG, 51 WILMINGTON 440 Avalon Blvd. ham, $5.00; J. Porvers, $2.00; W. period piece. Beaver Street, New York 4 ,N. Y. Terminal 4-3131 Zaumseil, $1.00; S. Foti, $1.00; M. R. t 4" 4" Trocha, $2.00; E. Guzcynsky, $1.00; E. W. Mulford, $1.00; C. Voss, $1.00; A. PLEASE PRINT INFORMATION ABOUT THE KINSEY REPORT; Gt. Lakes District Pelican Mentor Books, 166 BUFFALO 10 Exchange St. To the Editor: Cleveland 7391 pages, 25 cents. CHICAGO, III 3261 East 92nd St. I would like the SEAFARERS LOG mailed to the Eleven experts from fields as Phone; Essex 2410 diverse as religion, psychiatry address below: CLEVELAND 2602 Carroll St. FRANK BUZEK and law give their views of the Main 0147 DETROIT 1038 Third St. You shipmates from the SS Kinsey Report (Sexual Behavior Name Cadillac 6857 San Angela Victory left your sea In The Human Male). DULUTH 831 W. Michigan St. at llie San Francisco All of them are sympathetic Street Address ..... Melrose 4110 chest TOLEDO 615 Summit St. Branch,-105 Market Street. Please to the contribution of Dr. Kinsey Garfield 2112 let them know if you want any­ and his associates and each one City State .... thing else done with it. comments on the book as it re­ Canadian District lates to his particular field. While 4- 4. 4. Signed MONTREAL 1227 Philips Square SAMUEL L. VANDAL they all believe that Kinsey has VICTORIA, B.C.. ....602 Boughton St. You . have unclaimed wages but scratched the surface, they Empire 4531 Book No. ^mounting to $17.56 from Water­ feel he has succeeded in un­ VANCOUVER 565 Hamilton St. I Pacific 782f man SS Corp. earthing relevant data in a field t S" S" SlU HULLS ^ Send Those Minutes m. Notice Te Ail SIU Members If'''' tU- NOTICE \ . i �THE Friday. July 2, 1948 SEAF/tRERS Page Fifteen LOG SIU Committee On Otrmg QUESTION: A supposed "friend of labor" and New Dealer, lElinore Derrick, has recoinmended a Coast-Guard-supervised government hiring hall for the maritime industry, and added that "jobs can he bought through unions." What are your views cm her proposal? ' - .....iliiiiiil V LEON HALL. Cook: I've been . sailing «ince 1938, and I've been in the SIU since 1939. Things sure have changed since I started, changed for the better. Most of the improve­ ments couldn't have been won . without the Union Hiring Hall. If the Coast Guard took over the Hiring Hall, they'd give us a tough time all around. We'd have to take their guff because they'd side with the owners. They'd try to develop a bunch of company stiffs. Pretty soon we'd be back to 12 to 15 hours a. day with no overtime, bum food, dirty foc'sles and every­ thing. In short, no Coast Guard for me. JOSEPH FELTON. Bosun; I think it is lousy. It would bring us back to the old days when Daily used to work for the Shipping Board — when a fair-haired boy got the job. Be­ sides you would have plenty of accidents on the ships, for the average man shipping out of Government hiring halls never knew the bow from the stern. I have yet to see favoritism shown in SIU shipping—though I have seen it in the old Ship­ ping Board days. We have plenty of Government Certified men shipping fairly on a rotation basis in the SIU. What more could any reasonable person ask? ARMANDO RIVERA. Messman: • Her plan would be harmful to the whole industry. We can con­ trol the equality and justice of shipping out of our own SIU Halls. We would have no con­ trol over the whims of a -Coast Guard-dominated hall. I feel I have fair job-security now. ship­ ping out under rigidly-controlled rotary hiring system, in which each member considers it his duty to see to it that our specific shipping rule^ are lived up to by all members. She's all wet on that job-selling talk. If any­ body tried it in our Union, he'd be asking for a one-way pas­ sage out of the industry. She's just using that to knock the Hiring Hall principle. Still The Leaders (Continued from Page 1) ROLAND STROM. Bosun: That lady can just forget that idea of hers. It stinks. We've been trying to"'get but from un­ der the Coast Guard and their phony set-ups. They've tried to dominate merchant seamen with their hearing units and other schemes. If we give the Hiring Hall to the Coast Guard we might as well forget the Union. What good --are we without the Hiring Hall? So the lady thinks jobs can be bought? Well. I've never seen one bought in an SIU Hall. The Rotary Shipping system, in which everybody knows where he stands, takes care of that. What better could the Coast Guard offer? GEORGE MEANEY. Bosun: How can they ring the Coast Guard in on us? We aren't under military jurisdiction. The bureau­ crats have for a long time tried to stick this civilian industry under brass hat control—but this is too much. Jobs being bought? I never have heard of a single case. A guy that tried that would be so hot he could cool off in hell. That woman has been around the New Deal Ad­ ministration so long she can't conceive of anything being ad­ ministered without a lot of • backdoor deals. She's a profes­ sional bureaucrat — how come she's an authority on the mari­ time industry? ALBERT ^cCABE. FWT: That would be real abuse.'The Coast Guard woitld be.as phony ias the -old -Shipping Boprd. In the 1921 'Strike. Waterman want­ ed to -isign a union contract, but :the Government -told them if cthey did they'd get no more chartered ships. The Coast Guard can do the same :thing by say­ ing "Your vessels will be de­ clared unseaworthy until you drop the Union." I can remember walking the docks for weeks on end begging for a job. The Un­ ions have ended that. I've never heard of jobs being soid. but if anyone ever tried it. the mem­ bership would expel him before he succeeded. Seafarers Wins Hiring Ha tors know it. And in this respect the Hiring Hall victory is theirs, too. Moreover, the operators are convinced of "the SIU's determination. When the Union declared that "no other issues would be discussed until the Hiring Hall issue was solved," they knew we weren't shooting blanks. They knew from experience—the 1946 General Strike; the Isthmian, Seatrain, Eastern and Bonus beefs—that the Union fights hard. And fights to win. Not to be forgotten in appraising this week's success i.s the fact that agreement was reached in pure collective bargaining, unfettered by government boards and official and self-appointed mediators. As the negotiating committee pointed out, the SIU is not entirely satisfied with all of the language of the agreement, but we have the power to re-open the con­ tract, something agaip which no other maritime union can do. Above all, the SICJ; has proved once more that no obstacle cap halt the uniied membership in its march for respectable 'bpnditions. Tine Seafarers are moving straight What makes the SIU's Hiring Hall triumph even more spectacular is the fact that five CIO maritime unions, including the National Maritime Union have-thus far been unsuccessful in arriving at an agreement on the retention of the Union Hiring Hall after more than three months of discussions. Like many before it, the latest victory of the SIU may pose a question: How does the SIU continue to forge ahead where others cannot make the grade? First off, the SIU is a strong, united, democratic Union free of power-seeking groups and has but a single purpose—the welfare of its membership. Only an organi­ zation so endowed could have come up with the consistent victories in the past and the remarkable agreement signed this week. Another factor in our continued success is the quality of seamenship possessed by SIU membership. Seafarers' job know-how is the best in the industry and the opera­ ahead. %, (Contiitued from Page 1) complished by a committee bol­ stered by the Union's sound in­ ternal conditions and a strongly united membership. The Com­ mittee hailed the SIU's advan­ tageous position in this respect as largely responsible for the Hiring Hall victory. The SIU Negotiating Commit­ tee pointed out shortly after the signing that "this contract was negotiated by the parties di­ rectly involved... it was nego­ tiated without interference of government bureaucrats, self-ap­ pointed fact finding agencies or mediators of any kind." In the course of the discus­ sions leading to the agreement, the companies offered several counter-proposals to the Seafar­ ers' demand for acceptance of its Hiring Hall version. Notable among the company bids were the SUP formula and the newly signed NMU Tanker Contract, which embody the Hir­ ing Hall principle but which were unacceptable to the SIU committee. The agreement just signed will be presented to the other SIUcontracted companies in the neai' future, the Negotiating Commit-, tee revealed. U'.ViM 1- i•"vklV'l"-'.'' L -f, v.. (Continued From Page 16) recommended to the membership that this report be accepted and concurred in. It represents, without a doubt, the best Hiring Hall agreement that has been se­ cured by any Union since the passing of the Taft-Hartley Law. Upon membership concur­ rence of this report, your Com­ mittee can then continue negotia­ tions for a complete contract cov­ ering our demands for increased wages and improved working rules and conditions. Your Committee, in closing, wishes to point out once again' that the SIU has established' an­ other precedent in this industry , which should be of a great bene­ fit to all seamen; that is, the right to open at any time the question of any and all parts of ; the employment section of a . Union contract. We have seen from past ac­ tions that the SIU precedent in i establishing the right to open i wages at any time has been of • a great help to the membership'' of our Union. The extension of this re-open- ' ing clause to cover the Hiring Hall as well as wages makes for still greater protection for our membership and our Union in • the perilous anti-labor days which undoubtedly lie directly ahead for all organized labor. In our opinion, the pattern that has been established by the SIU, Atlantic and Gulf District, is an , example that all Unions would be wise to follow. Signed by: PAUL HALL, Secretary-Treasurer LINDSEY J. WILLIAMS, Director Organization ROBERT A. MATTHEWS, Asst. Sec.-Treas. J. P. SHULER, Asst. Sec.-Treas. J. H. VOLPIAN, c % Asst. Sec.-Treas. \ J. ALGINA, f New York Agent C. HAYMOND, Headquarters ; Representative .tl-. �Page Sixteen THE SEAFARERS LOG Fridar. July 2. 1948 Committee Report On ffiiing Hall Agreement |l W} > I il^ Your Negotiating Committee, in accordance with previous action of the membership, notified the opera^ tors at the commencement of these negotiations that • the Union would not settle any issue in the contract until such time as a complete agreement was reached on the question of the Union Hiring Hall. Your Committee participated in several meetings with the shipowners on this issue and, after consid­ erable propojals and counter-proposals on this ques­ tion, have reached an agreement on this matter, sub­ ject to action by the membership. For the purpose of making this agreement clear to the membership, the Committee has analyzed each section of the agreement. The full Hiring Hall clause and the Committee's comments follow: ARTICLE I —EMPLOYMENT •' I'r: 37 - SECTION 1. The Union agrees to furnish the Com­ pany with capable, competent and physically fit per­ sons when and where they are required and of the ratings needed to fill vacancies necessitating the em­ ployment of Unlicensed Personnel in ample time to prevent any delay in the scheduled departure of any vessel covered by this agreement. To assure maximum harmonious relations and in order to obtain the best qualified employees with the least risk of a delay in the scheduled departure of any vessel covered by this agreement, the Company agrees to secure all Unlicnsed Personnel through the hiring halls of the Union. This section gives us, without question of a doubt, the Union Hiring Hall. Your Committee points out that in this section the Company defin­ itely agrees to secure ALL UNLICENSED PER­ SONNEL THROUGH THE HIRING HALLS OF THE UNION. This, incidentally, is the first time that the words "Hiring Halls of the Union" have ever been used in any maritime contract at any time. SECTION 2. If for any reason the Union does not furnish the Company, as provided in Section 1, with capable, competent and physically fit persons when and where they are required and of the ratings needed to fill such vacancies in eunple time to prevent any delay in the scheduled departure of any vessel covered by this agreement, the Company may then obtain members of the Unlicensed Personnel from any avail­ able source. This section is a standard clause which is presently contained in all SIU contracts and which has been contained in all SIU contracts in the past. SECTION 3. The Company recognizes the Union as the sole collective bargaining representative of all members of the Unlicensed Personnel. It is specifically understood and agreed that membership in the Union chall not be a condition of employment of any mem­ ber of the Unlicensed Personnel furnished or obtained In the manners specified in this agreement. It is fur­ ther agreed that there shall be no discrimination against any member of the Unlicensed Personnel be­ cause of non-membership or membership in the Union. This clause, the Negotiating Committee feels. ' is the weakest part of the contract from the Union's viewpoint. It states specifically that mem­ bership in the Union shall not be a condition of employment of any Unlicensed Personnel hired in the manner as specified in this agreement. However, this is covered completely by Section 1, which states that all men must come through the Union Hiring Hall. At any time when it is necessary for the Union to ship non-Union seamen because of a shortage of men, those men must be shipped through the Union Hiring Hall and cannot be hired off the docks or from crimp joints, etc. SECTION 4. The Union agrees that the Company has the right to reject (by written notation on the job assignment slip) any applicant for employment who the Company considers unsatisfactory or xmsuitable for the vacancy, or to discharge any member of the Unlicensed Personnel who, in the opinion of the Company, is not satisfactory. If the Union considers the rejection of any applicant for employment or the discharge of any member of the. Unlicensed Personnel as being discriminatory such actions by the Com­ pany shall be dealt with under the grievance proced­ ure, and the Union agrees that any such rejection or discharge shall not cause any vessel to be delayed on her scheduled departure. This section is a routine section and is con­ tained in ,all SIU contracts, although not in the exact wording, but of the same meaning. SECTION 5. The Company agrees not to discrimin­ ate against any member of the Unlicensed Personnel for legitimate Union activities. This is a routine section and is contained in all* SIU contracts. SECTION 6. The term Unlicensed Personnel as used & this agreement shall not include super-cargoes, Cadets, pursers and livestock tenders. This is a routine section and is contained in all SIU contracts. SECTION 7. The Union shall have the right, upon written notification to the Company showing proper reasons for such action, to re-negotiate any part' or all of Article I. Upon receipt of such notification by the Company, the parties to this agreement shall meet within 7 days for negotiations on this issue. The Negotiating Committee feels that this section is a very real protection for the Union. This section means that, in the event of any future change in the laws or because of any court decisions on any matter pertaining to the Hiring Halls, the Union will have the right to re-open negotiations with the operators and re-negotiate any part or all of the contract, as contained under Article 1. We are the only Union in the industry which can open wages any time it sees fit. We now stand as the only Union in the industry that can open, at any time we see fit, the question of hiring conditions. This we feel is of great importance, because of the political situation existing now in the country and the anti-labor drive we can ex­ pect from the Washington politicians in the near future. The Company and the Union will continue negotia­ tions for a complete agreement covering general rules, wages, and working conditions for each of the three departments. The above sections are agreed to and shall be incorporated in any full agreement which may be reached between the company and the Union. If a full agreement is not reached by July 30, 1948, the present agreement as hereby modified by me above sections of Article I—Employment—shall become effec­ tive July 31, 1948, and shall remain in effect until a full agreement is reached or until either party notifies the other in writing that negotiations for such an agreement are stalemated. DATED JUNE 25, 1948. OTHER UNION CONTRACTS Your Negotiating Committee, in view of the seri­ ousness of the Hiring Hall question, feels that it is necessary to compare and analyze this contract with other contracts signed by other Unions. Sailors Union of the Pacific: The following employment clauses were signed by the Sailors Union of the Pacific on October 11, 1947: SECTION 1. Recognition. The Employers agree to recognize the Sailors Union of the Pacific as the representative for the purpose of collective bargaining of their unlicensed deck personnel. SECTION 2. Preferential Hiring, (a) The Employers agree in the hiring of employees in the classifications covered by this agreement to prefer applicants who have previously been employed on vessels of one or more of the companies signatory to this agreement and the Union agrees that in furnishing deck personnel to Employers through the facilities of their employ­ ment office it will recognize such preferences and dependability of the employees furnished; jvhen Or­ dinary Seamen with prior experience are not available, the Union will in dispatching seamen prefer gradu­ ates of the Andrew Furuseth Training School. (b) When an Employer rejects men furnished who are considered unsuitable and unsatisfactory, the Em­ ployer shall furnish a statement in writing to the Union stating the reason for the rejection and the Union may thereut)on refer the matter to the Port Committee and the Port Committee shall then hear the case. (c) The employees may remain continuously in employment on the same vessel provided the Employ­ ers and the employees desire such employment to continue. ft i S. The SIU was offered the SUP formula by the opera­ tors, but we felt that, due to the failure of the SUP formula to state that all men were definitely to be hired through the Union Hiring Hall, "it was unac­ ceptable to the Committee. A further reason that the Committee could not accept the SUP formula was that, in a strict legal sense although not in practice, all hiring could be done on a company seniority basis. This would not be practical for the SIU because of our recent growth and acquisition of new contracts, such as Isthmian, etc. It is therefore easy to understand, in view of the above cited facts, that we could not accept the SUP formula even though the operators expressed not only a willingness for such, but a desire as well. NMU Freight & Passenger Ships: According to the NMU "Pilot," the NMU contracted freight and passenger ship companies have refused to negotiate with the NMU on the hiring and main­ tained the position that they shall be able to hire outside the Union Hiring Hail in any manner they see fit. This is a serious problem at this time for the NMU and is, of course, more greatly aggravated be­ cause of the. split factions in that Union. The NMU position is made worse because, as the membcnqhip is aware, they were supposed to have struck on June 15, 1948, to obtain the Hiring Hall, but the Govern­ ment has issued an 80-day injunction against them preventing them from striking and now the whole matter is in the air and completely unsettled. NMU Tankers: The NMU Tanker contracted companies have signed the regular- NMU Tanker Employment Clauses. This contract excludes from the Union Hiring Hall Chief Stewards, Pumpmen, and other key ratings. Your Negotiating Committee would not sign any contract that provides that the Company may select key personnel for key jobs as in the NMU Tanker contract. A further and far more important reason that your Committee could not accept the NMU Tanker Em­ ployment Clauses was because of the following section: ARTICLE 12, SECTION 95: In the event that any provision of this Agreement at any time be declared invalid by any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not invalidate the entire agreement, it being the expressed intention of the parties hereto that all other provisions not so declared invalid shall remain in full force and effect. • i S. 4, "This means in simple words that, in the event of a court reversal on any part of the NMU Employment Clauses in the NMU Tanker Contract, they will then have no provision whatsoever for the manner that men are to be shipped. In other words, the rest of the NMU contract would still be in effect and the Union would have no right to ship, or even to demand to ship, NMU members to their contracted tankers. The operators, in addition to offering the SUP for­ mula to us, offered this type of contract as well. For the reasons as outlined above, your Committee felt that under no circumstances could they accept either. Marine Cooks and Stewards, MCS (CIO) And Marine Firemen, Oilers, Watertenders, MFOW (Independent): These two West Coast unions, representing the Cooks and Firemen on' the West Coast ships, are both in the process of negotiations and, according to their official papers, the "Voice" and the "Marine Fireman," res­ pectively, the companies are refusing cold turkey to negotiate a Hiring Hall Contract with them. In addition to this, both of these Unions have been served with a Similar type of 80-day injunction that the NMU has against it, preventing them from striking. These Unions are in the same position as the NMU. They are in a" hell of a mess with no possibility of settlement within the near future. CONCLUSION Your Committee recommends to the membership of this Union that they study the above thoroughly so as to understand all the issues involved. The negotiating of this contract as carried in this report has been no easy matter, and the shipowners strongly fought against our demands. ' Your Committee maintained, in accordance with previous Union action, its position for a contract of such nature that would unequivocally guarantee the continued preservation of our Hiring Hall. We feel that the contract we have signed guarantees this without a question of a doubt. The m)embership should also be made aware of the fact that, at the present time, it is against the law to sign a so-called Union Shop Contract until a Union has been certified in a Union Shop Election. At the present time, no Union in the maritime industry has such certification. Recently, pn this same question of Union Shop Elections, some of the original drafters of the TaftHartley Bill stated a "strong desire" to repeal that part of the Taft-Hartley Law which requires Union Shop Elections before the signing of a Union Shop Contract. Once this part of the bill -has either been repealed, or until the Union does receive Union Shop Certifica­ tion, the Union can then go back into negotiations with the SIU-contract6d shipowners, as per Section 7 of this Agreement, and negotiate for the complete revision of Section 3, with the deletion of any of the parts the Union may find objectionable. Your Committee feels that, because of the chaotic conditions existing now in the Maritime Industry, it is to pur advantage to handle this matter in such a manner as to guarantee the retention of the Union Hiring Hall to allow the Union to continue its prep­ arations for the rough days ahead. In view of the facts brought out in this report, it ia {Continued on Page IJ) � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1939-1949 Description An account of the resource Volumes I-XI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource July 2, 1948 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. X, No. 27 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES A&G DISTRICT WINS UNION HIRING HALL SIU PETITIONS FOR ELECTIONS ON 9 CS SHIPS WHAT UNION HIRING HALLS MEAN TO WORKING SEAMEN SEAMEN'S DRAFT STATUS NOT CLEAR LADY LABOR 'EXPERT' ADVOCATES HIRING HALLS RUN BY COAST GUARD CARGO PLANES NO COMPETITION TO SHIPPING PORT GALVESTON VERY UN HAPPY OVER SORRY SHIPPING SITUATION SHIPPING IN NEW ORLEANS IS HOLDING OWN FRISCO SHIPPING SLOWS,EXCEPT FOR BLACK GANG ERP GRAIN MOVEMENTS GIVE SHIPPING BOOST TO PORT MOBILE PORT MONREAL SETTLES LAST BEEFS ON PHILAE NEW YORK SHIPPING BEGINS TO MOVE AGAIN AFTER BAD WEEKS SIU-CONTRACTED COMPANIES:SOUTH ATLANTIC SS SOUTHPORT RAMS,SINKS FINNISH SHIP IN CHANNEL FOG;MINE MENACES RESCUE MORE AFOUNDRIA MEN BLAST USE OF CHEAP LABOR ABROARD CREW HOLDS MEMORIAL PAUL HUNT DIES IN CUBA;MEMBER OF SIU 5 YEARS SIU COMMITTEE ON HIRING HALL Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 07/02/1948 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America 1948 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/d15adf01f985845efa3b5324dafc4771.PDF cb8242f57d4fc4ca08d81cada5dd7ffc PDF Text Text S. S. Algic Struck for War Bonus The Seafarers^ Log  SeafaremVJbternatumalUiiiaii^ofN^N^ America  Officiid Organ of the Atlantic^ Gulf and GreatLakes Seamen  VOL.  II  NEW  YORK, N. Y., SATURDAY, JULY  20, 1940  ,446 No. 7  SIU  WINS  WAGE  RAISE  FOR NMU MEMBERSHIP!  m  ­y  S.S. COMET  Seafarers  Crew  Pickets  IC  For War  Bonus  To So.  Africa  Shipowners  Apologize  for  Insulting  SIU  ^gQjtiqting  Committee  ­  Negotiations  Respmed—Picket Line Going Strong!  The crew of  the SS ALGlC,­ operated by the Seas Shipping  Co.,  hung  the­hook  on  the  tub  in  a  dispute  over  the  war  bonus to be  pa4d  by the company  for the  run to South  Africa.  This action  was taken  when  the chairman  of  the shipowners'  committee,  Mr.  Mullen,  objei^ed  to  the  presence  of  Morris  Weisberger,  a  member  of  the  SIU  negotiating  committee.  Brother  Weisberger,  Agent  for  the  SUP in  the  port  of. New  York, is a member  of  the organization  committee of  the SIU.  The  union  took  the  position  that  it  reserved  the  right  to  select  its  own  negotiators  without  any  dictation  from  the  shipowners, and  negotiations broke down  following this high­ handed action  by  the shipowners' committee.  Following this,  the crew of the ALGIC hit  the bricks and  established a  picket  line  around  the  ship.  The  picket  line  is  being  observed  by  the  International  Longshoremen's  Association  who  ceased  loading  the  vessel  when  the  picket  line  was established,  also  the AFL  TeamstersUriion.  ^  Shipowners Apologize  Later  the  same  day,  the  company  ofhcials  called  the  Union  office  and  requested  that  negotiations  be  resmned.  THE  SIU  AGREED  TO  RE­ SUME  NEGOTIATIONS  AF­ TER  THE  SHIPOWNERS  HAD  APOLOGIZED  TO  BROTHER  WEISBERGER  AND  THE  UNION'S  COM­ MITTEE  FOR  THEIR  IN­ SULTING  ATTITUDE.  Our  opinion  of  the  reason  for  the  shipowner's  objection  to  the  presence  of  brother  Weis­ berger  is  that  the  SUP  had  already  established  a  TOP  bonus  rate  for  the  run  to  South  Africa  negotiated  by  Weisberger  on  other  ships  in  the  same  run  and  they  knew  Weisberger  had  the  goods  on  them.  Bonus Demand!  The  SIU  Is  demanding  a  one  dollar  per  day; bonus  from  the  day the  ship  leaves  the  last  load­ ing  port  In  the  United  States  until  her  return  to  the first  Uni­ ted  States  port.  This  demand  Is  amply  justified  by  the  fact  that  {Continued  on  Page  4)  IN  THESE  PERILOUS  TIMES!  iNothIng  is  safe  in  these  un­ settled  times  as  witness  the  case  of  Brother  Daniel  Duffy.  The  brother,  deciding  he  was  as  good  as  Steve  Brodie  any  day,  dived  gracefully  from  a  second  story  window  In  a  neighboring  hotel  and  on  coming  to  at  the  Marine  Hospital  found  that  his  suitcase  and  other  gear  which  he  had  In­ adverently  left  behind  in  his  room  at  the  hotel  had  been  taken  to  headquarters, by  the  police.  However,  upon  his  release  from  the  hospital  and  application  at  headquarters  for  his  suitcase,  the  police  informed  Brother  Dan  that  some  low­ljfe  had  stolen  his  suit­ case  from  the  police  storage  room.  Brother  Duffy  Is  of  the  opinion  that  it's  getting  to  be  a  helluva  world  when  a  man  can't  jump  out  of  a  window  without  buying  his  gear  stolen,  especially  when  It's  being  watched  by  a  couple  of  hundred  cops.  Record Proves  NMU Owes  S.I.U. Crew  Debt of Gratitude  To Seafarers!  Stmts It's  Stuff!  One of  our SIU  crews are strut­ ting  around  like  pouted  pig­ eons  and  are  going  to  be  hard  to  talk  to  after  what  happened  the  other  day.  The  U.S.  Steam­ boat  Inspector  went  aboard  the  COMET  Of  the  COLONIAL  LINE  and  after  making  his  in­ spection  had  the  foilowliig  com  ment  to  make:  A Union  that  puts  out  ^nen  oj  the  kind  J find  on  the "COMET'  should  get  credit.  I  have  been  on  many  ships,  but  have  not  found  a  better  lot  of  men  in  every  de­ partment  than  I  now  have  before  me.  Captain  Strickland  and  his  crew,  are,  in  my  estimation,  as  good  a  set­up  as  can  be  found  on  any  ship.  And  as  for  service  in  the  Stewards  Department,  I  find  it  OK  and  on  this trip  I  have  had  many  of  the  passengers  compli­ ment  the  Stewards  Department  for  their  courteous  efficiency.  The  SS  COMET  carries  a com­ plement  of  65  men,  S9  of  whom  are  in  the  Stewards  Department  and  the  Union  delegate  reports  that  all  are  good  union  men  and  a credit  to  the  organization.  N OC E  ALL  AGENTS  AND  MEMBERS 1  Under  no  circumstances  is  WILLIAM  E.  MOSLEY  to  be  shipped  by  any  offi­ cial  of  the  SIU.  If  he  ifi  now  on  a ship  he  is  to  bd  taken  off  at  the first  port  in the United States.  CON­ TACT  NEW  YORK  where  his book is being held! This  man  has  pulled  a  number  of  phoney  moves  against  theunion  and  must  answer  to the  Union  before  he  can  sail  on  SIU  ships.  Honest^*  Joe  Bites the Hand  That  Helped  Him  Get Wage Raise on Coatswise Lines!  Tlie  RECORD  of  the  past  few  months  of  negotiations  mth  the  Coastwise  operators  for  an  increase  in  wages  and  overtime  proves CONCLUSIVELY  that  the wage  increase  of  $5  per  mouth  granted  the  NMU  members  sailing  on  the  Coastwise  ships  was  due  SOLELY  and  ENTIRELY  to  the  militant  action  taken  by  the  Seafarers  International  who  WON  an  increase  of  from  $7.50  to $10  per  month  PLUS 10  cents an hour  in  the overtime rate,  in the faee  of  the conten­ tion  of  the  Curran  clique  that  IT  COULDN'T  BE  DONE!  <9  Read  the  Record!  Don't  take our  word for  it I  fer  the  membership  no.  other  policy  than  "to  continue  negotia­ READ  THE  RECORD!  You  tions." On  June 17,  the SEAFAR­ will find  it in the  pages of  the  ERS'  LOG  announced  that  the  NMU  Pilot  and  in  the  official  SIU  had  won  an  increase  of  ^10  minutes of  the NMU  over  the  per  month,  plus 10  cents per  hour  period from  May 1 to July 12.  in  overtime,  from  the  RANGE  LINES, operating in the coastwise  That  record  PROVES  beyond  trade.  Here  was  the  PROOF  that  a  shadow  of  a  doubt  that  the  they  COULD  afford  an  increase!  NMU "leadership" was  PRE­ What  more  did  Curran  want?  VENTED from  putting across  Curran  Gets Proof!  an  even  worse sell­out,  ONLY  Did  Curran  and  Co.  want  more  because  the  SIU  showed  BY  PROOF?  On  June  19,  the  SIU  an  agreement  from the  SEA­ ACTION  that  the  coastwise  won  TRAIN  LINES,  INC.,  for  an  in­ operators  COULD  and  crease­of  $10,  plus  10  cents,  and  WOULD  pay  an  increase  if  the  LOG  publicly  announced  In  an  intelligent  RANK  AND  the  issue  of  June  29  that  similar  FILE  policy  were  adopted  increases  had  been  won  from  the  C  &  G  Lines,  Fall  River  Naviga­ and  followed  through.  For  tion  and  Waterman  S.S.  Co.,  all  the  benefit  of  those  who  have  operating  In  the  coastwise  trade.  neither the time  nor the incli­ WHAT  OTHER  PROOF  DID  nation  to  wade  through  the  CURRAN  WANT?  Yet,  in  the  entire  record,  we  give  a  sum­ Pilot  of  June  28.  the  NMU  Nego­ tiating  Committee  of  Curran  and  mary of  the (3vents up to date,  McKenzle,  RECOMMENDED  that  with  DIRECT  q u o t a t i o n s  the  NMU  membership  accept  an  taken  FROM THE  RECORD!  offer  of  a  $2.50  Increase,  WITH  NO  INCREASE  IN  OVERTIME!  OuiT'an  Lacks  "Proof!"  Remember,  this  $2.50  offer  came  In  the  May  3rd  issue  of  the  Pi­ lot  it  was  announced  that:  "The  AFTER  the  SIU  had  already  won  coastwise  operators  refused  to  increases  of  $10  and  10  cents  consider  ANY  wage  increase.  from  a  number  of  coastwise  They  have  agreed,  however,  to  operators!  continue  negotiations."  Three  A  Proven Liar!  weeks  later,  in  the  Pilot  of  May  CURRAN  NOW  DENIES  THAT  24,  the  NMU  Negotiating  Com­ HE  RECOMMENDED  THAT  HIS  mittee listed five  reasons  why  the  MEMBERSHIP  ACCEPT  THE  operators  could  not  afford  to  pay  $2.50  INCREASE!  In  the  Pilot  of  any  increase  and  why  fhe  union  July  12  Curran  states:  "We  In­ couldn't  do  anything  about  it.  formed  tke  operators  that  we  One  reason  was  that:  "We  were  not  making  any  recommen­ (NMU)  have  not  been  able to dis­ dations that  the  $2.50  be  accepted  prove  that  there  is  a  wide  differ­ and  demanded  that  negotiations  ential  between  profits  of  the  off­ continue."  CURRAN  IS  A  PROV­ shore  and  coastwise  operators."  EN  LIAR  BY  THE  RECORD!  In  other  words,  Cui­ran  couldn't  For  in  the  Pilot  of  June  28,  the  PROVE  that  the  operators  could  official  report  of  the  negotiating  afford  to  pay  an  increase  and  comiuittPB  signed  by  McKcnzio  lacking such  PROOF,  he  could  tf­ {Continued  from  Page  3)  • 'LV  '• i  • ­m  i  a  �Saturday* JAly  20, 19^  THE  S E A  F A H  E R  S •   L O G  ­•  ,  I^bllsbed  bjr  tie  Seafarers'  International Union  of  North  America  r *  REVEALS'.  Hawkshaw the Beagle  Unearths Huge Plot!  FOUR  WftfOH  'Affiliated  with the  AmericM  Federation io^  Labor  HARKY  LUNDERERG;' A'Jitlng President'  110  MarkOt  Street, RObm  462,  Sad  Francisco,  CaUf.  I  Atlantic  DistriSt  f  HEADQUABTERS  l  Now  York <Phon©c  BOwling GreCn  9­3437) ...  .2 Ston'e Street'  t r  .^RANCHES  Bostoa  3?3  Atlantic  Avenue.  ­ Prbvidence  ...465 So.  Main  Street  <­Philadelphia  .........  v.­iO  North  6th Btreet  Baltimore  ....14 North  Gay  Street  Norfolk  ..................60 Commercial  Place  San  Juan, Puerto  Rinb^  ...8 Covadbtiga Street  ifistricf  HHE>^^Q^ARtE^S  New  Orleans  ... .»......  .309  Chartres Street  BRANCHES  *  S&TSiHHS'li  • • • • 4a• it*• '2IS^    Str^­6j6t  JabkBonrillo  .  13S  Bay  Street  Tampa  206  South  Franklin  Street.  Mobile  .....V.......V  .....55 So! Cohceptiod Street  Texas  City  .........105 ­  4th  Street'N.  Great  Lakes District  HEADQUARTERS  Detroit  1038  Third  Street  .,  ADDREm ALL CORRESPONDENGE CORdERNlNQ THIS  PUBLICATION  TO:  "THE  SEAFARERS'  LOG"  ,,  P. O.  B;px  522,1 Qiurch St. Annexi  New  Yorki  N. Y.  Editor'. Tom  Kerry—Former  Editor  of  "West  Coast  Firemen"  Hatwksliaw the Beagle  Unearths Huge Plot!  lESUS'"  (Continued  from  Column  1)  iWMpsmt  Bhicitshaw!  HAWKSHAW CURRAN  has unearthed  the most  gigantic  PLOT  of  the  eentiiry!  Let  Ilawkshaw  the. Beagle  tell  you  about it.  It'.s absolutely  hair  raising! Commence firing  Hawlt­ ^shaw,  we're  all  a'twitter!  Well,  here's  de  dope:  "The  coastwise  operators  had  been  adamant  in  re­ fusing to increasb  their offer  (to the NMU)  of  $2.50. Un­ der the circumstances,  your committee  had no choibe  but  to  report  back  to  the  membership  and  submit  the  pro­ posal of  a $2.50 a  month  wage increase.  "We were not unaware  of  the possibilities that after  On  the  bOw  oi:  a'  .ship  a  sailoi'  Curran Gets '^^Whipsawed!"  wfe  had submitted  this increase for a coastwise  vote,  cer­ stood  and  scanned  the  night  as  We  have  searched  several  dictionaries  of  the  English  Jdtli  tain  shipowners  in  conjunction  with  the SIU  would  at­ best  he  could,  guage  in  an  attempt  to learn  the  definiiidn of  the  word "whipsato"  tempt  to whipsaw and  discredit  the Union's  Negotiating  For  he  was  new  and  ^yished  to  used  by  Curran  in  describing  what  "certain  shipowners  in  cdtu  Committee."  (NMU  Pilot, June 12,  1940.)  show  that  he'd  soon  learn  what  junction  with  the  SIU"  were  trying  to  do  to  hint.  To  nO  avail!  he  didn't  know.  It  mvsf  be  an  expression  coined  by  Curran  to  coiivey  the  fad  Unearthing  the "Coraspiracy/"  »  •   «  that  he  was  caught  with  his  pants  down.  There  you  have  it!  Ilawkshaw  Curran suspected  all the  One  for  the starboard  three  dead,  two  on  the  port  Is  what  they  time,  according  to  the  above  statement,  that  "certain  .ship­ said,  HearingB  Scheduled  owners  in  conjunction  with  the SIU  would  attempt  to  whip­ Answer  to  the  helmsman's  bell  saw  (!)  and  discredit  the  NMU  Negotiating  Committee."  with  the  bell  on  the  how  that  On Maffining Sealfe!  And how  was this dastardly deed  aeenmplished ?  Elementary,  all is  wdll.  The  Mai'itime  Comrtiissioh  lias  w  *  •   CHARLES  (PATRICK)  my  dear  Watsou!  You  see,  the  shipowners  "conspired"  to  announced  that  it  will  hold  hear­ O'KEEFE  discredit  Curran  and  Co.  by  "giving"  the  SIU  membership  Then  check  the  lights  arid  with  ings  on  the  necessity  for  cliariges  from $5  to $7.50  ipore  per  month  than  the $2.50  that  Curran  ample  power,  holler  (lights­ in  the  mliirium"  iriarinirig  scales  Died  at'  United  States  Marine  are  bright  sir)  each  half  hour.  Hospital  at  New  York  City.  "had  no  choice  but  to  report  back  to  the  membership"  with  So  staring  hard  with  all  his  for  v^sols  receiving  an  operat­ a  recommendation  for  its  acceptance.  might, it  seemed  to  him  he saw  ing­diqfferential  subsidy  from  the  LUCAS ARTURO  HAU  governmerit.  Hriafihgs  f6r  unli­ a  light.  Killed  on  board  the  S.S.  censed  personnel  will  be  held  in  fjiaivkshaw Does His Stuff!  *  •   •   BEATRICE  in  Salt  Juan,  San  Francisco  oh  Jiiiy  16,  in  In  order  to  fully  appreciate  the  brilliance  of  Hawk­ Two  for  the  prirt  without  delay,  New  Orleans  on  July  23,  and  in  .  ^ July 10, 1940  1  before  the  light  should  fade  New  York  on  July  36!  The  hear­ shaw's  powers  of  deduction  and  observation,  which  contrib­ ings  AViir  be  attended  by  repre­ uted in  no  small  measure  to the unravelling  of  the PLOT,  it  away.  It  was  bigger  now,  would  soon  be  sentatives  of  thb  SIU  and 'SUP to  is well to reconstruct  the crime  for the  benefit  of  our readers.  past, what'­manner of  ship colild  testify  on  behalf  of  the  meiriber­ From' the l.st  of  May to the latter  part of  June the  NMU  Ne­ be  so  fast?  ship  of  those" organlzatidris.  Members musf' be iri gbot^  gotiating  Coifimittee  impressed  upon  its  membership  that  *  •   sfaiiding  irt  order  to  be  eli­ tho coastwise operators  " were  iti  no  position  to  grant  an  in­ Then  drifting  cloiid'a  showed'  to  gible  for  any  benefits  from  crease.''  Then on  June IT, thb Seafarers' LOO came out  with  his dismay,  by  a* siriiplb manner  he'd  been  led  astray.  the  organization.  See  that  the'annbuneemeiit  that  the  SIU  had  won  an increase  of  $10'  Anudgiffhdtwii  and  you  keep  paid  up!  Don't  per  month  plfis 10  ebnts  per  hour oil  the overtime  rate from  It  was  all  too  evident  he'd  ma.de  a  slip;  the  lii^ht  he*d  seen  was  Unif orm MMpping  .  waft until  the last  minute!  the Range  Lines.  The PLOT  was  beginning to  thicken!  not  a  s hip;  In ' Menioriam  IMPORfANt!  ­  So He W^fi't Talk!  Now ­ ­ •  •   •   The  Male  oii' the'­bridib Aspied  it  On  the 19lh  day  of  June,  the  SIU  signed  an­addendum  soori  aild'i learned  he  too  hE'd  to.the agreement  with  the Seatrain Lines,  Inc., prbVldin^ fof  been fooled' by  the  mobn!  S.  di  Flaherty/  5211  the $10  and 10­eent  increase;  retfoadtive  to  May 1st.  In| the  330  Atlantic  Ave.  intervening  penod,' similar agreenients  were  signed  with the  B.  Cirtahdula  ;.  : G  &  G  Lihds,  Waterman,,  and  Fall  River  Navigation . Co:  S;  SI  Hlinbre  DON'T  iVdRRf  :  tPuring  this, period,. Ufawkshaw  the  Beagle  was  apparently  S, S;  ....  '   Wealthy  whaf  ^gathering  his­evidence  that  a­plot  wah  being  hatched,  to'  Mas^ar\..  • ........;,,  ,.,. .f .   UwhipsaW  and  disdfedit  the  NMU  Negotiating  Cpmrrtittee.^'  will  becoihe '6t all  my  wealth  Beach ...........  *...  ' ;  Rut  hd'  wasn't' saying  a ny thing  about, it—yet I  Not  Hawk­ when  I pass  on?  !  \V'ifey^—Jiisi  leave,  every­ ,Bha!#^!'.IId  doesn't  talk  until it's  in the bag!  (C'ontintietl,  on Column  4)  .iiyj;  rthmg  to  me,  dfijjrling.  Total  r,'.  .  In  tiie  meantime,  the SIU  entered into negotiations with  One  of  oui*  members,  delv­ the Billl Line,  one of  the'largest  eoastwisa  operators, for  ing  deep  into  the  history  of  ten­aud­ten  increa,se.  In  the  midst  of  the.se  negotiations,  thq  the  seamen,  has  unearthed  NMU  Pilot  ea,rae  out  with  the  announcement  that  the  NMU  the  interesting  fact  that  the  Negotiating  Committee  Avas  recommending  the  acceptance of  four  watch  system  prevailed  a  $2.50 per  month  offer  by  the coa.stwi.se  lines under  contract  aboard  .ships  in'  the  early  to  the  NIVfU,  with  no  ihcrease  in'  overtime.  In  tfilat  Issub,  da^ui  of  hist'ory,  when  Jesiis  June  28,  11 driy.s  after  the  LOU  had  annolinebu  t}\ri  Ran^  walked  the  eaifh.  The'  evi­ Line  inefcrise  pf  tch^au'd­ten,  HriWard  McKcn^re,  repbhting  derfde  is  cbntained'  in  thd'  for  the  NMf]  Negotiating Committee,  stated':  "Your  negotiiating  committee  recommends  the  ac­ Book  of  Matthew, 15:  ceptance of  this $2.50 because it is our opinion we are not  I  ­  "And. straightaway  Jesus  at  this  time."  And  co'nstrdined  his  disciples  to  '  in  the  best  pbsitioif  to'abcu?e  ih  order  tb  "whipsa#"  thW  menihershf  into  accepting  ,  get  infp a  ship; and  to  go  B'e­ f o're  h^ihi  ithto' th'e  other  sidP,  it,  addelf:  '' Furthdfmp^d  tfie  c'bhstwiy  operators  ap­ while  he  sent  the  multitudes  peared  too  willing to  face  the  consequences  of  whatever  away.  action the union  might see fit  to take in the event the  in­ crease  is  not  acceptable."  "And  when  he  had  sent  the  multitudes away,­he  went  ISot  Done With Mirrors !  up  into  a  mountain  apart  to  'J'iic  Bull  Line  officials  had  a  copy;^pf  this  issue  of  the  pray,  arid  when  Hit  ehehihg  Pilbl  with  Avhibh  they  confi­onted' th%  sfu Negoti'atin'g  Cphi­ wets  come,  he  w^ds  thei­e  mittee.  DiVl  they  say: "Come  on,  boys,  let's  'whipsaw'  Cur­ alone.  riui  and  sign  up  for  the  ten­and­ten  in'crease!"  They  did—  "Biit  tUe  ship  was  hdie  in  in  a  pig's CJT!  lYhat  thby  did  .say  AVjis*':  "Where in'the  hell  the  ttiidsi  of  the  sea; tossed  do  you  guys  get  off  demaudiug  a  ten­and­ten  increa.se,  Avith  with waves:  for the wind  was  the  NMU  committee  recommending  $^.50  witftbtft  any  over­ contrary.  time  increase!"  And  it  took  some  battling  on'  the  part  of  'ANDiSTH^ Pot RTH  the  member.ship  to  get  th'b  Bull  Line  to  up  their  offer  from  WA TCH OF THE  NIGHT  $2.50  to  $7.50,  plus  the 10  cents  in  overtime.  Jesus  went  unto  them, walk­ '^They Can't  Afford  ItV'  ing  on  the  sea."  On  July  9,  the LOG ,eame  out  Avith  the aunouncement  of  We  sincerely  trust  that  tho  the Bull  Line iri'erea.se.  Thaf  Avas' enou'gh for  IfaAVkshaw  Cur­ Amerieaji  .seanien  will  not  he  ran !  Nobody  Avas  going  to  di.screclil  IITM  by  gelling  a  raise  constrained  to  await  the  sec­ foi>the seamen!  A rai.se  that he  had said  could  not  be gotten!  ond  coming  of  Christ  before  If  Avas  a  PLOT,  that's  Avhat  it  Avas—a  plot,  to  discredit  the  getting  the  four  watch  sys­ NMU  Negotiating  Committee!  Isn't  it  remarkable  to  AA'hat  tem  on  earth  again!  lehgth.s  the  .shipoAvners  will  go  to  "whip.saAv"  Curran?  But  there's  one  thing they  won't,  get  aAvaj'­  AA'ith  Avhile  HaAvkshaAV.  the  Beagle  is  on  the  job,  and  that  is  to  raise  the  AA'ages  and  overtime rate  AAdren  Curran says  they can't  afford it.  4^4 oi �"'.T^v­i­­Tari  ­wm^'­ f oaluro^ay,  July ^ur 1940  THE  S E A  F A  R  E R  S '  LOG  !>  #fcrf «' s'  D o i n  g  i|j  Debt of  Gratitude  Around  • Y  (Continued  from  pmje  1)  why  should  we  picket  gas  sta­ states:  "Your  nbgbtfatirig  com­ tions,  why  should  we  picket  mittee  recommend  the  accept­ anything.  We're  not  on  the tank­ ance  of  this  $2.50,  becarise  it  ers, we're  on  the freighters  and  the  Seatrain  ag'reemeht  It  cfefl­ is  our  opinion  we  are  not  in  the  passenger  shipff.  AND  VOLT  nitely  states,  it  will  hot  be  the  best  position  to  secure  more  at  MIGHT  RUN  UP  AGAINST  g'eneral  practise  to  hold  fire  and  E^ditof  Seafarers  IjOg:;  Dear  sir  and  brothers::  this  time."  Further,  the  SAME  THAT SiTLTATION  AGAIN TO­ lief  boat  drills  oh  Sundays^  Sat­ The  Texaa  r6^on  id  h6o'niing;  urday  afternoon  and  holidays.  There  were  several  Bull  Line  recbmmeridatiori  waS  made  to  the  DAY.  more  jobs^  a^enalnddy  more  ships  Plain  eh?  Well  on  the  Texas  ships  in  this  week,  and  only  one  NMU  meiribefship  meetirig  on.  "Because  the  Negotiating  all  the  time.  Since  the  hall  was  they  hold  the drill  on  a  week  day  of  theiri  voted  to  accept  the  7.50  Jilnri  27  arid  what  iS  more,  TKE  Committee  took  all these'  farit'S  and  10  cents  an  hour  increase.  RECOklMENDATION  OF  THE  info  crirfsi'derafion,  they  come  put  In  here I  believe  that a  check  goihg  North  and  on  Sunday  cpm­ baek  will  prove  th&t  therd  is  a  ins  Sooth.  Talk  about  sailing  Both  of  these ships  held  meetings  NEGOTIATING  COMMfTTEE,  in  ori  this flrior  arid telf  you  and  aboard  them,  and  they  will  either  COMPOSED  OF  CURRAN  AND  recommend  that  you  accept  bigger  turnovef  thafi  therd  has  into  the  wind,  I  think  this  takes  be  accepted  or  rejected  in  Mon­ been  here  foh  some  tiih'e.  This  the cake.  MCKENZIE^  "VYAS  ACCEPTED'  the  $2.50  Increase. . . ."  day  night's  meeting  in  this  BY  THE  MEMBERSHIP!  (Min­ businesa  of  getting  men  iS  a  real  «  «  «  Pathot  Confessor  branch.  problem!  Was  forced  to  sa!ll  utes  of  NMU  membership  meet­ Curran's  speeches,  like  the  ona  Editor,  Seafarers'  Log:  :   *  *  «  shin  minus' a  second  oook,  tried  j  ing  of  June  27.  New  York.)  quoted  aboVe,  reek  of  the  pater­ all  the  regular  spots,  taf  rooms',  wen,  well,  well  like  hell  it  is!  Some  of  the  members  aboard |  Have No  Program  nal  attitude  of  a  "Father  Clonfe^'  I  start  the  week  with  four  A.B.s  flop  houses,  etc.,  etc.,  no  smoke  these  ships  are  taking  quite  a  In  the  minutes  of  the  June  27  sor"  talking  to­his flock.  It's  like  add  what  happens?  They  all  ship  The  only  reason  that  I  bring  this  little  interest  and  voting  the.  meeting,  McKenzie,  reporting  for  getting  a  pat  on  the  back  from  up  is  because  a  lol^  of  the  men  out on  me  and  now  I'm  right back  the  amalgamation  and  revised  the  negotiating  committee,  ampli­ someone  who  is  just  looking  fpr  that  pay  off  a  ship  here  head  for  whei­e  I  started  from.  Shipping  shipping  ni)e.s  ballot.  Each  and  fie.s  the  recommendation  with  the  a good  place  to stick  a  knife. The  the  timber.  Now  sohie  of  course  is  plckliig  up  right  along  here  every  member  of  the  S.I.U.  must  following  statementr  "YoUr  com­ central  theme  is,  you've  got  tq  have  reasons  tO  do'  so,  biit  the  and  pretty  soon  at  the  rate  that  vote  on  any  issue  that  the  Union  mittee  took  the  position  thrit  un­ take  what  you  can  get—and  wait!  majority  of  the  members  are  go­ we  are  going  we  will  be  shipping  may  bring  up  from  time  to  time.  less  officials  of  the  Union  could  For  what?  For  the "probable  bet­ ing  to  ship  right  out  a'hyway  90  more  men  than  New  York  not  to  This  way,  we  have  a  Union  run  come  before  the  membership  and  ter  days"  that  are  to  come—  for  Pete's  sake  stick  arduhd  the  mention  these  other  small  ports!  by  seamen,  for  seamen,  and  not  give  them  some  guarantee  that  MAYBE!  And  all  this  passes  as  «  4i  «  port  ybu'pay  off  in,  (uhless  of  by  a  few  top  officials.  they  could' get  more,  th'e  best  that  "trade  union  policy!"  It' seems  f hat s'onl^  of  the  mein­ course  you  pay  oft  some  *  *  «  we  could  do,  to  be  honest  with  A  FevY  Crumbs  eiae  and  come  doVn  here,  that's  b'^'rs  that  are'sailing  this  coast  Shippings  wasn't  so  hot  this  the  meriibershlp,  if  wc  could  rec­ ­  ,  If  the  above  quotations  were  take  a  Ib'tig  tlmfe  to  learn  simple  O.K.?  *  «  *  thi'ngS.  The  S.S;  Tulsa  came  out  week,  with  only  four  members  be­  ommend  a  program  at  this  time  the, expressed  attitude  of  the­EN­ ing  dispatched  to  various  ships.  which  we  felt  would  get  more,  TIRE  NMU  leadership,  how  was­ A.B;S.?  I've  turned'  ev6r^  of  New  Orleans'  and  there  were  There  are  16  meriibers  on  the  was  to  put  it  up  to  them  fairly  it  possible  for  the  membership  to­ stump  aha  cactus  in  the  state  tvi^'o  m'^h  that  miSsed  the  ship  nt  three  shipping lists  at the  present  and  squarely  and  if  can't  see  any,  get;  the five  dollar  raise­;­which  the  las't  nilnutfe.  One  of  these,  ari  over  looking  for  them  . . . in  the  time.  way  out.  TO  TELL  TIIEM  THAT  they  were  told  they  couldn't  get?  vvind­up  of  course,  di'sgtuntlecl  A;  B.,  had' the  agSnt  advance  him  Respectfully  submitted,  THE  $2.50  BE  ACCEPTED."  (Ap­ On  July  9,  (remeiriher  the  date),  iMMU­ers  Who  have  a  belly  full  of  the  mPiiey  to  catch  the  ship  in  Fred  Lauritano  plause.)  What  the "applarise"  was  the  LOG  catae  out  with  the  an­ Houston  and  he  was  very  sur­ the  top  fraction's  policies,  ate  for  is­hard  to figure  out,  unless  nouncement  that  in  spite  of  the  pleased  to  get  a  perrhi't,  and  I'm'  prised  to find  a  man  in  his  place  it  was  for  McKerizie's ."honesty"  fact  that  the  NMU  Negotiating  sure  that  with  this  system  v/e  wfieh' he'  got to  the  ship.  Eor  the"  in  informing  the membership  that  Coririmittee  were  recommending  a  benefit  of  the  members  up  and  would  be  able  to  vbry  effectively  they  had  no  "program  at  this  $2.50  sell­out,  the  SIU  had  suc­ dbWn  the  coast  I  wish  you  would  Editor:  The  Seafarers'  Log,  eliminate  the  Stalinites,  •   •   •   print  the  foUowing  excerpt  from  Shipping'for  the  past week  was  time  which  we  felt  w'ould  get  ceeded  in  upping  the' offer  of  the  more," and  that "we  can't, see  any  Bull,  Line  from  their  original  the  Constitution:  gbod  .especially  on  deck.  Tush,  tush,  the  seagull  on  the  way  out,"  except  to  accept  the  $2.50  with  no  Increase  ­jri  over.­.,  *  •   •   *  •   *  stringer  was  telling  me  that  the  recommendation  of  the  cbm'mi'ttee  time  to  $7.50  per  month,  PLUS  Article  XX.^Offerise  and  Pun­ Range  Line  is  on  another  econ  Minb'r  beefs  on  sevefal  ships  to  accept  the  $2.50.  10  cents  per  hour  overfinie.  Cur­ ishment.  omy  drive.  For  inhtdhCe,' the' buy  were  taken  care  of  in  the  usual  ran  and  Co.  were  in "a  panic!  On'  ing  price  of  coffee  is  lowered  Section  7.  Any  member  found  manner.  More  proof  that  Curran  is  a  the  basis  of  their  reconinienda­'  from  twohitd  td  sixteen  cpnts,  guilty  of  violafing  the  working  what  mud  thai  will  be!  Thtee  rules  shall  forfeit  hl's  job.  Any  The  S.S.  "VYilliam  Salman  came  liar  when  he  states  that  they  did  tion,  the  NMU  membership  had  cases  of  milk  for  a  twenty  dhy  member  found  guilty  of  violating  in  to  rate as  the biggest  headache  not  recommend  an  acceptance  oi  ACCEPTED  the  $2.50  increase  period. As this  is thfe. Philadelphia  the shipping  rales shall forfeit  his  of  the  week.  She  had  her,  usual,  the  $2.50?  We  risk  boring  our  with  no  overtime  raise.  Unless  navy  I  refered  this  to Brn.  Collins  sbippliig  cafd  arid  shall  not  have  oVeflTme  beefs  but  it  was  well  rea^ders'by  quoting a  lengthy  sec.  they  could  get  a  few  moi'e  crumbs  and  believe  that  I'm  safe  iir  say­ another  issuSd  prior  to  the  ex­ taken  care  of.  Ske  shipped  nearly  tiori  of  the  speech  made  by  Cur­ from  the  shipowners,  as  an  addi­ tinal  sop  to  their  membership,  it  •   ing this  will  be  nipped  in  the  bud  piration  of  thirty  (30)  days.  a  new  Black  Gang  arid" several on  ran  at  the  June  27  membership  *  meeting,  but  it  illustrates  the  would  be  difficult  to  keep  the  before  it  gathers  any  momentum.  deck.  After  all,  we  pay  tax  on  $36.00  a  If  the  members  will  take  time  method  in  consistent  use  by  the  members  in  line.  •  •   *  month  for  chow  and flop  which  to  read  this  and  think  it  oVer  for  "great  leader"  to'  discourage  ef­ A Plain  Gift!  The  Carolyn  carrie  in  with  a  sure  entities  a  man  to  the  SlU  a  while,  it  will  eliminate  a  lot  of  chief  cook  who'had  pulled  a  knife  fective  action  on  the  part  of  the  In  the  July  12  1  •   of  the  P^,  standard,  of  course  from  Avhat  uriiiecessary  beefs.  on  one  of  the  sailors.  He  w^s  rank  and file  and  put  across  the  lot,  we  are  told  tlm.;  "The  NMU  «  If  *  I've  seen  of  some  NMU  ships  Negotiating  Committee  on  July  trea,ted  like  his  type  are  usally  old  sell­out.  $5.00  w'ould  overpay  the  sleeping  One  other  thing—in  Houston  with  a  new  Chief  Cook.  Curran:  (NMU  idmutes,  June  10  succeeded  in  boosting  the  yesterday,  I  went  there  to  mdke  end  of  it.  Buck  Stephens  27)  "The  membership  should  wage  increase  offer  of  the  coast­ •   •   «  a  ship  that  was  due  in  arid  found  think  very  cafefiilly  and  very  wise  operators  from  $2.50  to  $5."  I  notice  here  lately  that  a  lot  that  a  few  men  \vere  bristling the  seriously  when  there's  an  offer  That  is,  ONE  DAY  after  the  ap­ of  the  members  are  taking  ad­ docks  for  their  own  jobs,  so  all  of  a  gain.  Not  much  of  a  gain,  pearance  of  the  Seafarers'  LOG,  vantage  of  the  fact  that  shipping  members,  take  note  that  in'  the  it  is  true  biit  it's  a  gain  and  the  shipowners  kicked  in  with  an  Is  very  good  and  performih'g'  Texas  distrfct  the  Hall  is  in  Seafarers'  Log,  not  a  loss'.  That  fact  should  be  additional  $2.50  AFTER  the first  seems  to  be  on  the  upbeat.  Re­ Texas  City,  Phone  722^  the  mail­ New  York,  N.  Y.  ­  ,  taken  into  consideration,  that'  $2.50  HAD  ALREADY  BEEN  AC­ member  on  this  that  the  same  ing' address"  is  P.  O.  152.  And  if  Dear  FUr  und  nrothdr:  there  are  more  days  coming,  CEPTED!  It^  as  plain  as  the"  thing  applied  12  to  15  years  ago,  any  men  come  around  trying  to  Considering  the  number  of  there  are  probably  (probably!)  nose  on  Curran's  face  that  the  also  remember  the  period  just  be­ get  a  job,  give  them  one  swim­ ships  coming  into  this  port  now,  better  days  coming,  and  we  shipowners  were  investing  in  a  fore  the  '34  strike.  We  cSh  at  ming  or  foot  exercise.  shipping  has  been  fair  the  past  may  (may!)  have  a stronger  or­ little  insurance  to  prevent  the  *  *  *  present  make  and  maintain  condi­ couple  of  weeks.  Besides  the  regu­ ganization  and  then  be  able  to  men  that sail  their  ships frorii  de­ tions;  the  only  way  possible  for  Der  Tag  (I driri't  know  the  Riis­ lar  Savannah  Line  ships,  we  have  get  more  gains."  manding  top  union  wages.  At  the  us  to  continue  this  is  for  each  slari)  has  come  and  gone,  remem­ had.  thq  S.S.  DE  SOTO,  STEEL  {That's  the  old  "pie in the  slcy"  same  time.  It  was  a  face­caving  and  every  member  to  remember­ ber,  Jun'e  th'e  18th,  when  the  AGE,  Beatrice  and  Tug­ Sampson,  line—don't  get  impatient,  hoys,  device  for  Curran  and  Co.  to  en­ that  just  because  you  didn't  hap­ great  po'wer  had  a  tentatlvo  of  the  Elastern  Transportation  Co.  you  will  get  your  reward  in  able  them  to  keep  their  member­ pen  to  sign­the  agreement  under  meeting  with  the  coastwise  ship­ in  recently, each calling  for  a cou­ heaven!  Better  days  are  coining­ ship  in  line.  which  you  are  working  it  is  Just  owners  for  the  raise,  on  the  ple  of  replacements.  prosperity  is  just  around  the  cor­ More "Proof!"  as  binding  on  you  as  a  member  cbasfaf  ships.  I  think  I  have  the  *  *  #  ner!  Be  patient!  It'll  all  come  A  number  of  questions  arise  answer  to  thb  problem  though!  as  if  you  had  put  your  John  Voting  on  the  amalgamation  "oitf  in  the  wash!)  which  have  not  yet'  been  ,an­ Henry  on  it  The  old  timers that  The' shipowners  are  so'  afraid  of  and  uniform­  shipping  rules  was  Good Old''  P roverb!''  swered.  After  repeating  the  story  know  that  fight  needed  to  get  Cuffan's  powbr  that  they  just  started  here  last  meeting;  CreWS  Culran' continues:'  "Arid  I  re­ over  and  over  again  for  the  past,  won't  take'  a  ch'ah'ce  of  gettiiig  these  conditions  should  need  no  on  all  ships  coming  in  are  In­ peat  the  old  proverb,  that  you  reminder  and  the  young  bUdka  into'the  same  ofllce  Willi  hiili  (of  structed  to  come  up  and  vote  as  have  to  learn  to  crawl  (Just  two  months  that  the "NMU  could  not  PROVE"  that'  the  coastwise  just  starting  to  sea,  who  never  course,  this  only  happens  when  soon  as  possible.  like  a  louse,  eh  Joe!)  before  operators  were  able  to  pay  an  in­ the  men  on  th'e  ships  want  some  worked  field  days,  etc.,  should  Fraternally, yours,  you  can  run  or  walk.  Vori  have  crease,  WHAT  PROOF  did  Cut­ spend  a  fey/  hours  reading  the  little  thing  like  the  ten  and  ten;  Charles  Waid,  Agent.  to  take  a  little  bit  at  a  time  in  fari:  suddenly  discover  to'  justify  working  rules  and  the  Constitu­ other  times  they  must  have  their  order  to  get  more  as  you  go  the"  increase  of five  dollars?  Ha  messenger  boy)  for  fear  this  tion.  This  is a  serious subject,  so  along."  think  it  over and  dOn't faring  your  power  of  which  he  rants  might  he  is  ouf  na^ral  dpybnehl,  the  , (Proverb  Joe  should  have  made  doesn't  say!  In  fact,  the  ONLY  PPOOF  that existed  then, as  iipw,  orshrthratibn  irttb  ill­reputd  Just  get  away  from  him.  This  power  Soorifer  stooging  for  th'e.  Moscow­ pTdin  tiiat  "Wannng  t6  crawl"  WAS'  THE  .FAClT  THAT  THE  'might  and  should  get  away.  The  bedatis"e  sKlpjiih'g  i^  good  and  yoii  dpesm  nec^sam  ari  id  emu­ .  ,  do  your  craic­ SIU  HAD  FORCED  INCREASES  figdfe,  whht  the  hell,  I'  ckn't  bfe'  simplest  way  to  do  this  is  for  the  we  shall  present  a  solid  frpilti."  the  louse  and  late  fired','  thdre'fif' rt'd* replacefemhtsf  honest  seameri  in" the Nliltr  to get  against'all' the  phoney  moyes  the  • ling on  the  body  of  another in  or­ FROM  THE  COABTWISE­  OP  ERATORS!  That'  proof  kept  pil­ wise  to •   thenrselves.  After  all,  operator^ are  puilirig  out  of  their  to  eke  out  a  parijSiiicdl  exis­ ing  up  with  each  additional  vic­ Tb^  beslT 'kCgUmehl  I'Ve  seeh  these'  a¥e'  the'  nieu'  with  the'  hats.  ,  tence  by  sucking  th'e  blood  of  tory  of' the  SIU  so  that  Curran  yet  T#gai'db  thp  carrying  of  A  power.  Th'e  sooner  the  seariien  Steady  a'S 'She  goes!  ydur  benefactor.)  could  no longer  pretend  not to srie  realize  this  arifl  gef  in  the  or­ A.  W.  Armstforig  BOS'Q'  oli  these  small  cbastwikh'  Wby  tbe  Denial?  it!  And  if  he  had  one  ounce  of  ships,  is  tm  pmvir  CliV;  is  garilkatlbh  thitt  uses'  this  power  ^  "A'sfflke'rirthls  bri  HONESTY  ill  his  entire  makeup,  actually  ­Starting  tio'  sblhe'  sirice  fbr  thb' ihhmbefa'  beri'efft  instead  t  he  wo'uW  be  corripelled  to  admit  the  '"mearis  6f  sacrificing  the  6f rigalhst  the if  benefit;  the  the' Serang'haS  beSa  added' to' the  •   gain's  thbt  w'ri'  have'  made  ...  that:  it  was  trie  ACTION  of  the  cr^m­  Don't  believe  it'?  Lbbk  hfei^  soohbV  will we' do aWay  with  this  in'the'tanker  atrikie  the"  meii  SItr'  whiich'  won  for  the  '^lU  • eomiiiy style bt  seathkid fight  shk­ ovef'Yh'Sfi  you  SSS  Her  next;  on  the freighters and  passenger  membership  on  the'  '  cbastwiso  •   nion.  There  ik atill  plbrity  of fight  (Continued  on  page  4}  Ships  took  the  position  that  Talk  about  cutting  corners.  In  left  in  the  old  shipowner  and  as  fACKSONriLLEi  FLAi  TEmS CITY  \l  K  !  i  TSEW  ORLEANS  Pie in  the  sfey  *  !|t  Si  :SAVAt(NAH  • • •   •  <  On  Amcdg^mciitdn  dtM  Uniform Shipping  ­A  ' • ' 'S* •  I  'UsS'l  '  ""li  • 'YF  �THE  SEAFARERS'  LOG  Saturday, July  20,  i94w'=  ­ ,  POLICY  REGARDING  THE  TAKING  IN  OF  NEW  MEMBERS  AND  THE  ISSUANCE  OF  PERMIT  CARDS  AND  THE  SYSTEM  OF  HANDLING  SAME  The  Union  shall  determine  from  time  to  time  on  a  monthly  MORE ilSOUT;  basis the  number  of  different  rated  men  to  be  taken  into  the  Union.  No  new  members shall  be  taken  into  the  S.I.U.  of  N.A.,  Atlantic  District, without first  having been  issued Permit  Cards and  who^ with  such  Permit  Cards,  have  performed  and  met  the  requirements  listed  thereon  under '"rules  governing  Permit  men."  BALTIMORE  Record  Proves  News ­  And Views  BALTIMORE,  Md.,  Jlily, 8,  1340.  emergency: to  take any.«hances,on  NMU Owes Debt  ­r­Bbipping.  slowed,  dowii.  soma,  aAd.  either  the  Jflavy  or­  ­ Coast­ what  during  the  past  week  with  guard  will  step  in  and  take  over  (Continued  from  Page  3)  ships,  whatever  wage  increase  the  Beach  Lists  showing  ­70  in  that  particular  department. We  they  received.  Our  only  regret  is  shipped,  93  registered,  and  a  total  have  it  on good  authority  that  at  that  the  men  in  the  NMU  who  of  197  Brothers  registered  in  all  the  time  of  the  MONTEREY  in­ sail  the  ships  failed  to  get  the  three  departments.  SUP  and  CTU  cident  when  the  company  asked  TOP  wages  AND  overtime  in  shipping  is  likewise  slower  than  the  Navy  to supply  them  with  ra­ usual,  with  no  great  pick­up  ex­ dio  operators,  the  request  was  crease  established  by  the  SIU.  pected  until  the  ships  shut  off  turned  down  with  the  statement  Men  who  have  been  issued  Permit  Cards  and  have  performed  "Honest  Joe!"  from  the  Mediterranean  runs  are  that  the  Navy  could  not  take over  and  met  the  requirements  listed  thereon  under  "Rules  governing  Far  from  being  honest,  Curran  shuffled  into  other  services.  In  the  Radio  Room  unless  thfty  Permit  men"  and  have  duly filed  application  for  membership,  the  acceptance  of  their  application  shall  be  governed  according  to  the  throws  sand  in  the  eyes  ,of  his  Jammed  shipyards prevent  the re.  took  over  ALL  THE  MERCHANT  iXTnion's  decision as  to  the  number  of  new  members  to  be  taken  into  membership  by  trying  to  make  conditioning  of  most  of  the  ships  MARINE.  them  believe  that  they  too  could  coming  up  from  the  tied­up fieets  the  Union  each  month.  have  gotten  as  large  an  increase  in  the  James River,  but once  this  Ballotiiig On!  All  applications  and  applicants  for  membership  are  to  be  sub­ as  the  SIU  by  sacrificing  certain  work  really  gets  going,  there  are  Balloting  on  the  regulations  Ject  to  an  investigation  by  a  committee  as  per  the  Union's  constb  overtime  provisions!  It  won't  prospects of  the  Branch  having  to  drawn , up  at  the  Agents'  Confer,  tuiion.  (This means that  all  future  new  members will  be  thoroughly  work,  Joe!  Here  is  wbnt  He  says:  crew  up  at  least  one  ship a  week.  ence  is  being  conducled  here  Investigated  before  they  are  allowed  to  Join  the  Union  and  that  (NMU  Pilot,  July  12.)  daily  at  noon  and  on  meeting  "The operators Jumped  at the  New  Freighters  they  will  be  Joined  directly  thru  the  Union's  offices  and  not  thru  nights.  The  Bull  Line's  offer  to  opportunity  to  continue  nego­ Down  at  Sparrows  Point,  the  the  negotiating  committee  is  be­ the  Patrolmen  on  the  beat).  tiations  to  consider  additional  first of  the six new  fast freighters  ing  taken  to  the  membership  on  '  Permit  Cards  are  to  be  Issued  ONLY  to  non­members  being  wage  increases  on  the  iNMU  being  built  for the  Robin  Line  is  these  ships  and  voting  is now  in  Chipped  to fill  jobs  because  no  book  members  or  Permit  Card  men  ships,  provided,  however,  that  about  due  for  launching^  while  progress.  The  Branch  has  re­ are  available  to fill  such  jobs.  They  are  to  be  Issued  Permit  Cards  your  committeiii  would  give  over  at  the fltting­up  dock  the  ceived a  supply of  the  new  Permit  at  the  time  they  are  dispatched  to  the.  job  and  at  no  other  time.  some  consideration  to  giving  DELORLEANS  Is  beginning  to  Cards,  but  due  to  the  slowdown  PERMIT  CARDS  ARE  TO  BE  ISSUED  TO  .NO  OTHER  PER­ up  certain  overtime  conces­ look  like  she  might  be  ready  for  in  shipping  the  issuing  of  these  SONS—NO  PERSON  SHALL  BE  ISSUED  MORE  THAN  ONE  sions  in  our  contracts  which  her  trials  by  the  end  of  this  cards  has  been  stopped.  Last  Fri­ PERMIT  CARD—THEY  SHALL  BE  REQUIRED  TO  RETAIN  AND  are  not  included  In  the  agree­ month.  Invoking  the  Neutrality  day  saw  17  SIU  and  four  SUP  ments  of  the  phoney  SIU.  in  Act  to  apply  to  Mediterranean  ships  in  port.  In  line  with  this,  USE  THE  ONE  PERMIT  CARD  ISSUED  THEM.  fact^  they  even  intimated  that  waters  is  proving  especially  hard  members  should  remember  that  if  Permit  Cards  are  to be  issued  under  the  local  S.I.U,  Agent's  sig  we  might  secure  a  much  larger  on  the  tanker  fleets,  and  there  is  is an  impossibility  some  days  for  liatqrp  only.  Agents  will  be  held  responsible  for  all  Permit  Cards  wage  Increase,  provided  we  a  steady  stream  of  the  iied­up  the  palrolmen  to  make  every  ar­ issued thra  his  Branch.  Agents  are  to make  sure  that  Permit  Cards  would  consider  dropping  cer­ anchorage  at  Solomon's  island­ rival.  Ships  with  a  short  stay  in  are. issued  to  only  those  who  are  worthy  of  spch^  and  that  they  tain overtime clauses a  ia  SIU."  The  MC  has  aeeeptsd  the  bid  of  port  are  usually  made first  and  are ohly  issued  to men  needed  to fill  jobs  because  no  book  members  the  Bull  Line  for  tho  MONROE  those with  longer stays or  in dry­ "Overtime  Clauses!"  or Permit  Card  men  are  available  to fill  the  jobs;  and  that  they are  That's  the  alibi  for  recommend­ and  BARREADO  and  a  new  C­1  dock  left  until  later.  only issued  at  the  time  such  persons  are  dispatched  to .thq  jobs.  ing  the  accejmnce  of  a.  JLiOWER  cargo  ehip  now  building  in  Fraternally,  Philadelphia  yard.  We  have  no  inqrease., and  NO­ increase  in ovei^  W.  H.  Elkln*.  Permit  Card  men  shall  be  required  to  pay  only  reg^ular  monthly,  time  to  the  membership.  WHAT  report on  when the two old­timers  fides  on  their  Permit  Cards;  such  dues  to.^be. paid  from  the  date  of  concessions  did  the  shipowners  bought  by  the  Bull  Line  will  be  the  Permit  Card's  issuance  until  such,  time  as  they  become  reguia''  MOBE ABOUT:  ask  for  in  exchange  for  TOP  ready  for  service.  book  members.  They  shall  be  required  to  keep  their  dues  In  good  wages? WHAT "overtime  clauses"  (Standing  at all  times.  were  they  asked  to  drop  from  Commie  Blitzlorieg  Activity  on  the  part  of  the  Permit  Card  men  who  are  shipped  to  jobs  are  to  be  ial.lowe^  to  their agreement  "a  la  SIU?" Cur­ make  at  least  one  complete  round  trip  but  after  such  round  trip  Is  ran's  iuouth  is  full  of  water—^he  Commies  to force  Government  in  Completed,  they  may  be  required  to  relinquish  their  jobs,  upon  de­ cannot  speak,  because  if  he  did,  tervention  or  Glovernment  control  mand  of  any  book  member  desiring  such  job.  Such  demand  shall  he  would  convict'  himself  as  a  over  all  maritime  workers  is  • be made  thru  the  Union's  oflices,  and  the  dispatching  of  such  jobs  bold­face  LIAR!  You  can  search  growing  in  all  ports.  As  usual,  (Continued  from  Page  l)  ehall  be  done  in  accordance  to  the  regular  system  of  dispatching  the  record  from  stem  to  stern—  the  beginning  of  the  Commie  the  Germany  Navy  has  recently  from  May  1st  down  to  July  12,  Blitzkrieg  is centered  against  the  announced  that the  South African  book  member  to  jobs.  and  NOWHERE—rwe  repeat—^NO­ radio  operators  whom,  generally  coast  had  been  heavily  mined.  On  coastwise  ships,  Permit  Card  men­shall  be  allowed  to  remain  WHERE  will  you find  one  single  being  considered  key­men,  ordi  at  least  30  days  on  the  Job  before  being  required  to  relinquish  their  solitary  word  of  intimation  from  narily  feel  the  effects  of  any  Also,  the  freight  rates  on  tba  South  African  run  have  been  in­ Jobs  to  book  members.  Curran  or  anyone  else  that  the  Commie  drive  or  change  In  the  creased  FOR  THE  SECOND  Party  Line  before  it is felt  in  the  J^en  who  are  neither  book  members  or  Permit  Card  men  who  shipowners  had  offered  the  NMU  TIME  on  July  13^  1940.  If  tha  ^hrd'jBhipped  in out  ports where  the Union  does , not maintain a Branch  an  increase  in  exchange  for  over­ other  Maritime  Unions.  The  company  feels  that  it  is  justified  strategy  of  the  Party  leaders  in  ,iin  tl^V  vicinity  because  neither  a book  member  or  Penpit  Card  time  concessions!  this  particular  case  is  much  the  in  asking higher fpeight  rates  fof  man  is available,  such  men  shipped  shall  be­required  to  take  out  a  Just A  Gag  the  additional  risk,  we  see  no  iPerpfit  Card  in  the first  port  the  ship  touches  where  £he  Union  Curran  needed  an "explanation"  same  as that  followed  in  their  at­ reason  why  the  crew  should  not  inhiiitaihs  a  Branch.  All  ships'  delegates  are  to  fry  to  ship  a  hook  for  his sell­out,  and  he  hit  on  the  tempts  to  disrupt  or  nullify  the  be  compensated  for  risking  life  member  or  a  Permit  Card  man  to  these  jobs  if  possible  and  they  "overtime  concessions"  gagl  The  work  of  other  groups  or  organize  and  limb­T­which  is  more  impor­ dlb^l  he  jequired,  in  these  cases,  to file  a  report  on  same  with  the  fact of  the  matter is.that the  SIU  t'lons  such  as  the  National  Youth  tant  to  them  than  are  the  profits  Patrolman  who  boards  the  ship  at  the first  port  where  the  has  established  working  condi­ Congress,  which has  been  brought  of  the  shipowners.  maintains  a  Branch.  These  men  shall  be  required  to  reporl  tions,  INCLUDING  OVERTIME  into  such  disrepute in  tho  eyes  of  Negotiations  Continue  to  f^geUnion  Hall  In  person  to  secure  their  Permit  Card.  CLAUSES,  in  our  agreements  so  the  general  public.  Negotiations  continued  until  far  superior  to  ANYTHING  the  Danger Involved  f  fpAny  man  shipped  to  a  Job  who  is  already  a  member  of  an  or­ has  that  the  "alibi"  would  The  Commies,  therefore,  by  late  Wednesday  night,  "The  com­ • il'  ;0anization  affiliated  with  the  Seafarers  International  Union  of  North  NMU  pany  insisted  that the  picket  line  be  laughable  if  it  were  not  so  having  their  stooges  violate  America  shall  not  be  required  to  take  out  a  Permit  Card.  He  shall  tragic.  So  splendid  are  Curran'S  .1.­ agreements,  and  in  general  delay  be  taken  off  before  continuing,  be  allowed  to sail  on .his  affiliated  organization  membership  book  as  "overtime  clauses"  that  the  Isth­ or  disrupt  the  services  of  well  negotiations  but  the  Union  said  per the  shipping  rules.  mian  S.S.  Co.,  one  of  the  worst  known  ships  such  as  the  MON­ no  soap  to  that  one!  Once  the  ,  .  All  Patrolmen  shall  he  required  to file  with  their  respective  anti­union,  open­shop  outfits  in  TEREY  case,  cause  the  public  line  was  off  we  kuow  what  would  Agent  the  names  and  ratings  of  all  Permit  Card  men  completing  the  country,  have  adopted  the  and  the  Government  to  cast  sus­ happen.  The  line  stays, on  until  NMU  working  rules  on  their  picious  eyes  on  the  radio  oper­ the  beef  is  settled.  Then  the  lound  trips  thru  the  ship's  arrival  in  that  particular  port.  4h1p5::.^ogether  with  the  NMU  ators  and  suspect  them  of  being  company  wanted  the  ship  to  sail  Ships'  delegates  shall  be  required  to  list  the  names  and  ratings  wage  scale I  to  submit  the  dispute  to  an  in  league  with  the  "Fifth  Col­ and  of  all  Permit  Card  men  on  board  and  such  list  shall  be  turned  over  impartial' 'arbitrator.  The  Union  The  Pacts!  to  the  Union  Patrolman  for  his  inspection  u.non  the  ship's  arrival  The  FACTS  stand  out  like  a  umn."  The  next  step  is  self  evi  turned  that  one  down  too  and  ^  dent.  Shipboard  communications  fn  port.  sore  thumb!  When  the  SUP  es­ are  too  important  in  time  of  countered  by  proposing  that  a  conciliator  froia  the  Department  Men who  have  been  issued  Shipping Permits  prior  to the  Invoca­ tablished  a  new  TOP  wage  and  ' V'  1  of  Labor  he  requested  to  partici­ ''I  tion  of  the  new  Permit  Cards  shall  be  reijuired  to  exchange  their  overtime  for  the  seamen,  the  each  case,  and  it  is  inevitable  pate  (.1  in  the  negotiations  but  the  Shipping  Permits:  for  the  new  Peiniit  Cards.  Permit  Cards  Issued  NMU  leaders  rode  on  the  backs  that  it  be  so,  the  parisitic  organ­ company  refused  to  accept  the  them in  lieu of  their Shipping  Permits  shall  be  dated  as of  the  date  of  the  SUP  and  were  GIVEN  an  ism  does not  attain  the  stature  of  Union's  proposal.:  the  Shipping  Permit  was  Issued  and  they  shall  bfe  required  to  pay  increase  of  |10  per  month  in  the  body  upon  which  it  feeds.  In  some  of  their  off­shore  ships  each  case,  the  strength  of  the  monthly dues  from  that day  on.  Picket  Line  On!  WITH  NO  INCREASE  IN  OVER­ body  is  drained  to  keep  the  pari­ At  the  time  of  going  to  press,  Permit  shipping  list^  shall  be  kept  in  all  Branches  in  the  same  TIftiE!  Like  parisites who  live on  the.  picket,  line.  Is  still  goinf  manner  as the  regular  shipping  list  In  order  that  Permit  Card  men  a stronger  body  they sucked  some  sites  alive!  strong.  The  Union  Is  also  keep­ may  register for  Jobs.  bloo(?.  into  fhelr  own veins,  at  the  "Learn to  Crawl?"  Ing  a  weather eye  open  for a  pes.  Permit  Card  men  shall  have  preference  for  Jobs  when  no  book  same  time  weakening  the  body  Unless  the  vermin  who  have  sible  repetition  of  the  finky  ac­ members  are  available  for  such  jobs,  and  they  shall  he  dispatched  upon  which  they  feed.  When  the  attached  themselves  to  the  body  tion  of  the  commissars  in  the  to  these  jobs  from  the  Permit  Shipping  List  in  the  sanae  manner  SIU  fought  and  succeeded  in  es­ of  the  American  seamen  are  NMU  because  we  still  remember  as  book  members  are  dispatched  from  the  regular  shipping  list.  •   tablishing  TOP  wages  and  condi­ shaken  off,  they  will  be  de­ when  we  hung  up  the  8S  ROBIN  tions  in  the  coastwise  trade,  once  stroyed!  "Learn  to  crawl,"  says  ADAIR  last  fall  for  a  war  bonus,  '  When  no  Permit  Card  man  Is  available  for a  Job  then  the  local  again  the  parisites  fastened  Curran!  Rid  yourself  of  the craw­ the  NMU  shipped  a  gang  of  finks  Agent  shall  dispatch  an  outside  man  to  the  Job  and  issue  him  a  themselves  on  the  body  of' men  lers,  say  we,  so that  with  undim­ aboard  and  sailed  the  ship  with­ Iregulation  Permit  Card.  AJI  Agents  are  to  make  sure  that  such  men  carrying  on  the  struggle  and  ished strength,  we  can  march  for­ out  a  bonus.  .The  ALGIC and  the  ,  are  of  the  right  sort  and  who  are  dssircus  and  capable  of  becoming  filled  their  veins  by  sucking  our  ward  to  greater  gains  with  TOP  ROBIN  ADAIR  are  operated  by  good  members.  blood  and  weakening our fight.  In  wages and  conditions for  alll  the  same  company.  Men  who  are  employed  on  ships  considered  unorflanired  or  not  already  under  the  Immediate  jurisdiction  of  the  S.I.U.  of  N.A.  may  be  taken  into  the  Union  directly  without  having  to  go  thru  the  Union's  permit  system  providing  that,  at  the  time  of  their  Joining,  they  agree  to  stay  on  the  same  ship  or  sail  on  any  other  ship  in  such  companies  for  organizational  and  representative  purposes.  I  S;..;;  Crew  Pickets  For War Bonus  J  I&C­­ j  V­ " ' "   ­ ' • ­  • •  � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1939-1949 Description An account of the resource Volumes I-XI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. BCC The name(s) and email address(es) of the person to whom the email was blind carbon copied. 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Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Time Summary A summary of an interview given for different time stamps throughout the interview Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 To The name(s) and email address(es) of the person to whom the email was sent. Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Transcription Any written text transcribed from a sound. Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 URL Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource July 20, 1940 Description An account of the resource Headlines: SIU WINS WAGE RAISE FOR NMU MEMBERSHIP CREW PICKETS ALGIC FOR WAR BONUS TO SO. AFRICA RECORD PROVES NMU OWES DEBT OF GRATITUDE TO SEAFARERS IN THESE PERILOUS TIMES! FOUR WATCH SYSTEM IN JESUS' TIME HAWKSHAW THE BEAGLE UNEARTHS HUGE PLOT POLICY REGARDS THE TAKING IN OF NEW MEMBERS AND THE ISSUANCE OF PERMIT CARDS AND THE SYSTEM OF HANDLING SAME Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 7/20/1940 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. II, No. 7 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America 1940 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/53308c720a2f34479a31f7ffdfd8efee.PDF 1a389e6ab211e38f454962b716f4410b PDF Text Text •T Official Organ of the Atlantic and Gulf District, Seafarers International Union of North America Vol. VII. NEW YORK. N. Y„ FRIDAY. JULY 20. 1945 HE CAN'T CONCEAL THE RECORD! No. 29 WLB Hears Our Wage Disputes This Week, SlU Brief Submitted SIU wage disputes with all contracted operators was-laid before the National War Labor Board on July 19 for a full airing and decision. Over the past months the union has been fighting to win substantial increases in basic wage rates in order to offset the cut in take-home-pay brought about by the bonus slash. The Board has prom­ ised a prompt decision on the case. Following is the text of the SIU brief, tracing the history of the disputes, and out-* lining the union reasoning in de­ ditional compensation of 25% of the seamen we represent engaged their base wages in the form of in a strike for increases in the manding basic wage increases: war bonuses in lieu of an actual take-home wage rates because of July 19, 1945 base wage raise, which, as will the inceased freight rates and In order that the National War be hereinafter shown, was the the increased cost of living. This Labor Board may have before it shipowners' reasoning in their at­ strike resulted in the tie-up of the background of the above tempt to keep the. base wage numerous ships in all ports. cases now pending before it on rates down to sub-standard levels. CALLED OFF STRIKE the question of wages, the Union This a d d i t i o nal compensation, Upon the appeal of the late hereinbelow sets forth a short however, together with the base President of the United States, history of the war bonus and the wage rate is the take-home wage. Franklin D. Roosevelt, to release basic wage which make up the In 1940 the freight rates con­ the ships for the sake of the Na­ take-home wage for the unlicen­ sed ratings sailing as crew mem­ tinued to surge upward and the tional Defense Program and the bers of the companies involved: shipowners consented to an in­ Lend-Lease Program, the Sea­ HISTORY OF WAR BONUS crease in the war bonuses from farers International Union of Wth the inception of World 25% to $30.00 per month, again in North America and the Sailors War II in September, 1939, freight lieu of an actual base wage rate Union of the Pacific acceded to rates in the marine industry sky- increase and again keeping the this appeal of the late President ' rocketed sharply . and the unli- seamen's base wages at sub­ that the ships be released and sent to sea and that the case be * censed seamen were granted ad- standard levels. In 1941 the freight rates con­ put before the National Defense tinued skyrocketing to such an Mediation Board for arbitration. extent that the Maritime Com­ This was done and the case be­ mission placed them under its came Case No. 80 of the NDMB. own control and froze them. The On October 4th, 1941 the Na­ Following extensive war ser­ dom the Black Rock was involved shipowners in March, 1941 agreed tional Defense Mediation Board vice, especially in the Normandy in a number of interesting inci­ to increases in the monthly war rendered a decision on this case invasion, and preparatory to fur­ dents. She was assigned the task bonus from $30.00 per month to with the provision that the de­ of towing back to England the ther overseas assignment, the SS Fort Norfolk which had been $50.00 and in May to $60.00 per cision be retroactive to August month, again in each instance in 16th, 1941. The decision granted ocean-going SIU tug Black Rock mined in the Channel. During lieu of an actual base wage in­ the seamen an increase of $20.00 If you suddenly get "greetings" has just returned to the United this tow the SS Fort Norfolk sud­ crease, and in each instance still per month in the war bonuses from the President and swap States, towing a large SIU denly sank without warning and leaving the base wage rates at which then fixed the bonus at your suit of dungarees for a dog freighter that was torpedoed in SIU members of the tug's crew, sub-standard levels. $80.00 per month and which was In August and September 1941 tag and fifty bucks a month, don't the Persian Gulf, the War Ship­ who had gone aboard the SS Fort (Continued on Page 11) blame it on your fellow neigh­ ping Administration reported to­ Norfolk, were require'd to aban­ don the ship with great haste in NO NEWS DELIVERY bors back in the local draft board. day. order to save themselves. This It may be that you haven't been tug was also assigned the diffi­ answering those draft board no­ In "the long tow home" was the cult task of towing the large tices that most male army elig- Alcoa Prospector. She was at­ British cruiser HMS Scylla in tacked, apparently by a Japan­ ibles receive from time to time. ese submarine, while steaming heavy seas. All of these tasks During the past few months a from Iran to Montevideo, and af­ and others were performed under stack of letters from draft boards, ter an overhaul in this country the constant threat of being and draft classification cards have will once again be available for bombed and strafed by enemy aircraft. On one occasion the accumulated in the New York war service. Black Rock was made the center Hall, with the blissful owners Before ranging as far as the of an enemy air attack, which probably out at sea tilling tall, . was dispersed by the tug's own tales in the messroom of how ^nd guns. they never :r have to worry about was in the thick of action during their draft boards. the consolidation of the Norm­ After the completion of the •/ Although the ship's purser is andy beachhead. The vessel par­ Normandy operations the Black supposed to notify your draft ticipated in the now famous llock was dispatched to Bombay board when you join a vessel, "Mulberry" operation, which con­ to undertake the tow of the Alcoa this system is subject to neglect sisted of the transportation and Prospector. Enroute to undertake or mistake on the purser's part construction of artificial harbors this assignment the vessel towed and to the delay caused by rout­ on the Normandy beaches. The a torpedoed Liberty ship, the ing the notice through the WSA Black Rock towed a number of Robert R. Hoke, from Suez to The seventeen day strike of the newspaper deliverers in New in Washington. large concrete component parts Bombay. Upon arrival in Indian York City which tied up 11 metropolitan papers is over, and you Ocean waters the vessel was as­ of the harbors from the United , If you prefer the merchant Kingdom to the required location won't be seeing customers like these lined up before the newspaper signed towing the Royal Navy marine to the army of occupation buildings. When the Newspaper Guild and Newsboys Union as­ off the Normandy beaches. which inyplved voyages from serted their refusal to work with scab deliveries, the publishers gave it still pays to notify your draft board direct with a post card each During return voyages from Bombay to Columbo and to Cal­ iip and accepted the union's proposal to arbitrate a demand for a time you sign on a ship. Normandy to the United King­ cutta and return to Bombay. 3% payroll tax to go for a union unemployment and health fund. SIU Tug Home With Outstaniling Record T Draft Board Still Drafting 't, ... T-.-, • . , . , . �//•J Page Two THE SEAFARERS LOG SEAFARERS Friday, July 20, 1945 LOG <«Miieh Better Than Yeur Own** m Published WeekJly by the SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA Atlantic and Gulf District /Affiliated with the American federation of Labor ^ |S) At 51 Beaver Street, New York 4, N. Y. IIAndver 2-2781 4, 4, a> 4. HiVRRY LUNDEBERG ------- President 105 Market Street, San Francisco, Calif. JOHN HAWK -------- Secy-Treai. P. O. Box 2 5, Station P., New York City MATTHEW DUSHANE - - - 'Washington Rep. 424 5 th Street, N. W., Washington, D. C. Entered as second class matter June 15, 1945, at the Post Office in New York, N. Y., under the Act of August 24, 1912. 267 Time To Attack The outstanding labor hater in Congress is, without doubt, John Rankin of Mississippi. His name has been consistently coupled with the most vicious anti-labor leg­ islative proposals laid before that body. His latest move is an attempt to drive a wedge between the unions and the veterans through a bill that would exempt honorably discharged servicemen from joining la­ bor unions, even where the closed shop is established by By BUNKER contract. ^Vil If passed, the bill would completely negate whatever Among many brothers shipping union contracts now exist, and leave the unions powerless out together from SIU halls are to meet the wage-slashing campaigns of the employers. It the sea-going Lawsons of Sanford, Florida. In New York re­ met sweel Maae, in 9ay P«z««, would set the stage for civil warfare in tliis country, by cently, trying to catch a Liberty 'if? And Fifi irf Port an Primie, " • setting up 10 million veterans whom the employers would for the Pacific, were Leon and There was Nanosan from far Japan certain'y seek to use as a scab pool against the unionized Hubert, back from New Orleans Though I haven't seen her since. where they got off of the SS Von workers. Steuben. ' There was Molly Brown from far Cape Town To be sure, only a small percentage of veterans would Father Lawson, who used to be And Marribelte from Peru; fall for this dodge, since most of them are union members Chief Steward of the Missis^pi A «ute. Norway maid who wore a braid. now, but enough would be affected to make the situation liner Del Brazil before the Army And an E£nburgh lass named "Sue. extremely dangerous for freedom and democracy in took her over, started the boys to There was Kate O'Bourke whom 1 met in Cork. sea ten years ago on cruise ships America. • And Alma the Danish kid. out of New York. Another broth­ The chances are that the bill will not pass. It has er, Harold, was lost on a ship Some Turkish Belles from the Dardinelles. And Tsabelle from Madrid. already been hotly blasted on the floor of Congress. In which was last heard from two J addition, a majority of the committee that had voted in years ago in the Indian Ocean. I knew girls galore in old Singapore. % ^ % favor of the bill signed a statement protesting against the And Reda who lived in Rome. One SlUer reports that Balti­ But I winked my eye and said good bye bill. But however decisively the bill is defeated, labor can­ more probably has the most po­ When the good ship sailed for home. not relax its vigilance. Other bills will surely follow this lite panhandlers of any port up one, for the thought of so tremendous a potential anti- and down |he coast. On a stand­ I knew dusky Queens in the Phillippinei. And some in the South Sea Isles; labor force as the veterans is sending the employers into by job recently he was walking Also a peach on Waikiki Beach. up Pratt Street in dungarees and paroxysms of joy. I remember her sunny smiles. blue shirt when a bum stopped The job of the trade union is manifold. Not only must him and said, "Hey, buddy, how But I'll flirt no more, now my trip is o'«r It open its doors to the veteran, and publicize positively the about two bits?" And my seabag is stowed away. role of labor during the war—both of which it has been Our union brother, being pretty For I'm anchored for life with sweet little wife doing to a great extent—but it must put forth a plan or low himself and in search of a Whom I met in the U.S.A. plans that will insure jobs for all. None of the proposed cheap stew turned the bum down plans so far do more than scratch the surface, and in the with a quick reply, "Say, fellow," he said, "can't you see I'm work­ last analysis seem to be leading to a new, and still unpro­ ing this end of the street? How ductive WPA, which will be unable to do anything to about moving uptown a little solve the unemployment everyone ^ems to expect. further?" The bum was _very Labor has in its ranks many competent economists apologetic for encroaching on our and experts who know the score. Now is the time for them friend's territory and moved off the street. to prepare a program which labor can present as its own upAfter having a fifteen cent stew contribution for postwar security. Otherwise comes peace our brother left the restaurant crew of old timers before she On the list of ship sinkings and unemployment, the ^'Rankin Bills" will follow each and started back to the ship when pulled out for South America was just made public are the names other and then, one day, there won't be any labor move­ he bumps into the bum again. Buck Newman, lately piecarding of Liberties that were caught in "Did you do any good, chum?" in the port of Norfolk. Buck went ment. to Philadelphia for a visit and the castast'fophe at Bari on De­ a^s the panhandler. "Hell, no," says our sailor had the misfortune to meet cember 2, 1943. One of these was friend, "I tried the whole block Frenchy Michelet, poet laureate the Samuel J. Tilden, an SIU and I didn't get a damn cent." of the belly robbers. Frenchy troop carrier just coming towards To which the bum replied, talked Buck into making the Del- the harbor at the time the dive The NMU, at its convention, reaffirmed the no-strike "Don't get discouraged, fellow, it Rio, telling him romarttic tales of bombers attacked. She was hit pledge, as was expected. However, nothing was said of takes a little practice. Here's two darke^ haired maidens down Rio and sunk in a few minutes. Other bit's and a bottle of bay rum. .1 way. By the time the beer and carrying the pledge into the postwar era, which was an made enough for both of us." the effect -of Frenchy's poetry ships lost in Bari included the important part of the commie program, before the line was wore away. Buck was hard and John Bascom, John Harvey, John » » 2. changed by the French communists. What's cookin' Joe? Latest recruit for the DelRio fast on the ship's articles. L. Motley and Joseph Wheeler. FORE 'n AFT Sweethearts How Come, Joe? �mm Friday, July 20, 1045 SEAP ARERS LOG Page Three Frame-up Coast Guard Charge Backfires On Pheny Skipper By PAUL HALL FROM THE FLOOR The membership in this union, particularly those who are conisidered "young members," is showing a healthy interest in the man­ ner in which their union operates. We have many of these fellows around e^-ery day, and questions they ask are many and varied. The question, however, that comes up more often than all the rest is, "How is SIU policy formed on the organizational problems that the members feel should be dealt with?" This is a fair question and dpserves a fair answer, so let's look into the record and give these men an answer. There was a fine example of this during a meeting a while back, when questions were raised by the rank and file as to relations be­ tween the various districts of the Seafarers. Other questions raised concerned the methods that might be used in obtaining better work­ ing conditions, living quarters and wage increases; the methods used in conducting union affairs; and the attempts of the WSA to elim­ inate seamen's unions. The discussion on the WSA was a fiery one participated in by the membership and officials—a discussion which spread after the meeting, down the steps into the streets and into every spot where seamen gather. The main emphasis of the discussion dealt with the reluctance of some union members to take jobs on hot ships, and how this allows the WSA to fill the jobs with their own men who do not go through our halls. ff Ps The dangers in this, it was pointed out, are that the WSA pools do not consist merely of maritime school boys, who in most cases can be made into good union men, but also of the scum of every port who have never been and never will be union men. The results of this clarifying discussion and the action taken by the membership were evident the next day, when book members responded to jobs called, and not a fink from the WSA pool was shipped. THE POLICY MAKERS Also thoroughly discussed were the relations between the various SIU districts, and a policy was recommended by the mem­ bership—that all members of the SIU, regardless of the district, be given full and equal shipping rights in all districts, no matter what port they are in. Because of the sentiment expressed by the full discussion of the rank and file, this is now the policy of the SIU. r SAN FRANCISCO —It is safe to say that the crew of the SS Robert M. La Follette did not have a premonition of what would befall them in the course of the coming voyage, when they signed on this vessel in New York January 10, 1945. Now they have memories of what is probably for them the most hectic voyage of their car­ eer. You see, most of the crew were young, clean-cut fellows and it is very likely they had read stories of where crews have mutinied and where sailors have been knocked around by mates with belaying pins or marlin spikes. Well, in the course of the voyage the ship navigated the Canal and went out in the South Pacific, via Honolulu. In Hono­ lulu one night, not having any­ thing better to do, the guys put on a little show. One fellow had a ukelele and another one had a hula skirt which he . put on. So the boys put on a show and sang a few songs and a good time was had by all. Incidently, the Skip­ per witnessed this display of tal­ ent and seemed to enjoy it. It was during their stay in Eniwetok that the trouble actually began. Came the evening of April 7, 1945. Sometime during the afternoon some of the fellows from the William R. Davie decid­ ed to pay the crew of the La Fol­ lette a visit. They took a couple of cases of beer with them and boarded the La Follette. Then all the gang, after consuming about one bottle of beer apiece, decided they would put on a show just like the one they had staged in Honolulu. They sang a few songs and were having a pretty good time when the skipper sent the By ROBERT A. MATTHEWS mate back to tell the guys they were making too much noise. With 'this the fellows quieted down for a while — after which they eventually became noisy again. It wasn't long before the master stepped out of his cabin and fired six shots with his trusty six shooter. He then got the mate and Gunnery Officer to accom­ pany him back to number five hatch where he told the guys that if they didn't break up that drunken and riotous meeting he would shoot into the crowd. Some of the boys immediately protested against this kind of treatment because weren't they all Americans where this kind of action had become a thing of the past? Evidently the master did not even concede the men the right to protest because he there­ upon signaled ashore for a board­ ing party. He then secured a crew list and indiscriminately checked off eighteen names of men who were to be sent ashore. When the Marines came aboard they were armed for an invasion, or so it appeared to the crew. The skipper made all the men muster on the boat deck and then he singled out the eighteen men who were being sent to the brig. It might be well to note here that six of the men who were sent ashore were not in the sing-fest at all. After being in the brig for five days, fifteen of the men were sent back to the ship and the other three were not allowed to go back to the ship. They were sent back to Honolulu on a Navy plane and from there they were sent as workaways back to San Francisco, where they had to spend two months awaiting the return of . the vessel to San Pedro. When the vessel arrived in San Pedro the Skipper had charges against the eighteen men which included among others, charges of mutinous, riotous, drunken and disorderly conduct. At the Coast Guard hearing which followed. Brother Charlie Brenner very ably defended the men and suc­ ceeded in getting all the charges knocked out but the disorderly conduct. We immediately demanded res­ toration of the five days' pay and bonus for the men while they were ashore, plus a division of wages for the entire deck depart­ ment for the three sailors' who were left aboard for five days. This we got. The three men who were sent back to the States also got wages till the end of voyage, plus transportation back to New York. This should be the happy end­ ing of this story but it isn't. The Coast Guard later put charges against the skipper and suspend­ ed his ticket for six months, and put him on probation for a year. I might add that there were about 600 hours overtime in this ship that I was able to collect for the boys. In closing I would like to add that this was one of*the best crews I have ever had the good fortune to represent. At the payoff there wasn't one case of drunkeness. This was one of the cleanest and most level-head­ ed crews I have ever come in contact with. Here I would like to give spec­ ial credit to the following: R. G. Sly, deck delegate; Ed Blackman, engine delegate; and A. J. Kuberski, stewards delegate. They did a fine job of assisting us at the payoff. ROBERT LaFOLLETTE CREW This is how policy is made in the SIU. In most cases initiated by the membership, proposals of policy and tactics receive a thor­ ough discussion from the floor and, if approved, becorne the official position of the union—to be carried out to the letter of the motion, by elected officials. An official who might choose to slight the Wishes of the membership in this union would soon find himself judged by that same membership in the same democratic meeting. This is- the way union policy should be made, if it is to express the wishes of the rank and file. However, in some unions this is not the case. Policy there, as in the NMU, is made by a small minority who force their decision down the throats of the membership, no . matter what the affect might be on the union welfare. The NMU ruling group takes, its orders from a foreign power and would not hesitate to sell the American seaman down the river if the Com­ munist International ordered them to do so. i WHERE THE POWER LIES 'A democratically run union is controlled by the rank and file, hs in the SIU where the expressions and decisions of the memberBhip are binding on the leadership, and the decisions of a minority ^oup can carry no more weight than that of any other minority. The daily interpretation bf the SIU policy, based on the de­ cisions of conventions, port meetings, conferences, and referenda, fs the job of the elected officials. "When an official at any time fails to carry out the policy of the membership, then it is time for him to resign his position—^before the membership puts him out. This is the only way a bona fide union can exist. The demo­ cratic control of the union by the rank and file of the SIU is a guarantee against the union degenerating to the same low level of the communist controlled outfits. ; , / Looking over the lengthy list of charges which made them look like the mutineers of the Bounty, are these six members of the LaFollette's crew, recently returned from the West Coast, where the Coast Guard cleared them and yanked the skipper's papers. Captain Edward (Muntiny) Foster's boys include, left to right, standing. G. V. LeMieux. and Bill Johnson: seated. Ed Miller. Ed Bush. A* J. Kuberski. and Joe Vamos. �THE Page Fotir SEAFARERS LOG Friday. July 20. 1545^^ / Ship Casualties In The Atlantic During the sub war in the Atlantic 1,554 U. S. merchant ships were lost. Hundreds were SIU ships, and thousands of SIU men gave their lives. Thousands more now face equally dangerous waters in the Pacific. Last week the Log published the ships lost between December 8, 1941 and July 4,1942. This week we printed the rest of the ships lost, up to Sept. 20, 1943 inclusive. Date Name of Vessel Area Northeast Atlantic July 5—CARLTON Northeast Atlantic July 5—DANIEL MORGAN Northeast Atlantic July 5—FAIRFIELD CITY Northeast Atlantic July 5—HEFFRON Northeast Atlantic July 5—HONOMU Northeast Atlantic July 5—HYBERT Northeast Atlantic July 5—JOHN RANDOLPH Northeast Atlantic July 5—MASSMAR Northeast Atlantic July 5—PAN KRAFT July 5—^PETER KERR Northeast Atlantic Northeast Atlantic July 5_WASHINGT0N Northeast Atlantic July 6—JOHN WITHERSPOON Northeast Atlantic July 6—PAN ATLANTIC Northeast Atlantic July 7—ALCOA RANGER 7—OLOPANA Northeast Atlantic JulyGulf of Mexico July 8—J. A. MOFFETT, JR Gulf of Mexico July 9—BENJAMIN BREWSTER Northeast Atlantic July 9—HOOSIER Northwest Atlantic July 9—SANTA RITA July 12—ANDREW JACKSON Caribbean Caribbean July 12—TACHIRA July 13—ONEIDA Caribbean July 13—R. W. GALLAGHER Gulf of Mexico July 14—ARCATA Pacific July 16—FAIRPORT Northwest Atlantic July 16—GERTRUDE Gulf of Mexico July 16—WILLIAM F. HUMPHREY South Atlantic July 19—KESHENA Northwest Atlantic July 21—COAST FARMER Pacific July 21—WILLIAM DAWES Pacific July 22—HONOLULAN ....Approaches to Mediterranean July 24—CHILORE Northwest Atlantic July 24—ONONDAGA Caribbean July 27—STELLA LYKES Caribbean July 28—EBB Northwest Atlantic July 29—CRANFORD Caribbean July 30—ROBERT E. LEE Gulf of Mexico Aug. 6—WAWALOAM Northwest Atlantic Aug. 8—KAIMOKU Northwest Atlantic Aug. 13—^ALMERIA LYKES....Mediterranean-Black Sea Aug. 13—CALIFORNIA : Caribbean Aug. 13—CRIPPLE CREEK Approaches to Mediterranean Aug. 13—^DELMUNDO Caribbean Aug. 13—R. M. PARKER, JR Gulf of Mexico Aug. 13—SANTA ELISA Mediterranean-Black Sea Aug. 15—^BALLADIER Northwest Atlantic Aug. 17—LOUISIANA Caribbean Aug. 18—JOHN HANCOCK Caribbean Aug. 19—WEST CELINA Caribbean Aug. 27—ARLYN Northwest Atlantic Aug. 27—CHATHAM ..Northwest Atlantic Aug. 29—TOPA TOPA Caribbean Aug. 30—JACK CARNES ;...Northwest Atlantic Aug. 30—STAR OF OREGON Caribbean Aug. 30—WEST LASHAWAY Caribbean Sept. —^WICHITA Undetermined Sept. 12—PATRICK J. HURLEY Caribbean Sept. 13—JOHN PENN Northeast Atlantic Sept. 13—MARY LUCKENBACH Northeast Atlantic Sept. 13—OLIVER ELLSWORTH Northeast Atlantic Sept. 13—OREGONIAN Northeast Atlantic Sept. 13—^WACOSTA Northeast Atlantic Sept. 15—AMERICAN LEADER South Atlantic Sept. 16—COMMERCIAL TRADER Caribbean Sept. 17—MAE Caribbean Sept. 18—^KENTUCKY Northeast Atlantic Sept. 20—SILVER SWORD Northeast Atlantic Sept. 21—JOHN WINTHROP Northwest Atlantic Sept. 22—^BELLINGHAM Northeast Atlantic Sept. 22—PAUL LUCKENBACH Red Sea and Indian Ocean Sept. 23—^PENNMAR Northwest Atlantic Sept. 24—WEST CHETAC Caribbean Sept. 24—ESSO WILLIAMSBURG....Northwest Atlantic Sept. 24—LOSMAR Red Sea and Indian Ocean ept. 24—^WEST CHETAC" Caribbean Sept. 27—STEPHEN HOPKINS South Atlantic Sept. 28—^ALCOA MARINER Caribbean Oct. —^LA SALLE Undetermined Oct. 2—^ALCOA TRANSPORT Caribbean Oct. 4—CARIBSTAR ..Caribbean Oct. 4—ROBERT H. COLLEY Northwest Atlantic Oct. 5—LARRY DOHENY Pacific Oct. 5—WILLIAM A. McKENNEY Caribbean Oct. 7—CHICKASAW CITY South Atlantic Oct. 8-JOHN CARTER ROSE Caribbean 1 \ 1 Dale Name of Vessel Area South Atlantic Oct. 8—SWIFTSURE South Atlantic Oct. 9—COLORADAN ..., South Atlantic Oct. 9—EXAMELIA Pacific Oct. 10—CAMDEN ! Caribbean Oct. 11—STEEL SCIENTIST Northwest Atlantic Oct. 18—ANGELINA Northwest Atlantic Oct. 19—STEEL NAVIGATOR Caribbean Oct. 23—REUBEN TIPTON Pacific Oct. 25—PRESIDENT COOLIDGE South Atlantic Oct. 26—.\NNE HUTCHINSON Northwest Atlantic Oct. 27—GURNEY E. NEWLIN Northeast Atlantic Oct. 29—PAN NEW YORK Caribbean Oct. 29—WEST KEBAR Undetermined Nov. —SAWOKLA South Atlantic Nov. 1—GEORGE THACHER South Atlantic Nov. 3—EAST INDIAN Northwest Atlantic Nov. 3—^HAHIRA Northeast Atlantic Nov. 4—WILLIAM CLARK Caribbean Nov. 5—METON Caribbean Nov. 7—NATHANIEL HAWTHORNE Nov. 8—WEST HUMHAW Approaches to Mediterranean South Atlantic Nov. 9—MARCUS WHITMAN South Atlantic Nov. 13—EXCELLO South Atlantic Nov. 13—STAR OF SCOTLAND Northwest Atlantic Nov. 18—PARISMINA Northwest Atlantic Nov. 18—^YAKA South Atlantic Nov. 20—PIERCE BUTLER South Atlantic Nov. 23—ALCOA PATHFINDER ..Northwest Atlantic Nov. 23—CADDO Nov. 27—JEREMIAH WADSWORTH. South Atlantic Nov. 28—ALASKAN Caribbean Dec. —JAMES McKAY Northwest Atlantic Undetermined Dec. 9—COAMO Dec. 14—^ALCOA RAMBLER South Atlantic Dec. 14—THOMAS B. SCHALL Caribbean 1943 Jan. 1—ARTHUR MIDDLETON Mediterranean-Black Sea Jan. 9—BIRMINGHAM CITY Caribbean Jan. 9—BROAD ARROW Caribbean Jan. 9—COLLINGSWORTH Caribbean Jan. 9-:-MINOTAUR Caribbean Jan. 10—LOUISE LYKES Northeast Atlantic Jan. 23—BENJAMIN SMITH Approaches to Mediterranean Jan. 25—BRILLIANT Northwest Atlantic Jan. 25—CITY OF FLINT..Approaches to Mediterranean Caribbean Jan. 27—CAPE DECISION Jan. 27—CHARLES C. PINCKNEY Approaches to Mediterranean Jan. 27-^ULIA WARD HOWE Approaches t6 Mediterranean Jan. 29—SAMUEL GOMPERS .....Pacific Feb. —ATLANTIC SUN Northwest Atlantic Feb. 2—JEREMIAH VAN RENSSELAER Northwest Atlantic Feb. 3—DORCHESTER Northwest Atlantic Feb. 3—GREYLOCK Jfortheast Atlantic Feb. 5—^WEST PORTAL Northwest Atlantic Feb. 7—HENRY R. MALLORY Northwest Atlantic Feb. 7—ROBERT E. HOPKINS Northwest Atlantic Feb. 9—ROGER B. TANEY South Atlantic Feb. 10—STARR KING Pacific Feb. 17—DEER LODGE South Atlantic Feb. 21—^ROSARIO .Northeast Atlantic Feb. 22—CHATTANOOGA CITY......Northwest Atlantic Feb. 22—EXPOSITOR Northwest Atlantic Feb. 23—ESSO BATON ROUGE Approaches to Mediterranean Feb. 23—HASTINGS Northwest Atlantic Feb. 23—JONATHAN STURGES ....Northwest Atlantic Feb. 23—NATHANAEL GREENE Mediterranean-Black Sea Feb. 28—WADE HAMPTON Northwest Atlantic Mar. 1—FITZ JOHN PORTER South Atlantic Mar. 2—MERIWETHER LEWIS ....Northwest Atlantic South Atlantic Mar. 3—HARVEY W. SCOTT Mar. 4—STAG HOUND South Atlantic Mar. 5—EXECUTIVE Northeast Atlantic Mar. 8-JAMES B. STEPHENS South Atlantic Mar. 9—JAMES K. POLK Caribbean Mar. 9—MALANTIC Northeast Atlantid Mar. 9—PUERTO RICAN Northeast Atlantic Mar. 9—THOMAS RUFFIN ....Caribbean Mar. ID—JAMES SPRUNT ..Caribbean Dale Name of Vessel Area Mar. 10—RICHARD BLAND Northeast Atlantic Mar. 10—ANDREA F. LUCKENBACH Northwest Atlantic Mar. 10—RICHARD D. SPAIGHT South Atlantic Mar. 10—VIRGINIA SINCLAIR Caribbean Mar. 11_WILLIAM C. GORGAS Northwest Atlantic Mar. 13—CITIES SERVICE MISSOURI ...Caribbean Mar. 13—KEYSTONE Approaches to Mediterranean Mar. 16—BENJAMIN HARRISON Approaches to Mediterranean Mar. 17—HARRY LUCKENBACH....Northwest Atlantic Mar. 17—TRENEE DU PONT Northwest Atlantic Mar. 17-^AMES OGLETHORPE....Northwest Atlantic Mar. 17—MOLLY PITCHER Approaches to Mediterranean Mar. 17—WILLIAM EUSTIS Northwest Atlantic Mar. 18—WALTER Q. GRESHAM....Northwest Atlantic Mar. 19—MATHEW LUCKENBACH Northeast Atlantic Mar. 29—WILLIAM PIERCE FRYE Northeast Atlantic Apr. 4—GULFSTATE Gulf of Mexico , Apr. 5—SUNOIL Northwest Atlantic Apr. 6—^TOHN SEVIER Caribbean Apr. 11—JAMES W. DENVER Approaches to Mediterranean Mar. 13—ROBERT GRAY Undetermined Mra. 20—MICHIGAN Mediterranean-Black Sea Mar. 21—^OHN DRAYTON South Atlantic Apr. 24—SANTA CATALINA Northwest Atlantic Apr. 27—LYDIA M. CHILD ...Pacific Apr. 29—McKEESPORT Northwest Atlantic Apr. 30—PHOEBE A. HEARST .....Pacific Northwest Atlantic May 5—^WEST MADAKET May 5—WEST MAXIMUS Northwest Atlantic May 6—SAMUEL JORDAN KIRKWOODSouth Atlantic May 8—PAT HARRISON Approaches to Mediterranean "^ May 13—NICKELINER Caribbean May 16—WILLIAM K. VANDERBILT ......Pacific May 17—H. M. STOREY Pacific ' May 28—AGWIMONTE : South Atlantic' May 28—JOHN WORTHINGTON South Atlantip May 30—FLORA MacDONALD Approaches to Mediterranean June 3—^MONTANAN Red Sea and Indian Ocean South Atlantic June 6—WILLIAM KING 10—ESSO GETTYSBURG Northwest Atlantic June 19—HENRY KNOX Red Sea and Indian Ocean June 27—SEBASTIAN CERMENO June Red Sea and Indian Oceatt July —SAMUEL HEINTZELMAN Northwest Atlantic ^ July 2—BLOODY MARSH South Atlantic July 3—ELIHU B. WASHBURNE Caribbean July 5—MALTRAN South Atlantic July 7—JAMES ROBERTSON July 7—WILLIAM BOYCE THOMPSON South Atlantic Caribbean May 8—ELDENA 8—THOMAS SINNICKSON South Atlantic May 10—ALICE F. PALMER Red Sea and Indian Ocean May South Atlantic May 12—AFRICAN STAR May 12—ROBERT ROWAN ....Mediterranean-Black Sea July 13—TIMOTHY PICKERING , Mediterranean-Black Sea July 14—ROBERT BACON ..Red Sea and Indian Ocean South Atlantic July 16—RICHARD CASWELL Aug. 8—HARRISON GRAY OTIS Approaches to Mediterranean Aug. 13—FRANCIS W. PETTYGROVE Mediterranean-Black Sea ^ 26—JOHN BELL Mediterranean-BlacW Sea Aug. 26—RICHARD HENDERSON Aug. Mediterranean-Black Sea Sept. 15—BUSHROD WASHINGTON Mediterranean-Black Sae Sept. 20—FREDERICK DOUGLASS..Northwest Atlantic Sept. 20—THEODORE DWIGHT WELD Northwest Atlantic This list will be continued next week, and rup until completed. Many seamen have axmounced their inten­ tion of clipping these pages to save, for this list is a capsule history of the seafarers' contribution to the war effort, and a monument to the memory of their ship­ mates who have given their lives for their oountryk >' !•< �'•' 'Zi'.L." r"*' j''^i^",'/'^'\''.'.'\ • THE Frid&7« July 20, 194S SEAFARERS LOG Oh Yes, He Also Got A Medal HER^MfH * Modesty is no ddubt a virtue, but when carried too far wreaks hardships on overworked editors. Some weeks ago we ran a story about Juan Oquendo, Jr., Night Cook and Baker, who was cleared of framed charges brought 'n LIFT against him by a reputation seek­ outside of the above. And the ing skipper. NMU book he holds insures him Well, the other day Brother a salary of $175 per week. Some Oquendo was in the Log office to union man (some sacrifice! Union­ pick up a copy of the paper. We ism a la Joe Curran pays and passed the time of the day with pays and pays). him. With one thing leading to Yes, this non seaman "seaman ' another, as sometimes things do, non union "union" man, collects somebody asked him what he did heavily for his $2.50 dues pay­ with his medal. ment per month. Be it noted that "What medal?" we asked. this fatted parasite pays the same dues as poor devils of NMU sea­ "Why, the Mariners Medal that men whose earnings hardly al­ he got," was the answer. low them to live. We calmed ourselves with great Yet, this is the type of bum difficulty and led Oquendo into who demands that opposition ship a corner and got the story from out and casts aspersions on "how him. It seems that the SS Rosario, do they earn their living" etc, BuU Line, was coming back from etc. Well, take a good look at England when it was torpedoed the known facts of how this bum on February 21, ^43. Only 10 makes his living while selling men of the crew were saved, and the NMU members down the riv­ 15 of the gun crew. er through sweetheart contracts. One of the men was caught in Do you know that the NMU his quarters, his legs pinned "contracts" are lower than that down. Oquendo pulled him up of any other union in the indus­ upon deck and fitted him with a try? This is an established fact. life preserver. Just as he finished, And these "contracts" were ne­ the order was given to abandon gotiated during the "rule" of Joe ship. The man, Oquendo later Curran, NMU President and Stal­ learned, did not survive, but it in stooge. was not because his shipmates So much for this unknown had failed him. scum of the earth—this bombastic gutter rat and opportunist picked Brother Oquendo was awared up by the misnamed "Commun­ the Mariners Medal on May 15th ist" Party, to shield the real op­ of this year. erators of the racket from the We shook hands with Oquendo NMU members; a racket netting and wished him good luck. millions into the coffers of the If you ever swim home, towing Browder sneak thieves and poli­ your scow behind you, remember tical Mafia operating out of 50 it may be worth 3 lines in the East 13th street. New York City. Log. For The RecordFront The Record By TOP This is a letter to get things off my chest. I note that the Stal­ inists political Bund in control of the NMU are hard put to it to HUGH H. RAE. OS; answer the constructive opposi­ tion within their ranks or the de­ Crowded quarters are one of 'ilill veloping organizational construc­ fhe most unattractive features as tive campaign of the SIU-SUP. far as I'm concerned. How can a man be satisfied at sea when he So, unable to answer logically * is jammed in like we are on Lib­ they revert to the cries of "Why erties and some of the older don't they ship out" if any mem­ ships? On the Robin Adair we ber of the opposition stays on the were packed like sardines. And beach any length of time. (Now I don't like some of these sea isn't that something coming from lawyers you meet up with who a lowdown clique of racketeers try to stir up trouble when somelike those whose seamanship rec­ thing about the ship or the of­ ords and capabilities as seamen ficers doesn't satisfy them. If stinks on ice—who can no longer they don't like the way a guy by any stretch of the imagination parts his hair they want to bring be classified as seamen.) him up on charges. Instead of Let us see what kind of "sea­ talking things over with the dele­ men" these are who tell everyone gate, they sour the whole crew. else to ship out and use calumny and lies to mislead the men on the ships. r ALEX ANDERSOH, Bos'iu If a truly impartial investiga­ Low pay in peace time is no tion was made of the NMU lead­ good. If you sure a skilled seaman ers seamanship records we will you should be paid for what you find the following to be true: know. And I think if a seaman Joseph Curran; a trifle over 3 was guaranteed so much a year years total sea service. Yet this he would be sure of an income. I bum is 39 years of age. He has h^ve also noticed in the last few made one trip since 1936 to dodge years that too many men at sea the draft. It will be noted that don't give a damn for their ship­ he did not ship from the rotary mates. I started to sea on square shipping list as an NMU member riggers and I have been sailing should and take the .ship that for 20 years, bqt J never saw it came up in his turn—this would like it is now.^ If men would co­ be too dangerous; he. might draw operate on a ship a voyage would a tanker loaded with high test be much more {feasant. Every gas in convoy or a crawling Lib­ man should be willing to do his erty that was duck soup for subs. share of the work. No! This "seaman" chose a fast ship running alone — the Santa Elena. So, by this act he dodged the NMU shipping list, the risks PATRICK C. MOORES, Fireman: „ : and the draft as well. Yet, he By LOUIS COFFIN The monotony of life at sea drew two salaries on the trip-gets me. I don't see why every his. wages as a "sailor" and his Well, it was like old times. In •ship couldn't be fitted with a ra­ salary as NMU President. (Prettv the past week I assisted Brother dio in the crew's mess. My last smooth eh! Some Union man! Hanners in paying off the SS trip was. on the Joliet to Russia Some patriot! Some sailor!—some Cape Faro, and a couple of days and we were 25 days at sea. Then later assisted Brother Colls in louse.) we lay in port in the Black Sea paying off the SS Wm. Wirt, On Now where was this bum for the. Faro, where the beefs were for 38 days and when we went 35 years of his life? What did he very few and all settled at pay­ ashore the Russians acted like we do? How did he live? Where did off time, I discovered that the were saboteurs. We were four he live? We know that part of skipper was an old shipmate and days at Istanbul, where we had this 3 years service was sailing friend of mine from the old days to watch the purser and the old during the famous West Coast down in New Orleans when we '.man riding back and forth in the strike of 1934. Did he turn over sailed in the forecastle together. launch. I just got married, so his wages to the strike? History maybe I need to stay ashore for mentions not. He looked after In many of such cases where I ^awhile. ' ...... Joseph Curran — this we can meet old shipmates who are now on the bridge, I find that they swear to and this we know. have become so high-pressured Who knows his past? Do the •that they forget old forecastle S. E. CARPENTER, Oiler: NMU members know who this shipmates. I can truthfully say I don't like the monotony of man is — his birth and back­ that such is not the case with the working on these new ships like ground? No. Today this punk is Faro's skipper, W. Ravannack, the Marine Drag^ and C-2s, still unknown—his past a mys­ and according to the crew, he is There isn't enough to do. I would tery. There is even doubt that one right guy all the way rather ride an old up-and-down his real name is Curran. through. It's really a pleasure to job where you make 30 minute rounds and the watch passes That he is a stooge for Stalin write that there are still some de­ quickly. On the Marine Dragon political racketeers Curran knows cent officers riding the scows to­ I was evaporator maintainance. well — collects his pickings and day. The work was easy, but the keeps his mouth shut while do­ On the SS Wirt we had a num­ watches seemed like eight hours. ing as he is told. We know that ber of beefs, which were as usual Long trips are no good either, he worked as a shore gang Bosun settled on board at the payoff. A when you run out of fresh veg­ for the Grace Line at scab wages; couple of errors in the deck de­ etables and fruit and have dehy­ that he refused to support a rank partment were later corrected drated eggs every day. Of course and file strike when called on, and the men involved can collect I miss my wife and family, too, and that he took out an ISU boox at the Alcoa office, 17 Battery but if you go id sea you can ex­ and made one payment only. This Place. These errors were due to pect that. You can't take your man never carried a union book the ignorance of the mate, whose family with you. in his life as lar as it is ^nown, experience with the agreements QUESTION: What,^ to yon, ^e the most un­ attractive features of life at sea? wr. V wrr Page FIT* r v Report From The Ass't Secretary-Treas. was nil. This guy was brand new and still wet under the ears, and like some other mates and en­ gineers read the agreements as if they were written in Chinese. This guy did not have the slightest knowledge of what it is all about. So considering these facts I felt that it was my duty to educate him, which I proceed­ ed to do with the approval of the master of the ship, who seems to be a pretty good guy. I'm sure that this mate will know how to turn in the crew's overtime in the future. Incidentally, both of these ships were crewed up with damn good union men, and repre­ senting such crews is always a pleasure for any union official. • I have a number of outport beefs which are in the process of being settled, and since it takes a little longer settling theSe than it does when I'm aboard at the point of production, I will have to wait until either the next is­ sue or as soon as all these beefs are squared away. I wiU notify the ports involved by mail as well as have it printed in the money due list of the Seafarers Log. �«??!* THE Page Six SEAFARERS Friday, July 20, 1945 LOG SHIPS' MINUTES AND NEWS Sturges Survivors! Pity Passengers On Senorlta Run! Survivors of the Mississippi Liberty, Jonathan Sturges, are asked by the parents of Darwin Lumbaltis, Cook on this ship when she was lost, IQ get in touch with them. Write to Mr. and Mrs. Har­ vey Lumbattis, 4213 Jeumine Avenue, Culver City, California. Brass Hats Extend 'Nen-Fraternization' To Cover Merchant Grew Of Marine Dragon Because the Army would like ship is being operated properly* to run the Marine Dragon, Water­ and we are working to the best man C-4, on a strictly military of our ability. The attitude and actions of certain personnel of the basis, and because the crew Transport Command are especial­ Take your gear when you would like to see her run like ly objectionable. One of the most popular ships go aboardi There have been any other merchant ship, under It has been noticed that the many cases recently of men crewing up in New York these the authority of the master, they crews of other transport ships going aboard, waiting until days is the George Washington, drew up the following petition are allowed immediate shore lib­ they were restricted, and Alcoa passenger vessel, running when the ship reached port last erty when the ship docks. On this then announcing that they ^ •to. Puerto Rico and other islands week. ship, we are always restricted un­ had to go ashore and get their of the Caribbean. Needless to The petition, as given below, til all of the troops have debark­ gear. By doing this they give was signed for the entire crew ed. As we are in port for so few say, the Dispatchers never have the WSA a chance to sneak any trouble filling up the vacan­ According to the crew that by M. Wolinsky, Frank Crider, days, we would like to avail our­ in replacements. Often times cies on this scow, for the senor- brought the Arizpa in from Eng­ and Arthiu- McMillan, deck, en­ selves of this extra liberty. they miss the ship and are in gine, and steward department In view of these statements, we for a Coast Guard rap. ita run is always popular. land, the second mate's amuse­ In' again after a short ten day ment was running around with delegates, respectively. respectfully request that, some Have your gear with you; trip to San Juan, the crew report­ a stop watch timing the deck The Transport Commander's action be taken to facilitate clos­ don't let your luiion down. ed that the passengers they haul­ hands at work; and the old man, Office issues an order each voy­ er harmony throughout the ship. ed down this trip were very in­ probably not getting enough ex­ age prohibiting any fraterniza­ dignant about their "treatment" ercise pacing the bridge, came tion between the troops and the and published a big story of their down and helped the Steward merchant crew. We are not al­ lowed to talk to, or to fraternize hardships in the San Juan paper. clean out the icebox. It seems that they had no deck The purser, they said, was an in any way with the troops. Many chairs, and no entertainment had independent character who spent of us have found former friends, been provided. Some of them his time playing cards and tak­ or relatives, among the troops and couldn't sit under the shower? all ing pictures. Such menial jobs as we resent the fact that we are day in the warm weather and this applying iodine or making ban­ unable to associate with them in Several shipboard meetings, at ard department working rules general. The impression is cre­ which unionism was discussed were answered by Chief Cook hurt too. dages was out of his line. ated that we are not fit associ­ and besfs were taken up and act­ John Retoure. It was decided al­ As Leon Lawson, AB, put it, "No omelets" was the standing ed upon, were held during the so to enforce messroom cleanli­ ates for the troops. "These passengers are lucky , ,,u T 1 order on the Arizpa, which also The Transport Command limits last voyage of the William Wirt, ness and cooperate with the Mess- '^1 they're ,getting rv„:.o+ menus. T X, back . T toxT_the IslJ featured one-meat boys in cleaning messroom gear our purchase of supplies. We are Calmar Liberty. ands. Maybe they'd rather ride Different questions about stewafter coffee time. A more ade­ not allowed to avail ourselves of in the 'tween decks of a Liberty According to John Dugina, AB quate night lunch was requested the facilities of the Post Exchange and deck delegate, there were like the troops have to do." and the matter was takert up with aboard the ship. The Transport several Sheepshead Bay boys on Big beef when the ship pulled board, hard workers and good Commander office contends that the Steward, with improved con­ in was about five or six of the ditions resulting. The purser \vas shipmates. Brother Bill Thomp­ the Post Exchange is for the ex­ deck gang who had such a case son, well known Gulf oldtimer, clusive >use of the troops. instructed to post slopchest price? of channel fever after this short did a good job of teaching the We resent the attitude of the and keep regular slopchest hours. trip that they couldn't wait to se­ first trippers a few things about Army Transport Command tow­ To help get news about the Suggestions for improvements cure the lines or top booms and the SIU and unionism. ards the merchant crew. We are ships and about the member­ to living quarters on the Wirt in­ waltzed ashore, leaving the work under the impression that the ship into the pages of the cluded a list of recommendations to the others. The Washington Howard Shantz, SUP man, was Seafarers Log, a mimeo­ drawn up by each department, as carries nineteen men in the deck chief mate on the way across, but graphed form has been pre­ follows: had to get off in Swansea because gang, with quartermasters and a pared and is being distribut­ of illness. Engine Department: ' fire watchman. ed to all ships at the time of Installation and repair of read­ Delegates were Joseph Pospis, The Hastings, Waterman C-2, signing on, along with the deck, and Cooper Daniels, for the hung up a record not long ago packets of educational ma­ ing lamps on bunks. steward department. Drinking fountain for the en­ when she became the first Water­ terial. gine room. man ship to pay off in the port of Latest reports are that the Space is provided on this Washington will go on a MiamiBoston without any beefs. Faulty shower heads replaced sheet for reports of meetings Caribbean run shortly, carrying On a two months trip to Ant­ held on the ship, for beefs or repaired. farm laborers from the Barbados werp, the ships delegates settled that were settled by crew Improved ventilation for toilet and other islands. beefs as they came up on the action, and for any other in­ and shower rooms. voyage, to the satisfaction of teresting items about the Deck Department: everyone concerned. ship or the crew. The forms Installation of • grating under Deck Delegate Boris Sagol, can be sent to the LOG from showers. Deck Maintainance, reported a foreign ports or handed to Soap trays for shower rooms. fine cooperative crew; men who the patrolman at the time of New rheostat for radio loud knew how a union ship should be the pay off. speaker. run. "A swell ship and a good crew." Jack Loos, AB; James Ackerman, Clean or renew life preservers. Oiler; and "William Oswinkle, 2nd Such was the unanimous opin­ Steward Department: Cook. Blackie Ackermaft was ion of the boys who came in last Bos'n. All mattresses cleaned or re-, week ' on the Felix Grundy, The crew especially commend­ placed. $o^th*Atlantic Liberty. ^ ed the skipper, W. E. Wade, and A happy ship and one that took gled out by the WSA for use in New percolators. Brother Todd, AB: Benjamin The fact that the ship had no the mate, Constantine Petekies. few replacements was the Mad­ movie shots here in port last more than two or three small Only exciting event of the trip, aket, Waterman C-2 which came week, is a special Waterman C-2 Hayes, Deck Engineer; and John«.; \ beefs which were quickly settled, according to Deck Delegate Loos back last week from a run to with a recreation room in the Retotu-e, Chief Cook, were delegates on this ship. crew quarters aft. was due, according to the crew, was when an AB appropriated an southern France. to a first rate group of deck and evening gown from one of the According to J. L. (Blackie) Brother Ed Steffens, Deck engine officers, a good Steward ladies in a Marseilles cafe and Madders, Oiler and engine dele­ Maint., kept the crew entertain­ and Bos'n who knew his job. wore the dress triumphantly gate, she was a "swell" feeding ed with his harmonica and is re­ Although the captain wanted down the docks, with several of ship with a good line up of of­ portedly a virtuoso of no mean Writing from France on the the entire crew to stay aboard, the ladies running after him try­ ficers on deck and below. He ability. Another musical mem­ SS Marina, Brother Anthony and although most of the men ing to retrieve the appropriated mentioned H. A. Adamson, first ber of the crew was H. B. Wal­ Ruszcryk, asks about the bonus assistant, as. being "one .of the ters, Deck Engineer. Walters cuts and sends greetings from the would have stayed on the ship, property. the greater part of the crew left "It was a gesture of Interna­ best union men I've met at sea." packs an Hawaian guitar on entire crew. Also inquiring about because of the bonus cuts smd tional good will," said the AB. Adamson is an SIU oldtimer from every ship he rides, but he can the bonus was Brother William plan to sail on the Pacific. play everything from a tenor sax Franklin, Jr., in France with the C I "It was what the limeys call re­ the Gulf. Delegates on the Gnmdy were verse lend lease." The Madaket, which was sin­ to • jews harp. Calmar Liberty, Frederick Dow.' Take Your Gear Characters On Arizpa Ship Meeting On Williain Wirt Asks Improvements For Quarters ALL SHIPS GET FORM FOR HEWS SS Hastings Felix Grundy, Back From France, Wins Praise Of Entire Crew Madaket A Happy Ship 4 SS Marina ••f l5> �rnimfm TW?:-'^!';!-; ••• •K S-\- \ Friday, July 20, 1945 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Seven THE MEMBERSHIP SPEAKS Navy Gun Crew Praises Steward To express our thanks to the stewards department on this ship we find that the best way is by giving the Steward a note of thanks. The food on this ship has been the best example of a good, at­ tentive Steward and a capable staff that this gun crew belieVes can be found anywhere. The chow hall and the rest of the ship that the stewards depart­ ment had charge of were always in tip-top condition. We find that it is a lot better to live in a clean ship than in a dirty one. Thanks to the Steward of the SS Michael Edelstein we ~iiave lived on a very clean, wellordered ship. The Steward of this ship is L. W. Highsmith. Lt. (jg) VERNON J. CRAIG TKOS. A. CHEEK. GM2c ALBERT J. KUMMICK, Sic JOSEPH A. BENSIVENGA, Sic EDGAR L. CAMPBELL, SMSc HARRY L. DAVIS. Jr.. Sic DESMOND L. REARDON. Sic EDWARD SILHOWSKI. Sic HARRY L. WARNER. Sic v'>^ CUSTER BLANOS, GM3c WILLLRLM F. LINK. SM3C Letters! Letters! The "Membership Speaks" page is your chance lo blow off sleam or just talk about some topic which you think is interesting. Write about any subject as long as it per­ tains to ships and seamen. Send your letter to The Ed­ itor. The Seafarers Log. . Hits Roughhouse Conduct On Ship * » I would suggest that all crew members upon arrival back in port realize that when they leave a ship in such a condition as the Metcalf was, that it is certainly not good advertising for union men and would not help us win better conditions and contracts. Company officials coming on board and seeing the rubbish and dirt such as was on this ship have a good point against the union in negotiations. You would never expect to see food and rubbish on the decks two days after the ship got in and before the payoff, but such was the condition on this ship. Roughhouse tactics such as pre­ vailed here are very unusual, but one instance like this can spoil the efforts of many crews to live up to the SIU constitution, which I would like to compliment the definitely states that we will take crew of the Del Norte who paid care of ship's property. off this ship in Staten Island last M. OLSEN. AB. deck delegate week. Although this ship was gone for eight months and the men had plenty of excuse for hit­ commendable and is the union ting the bars at the end of this wdy of doing~ things. It makes trip, every man was sober at the the work of the patrolmen much easier. payoff. WM. HAMILTON This kind of conduct is very Del Norte Payoff f Proposes Qualifying Tests For Electricians I have a beef to make in regard | My beef is this: I believe it is to these new C-2s, T-2s and ships highly important that the eleclike the Robin Tuxford which are tricians going aboard these ships electrified, with intricate electric­ be given enough of an examina­ al equipment on deck and below. tion JSO that the commissioners 'It is becoming customary to can be pretty sure they have ship as second "electricians on something on the ball. I spent 17 these vessels boys who don't know years at sea and I still have an armature from a light socket. plenty to learn, but I'm damn Of course I realize that the com­ tired shipping out as electrician missioners are throwing around a and then having to do that job -lot of tickets in order to man the and be school teacher to an as­ ships and in the democratic way sistant who is supposed to be we have in the SIU of hiring men qualified to take over in case we don't quiz them about hov/ something happens to me. D. DeDUISIN they got their ticket or what they know, but we take it for granted that the commissioners consider­ ed them qualified for the job. Is it possible to send "me week­ . But the point is that many of 'these electricians are not quali­ ly a copy of the Seafarers Log? fied at all. A greenhorn can go My husband, ionnie Grantham, firing or oiling on a Liberty and is now at sea. He always brought learn enough in a couple of the paper home to me and I en­ watches to get by without doing joyed reading the Log," as I was too much damage to the plant, acquainted with many members but with these complicated elec­ of the SIU. Mrs. LONNIE GRANTHAM tric jobs it is entirely different. MORE FAN MAIL 'h Says Bos'ns Are Underpaid, Calls For Increase In Wage It used to be that you could get on a good ship once in a while and make it a home. But the only home a bos'n finds on a ship these days is the old men's home. It gives a bos'n grey hairs — and plenty. I have been going to sea for 15 years and I have plenty of ex­ perience the hard way. But what do I get paid for this experience? Exactly $12.50 a month more than a six months AB who couldn't splice a line if he was given a diagram. As a bos'n I am supposed to know the ship's rigging and deck gear. I am supposed to be an ex­ pert in splicing rope and wire, in mixing paints, doing canvas work and general maintenance. I am responsible for the expensive gggr on a two million dollar ship, jg ^^is responsibility worth? I receive just $30.00 per month less than a junior engineer who hasn't much more to do on these turbine jobs than sit under a ventilator and keep from fall­ ing asleep. The other day T woke up and said to myself, 'What are you go­ ing to sea for anyway?" I didn't have a very convincing answer to that except that it has been my business for 15 years, and when a fellow puts in the best part of his life in a profession he sure hates to quit. Every day you see bos'n's jobs listed on the board without any takers. Why? Because a bos'n can make as much money with­ out any headaches sailing as AB. PostwarSeourity For Seafarers Now is the time for seamen to get together and do something about wages and postwar bene­ fits. Not that we want charity, but if servicemen are being vot­ ed -everything they want, and Congress is feeling so generous, why shouldn't seamen, who took the risks when the risks were greatest, have a share in this generc.^ity too? This unemployment insurance provision is very important, for cutbacks in the war effort will eventually effect shipping and many merchant seamen will find themselves on the beach whether they want to ship or not. I also think that a merchant seaman who has put in two or three years steady at sea during the war should have the advantages Of the educational provisions where­ by he can study for six months or so and take some kind of specialized course. There should also be prefer­ ence for merchant seamen in any future public works program. ALBERT FRIEDGEN. Chief Elec. Rap Performers Who Hurt Union Now that we're talking about an increase of wages let's also talk about an increase, of wages for bos'ns, the rating on these ships that has been underpaid for In the matter of drunken per­ years. formers who deliberately sabot­ JAMES 'Windy" WALSH. age union conditions and lower Bos'n. the prestige of unionism by rais­ ing hell at the payoff we recom­ mend that such performers be severely dealt with, as these men are definitely a detriment to the We would like to thank our welfare of the SIU. brothers for their generous dona­ Anyone that is drunk and caus­ tion of $103.00 from the SS Cran­ ing trouble when a ship pays off ston Victory and also the union should be fined for the first of­ officials for being so kind in tell­ fense. Such a fine, should in our opinion be not less than twentying different crews about us. five dollars. On second - offense the guilty member should be ex­ Things are not so bad here. We pelled from the union, as anyone are not tied down as they are in who has this little respect for his some of the other hospitals and union brothers will be a con­ we get good food and cigaret'tes tinuous performer anyway. every week. We also receive the Performers at the payoff also Log and can keep in touch with interfere with an orderly settle­ what is going on along the water­ ment of beefs in the interest of the crew. Although such cases front. But we are all waiting for are not very numerous they are, the day when the medics say nevertheless, deserving of action okay and we can be outward by the membership and we be­ lieve the above provisions should bound again. be incorporated in the Constitu­ Here is wishing you all a happy tion. voyage and a safe return. WALTER SICKMAN K. PETTERSON ARCHIBALD McGREGOR JOHAN KALLESTE REMBERT G. GOODLOE A. R. REEDE N. GAMANIN RALPH STALL FROM FT. STANTON Examine Ship's Stores Before Signing Articles After you sign on a ship and get out to sea it's a hell of a time to discover that the ice box is empty and all you have in the dry stores is crackers and pickles, and plenty of rice if you are on some of those Gulf ships. Before you sign on articles it is the time to appoint a commit­ tee and have a look-see at the stores. If you have a hungry trip don't always blame the Steward because often the company tells the Steward it's goinfi to be a six weeks' trip and it ends up by be­ ing a six months' trip, which isn't the Steward's fault. This is often true of Calmar ships going out without enough stores. I was on the Texmar for Wants J. H. Lee In a recent Log I see that J. H. Lee was mentioned in one of the articles. We were on the beach together in Syd­ ney. Australia, in late '43 and early '44. I hope this gets into the Log so Brother Lee can send me his address. I'd like a lot lo hear from him. A. C. "Red" WELLS 229 East Avenue Greenville^ Pa. 18 months and the Daniel Willard for 8 months, so I know some of the tricks Calmar uses. It is im­ portant on ships run by this out­ fit to have a look at the ice box before you get tied up on articles. L. K.. Steward Not A Free Ride How about some imion educa­ tional literature to tell the boys that the steward department K something besides a good place to take a free ride? I made a trip on a Liberty with two schoolboy cooks who went to the Sheepshead Bay cook school because they could get out quicker that way. One of these boys was a machinist and the other one was a linotype opera­ tor. As cooks they both would have been good boiler makers. The ships are full of men who ship out as cooks or messboys because they don't think they have to know anything in the stewards department. You don't even make a good messboy over night, but the messboys think they are doing you a favor by waiting on the crew. I remember when a messboy made more than a cook on a good trip. 14-YEAH STEWARD �THE Page Eighi SEAFARERS Friday, July 20. 1945 LOG FROM RIGHT GUARD TO ABLE SEAMAN If it weren't for the war, he might have been an All-American football player. As it is he is a merchant seaman, sailing from SIU halk But the speed, the skill, the footbaU savvy that made him a regular guard on the best freshman-football team ever to have come out of Duquesne University have not deserted him, and after the war, when he resumes his education, Paul 'T^ed" ^ai£, AB, will slip onc-c more into dented shoes, and convoy that pigskin over the^ liked as the following incident, goal line. told the Log by a shipmate, dem­ Red went to Duquesne from onstrates. In St. Augustine, in East Washington, Pa., High August, 1944j a security lieuten­ School, in 1942, on a football ant went to the crew's icebox scholarship, and played on the and filched himself some night STATEN ISLAND HOSPITAL freshman team that year—a team lunch. Red walked in, catching MARTIN T. COLLINS so strong that it scored freely the officer with his pants down FRANK NERING against the varsity in scrimmages and his mouth full, so to speak. JOHANNES HEIKKURINEN a varsity team that had on it He asked the man what he was S. ANTOINETTE AlhAmerican material, such as doing there. Receiving no an­ WILBERT CAILLET John Matisi, tackle, and Max swer, Red put the officer out. J. FELLOWS Kielbasa, halfback, who made When the ship called at Oran, C. S. INMAN several listings as the outstanding two MPs boarded the ship and E. T. O'MARA players in their positions. In ad­ took Red off, to face charges. LOUIS F. LEDINGHAM dition, there were several men Only the second mate and two PAUL V. MADISON now playing on service teams, crewmen were allowed to testify, FREDDIE R. KIDD considered among the strongest although the entire crew wanted LESTER M. WYMAN in the country. to. The trial was short and sweet, JAMES F. CLARKE Red was a guard on that team. and Red was fined $500. When he P. GALLATLY He is of medium height, and got back aboard ship, the crew L. R. BURCH weighs 175 pounds after a show­ held a meeting and insisted upon W. B. MUIR er.' His powerful body is hidden since he began, for he is a strong paying his fine for him. For how F. SARMENTO behind broad shoulders and a union man. many men would a crew do that? H. V. WILSON Compact frame, so that you might J. M. JOHNSON Among the ships he has sailed •underguess his weight by as His father, now a stonemason, L. G. GRAHAM on have been the William Pace, •much as fifteen pounds. But he once organized for the United SALVATORA BIONDA Calmar; the Jean and the Tris­ ;is all there—and he can hand it Mine Workers in those days when EMIL VON TESMAR tram Dalton, Bull Line; and the out, as well as stand the hard it was worth a man's livelihood, L. M. MOODY, Jr. and perhaps his life, to buck the C. J. Finlay, Overlakes. body contacts of football. At the present time Red is K. E. OLSEN coal operators. Red, the thirteenth • The draft and the army reserve of sixteen children, has inherited studying for his mate's license, B. B. LENOIR took most of the Duquesne team all of his father's belief in social and the odds are that he will L. C. KATES that year, and the school cut out make it. And here's another good BERTEL BRYDER . the game. Red himself went.to justice and the need of strong bet: when he does, he will be as J. A. SPAULDING sea at tnat time, and has been unions to protect the workinggood a union man as he is now. Z. W. CULLISON Sailing since. What is more, he man. L. L. LEWIS has been sailing only union ships Red is a quiet lad and well|He won't be a bucko. L. R. BORJA RAMON BURGOS J. S. CAMPBELL THE NEW SEAFARERS LIBRARY R. A. BLAKE E. V. FERRER H. W. E. FREDERICKSEN ROBERT POWELL H. S. TUTTLE DAVID NORDSTROM R. GILBERT B. CUCUTA S. RIVERA O. STENMO L. MELANSON W. C. WAGNER EVERETT KNOWLES PABLO ORTIZ JOSIAH MEGILL SALVATORE LACORTE EDWARD J. KARKELL JOHN NEAL SOL R. DURRETT A. M. DUCLOS DEAN WHEELER A. R. (ONE ROUND) KING OSCAR F. HEIL F. PALERMO R. L. HUNTER A. MOULTON V. A. KENNY ^ R. A. LYNN F, E. SALLINGER B. KLIMINSKY H. STILLMAN Men In Marine Hi^itals This Week X is, ELLIS ISLAND HOSPITAL D. McDONALD XXX FORT STANTON ARCHIBALD McGUlGAN N. GAMANIN REMBERT G. GOODLOE XXX ]fe It looks from this shot as though Brothers Jim Stewart and Bill Homer might be reading two of those spicy books that were banned up Boston way. Stewart is in charge of the library corner fitted up in the new recreation floor at the New York hall. Homer, Oiler, made the last trip on the Marine Dragon. |ii>» J^ .• BRIGHTON HOSPITAL F. ALASAVICH JOHN DUFFY PETE KOGOY JOHN BARR TOM MCCARTHY r , .< '-i-'r','' i. _• • •' . , = t ;; !•'' i-'V.'" ; 4' - ^ BOSTON MARINE HOSPITAL PETE KOGOY J. DUFFY XXX BALTIMORE MARINE HOSPITAL ^ EMIL HARM HERMAN ZILMER WILLIAM PRIOR PRESTON SMITH •JOHN CISIECKI KARL JOHNSON HARRY JOHNSON VINCENT DALCHUK CHARLES FULMEK JAMES BREWER JOHN COLVIN LESTER L. HEARRING J. HEARRING ELZIOR MORIN s"; JOSEPH BRENNAN W. DWARANCZYK W. MESSENGER DANIEL FLINTJER E. ANDYA ' -. it ft MARYLAND ' STATE SANATORIUM C. MARTINEZ J. SHRIVER Brother Lester Hearring was brought in from Tampa on July 3rd, by an army bomber, in bad shape. So far he is doing very well. . JOHN TAURIN, Hospital Committee it $> $> NEW ORLEANS HOSPITAL JAMES E. WARD ^ i JAMES W. DENNIS J. DE FARGE JOHN E. McCREADIE c XXX SAVANNAH HOSPITAL B. R. PETERMAN Nbtice! The following men should see the Secretary-Treasurer at once: Joe Hefner, SS Quaker Hill. Clyde E. Mills, SS Quaker Hill. John W. Piebel, SS Marne. . Thomas L. McBroyer, SS Quak­ er Hill. John Orbananas, SS Marne. . Russell Wilde, SS Marne James Keakipin, SS Marne. Clifton Eaton, SS Mame. Andrew King, SS Marne, More Logs For Ships Starting immediately, cop­ ies of the enlarged Seafarers Log are being mailed to SIU ships in foreign ports. It is • suggested that these papers, after they have been read by the men aboard, be taken ashore and distributed among places where seamen gather, such as Red Cross, clubs, res­ taurants and bats. �f'- << Friday, July 20, 1945 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page Nine Calmar Almost Pulls Fast One By WM. McKAY BALTIMORE—We are getting I could cite many examples of along swell with the Calmar pay­ what a louse this paymaster is, master in Baltimore. When I say but no doubt you all have heard , 'o', "swell," I mean we are swelling of him. Even the other company up with all the lies this character officials can't stomach him. is feeding us. The new Ore ship, Venore is He tried to pull a fast one on out and if it were some otlier cutthe crew of the Bethore. He told fit I might give them credit for them they could pay off under building a real nice ship. Howi mutual consent, and they could ever, I must admit that she hag standby and get paid every week. good quarters for the crew, with By JOHN MORGAN I got on board and told the crew adjoining showers and toilets iii BOSTON — The Editor, being of this apparent plan to under­ No news this week from not to pay off until they got a each room, recreation rooms and a persistent cuss whose yells for mine the industry. We have a the Business Agents in the month's pay, and the Commis­ a lot of other inlprovements. sioner backed me up. While on my vacation last /"copy" can be heard way up here case in point which we're work­ following ports: Most of the crew held fast, bul week I visited Agent McLean in in Beantown, will be happy to re­ ing on right now. A member in NORFOLK the Steward talked his depart­ Buffalo. He was always hustling ceive a little news from Boston. good standing, with an Ai-my TAMPA ment into paying off. And, of around the ships, and tried to But here's hoping he doesn't medical discharge for "nervous­ JACKSONVILLE course, when they did their beef drag me along with him. From whack this literary effort to pieces ness", was forced to deposit his HOUSTON was finished. Nice guy, huh? the looks of things the SIU is go­ with his blue pencil—or is a red seaman's papers with the U.S.C.G. ing places on the Lakes They pencil favored by Ye Editor? after the WSA ^medico examined have some of the same headaches Anyway, the news from this him—and admittedly found no­ we have on the coast, free-load­ port doesn't differ much from thing wrong with him. A letter ers, stooges, etc., but they are previous dispatches. Business and from the Brother's own family way ahead of the NMU in their shipping are fair. There have physician, stating his fitness for By BUD RAY area. Keep up the good work, been quite a number of conver­ laborious work, and sea dutjj in sion jobs, and rumor has it that particular, was ignored as com­ SAN JUAN, P. R.—We had a Fellows, remember there isn't boys. we can expect a great many more pletely as an Allied protest to the few oldtimers in and it looks as any more than just enough men I've been trying to figurq cut though they will be running here in this department to do all the what the WSA is trying to do in weeks to come. We don't have USSR. steady. It has helped the ship­ work that has to be done, and if too much difficulty "crewing up' In view of the prevalent atti­ ping list, and we are getting a you get gassed up or refuse to with the seamen. But I don't have to figure hard. That bunch these jobs, as we have a fairly tude of the former ambulance large' "On Hand" list. However, chasers, it seems we have only steady turn over of jobs. We are turn to, it makes just that much of chairwarmers never sailed a insofar as the augmented stew­ one recourse to defeat their tac­ now shipping on an average of a more work and undue hardship ship and don't know a thing about shipboard (conditions.. They ard department is concerned tics, and that is to dispatch our man a day which isn't bad for on your mates. The SS George Washington ar­ have never been torpedoed, but we find it is necessary to issue a membefs directly to the ship, by­ down this way. good many trip cards to WSA passing WSA examining clinics. The SS Ellenor was in and the rived with 276 passengers and it in turn are trying to torpedo the graduates. It remains to be seen It might be a good idea to do it only one who had a beef was looked like old times with the seamen's living conditions. They what kind of , union men these anyway, as many members state the mate. It seems that when it publicos and Ladies of the Scar­ are continually issuing phony di­ boys prove to be, although to that the Boston Medical Office is came time to secure the ship for let Sisterhood vying with each rectives to the detriment of the date the majority of them have so "crummy" they are in constant sea, most of the ABs had taken other for the crew's payoff. But seamen. French leave after he had given she only stayed one night. No They now have a form the sea­ turned out very well indeed. fear that their clothes will be­ them ample time off to go to their beefs on her and, of aU things, men have to fill in when they The local "cell" of the NMU come infested while lying on the has gone into its act of picketing bench. Other ports no doubt are homes. We must remember there she sailed on schedule with^ full take physical exams. This fonn the Shipping Commissioner's of­ having similar trouble, for it does is a time coming when your union crew. I understand she is to is worse than anything thought fice in Boston. Most of our mem­ look an awful lot like a "policy officials will be sitting down with make more trips here in the near up by the Gestapo. When a the "shipowners to get new and future. bunch of despots regulate every lA bers are puzzled by this display line." better contracts. If you think Had a West Coast ship in with move a man makes, he is no of "action" (which calls for an increase in the minimum hourly Brother Lapham paid off the John Shipowner isn't going to a modern Captain Bligh aboard. longer free. This is the case with wage and protests the bonus cut), SS Bienville on July 5th. Every­ remember all- these things and There were plenty of beefs but the seamen today. The sooner we for they well remember that only thing was fine and Brother Lap- throw them in our face then all the men didn't contact the hall do something about those leechham wishes to express publicly I can say is that you are living until she was ready to sail. The bureaucrats, the better. old man hired a WSA replacement his appreciation of the fine type in a false paradise. ANY of delegate we have on the Bien­ This organization was built by and I ran him off and put a book ville. The ship paid off at the the sweat and unending devotion man on her. This heel told me Army Base (which is stiU verbot- of many an oldtimer who will that when our version of the Ges­ ACC»t)^TAL ANO en to patrolmen) and all three never cross the bar with us again, tapo (CG) quit dictating he would OMINT^MT,OA/ALS delegates lined up. the members and if we have this same fight to stop going to sea. I was almost By D. STONE of their respective departments go through again we will miss thrown out of his office when I and took them to a lunchroom their guidance and leadership to asked him why he wasn't with GALVESTON — Shipping very close by where the business and gain what we lose. Most of the Hitler's crowd as all his thoughts brisk with some very good berths "beefs" were handled with 100% ships coming here will let you seemed to be Nazified. Fellows, on the board for the past two cooperation of the ship's crew. hire a standby out of the hall in lest we forget these phonies we weeks. Crewed up one Liberty These Army and Navy dockings the event you wish a few days should keep a record to refer to that came in for the pay-off, one require a conscientious type of off; it wiU help your brothers who when the war is over. C-2 for a pay-off, one C-l-m-AVl delegate in order to insure effi­ are on the beach, and keep the The men who have been get­ crewing up this week. We are ting jobs out of the haU cleaning cient pay-offs. Brother Lapham's heat off yoirr union. just about completely out of men. a short while ago, when J. Hawk experience with the Bienville Had the SS Jean in again and The Brandywine is in again and M. Dushane were in Wash­ again emphasizes the importance the fellows on the beach made a with about half of the crew to be ington battling the bonus cut, of electing efficient, union-mind­ few pesos on standby work. replaced. This rust bucket is get­ Everything else on her was okay, the NMU was conspicuous for its ed department delegates. ting harder and harder to keep Brother Sweeney and I paid off but for a couple of performers in absence. Their failure to manifest men aboard and it is one of the the stewards department who solidarity in the industry con­ the SS Walter Kidde at Castle best feeding ships along the made things miserable for the cerning the bonus cut no doubt Island, which is another Army coast. men they have to work with. had its influence with MWEB, pier. This was another very pleas­ About the 25th of this month whos members might have en­ ing experience insofar as dele­ we will have the Luiston Victory, tertained the notion that they gates aboard our ships is con­ Boston did not leave the ship as an SUP ship, coming out of the could afford to cut the bonus and cerned, as we met the delegates an SIU crew should. The quarters ship yard to crew up. This is a that the NMU could still be ex­ outside the pier, instructed them were strewn with discarded be­ J conversion job. pected to "play baU." Anyway, as to their duties qf the pay-off, longings; the alleyways were Somewhat later the Mexico today they are out with the plac­ and the result was another 100% dirty; and virtually the entire Victory will be out. This one too ards—a beautiful example of the score. In my opinion, public cred­ mess department had walked off is a conversion. and left the mess-rooms and scul­ old adage about "locking the barn it to these delegates whenever after the horse is stolen." possible will inspire all members lery in a most untidy condition. holds and don't belong to the I have been informed that there We continue to have trouble chosen by their brothers to repre­ At our meeting of July 5th I union, showed their appreciation is about 75 ships equipped to car­ with the WSA medical depart­ sent them to extend themselves to stressed the point that we cannot by buying a nice fi^^e tube Pilot ry grain, which will be on a ment in regard to the treatment do an excellent job of it. allow our members to quit a ship radio and giving it to the branch. steady run between Texas and of members submitting to the The SS John Blair (Calmar) that way, even if it requires that Well, fellows, the gentle the European area. The way these "sign-on" eJtamination. It appears paid off here recently. The ship disciplinary action be applied to breezes of the sea still caress our vessels are handled it takes no obvious that there is a deliberate was in bad shape from the sani­ the offending member-s. The cheek as we lie under the sway­ more than three or four days to plan to eliminate old-timers from tary standpoint, with several brothers should remember that a ing palms, listening to the surf load. Fast I caU it. the industry. Members recently members returning to the Hall contract is an agreement between with a lovely senorita whispering discharged from the Army and after looking her over and refus­ two parties, and wherever the sweet music in our ear, and a vacious gals who invented love Navy, who are desirous of return­ ing the job. Unquestionably the SIU is one of the contracting bottle of Boca Chica to put us in you want, and cheap but good ing to their peace-time occupa- Blair requires complete fumiga-' parties, SIU means the members the right spirit of the work to rum, well, need more be said? ;.tion as seamen, are aliso victims tion, but the crew that got off in collectively and individually. be done. So if it is beautiful cur- We'll be seeing you. ; «M "IMi I ir iiiM ' i iBf iii i 'ii Peantown Reports Good Payoffs NO NEWS?? The Mate Had A Good Beef Several Converted Jobs Are Coming ^i �Friday. July 20, 1945 TME SEAFARERS LOG Pag* Ten AN OLD EGG BURNER GIVES ADVICE TO NEW STEWARDS By HARRY J. COLLINS OOOPERATION GOOD BETWEEN PORTS We of the union cannot help but notice the number of yoimg Stewards that are sailing our con­ tracted ships. Naturally, we are By ARTHUR THOMPSON glad to see tiffs young blood get ah.ead, but some of them are get­ SAVANNAH — Business in Sa­ ting off on the wrong foot. So vannah was not too slow last here are a few hints to you young week. We shipped ten men from Stewards: when you have any Savannah and sent nine men to trouble with any member of your Mobile and one to Charleston. I department, don't go to the skip­ was glad to find out that all of per with your troubles. Call a the men sent to these other ports meeting of your department anc turned up for the job. A couple of let the members settle the bee: times before when men were between themselves. sent to other ports some of them If the man you have trouble failed to show up, but this time with is wrong, the stewards de­ we got 100% cooperation. partment delegate and the rest of At the present writing there is the department members will tell nothing in sight but it seems that him he is wrong and they wiH when shipping looks bad it comes tell him what to do. Of course, all at once when we least expect there is a possibility, because of it. We haven't enough full book your inexperience that you your­ members on the shipping list to self may be wrong. If a member form a quorum and consequently of your department, after being we don't have as many meetings straightened out by a meeting, as we'd like to but we try to get still persists in doing the wrong a meeting as often as possible and thing, you stiU should not go to at least we read the communica­ the skipper. Wait until the ship tions and other important mat­ pays off, and if you think the case ters which relate to seamen. warrants it, prefer charges No new hospital cases have against the man and let the mem­ been reported since last week. bership decide if the man's con­ By E. S. Our boy with the broken leg is duct was prejudicial to the crew. NEW ORLEANS—New Orleans Never use your position as Stew­ out and the cast on his leg doesn't is hotter than Hell these days and hamper him a bit. He's in and ard to right a personal wrong, so Ponchatrain Beach plays the real or fancied. In plain words, out all day and if he could he'd part of heaven to all the Crescent ship out today, busted leg or not. just being Steward does not give City dwellers. No vacation trav­ The weather continues hot with you ^he right to ride a man and frequent rains which do not cool eling keeps the city crowded and cuase him trouble. us off a bit and we keep one eye those Yankee tourists (who have Last, but not least, if you eat trained on the river for the next lost their traveling consciences) in the crew's mess you will be in are filling and overflowing the and after two weeks rest (?) a position to right any misunder­ ship. Brother Healy is a total wreck. standing the minute it occurs, and The uncountable rules and regu­ at the same time you will be as­ lations were too much for him. sociating with the right people. PHILADELPHIA —Things are awfully slow around the City of Brotherly love we haven't had a payoff in three weeks. We have about 60 members on the ship­ ping list, the biggest list that we have had in this port since the loutbreak of the war. I have been noticing the old feud reappearing ;in the Log between two certain members of the steward depart­ ment. WeU, I must say that it was I who succeeded in shipping Frenchy Michelet, and that is more than New York can claim. A word to the wise: Whei^ in the Port of Philadelphia and you are on a ship that is docked at the Army Piers 94, 96, 98, 100, do not smoke on deck because if you do you will be subject to Army rules —and believe me that is not so good. Brother Red Healey has just returned from a USS rest camp. He went there to quiet his nerves, Welcomes Vacationing Piecards HIGDON beach and especially the Vieux Carre. Talk about bathing beau­ ties—^well, you can see plenty of good lookin' gams strolling along the boardwalk and no end ef "Godivas" stretched out on the sand. All of you piecards who are scheduled for vacations, come on down. The Welcome Mat is laid out for you. But if you're one /T of those guys who want a ship-^ this ain't the place. Shipping Is Still slow and we've got all the beach men we can handle. runs so deep down the street in By JAMES L. TUCKER Even with shipping the way it front of the hall. MOBILE—^This week has been We are getting quite a few T-2 is, the Patrolmen, Agent and one of the best in the' history of Tankers in here and will have stenog have been kept busy run- ^ Mobile with all kinds of good several more in the next couple ning the organizers back to their By J. P. SHULER and bad jobs going. Had to call of months. So how about some of own office and retrieving articles - NEW YORK—The port of New resented losing him. So, at sign­ New Orleans, Galveston, Savan­ appropriated "for keeps" by the York has had a busy week pay­ ing on of articles on the next trip, nah, and New York for men to you tanker men dropping down organizers. But, we're damned to take one of them out, especi­ ing off 36 ships. All beefs, except the Skipper told Thompson that man these ships in all depart­ glad they are here, for organiza­ a few left pending on the Cal- he could not sign on because the ments, and even getting men ally Pumpmen and Electricians. tional work is keeping stride with And while you are waiting to mar ships, were settled at the rest of the crew wouldn't sail from all these ports we still had take your pick, don't forget that the non-uniort ships coming in point of production. Capt Shee- with him. to call the RMO to get some of we have a few hot spots in this and the men who are joining up ' han being the supreme judge at Thompson, realizing that Cap­ the rust-pots out. town for you to take in at night. with the SlU. this time on all Calmar beefs tain Bishop might change his makes them a long drawn out af­ tune, got a letter of recommenda­ Had eleven ships in for paying- So remember, you don't have to Just yesterday three NMUers piled into the branch, cussing out fair. However, the day is near tion from the chief engineer that off, most of them in from about a be lonesome, even at night. their former union affiliations. It . when we will have a signed 'fiad made the last trip and the our months' trip. It surely did seems the NMU wanted to place agreement with the Calmar and chief who is now on the ship for Iceep the piecards busy from 10 to 14 hours every day of the them on a ship with "no ifs and Ore SS Companies. Their cases the next trip. Thompson could week, and on top of that it rain­ buts" to boot. W. D. Moore, A. L. were taken before the War Labor have acquired a license himself ed every day. It's beginning to Chatfield and R. J. Behringeisgaid ; Board last week, and the union from either of these recommen­ ook as if the Mobile Branch will "NO!!" seems to have a much stronger dations. By KEITH J. ALSOP have to get a row boat to get in "We'll turn you over to your case than the company. Most of He then got a petition from the the engine department working entire crew stating that they had and out of the hall, as the water CHARLESTON — Shipping has draft boards," growled the NMU. been slow for the past two weeks. "Hell, take your goddam NMU. rules were agreed upon by the no objections to sailing with him Shipped twelve men in all three H^re're our books. We don't want company and the union before and requested to be signed off, of overall increase in wages for departments. We have the SS they went to the Board and articles unless Thompson could some time, immediately went to Otis Hall, one of the American 'em. We'll go to a union that gives should be in effect in the near fu­ make the trip. There is a Port bat, and there has been arranged Range line tubs lying at anchor you a square deal." ture, also quite a number of items Committee meeting coming up on a meeting before the National and has been there for the past So now the three of them have in the steward and deck depart­ this, and favorable results should War Labor Board to convene three weeks. Had ten men to shipped SlU on the SS Coty Vic- ; ments working rules. be obtained. July 19 and July 20. There is a pay off with doctor slips, but the tory along with a couple other There was a beef on the SS The SS Caldwell of the Bull great possibility of ' getting an fellows who just joined up be- ,", Arizpa about signing on the Deck Line was rammed amidship by a overall wage increase, which all company refused to pay the ex­ cause they like the "congenial at­ plosive bonus. They only had Engineer, Bill Thompson. The tanker at breakfast time the seamen know is needed. 800 tons and didn't tliink that AVas mosphere and fellowship" they ship came in and paid off with other morning. None of the un­ find on our scows. Bill Thompson as Deck Engineer. licensed personnel was seriously It is the consensus of opinion enough. • Nothing was said at the time of injured, although the Steward that, if a wage increase is not I got Paul Hall on the phone Did you know that an payoff about him geting off the lost his trousers in the collision. granted, action Such as the and told him the low-down. He extra man, namely an assistant Steamship Companies can under­ had me to hold the line while he cook, has been added to the stew­ ship. There were charges against About two weeks ago, several stand must be put into effect. The called the company agent, and ard department in the crewing the Steward on the SS Arizpa members of the Labor Board is­ job action seems to be the only after about two minutes he had of- N-3's? There are now eight signed by the entire crew, and it sued a release recommending weapon which the seamen's 'it straight and said the company me_2 in this department and that seems that the captain blamed that there be allowed a 15% raise unions have ever used that ob­ would pay the bonus. eighth man is getting $112.50 a Thompson for the charges against for the seamen above the little tained results. Therefore, we Fellows this is only one ex­ month. New Orleans port has seen this Steward. steel formula. The Seafarers might as well prepare ourselves ample of unionism, without which this through and is working on ^ The Steward was the captain's Union, having hau the case be­ for job action in the not too dis­ we are lost. the proposition of getting the ^ personal shoe shine boy and he fore the War Labor Board for an tant future. All out for Isthmian! same deal on the Liberty ships. Mobile Reports A Record Week Thirty-six Ships Payoff In N. Y. EXPLOSIVE BEEF IS WON ON OTIS HALL , '' ./"'v. ' �I ' •* Friday. July 20, 1945 THE SEAFARERS LOG Page EleVMI WLB Hears SIU Disputes I f T; .1 effect a $10.00 increase also term­ ed a "War Emergency Increase" but the unfairness of continuing to term the original May, 1940 $10.00 increase a "War Emer­ gency Increase" was so apparent that the shipowners consented that it then be considered as a "basic wage increase," still leav­ ing the $17.50 termed a *War Emergency Increase," As time went on, it became apparent that in all fairness not even this could be termed a "Temporary" In­ crease" and in November of 1944 the $17.50 ceased to be termed a temporary increase the shipown­ ers consented to add it to the base wages. WLB approve such decreases? States granted the railroad work­ "A. Only to correct gross in­ ers a 5 cents an hour increase ia equities and to aid in the ef­ lieu of granting their demand for fective prosecution of the war." time and a half after a 40-hoiuf It is argued that no reduction work week. Former Economic Stabilizer, of seamen's wages should be James Byrnes, granted permis­ made in the face of the law as set sion to the Trucking Commission forth in the above. On the con­ to grant fringe increases in ex­ trary now that the bonus has been reduced to $40.00 the War cess of the 15% line established Labor Board should grant relief by the Board under Executive TAKE-HOME REDUCED Order No. 9328 and under this •The Union now wishes to point to the seamen rmder the follow­ permission the Trucking Com­ ing statement found in the same out that this Board should con­ mission is universally ordering sider the above and note that directive reading: "O. Under what conditions approximately 5 cents an hour today the seaman stands in a increase in lieu of the 40-hour worse position than he did at the will the War Labor Board ap­ work week. time the United States entered prove increases? The National War Labor Board "A. To 'correct maladjust­ the war. Since the entry of the has also adopted a policy in sev­ United States into the war the ments or inequsdities, to elim­ eral industries of granting fringe BASIC WAGE SU#-STANDARD basic wage rate of the seaman has inate sub-standards of living, to increases in lieu of the 48-hour The exhibits will show that remained stationary and no in­ correct gross inequities, or TO work week. even after the above increases crease has been given in the war AID IN THE EFFECTIVE The fringe increases now be­ were put into effect that the great bonus except the increase from PROSECUTION OF THE come very important to the sea­ majority of basic wage rates re- $80.00 to $100.00. The seamen's WAR'." men if they are not to go all out mafned sub-standard. It was only take-home wage has remained It is inconceivable that the dis- 4o break the "Little Steel For­ because the war bonuses were stationary since approximately asterous effect' of this reduction mula." super-imposed upon the sub­ January, 1942. It has remained will not hurt the effective prose­ The Board has the power and standard base wage rates that this way through 1942 and 1943 cution of the war. The policy is is requested to increase the sea­ the seamen remained quiescent, and until April of 1944. At that penny wise and pound foolish. men's base wage where it should refusing to quarrel with the ter­ time the bonus was cut to $80.00 The men now at sea as they come do so in lieu of establishing a 48minology "war bonus" rather in certain areas, that is to say cut in and feel the effect of the re­ hour work week. than impede the war effort and back to what it was before the duction on their take-home wage The sub-standard correction in order to abide by their "no United States entered into the will consider turning their efforts principle should be applied to all war. There was no justification elsewhere. The most efficient will ratings which are now receiving strike" pledge. On April 1, 1944 the Maritime for this cut; it should never have leave first, they are the experi­ less than 55 cents per hour in War Emergency Board put into been undertaken. The cost of' enced men who can take shore base wages and other ratings be BONU:i CUTS living during 1942, 1943 and 1944 positions as well. The govern­ proportionately increased in ac­ The seamen's monthly take- effect the cut referred to in Part and to date in 1945 has steadily ment will have to pay the ex­ cordance with the Board's policy. I, the "History of the War Bonus," home wages remained stationary gone upwards. National War La­ pense of advertising for new re­ Board and Room should not the question then no longer re­ until April 1, 1944. At that^time cruits. It will have to pay the considered in the computation of the Maritime War Emergency mained a matter of terminology bor Board Release B 275 reads as follows: travelling expense of these men, the sub-standard formula because the take-home wage had been Board reduced the seamen's war "Q. Whai is the difference it will have to provide training it is an industry where Room and bonus in certain areas thereby reduced. The Union therefore and training quarters. Fifty per Board are supplied by the em­ immediately opened up this dis­ between wages and salaries? reducing the seamen's monthly pute case in July, 1944, basing its "A. The term "salary*' means cent of these new recruits will ployer for his own convenience, take-home wages $20.00 per demand on the increased cost of all forms of compensation com­ leave after the first voyage be­ and because of the nature of the tnonth, by setting the minimum war bonus rate at $80.00 per living and the 'Meany-Thomas, puted on a weekly, monthly, cause they will not be able to work over which the seamen have Report" of a 43% increase. While annual or other compar^le adjust themselves to the life at no more control than governmenf month. this dispute was in progress the basis, except a wage basis. The sea. The efficiency of the rest of officials have who receive a per On July 15, 1945 the Maz-itime Board made the second reduction term "wages" means all forms the crew will be impaired. The diem travelling allowance over War Emergency Board further effective July 15, 1945. of compensation computed on moral of the men in the areas and above and in addition to reduced the seamen's war bonus Not only zXias the increased cost an hourly, daily. pJeee-work where the cuts are put into ef­ their specified compensation, be­ $40.00 per month in certain areas fect will spread to the other cause they like the seamen have of living cutting in on the sea­ or other comparable basis. thereby reducing the seamen's men's basic wage rate but the Q. Are bonuses, gifts, loans, areas. The seamen in the Pacific to maintain their homes and feed take-home wages $40.00 per companies were withholding the fees and commissions, when will begin to plan to leave and their families when their work month and resetting the mini­ mum monthly war bonus at new tax imposed upon the sea­ given as compensation for per­ as soon as some advantageous po­ calls them away from home. $40.00 per month. The seamen men outlined in the following sonal services included in sition opens up will leave. The The Union in its effort to do war effort will be definitely ham­ everything possible for the ef­ wages and salaries? whose monthly basic wage rate part. pered. Pressure brought by the fective prosecution of the war and "A. Yes, are $100.00 or less have actually NEW TAX BURDEN deprivation and suffering of their to avoid further unrest among "O. Can wages or salaries be received a reduction of $60.00 a In 1943 the tax laws were families will further cause these the seamen caused by these in­ month in take-home wages as a changed. Instead of the compan­ decresised? seamen to take other positions justices requests that this Board "A. No decreases in wages or result of the war bonus cuts ies bearing the economic tax burand decrease their efficiency. give its most serious considera­ alone since April 1, 1944, which dent, part was shifted to the salaries for any particular work tion to the above. may be made below the high­ now bring his take-home wages seamen. No longer was the sea­ PRECEDENTS SET est rate paid for this work be­ $40.00 per month lower than his men exempt by being on the high Fiorther reason for the Board to Respectively submitted, tween January 1 and Septem­ pre-Pearl Harbor standard. seas for over six months a year. grant relief herein set forth in JOHN HAWK. Seamen whose monthly base The companies instead of paying ber 15. 1942 without approval the following points: Secretary-Treasurer wage rates exceed $100,000 per the tax from their funds com­ of the WLB, In the transportation field the Seafarers International "Q. On what basis can the late President of the United month have received a larger cut menced to act as check-off agent Union of No. America in take-home wages because their for the government and deducted war bonus in certain areas was about one-fifth of the seamen's reduced from 100% of the basic wage (both the basic wage and wages rates to 66 2/3% effective the bonus and this check-off con­ THE 6,000 MILE BRIDGE ACROSS THE PACIFIC... April 1, 1944 and from 66 2/3% to tinues). The take-home pay is Requires several timesn mucfi sh^ins capacity,spannins twice as many miles,as AcBrkige Aaoss the Atlantic.And tlie averase 33 1/3% effective July 15, 1945. thus further reduced. distance (romthc sta^s area to combat zones is ten times as sreet. (Continued from Page 1) in lieu of an increase in,the sub­ standard base wage rates, and added this to make up the sea­ men's total take-home wage. While the National Defense Mediation Board's decision in­ creased the take-home wages o: the seamen $20.00 per month by iraising the war bonus to $80.00 Ijer month, the decision still left the base wage rates at sub-stand­ ard levels. In December 1941, directly af­ ter the entry of the United States into World War II the Maritime pommission and the U. S. De­ partment of Labor jointly invited all seamen's Unions and all ship­ owners to a conference in Wash­ ington, D. C. regarding the war bonus. At that conference the Mari­ time War Emergency Board was created and authorized to arbi­ trate disputes on war bonuses. Their first arbitration resulted in setting the war bonus for seamen" at $100.00 per month minimum pBnus in the early part of 1942, again in lieu of an increase of the base wage rates and still leaving the base wage rates at sub-standard levels, while still augmenting take-home wage. HISTORY COST OF LIVING OF BASE WAGE RATES In a fairly recent case before With the inception of World this Board (The National War War II in September,' 1939 the Labor Board), a report of the teamen's base wage rates for the Bureau of Labor Statistics of the respective unlicensed ratings United States Department of La­ Were $27.50 lower per month in bor was submitted to show that all in^ances than the present day the cost of living had increased scales set forth in the Exhibits. 25,1% from Jan. 1941 to July In 1940 the seamerfs cost of 1944. There was also submitted living had further increased and a report of the Mitchell Commit­ companies' income rose with the tee that this figure should be at increases in freight rates. least 3% higher, that the cost of For these reasons in May, 1940 living had risen at least 28.1% the shifK)wners consented to put during that period of time. This ii^to effect a $10.00 increase term­ Board expressed its opinion that ing it a "War Emergency In­ in fact the cost of living had gone crease." In February, 1941 a fur­ even higher. At or about the ther, increase of $7.50 was put in­ same time the American Federa­ to effect and this was likewise tion of Labor and the CIO had termed a _^War Emergency In­ made a joint investigation which crease." Later in 1941, namely in was embodied in the MeanyOctober 1941, there was put into Thomas report and in which it was set forth that the cost of liv­ ing had risen 43% during the ap­ proximate period above mention­ ed. Since the time of the AFL and CIO investigation food has become more and more scarce and the United States Govern­ ment officials point out that it will continue to become more and more scarce. EFT-TIT: V-V'-; ;-f: �-IV THE Page Twelve SEAFARERS ? Friday. July 20. 1945 LOG f-^ A-r-p -- -ir BlJLpT^ F Unclaimed Wages Waterman Steamship Corp. C WATERMAN Steamship Corp Corder, Thomas 114.35 Cornett, Wm. L 31.67 Corsetti, Frank 38.11 Cox, Floyd - 3.96 Crabtree, R. N 13.86 Hudson, H. Czosnowski, Edward 20.82 Hull, Martin J Hunt, Harry D Hunter, Floyd Darling, J 3-39 Hurley, William J Davidowski, Francis 2.17 I Davis, J 26.60 Dellett, H. F 9-64 Ireland, J Delaney, J. F 1-93 Irvin, Chas. H De Maitile, D 6.13 Drake, C 28.16 Duran, Paul 3.26 Japel, Rudolph DctraM, P 19-95 Jensen, F. H E Enger, W F Fagm-i, Alexander Farmer, H Ferguson, N Ferguson, Robert Fernandez, Episanio Ferrigno, F Fisher, Ottis W Fisher, Ottis W Fitisoff, John Fljmn, Alphonse C Frye, Raymond W Fudge, H Fulford, S Fuller, Edward Fuller, Peter Fulton, R G Garrett, Norman Glennen, R. A Clock, Harry Goldsborough, John Gordon, Samuel L Grennier, F Grossnicklans, Wm H Hall, Wm. K Han, Joseph 1 Harris, Wm. M Harris, W. M Haunshilt, Edward Henderson, S. B Hopkins, Ralph K Hornsby, E. R 1-30 3.22 10-65 25.13 3.50 1.36 2.37 2.58 1-53 419.32 2.06 69 19.23 4.68 4.98 2.82 :... 17.90 MONEY DUE 6.88 K Karschner, Wm Kenny, William Kizziah, Aaron D Kostilich, Thomas Quard, Donald 25.97 Quinn, James 17.19 Quinn, James ..... 2.75 R .61 L Lacy, Robert E Lamp, W. S Laudreth, Jack LaVagnino, A. S LabeU, Wm Lee, Van R Le Foe, John R Lewis, G. N Linden, Jack D Lord, A Lowney, John McNeil, G Manion, Samuel Mansfield, Wm Marchant, John P. Marschak, H. J Masterson, H. E May, E. L Mehegan, J Messer, Richard Mikkelsen, Gunnar Milder, L. H Nagel, Joseph Nelson, Cecil Willard Newell, Richard Newell, Richard O Ostrander, Orval 1.30 5.75 P Park, Alexander 1.37 Park, Alexander 4.22 Paskien, George 43.58 Perona, Joseph 4.51 Petterson, Wesley F 44.55 Pickett, John T 17.90 Pinto, D 253.60 Poldme, Rein 2.58 Pomianek, Joseph 6.53 Pond, B. C Jessler, E. E Johansen, Gilbert Johnson, B. A Johnson, L. E Johnson, Tauno Johnston, James V Johnston, James V Joslin, James 19.03 5.01 6.20 42.43 19.81 M 4.87 8.53 McGee, Robertson 1.37 1.19 3.52 22.75 9.22 12.06 17.90 12.06 16.52 8.26 1031.72 11.31 5.75 — 10.54 8.53 11.69 3.44 1.98 .. 27.52 33.47 11.29 5.14 1.98 8.50 3.21 34.13 1.60 ... 3.96 1.37 12.06 2.06 6.40 10.54 2.06 13.76 4.44 Sutton, Harold 24.89 T 23.36 3.82 Tayler, Harry 2.75 Taylor, John H Thomas, Dewey LL Thornton, H. B 17.66 U Usdavins, G 22.67 V 3.65 Vienna, Lewis J 20.08 ". 12.06 Vink, Arnold H 3.52 W 4.13 Waindle, Bernard Kenneth 4.65 Wehe, W. W. 2.36 West, Wallace 3.17 Westbay, Charles. 14.89 Wigton, Frank Wilson, F 1.37 Wilson, Joseph 14.89 Winarsk, Frank 9.99 Wdlowicz, Leon J Woods, Arthur M Rakiecki, John Rasi, P. A Reyes, Wil; Burneo Rice, Earl F Rice, Earl F Robertson, L. A Rodricues, John Rogers, Edward C. Rosa, Dudley F Rostant, Philip Reed, Ernest Herbert Rudat, A. 0 3.17 12.06 2.42 8.48 5.65 1.37 ^82 2.06 12.06 1.55 5.71 13.86 Sanders, Russell Schultz, C. J Schwatka, Fred E Seenean, Henry C Shea, John P Sheridan, Edward J Smith, G. E Spinney, Prescott Stanculsvie, Paul Statkiewice, Peter Stefano, R. D Stofel, H. A 6.38 7.23 2.75 12.06 166.39 5.75 4.65 20.41 1.54 1.06 2.37 59.82 WARNING! Free Loaders! WILLIAM WIRT S. Gordon, 10 hrs. at 90c and The men listed below are pro­ 1 hr. at $1.35; J. Savage, 8 hrs; E. fessional free loaders. You will O'Neil, 1 hr. Collept at Alcoa, 17 note that each man was issued Battery Place. two or more trip cards from vari­ ous ports. No money of any des­ t 4- i SS CITY OF MONTGOMERY cription was paid on these cards. S. CALON, Oiler, 16 hrs. for Keep a weather eye open for any taking inventory; H. Knies, Oiler, of these characters that you may 16 hrs. for taking inventory. Col­ contact either ashore or aboard lect at Waterman SS Company any SIU or SUP ships. —LOUIS GOFFIN office. 4, ft 5. No. SS COLOBEE 5 Cards— Those of crew who v/ere on Anionio Guadalupe 169727 board for 6 months or more paid 3 Cards— off on May 23, 1945, in Mobile, C. McGahey 155703 can collect transportation from •Henry A. Oberhelman ....307043 Mobile to New York at the Am­ Richard Newih .205433 erican Hawaiian SS office. 2 Cards— ; i % % Thomeis P. Langston 432928 SS T. R. HASSLER J. M. McLaughlin 271801 *"'"'illiam O'Keefe has 3 hrs. •David B. Meek ...332949 «. Collect at Bull Line, 115 Frank J. Melnick 339970 street. •Karl Mikkelsen 76968 Dc Edward K. Mingard 489314 •C. L. Mitts 136412 •Edgar J. Noonan 140340 Sverre I. Olsen 436187 John Osipur 403172 William Pakstis 322892 Hubert Partridge 245427 Dc Henry F. Patton 389294 Peter F. Perlis ,244590 Joseph F. Pinean 423688 C. A. Pitcher 172148 Dc H. Pitt . 334217 Joseph J. Pitts 527490 Santos Pizarro 219536 •Joseph W. Plummer 343078 Robert Purdy 156165 Harry Reider 322286 Nicola Richie 476691 James A. Riley 85549 * Already filed in our Social Reg­ ister. Some are marked "Do Not Ship." NOTE To The Various Branches: Change those cards to buff— Social Register. Y Younce, James D Young, H. R 40.95 10.50 1.69 6.68 17.90 17.83 3.52 13.53 303.45 17.90 6.45 10.24 98.90 5.26 8.95 1.37 5.63 537.54 3.52 12.06 Z Zahos, Geo Zarraga, Joseph Zarraga, Joseph Zukas, Edward E 2.16 6.43 24.14 13.53 A. H. Bull SS Company A Abbott, John A Akin, Phillip Aldevera, Placido Aldrich, E Allcox, J. E AUen, James Allen, Sigmund A Allgood, Hugh Allif, George W. AUsop, Doughlas G Amans, Lloyd E Ambrose, Paul E Andersen, Claus Anderson, A. H Anderson, C $ 12.75 4.96 9.24 2.23 11.32 2.25 118.75 13.50 2.13 2.25 11.02 7.01 3.00 11.33 10.15 SIU HALLS NEW YORK SI Beaver St BOSTON 330 Atlantic Ave BALTIMORE 14 North Gay St PHILADELPHIA 6 North eth St NORFOLK 26 CommercUl PI NEW ORLEANS 339 Chartres St CHARLESTON 6S Society St SAVANNAH 220 Eaet Bay St TAMPA 842 Zack St JACKSONVILLE .... 920 Main St MOBILE 7 St. Micheel St SAN JUAN, P. R. .... 48 Ponce de Leon GALVESTON 305H 22nd St HOUSTON 6605 Canal St. RICHMOND, Calif. 257 5th St SAN FRANCISCO 59 Clay St SEATTLE 86 Senecc St PORTLAND Ill W. Bunulde St WILMINGTON 440 Avalon Blvd HONOLULU 16 Merchant St BUFFALO 10 Exchange St CHICAGO 24 W. Superior Avo. SO. CHICAGO .. 8137 So. Houetdn Avo CLEVELAND .... 1014 E. St. CUir St. DETROIT 1038 Third St. DULUTH 831 W. Michijtaa St. VICTORIA. B. C. .... 602 Boughtoa St VANCOUVER, B.C., 144 W. Haetings St Anderson, Edward H Anderson, George R Annal," John T Aquila, Domingo Armand, Antonio Aimstrong, George Arnett, Gilbert T Arriola, David Arsenault, Joseph T Ashurst,- James H Askew, Billie M Assenza, Joseph Athridge, B Atkins, Walter Augins, Harold A Austin, Farris F Austin, Frank jr Austin, Lewis Aviles, Jose Ayala, Antonio .79 ^ . 24.02 75 4.50 1.34 3.38 30.72 2.25 5.69 66.39 71 4.62 50 23.05 6.50 ^ 71 4.00 30.00 6.75 49.12 B Babicke, Eward Badgett, Bruce C Baer, Max Bahjanen, Fred Bailey, James B., Jr Bakaysa, George Bakeberg, E Baker, Luther F ; Baker, Paul R. Balduf, Loren Banach, John Baris, Eugene Barlow, .James Barndt, Orville C Barnhart, Wm Batholomew, Paul Bartico, John D : Barton, Chas. G Baugher, Jesse D Baumgardner, James Bauschke, Elmor Bautista, Leodezolio Bayron, Francisco F Beach. Ralph 36.18 7.20 18.42 1.50 10.03 3.75^ 58.19 10.03 3.50 21.25 3.75 2.13 .28 12.65 • 3.75 ^ 1.50 6.75 4.62 5.69 56.88 2.93 13.50 8.25 17.81 PERSONALS EUGENE T. CULLINAN ALFONS SHIMKUS Your membership books are held for you at the New York hall, 51 Beaver Street. Please call for them as soon as you can. ft ft ft H. C. ROCK The receipt for the strike fund assessment you paid in Norfolk is waUing for you at the New York, hall. ft ft ft MAURICE TODD The glasses left by you on the William Wirt have been turned in and are now available at the New York hall, baggage room. ft ft ft THOMAS PARRETT Your suitcase is at American *• Liberty SS Co. office, 75 West Street, New York City. There is $1.04 express charge to be paid.. X % % L. BELC'iER Holder of receipt number 80598, please see Patrolman S. Colls at the New York hall. ft ft ft . ..Vv. Holder of receipt number 136ii please notify headquarters of name and book number. ft ft ft • Receipt number 1242 please se^ New York Patrolman Colls on the 5th floor. He has five dollars fpi^ you. , if' Sis?. i A J A'' ' ;x... I � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1939-1949 Description An account of the resource Volumes I-XI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. BCC The name(s) and email address(es) of the person to whom the email was blind carbon copied. 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Title A name given to the resource July 20, 1945 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. VII, No. 29 Description An account of the resource WLB HEARS OUR WAGE DISPUTES THIS WEEK, SIU BRIEF SUBMITTED SIU TUG HOME WITH OUTSTANDING RECORD DRAFT BOARD STILL DRAFTING TIME TO ATTACK SWEETHEARTS HOW COME JOE? FRAME-UP COAST GUARD CHARGE BACKFIRES ON PHONY SKIPPER SHIP CASUALTIES IN THE ATLANTIC OH YES, HE ALSO GOT A MEDAL FOR THE RECORD-FROM THE RECORD REPORT FROM THE ASS'T SECRETARY-TREAS. PITY PASSENGERS ON SENORITA RUN! BRASS HATS EXTEND 'NON-FRATERNIZATION' TO COVER MERCHANT CREW OF MARINE DRAGON CHARACTERS ON ARIZPA SHIP MEETING ON WILLIAM WIRT ASKS IMPROVEMENTS FOR QUARTERS ALL SHIPS GET FORM FOR NEWS SS HASTINGS FELIX GRUNDY, BACK FROM FRANCE, WINS PRAISE OF ENTIRE CREW MADAKET A HAPPY SHIP SS MARINA NAVY GUN CREW PRAISES STEWARD SAYS BOS' NS ARE UNDERPAID CALLS FOR INCREASE IN WAGE RAP PERFORMERS WHO HURT UNION HITS ROUGHHOUSE CONDUCT ON SHIP FROM FT. STANTON DEL NORTE PLAYOFF PROPOSES QUALIFYING TESTS FOR ELECTRICIANS POSTWAR SECURITY FOR SEAFARERS EXAMINE SHIP'S STORES BEFORE SIGNING ARTICLES NOT A FREE RIDE FROM RIGHT GUARD TO ABLE SEAMAN HOSPITAL NEWS AN OLD EGG BURNER GIVES ADVICE TO NEW STEWARDS COOPERATION GOOD BETWEEN PORTS WELCOMES VACATIONING PIECARDS THIRY-SIX SHIPS PAYOFF IN N.Y. MOBILE REPORTS A RECORD WEEK EXPLOSIVE BEEF IS WON ON OTIS Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 07-20-1945 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America 1945 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/9019630f24ac55d28d2c037d8f639e65.PDF c81305847413f07038cbb0f64bc1e898 PDF Text Text SEAFARERS AWAROKD FXlUT PRIZK • OBNERAL EDITORIAL EXCELLENCE • IQSS • LOG INTERNATIONAL LABOR PRESS OF AMERICA • OFFICIAL ORGAN OF THE SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION • ATLANTIC AN& GULF DISTRICT * AFL-CIO • GOOD SHIPPING . • -• " \ .'X'- -•'"i '::r •V,:.' i:-, See Cargo Boom To End Of '56 Story On Page 3 '• I Tramp Aid Sought Anew In Congress -Story On Page 2 . .T^ •"-I Robert E. Phillips, carpenter, and ship's delegate on w OifflR tfCOTOaCr• the Steel Admiral, stops off at headquarters to vote on amendments to SIU constitution. He's signing register before getting ballot from E. Starns, balloting committee member. (Story on Page 3.) Begin Vote To Amend SIU Constitution '.'r-l -Story On Page 3 Six Month Review »• A stewards Cliff Wilson (left) and Phil Reyes, two IfieerS #tpprOrUf * of traveling supervisors of SIU's "new look" shipboard feeding, check cut of meat ffer quality. New feeding system, based on individual or­ der preparation, has been success in first year. . (S(ory on Pag^ 5.) . SIU TRIAL!S AND APPEALS Page 10 •M �SEAFARERS IOC New US Tramp Aid Proposed WASHINGTON—A new proposal to save the fast-shrinking US tramp fleet by setting up a dual rate systetai^plicable to foreign-flag tramps bidding for "50-50" cargoes was under consideration by the House Merchant Marine Committee this week. It represents a novel approach to tramp ship problems, by setting up new cargo rule systems. The measure, introduced by^ Rep, Thomas M. Pelly (RDrifting Raft May Need Seafarers' Assistance Wash.), is viewed as a means .iloly SCHEDULE OF SlU MEETINGS SlU membership meefIngs are held regularly eveiy two weeks on Weclnesd^ nights at 7 PM In all SlU ports. All "Sea­ farers are expected to attend; those who wish to be excused should request permission by telegram (be sure to include reg­ istration number). The next SlU meetings will be: July 25 August 8 August 22 September 5 ' September 19 of curbing profiteering by foreignflag ships and discouraging further transfers from {he US flag. Although it Kas little chance of passage in the remaining days of the current session, it was pre­ sented now to allow study of its basic principles, if the committee looks upon the bill with favor it very likely will be reintroduced in January when Congress convenes again. In introducing the new bill, Rep. Pelly declared: "The American people ... are .subsidizing not only our merchant marine but the ships of other nations flying foreign flags and manned by foreign crews. ... In effect, our United States ships are being driven off the seas right now, and indirectly and in a large measure it is our own Gov­ ernment cargoes transported on foreign ships which are causing this situation." This bill (HR 12078) is intendedas a companion to an earlier pro­ posal by Rep. Pelly to meet the . same problem by requiring foreign WASHINGTON — Seafarer ships to pay US wage rates when­ Eric _ Joseph won his long ever they carried US Government fight to stay in the United cargoes. The Washington Con­ States when Congress passed and gressman's initial bill would have Pi-esident Eisenhower signed a bill been an extension of recognized granting him permanent residence wage practices in Governmentin the United States. As a result, contracted construction work. the way is clear for Joseph to Lacked Industry Suppoi-t apply for US citizenship. Although it had widespread A native of India, Joseph was In support from US maritime unions, the Staten Island US Public Health it lacked necessary Government and industry backing since a large number of American shipping com­ panies operate vessels under run­ away flags at the same time and showed natural reluctance to cut into their own profits. The dual rate measure would apply the existing "fair and rea­ sonable" rate rule to foreign Seafarers on transatlantic runs who may spot this odd-loolclng craft on the way to Europe are tramps as well as US ships. Under advised that it's far from hostile. A trio of French Canadians is aboard, trying to get to present law. Government cargoes Europe the hard way, by drifting, It is shown as it was seen from a Navy transport about can be withheld from US ships if 1000 miles east of Halifax-which helped replenish the men's depleted food supplies. They the rates are not "fair and reason­ have more than halfway to go yet on the 25'x35' raft. able" and in line with going market rates and operating costs. Thus, in order to curb profiteer­ ing by foreign-flag operators who are currently charging rates at or near the US level despite the much lower operating costs of their Eric Joseph vessels, a similar "fair and reason­ able" rule would be applied to the Service hospital five years ego runaways based on their own costs. when he learned that a fellow-Sea­ Although the foreign-flag rate WASHINGTON—The highly profitable aspects of foreign-flag shipping operations were farer, Phil Pron, was going blind would still be well below the Amer­ underscored last week by a resolution introduced in the Senate authorizing the sale of 24 as a result of a shipboard accident. ican rate, it would generally equal­ surplus coal-burning Libertys to a new West German company. Any move of this scope Joseph voliuiteered the cornea of ize the margin of profit for US and one of his own eyes for a transplant, foreign ships, and encourage great­ would push US ships out of" operation which saved Pron's sight.' the coal-carrying trade per­ with Canada, Mexico, Latin Amer­ that its enactment would fore­ er use of American vessels and The story of his actioii won na­ ica or most of the Caribbean is­ stall Western Europe's increasing manently. crews. tional acclaim at the time and was lands serviced by US-flag vessels, The coal-burners, which were dependence on fuel from Commu­ operated by the British during all of which accounts for a sizeable nist countries. They say the prob­ a compelling factor In Congress' World War II with Indian crews portion of US-flag trade. lem cannot be solved by building favorable action on his application The German ships are merely new ships, since European ship­ for admission to the US. July 20, 1956 Vol. XVill. No. 15 and then went into lay-up, would be used to transport US coal to bound "In returning to the United yards are booked to capacity and Special Law PAUL HAU,,- secretary-Treasurer HERBERT BRAND, Editor; RAY DENISON, West Germany and other free States . .. (to be). . . operated in American costs are too high. Under the Indian quota, which Managing Editor; BERNARD SEAMAN, Art, European nations to reduce a US ballast and .., not carry cargo Into Thus they look to the US moth­ is severely limited, Joseph's Editor; HERMAN ARTHUR, IRWIN SPIVACK, ball fleet to bail them out, regard­ chances for his admission through Staff Writers; BILL MOODY, Gulf Area coal surplus and relieve a corre­ any United^ States port." sponding shortage abroad. Representative. Because of the highly controver­ less of the consequences to US normal Immigration channels were An Interesting aspect of the res­ sial nature of the bill and its ad­ shipping, which counts heavily on very dim. However, a number of Among Affiliates Page 11 olution is a clause barring the verse affect on American shipping, expanding coal exports to prop the legislators were Interested in the Directory Of Halls ..Page 6 West German concern from carry­ it appears-to stand practically no sagging American merchant ma­ case and at this session of Congress ing any cargo Into US ports on re­ chance of favorable action. Final Dispatch Page 10 rine. Rep. Alfred Sieminski (Dem.-NJ) turn voyages to the United States, Inquiring Seafarer ..Page 5 Introduced by Sen. James Duff At the same time, further deple­ and Senator Dennis Chavez (Dem.for a period of ten years. . Labor Roundup Page 7 of Pennsylvania, a major US cpal- tion of the US reserve ship fleet is New Mex.) introduced special leg­ Sop To US Shipping producing center, the proposed underway following Maritime Ad­ islation which made Joseph's US Men In Hospitals Page 12 This was apparently inserted in sale takes note-of a major eco­ ministration approval of the sale entry possible. ' Personals Page 7 advance to meet objections to the nomic event—^with far-reaching of 12 Cl-MAV-1 freighters to The SIU assisted Joseph in his Recent Arrivals Page 6 deal by US shipping interests and consequences for the US coal in­ Brazil for domestic operations. The fight for admission by helping him Shipping Round-Up ..Page 4 maritime unions and "in order to dustry—which occurred in 1951. sale was authorized by Congress with the filing of the numerous Your Dollar's Worth .. Page 7 legal documents and affidavits insure that such vessels will not For the first time in history, cok­ two years ago. engage in unlimited competition ing coal was brought some 4,000 The House Merchant Marine which strengthened his case. with American citizens." Thus, on miles from West Virginia to fire Committee last week approved au­ aizo Up until now, Joseph had been the surface at least, this shows blast furnaces in the Ruhr. Since thorization for the ships to carry sailing on SIU ships as a non­ Published biweekly at Tfio headquarters some concem with the state of the then, American coal exports to bulk grain and coal enroute from resident alien Fubject to the re­ of the Seafarers international Union, At­ US_^ merchant marine, observers Western Europe have been expand­ this country to Brazil after the strictions on shipping imposed lantic & Gulf District, AFL-CIO, 675 Fcurt;i npted. ing rapidly. purchase is completed. The full under the McCarran-Walter Act Avenue, Bropklyn 32, NY. Tel 9-6600. Entered as second class m'tfer However, the cqntract would not^ Hoping To wjjQ p3ss^p^e,Jhp^ .Por- House arid Senate still must act .^d other , legislation, , governing at the Post Office In Brooklifa,;HY.,:Mnil«r bar the 24-Siiip fleet from tradirf^i on this resoluti'Srii : j ,i ^jBaji^QS,, : VU' visj the Act of Aug. 24, 19IX n m I Hi ill if !l ••Vt Seafarer Wins US Hesidence Germans Seek Old US Libertys For Coal Trade SEAFARERS LOG i 7^ ' '^'1 �if.'Jnly 20, 195f SEAFARERS SlU Award Winner Greeted In NY •rtigtr niuf LOG Excellent Due To Continue Throughout Year ' A relatively stable outlook of continued good shipping appears to be in pros­ pect for Seafarers for the i^mainder of 1956. Several economic and political de­ velopments have combined to make it reasonably sure that shipping and ship job opportunities will continue to zip along at current high levels. The keys to the current shipping prosperity are coal, oil, grain, farm sur­ plus and continued large breakouts would have given alternative of buying coal in the shipments of economic and Ship an immediate shot in the arm to United States. The result is that military aid. All of them shipping, maritime authorities coal shipments are now a yearOne of four Seafarers to win 1956 SlU $6,000 scholarship awards, Seafarer George ButenkofF, AB (left), is greeted by SlU Assistant Secretary-Treasurer J09 Algioa after coming, ashore in New York from the Seatraih Savannah. He will re­ sume training at Newark College of Engineering, Newark, NJ, in the fall toward study of marine electronics. show no sighs of slack-off in the yisible^^fnture and some may be oh the increase. Adding- to the prospect of a reiatively -stable shipping picture is the decision of the Federal Maritime Board to with­ hold ship , breakouts despite the many rayiests for tonnage. While Seafarers Balloting On Constitution Changes Voting began July 12 in all ports on proposed amendments to the SIU constitution after a rank-and-file constitutional committee brought in a report favoring the proposals with some slight modifications (See report pages 14 and 15). The 28-day referendum votd will decide on mechanical changes" in> SIU election procedures which placed each night; and they provide mechanical alterations. outport participation in the The 28 day referendum vote will are designed to strengthen for final tally." secrecy of the ballot and erect Committee Clarifications more safeguards around the mem­ In approving the proposals, the bership's voting rights. The committee report was committee made some changes written by a six-man rank and file designed to clarify the seatime body elected at the June 27 head- requirements for holding office. It specified that the four months seatime in the calendar year of an SIU election be in an unlicensed capacity, as well as the three years' over-alT seatime requirement. The original amendment did not specify unlicensed seatime, but did spell out a requirement that the fourmonths' seatime be served on ships under contract to the SIU in the calendar year of the election. As in the past, service as an official or employee of the Union is accept­ able . In lieu of the four month provision, but the three year re­ quirement stands for all candidates for office. The "lame duck" provision men­ tioned by the*committee calls for newly-elected officers to take office midnight of the night that the tallying committee report Is ac­ cepted. Previously they had to wait until midnight, March 31, months after the conclusion of voting. Other amendments change the voting period to November 1-December 31 from the old period of November 15 to January 15; set Making sure he's got his up a 14-man tallying committee to vote in early on the pro­ include eight outport representa­ posed SIU constitutional tives; set an earlier date, Septem­ amendments, Seafarer Bill ber 1, for the election of a cre­ Rogers, AB, casts his ballot dentials committee as well as other at .headquarters. Voting ends August 8. quarters meeting. It was approved at the July 11 meetings in all ports and voting got underway the fol­ lowing day. The committee noted that "the proposed amendments improve the election procedure by adding pro­ visions of great benefit to the vot­ ing members. They also eliminate Tame duck' periods; they call for an official depository such as a bank ... in which the ballots are 'Can-Shakers' Have No OK The membership is again cautioned to beware of persons soliciting funds on ships in be­ half of memorials or any other so-called "worthy causes." No "can-shakers" or solici­ tors have received authoriza­ tion from SIU headquarters to collect funds. , come to a close on August 8. If the amendments are approved, they will apply to the forthcoming SIU elections this Tall. have argued that they would dam­ age shipping in the long run by continuing the old "boom and bust" pattern that has plagued the maritime industry. By holding breakouts down the FMB expects to produce reason­ ably full employment for privatelyowned American ships and their crews. It is expected that the good earnings of the operators will then be translated into modernization of the American merchant fleet as well as improvements for crewmembers. On the cargo side, an entirely new pattern of coal shipments has been set this year and is expected to prevail in the long range. Pre­ viously coal shipments would get a temporary fillip if there was a cold winter in Europe, but would breathe their last gasp when spring came. Now both Great Britain and West Germany, formerly the sup­ pliers of the European coal mar­ ket, find they cannot dig enough coal to take care of their own needs. That leaves them and all other European nations with the Court Again Hits CC Screening round proposition. It is expected that 15 miilion tons of coal will go to Europe alone this coming fall and winter, which adds up to the staggering total of 1,500 Liberty ship voyages in this area alone. The result is that many contracts are being signed for long term charters. Tankers are also doing well. Al­ though layups are normal in early spring, the tankers kept on run­ ning. Right now charterers say that tanker business is way above summertim,e normal. From here on in the tanker busy season begins, which means steady employment for them the remainder of 1956. Adding to shipping business is a steady fiow of grain cargoes and other farm products. The US farm surplus disposal program got un­ derway originally on the basis of a $750 million shipment ceiling. That figure was doubled earlier in the year to $1.5 billion and the Senate has just hiked the ceiling to $3 billion. Grain and cotton are two big items in this program. Foreign aid appropriations are also on the increase this year with military and economic aid going heavily to Asiatic regions includ­ ing Korea, Formosa, Japan, Indo­ china, Pakistan among other coun­ tries. Even the current steel strike has failed to dampen the shipping pic­ ture with heavy imports of iron ore and other raw materials sure to resume once the mills get back to work. The final topping to the shipping SAN FRANCISCO—The Federal District Court here has ordered the Coast Guard to issue seamen's papers immedi­ ately to some 400 seamen who were screened off the ships I picture is supplied by the domestic trades which are beginning .to see under the maritime security''" program. The order follows a Korean War. Most of the men the light after ten years in the dol­ previous US court ruling affected by the screening were drums. All operators in the coast­ which threw out the old Coast Guard screening program as un­ constitutional. However, it appeared doubtful that the screened men would get tlieir papers as the Coast Guard and the Department of Justice apparently intend to file an appeal fr.om the District Court decision. Appeals Court Ruling The 9th Federal Circuit Court of Appeals had thrown out the old screening program last October mainly on the grounds that accused seamen were denied the right to confront and cross-examine wit­ nesses who testified against them. Since then the Xoast Guard and the Department of Justice have revised the screening rules and the Coast Guard has refused to issue new documents to screened seamen on the ground that they have to be re-screened under the new regulations. The group of screened men then went to court and got an injunc­ tion ordering the Coast Guard to Issue them new seamen's papers. The court ruled that the Coast Guard could screen them after they got their papers back, but not before. The original screening program wajs set up by President Truman's bVdeV baclt' in' 1951 during the members of the pro-Soviet Na­ tional Union of Marine Cooks and Stewards and longshoremen who Were members of the West Coast International Longshoremen's and Warehousemen's Union, headed by Harry Bridges. The NUMC&S has since col­ lapsed as a result of an SIU of NA election defeat and has been re­ placed on West Coast ships by the Marine Cooks and Stewards union, an SIU of North America affiliate. wise and intercoastal services now find more than enough cargo offer­ ings, which is quite a switch from the situation prevailing in the post-war years. Plans for trailertanker combination ships and rollon roll-off vessels are bright spots in this trade. Favorable Congressional action on construction of new passenger ships would pile further shipping opportunities on top of the cur­ rent healthy shipping picture. Giant CS Tanker Sails BALTIMORE—Manned by a full SIU crew, the supertanker Cities Service Baltimore completed sea trials and went into ac­ tive operations late this week. The giant ship is the first of three new 32,650-deadweight-ton sister ships due to go into service this year. Built for the company's coastwise service, they have double the capacity of two T-2 tankers and sleek modern accommoda­ tions including individual staterooms for each crewman. All three ships are being built at Bethlehem Steel's Sparrows Point, Md., yards, where the second ship, the Cities Service Miami, is being rushed to completion in time to begin operations next month. The Baltimore was launched last March and the third Ship is due to be ready, in December. The next issue of the SEAFARERS LOG will carry a feature story on the giant ship, including photographs by a photographer for the LOG wbp is now aboard the ship. • A �raK« fWr t V . » 1 StlAFARERS Jttb M. 19S« LOG 5IU Medkdl Center HOW AMERICAN UNIONS SERVE Plan Hears Vfrap-Up EVERY AMERICAN NEW YQRK—Joirxtly-operated Union medical centers which will be set up in. or near SIU halls in major ports eventually will do away with a lot of the medical difficulties and red tape Seafarers now* ~~~ binding under the JJnion contract. face. Many of the present prob­ Establishment of the medical In World War H milUona di droit ago Amoricoiui woro rojociod lor modicol rooaons. Moid ol ccniaos could hoTO boon clocorod up by modkod euro during thoir youth. Tho USA is the pnly democracy in the world with: out a program to fanprore the coun­ try's healA. The American MedlcrJ Association — the doctor's lobby — brags of the $1,500J)00 it spent to kill legislation which would' have cstab^ iished a token pr^am of aid to rick cmd injured Americans. SF Perking As Shipping Shows Rise SAN FRANCISCO Still inching up, shipping here con­ tinued to be good during the center program, which is not too far off, would set up a series of past two weeks, with quite a few mutually-agreed-upon rules in­ ships' in port to be serviced. stead of the variety of standards - The -future looks even brighter, relied on by the companies. FuJJy Port Agent Leon Johnson com­ staffed, modern-equipped centers mented, watching that eo'stkl ball will be set up to handle the medi­ closely. Registration ran ahead of cal examination program. shipping again, equalling the mark Lengthy Discussions reached last period, in readiness Plans and final details for the for another full burst of activity. first of four planned medieal eenThree Sign-Ons ters have been under discussion Two payoffs and three sign-ons "for some time among Union and American unions have taken the accounted for the business of the company officials, and are ex­ only steps to bring medical care period. The Orion Pl.anet 'Colo­ pected to be put. into effect soon. within the range of the overage nial) and Afoundria (Waterman) AmericaiL Union welfare plans pro­ Meanwhile, shipping remained vide hospitrd-si^cal care for millions. came In and went out again, and good in the port, especially for 'Free preventative medicol care has the Coetu: d'Alehe Victory (Victory rated engine department men. It also been pioneered by unions -with Carriers) signed on. fell off slightly from the past pe­ mobile X-Bay units, trlinics and hedth centers. ' No other group hos done riod, but still provided more than On the in-transit ship roster more than the unions to make all ample opportunities for those men were the Steel Designer, Steel Voy­ Americans heolthier. ager (Isthmian); Massmar, Texmar ready and willing to ship. (Calmar); Alice Brown 'BloomThe coming period should be field); Fairland (Waterman), and about the same, with several ships Ocean Evelyn (Ocean Trans). None due in from long trips. A total of of them had any major beefs. 22 ships were paid off, 5 signed on foreign artieles and 16 were in transit during, the last two SEATTLE—Free of beefs, with weeks. One ship, the Carolyn all branch affairs running along (Bull), eame out of lay-up and took okay, this port has everything un­ a full erew, as expected. der control except shipping. Job Stricken with a perforated appendix at sea with no doctor aboard. Seafarer Israel Ramos activity has slowed to a crawl. was spared possible complications recently when the Alcoa Pointer raced across the Carib­ One long-awaited payoff, the bean into an unscheduled port where he could he treated. Longview Victory iVictoi'y Car­ Ramos was reported recov-"* ' riers) failed to show up again dur­ ering rapidly from surgery the efforts of the captain to get was successful, Bruce added: "It's ing the past period, and still an­ The only unionized taxicab three days later, when the him into port, he is okay today." deeds like this that make one feel other, the Jefferson City Victory, company in Savannah is the Pointer arrived in Aruba, after operated by the same company, is proud to be sailing an SIU ship." Enroute To Maracalbo Garden City Cab Company, having dropped him off at Wilalso due. Between them, they also known as the Checker The Pointer was enroute from lemstad, Curacao, in the emer­ Puerto Cabello to Maracaibo, Ven­ could pep up siiipping here con­ Cab Company, whose tele­ gency. The company agent in ezuela, when Ramos was stricken. siderably, Port Agent Jeff Gillette phone is 5133, 5134. Yellow Aruba provided the "encouraging" After his pains got worse late at noted. Cab is still non-union and is news that Ramos, an oiler, would night, the skipper diverted the No payoffs or sign-ons were han­ resisting all efforts at organ­ be fit to travel within a week. dled during the last two weeks, as ization. ship into Willemstad harbor in­ four in-transit ships supplied the The port of Savannah mem­ Made I^im Comfortable stead of going on. There he was only activity. These were the bership aided -in the organiz­ "Thanks to the part played by examined by a doctor and disem­ Fairland 'Waterman), and . three ing of the Garden City com­ the deck and engine department in barked by launch for hospitaliza­ Calmar ships, the Texmar, Masspany, and is on record to making Brother Ramos comfort­ tion, while the ship continued on mar and Seamar. They were all patronize only union cabs. able after he was stricken," ship's to Maracaibo. in good shape. reporter Leo Bruce wrote, "and to Grateful that the mercy mission lems arise from unfair standards Imposed by company doctors which are, in turn, rejected by doctors at the US Public Health Service hos­ pitals. The problem , is that even though most Seafarers later get a clean bill of health from the USPHS medicos, they find; that someone else has been called for their job and the ship has sailed. This duplication of efforts by the USPHS doctors stems from the lack of a uniform set of medi­ cal requirements' agreed to by the Union and the shipping companies. The result is that Seafarers con­ stantly invoke the protection af­ forded them in SIU working agree­ ments to have a USPHS doctor check their fitness for duty. The findings of the USPHS are SeattleLullDue To End Shortly Ship Diverted To Save Seafarer Ride Union Cabs in Savannah June 27 Through July 10 Registered Port Deck A Boston ... New York 4 108 20 53 9 9 8 27 84 8 27 9 15 6 I'' Norfolk Savaunai Tampa ' %- Deck B Lake Charles., 1 Seattle 3 20 7 22 7 5 3 12 18 10 14 5 13 7 Deck A fell;' : '/U Total Deck B 387 146 Eng. A Ens. B 10 73 9 36 5 1 10 31 64 8 14 7 13 8 Stew. A 3 32 4 28 6 6 3 13 25 10 10 4 20 , 6 Eng. A 289 3 61 13 39 6 3 9 19 75 3 20 6 20 7 Stew. B 0 23 6 20 8 3 1 9 25 8 6 4 9 5 Total A Total B Total Reg 6 75 17 70 21 16 7 34 68 28 30 13 42 18 Total B 23 317 59 198 41 29 34 111 291 47 91 35 90 39 Total Reg. 445 1405 17 242 42 128 20 13 27 77 223 19 61 22 48 21 Eng. B Stew. A Stew. B 'fltotal A 170 284 129 060 Shipped r Port W' i: h PT'., ' p- iV K.-. it. • ! 1 1' Boston New York Deck A .. 79 .. 1? . . 5 19 0 Norfolk Savannah Tampa ... Lake Charles. Houston . . .: Wilmington .. Seattle Deck B 3 17 9 11 4 1 4 8 13 10 5 0 13 1 Deck Deck •••'A .' B• • 2^. 101 Deck C 2 19 0 3 4 1 0 5 28 0 2 2 1 0 Eng. A 4 43 10 31 3 1 4 21 56 7 14 1 12 1 Deck , C ( 67 208 ^g. B 1 28 9 15 2 4 3 8 22 13 9 2 9 ' 0 Eng. i.n»B n;^(25. Enj. 5 32 7 3 3 4 1" 8 31 5 2 2 0 5 108 Stew. A 4 51 9 22 2 2 5 7 50 6 0 1 14 1 Stew. A- 183 I ^ * Stew. Stew. Total B C A 0 19 5 11 3 2 3 7 24 . 4 3 1 8 0 0 18 2 9 1 1 1 10 43 2 e 3 0 1 11 173 31 95 6 6 13 54 151 18 34 7 45 2 Total A ' Total B 4 64 23 37 9 7 10 23 61 27 17 3 30 1 Total '-B • <y99!..r.,01..i 646; - 316, Total Total Ship C 7 69 9 15 8 6 2 23 102 7 4 7 -1 6 22 306 63 147 23 19 25 100 314 52 55 17 76 0 1226 • SIU shipping leveled off somewhat in the past two weeks, but still held to a g(x>d pace. The total number of men dis­ patched was 1,228. Registration increased slightly to a total of 1,405 men. The present picture is somewhat misleading, especially since 10 out of 14 A&G ports showed declines Over the previous period. But the previous report was^ut of the ordinary, with almost 1,500 men shipped. New Orleans Sets Record At the saRie time, New Orleans and San Francisco increased again. In the ease of the Crescent City, the rise produced the biggest ship­ ping period the Louisiana port has had in over 31 months, since De­ cember, 1953. On the West Coast, San Francisco has been the only port to stay out of the doldrums while Atlantic and Gylf coast ports have been enjoying prosperity, and this held true again for the last period. Tampa and Boston, meanwhile, remained at the same level as before. At" least two ports. Baltimore and Philadelphia, have suffered a crimp in job activity as a result of the steel strike, which has caused the lay-up of a number of Calmar and Ore ships. In turn, New York and Mobile, though a bit slower than usual, were still quite active. Class A. Up Again In terms of seniority shipping, the class A portion rose to 521^ per­ cent and class B-to 26 percent, while class C dropped to 2V/^ percent. Thus, the balance between class A and classes B and C together was slightly restored. In the previous period, more B and C men'were shipped than In class A. The class C shipping was again highest in the engine department, and New Orleans again set a record for class C activity in a single' two-week period. The following .is the forecast port by port: BOSTON: Fair , . . NEW YORK: Good . . . PHILADELPHIA: Good . . . BALTIMORE: Good... NORFOLK: Should improve . . , SAVANNAH: Fair . . . TAMPA:"Fair . . . MOBILE: Good . . . NEW ORLEANS: Slowing up . . . LAKE CHARLES: Good . . . HOUSTON: Slow ^ . WILMINGTON: Slow... SAN FRA^^CIS€0: Good ... SEAT^Iilj. Pjiir. : �\ SEAFAHEHS LOG Senaie Sets $3 BiHh§h - v Surplus Export Target - Quttfion: Whit* collar workart ar* fallihg far behind in their income level. What do you believe is the reason they haven't become union-minded and advanced their income? Hei;bert Reeve, pumpman: White Alex Arnostou, FOW; Unions have fought and tried to organize collar {feople seem to get settled ' into the job they white coUar are doing and workers many take the boss' times, such as in word on every­ the Wall Street thing. They strike. People would be better in offices have oi0t if they would enough educa­ be unionized but tion to know they don't seem they should be­ to know the long to an organ­ gains unions ization but they seem to think unions are for fac­ have made and they are set in their ways. tory workers, not them. vt-': •'k if -'••>» & 'i t t .. ^ Ifc Victor. Dooa; cook: Office people Roy Guild, AB: They are unin­ don't seem to be too familiar with formed and are lulled Into a false the kind of bene­ sense of security fits which ^unions by promises from" give their mem­ management to bers. They don't the effect that know the' full they don't need story of the gains unions and that unions have tlie company will made in recent take care of them years and need to at all times. They be info r m e d only find out about them. what the score That might explain why they, Is when its too late. don't join 4ip. ' t t X Pedro Gonzales, bosun: It's just Antonio Gonzalez, boson: Peo­ ple that don't believe in unions that they don't know what a union Is and what it work steady with can do for them. one company and They think that think they belong they are able to to the company. get along without They seem to union protection have the idea and help in get­ they will become ting them condi­ president oiv vicetions. The result president some is that they fall day. But mean­ behind the union while they fall members on everything. behind on pay and benefits. fif ,. ' *- - • 1. • WASHINGTON—Even heavier shipments of Surplus agricultural moducts are in store in the year 1956-57 as the US Senate voted to double the ceiling on such shipments to $3 bil­ lion. At the same time though, the US merchant fleet suffered a minor setback when the Senate voted-to exempt fruit • and fruit products from the A • •% I • "50-50" shipping Iaw_ pro­ visions. Maritime interests and maritime unions did not make an issue of the fruit products exemption in view of the fact that the rest of the "50-50" provisions were left intact on agricultural surplus. Earlier in the year farm bloc rep­ resentatives had spearheaded an attack on the application of "50-50" to their surplus products.- They went along without objection now except few the minor change on fruit. : , V ^hei-e had bee^ complaints from the farm bloc' at the time that fruits and other perishables were :not movipg beca)|se; of the lack of adequarte feefer^spape on US ships. Mountain Of Siirplus The doubled allowance for agri­ cultural shiptnLehts ^ would appear to open the way for «• yery sizable increase in Government cargoes for US flag ships. However, the measure still has to be acted on in the House of Representatives. In addition, the US may face some difficulty in disposing of sucii huge amounts of surplus abroai^. As it is, at present some Gov­ ernment agencies have had trou­ ble finding US-fiag space for mili­ tary and economic aid shipments as well as food surplus. Any sharp increase in surplus sales will add to the'pressure for ship breakouts from the reserve fleet. The surplus disposal program has helped. keep many US ships operating ana has meant hundreds of new jobs. Senate Body Approves New Passenger Ships WASHINGTON—Another step towards increased US-flag passenger service was taken in the Senate as the Commerce Committee approved a bill guaranteeing 100 percent mortgage insurance on new ship construction. The bill has al­ the ampndment it means that a Senate-House conference will - be ready passed the House. An immediate beneficiary of the needed to match up the bills and measure would be the Arnold both Houses will have to vote once Bernstein Line, which is hoping to more on tJje conference measure. get underway a new low-cost trans­ Should the amendment go through atlantic shipping service using as the bill may run into opposition many as three converted Mariner- from the Department of Com­ type vessels. The Bernstein opera­ merce. If these obstacles are overcome, tion would be the first new US passenger ship service in a great passage of the bill would enable many years, and eventually would Bernstein Lines to make an early provide up to 1,000 new seamen's start on converting a Mariner ship for passenger sfervice in" 1957. The jobs. ship would offer cafeteria-style Strong Support For Bill While there is strong support in feeding and uniform accommoda­ the Senate for the measure, which tions throughout, enabling it to will be spearheaded on the Senate supply * passage at a lower rate floor by Senator Warren Magnuson than conventional passenger ves­ (Dem.-Wash.) Commerce Commit­ sels. The proposed service between tee chairman, the bill still faces one important obstacle. That is New York and the Low Countriesthe provision for 100 percent mort­ has already won approval from the gage insurance to cargo ships as Federal Maritime Board, with the financing of ship construction the well. last undecided issue. As originally offered, the insurKlU B -eking 'ance guarantee applied only to The SIU has gone on record in combination passenger-cargo ves­ support of the 100 percent insur­ sels. An amendment to include all ance guarantee. SIU Secretarynew ship construction was ap­ Treasurer Paul Hall testified' for • proved on the House floor. the bill before House and Senate If the Senate does not approve committees, where *he declared that the proposal w as the only way to get new shipping ventures by private companies off the ground. At present, the Government of­ fers up to 90 percent mortgage in­ surance guarantees on certain types of .ship construction. Even with this guarantee, banks and other lending institutions have been unwilling to invest funds in ship construction mortgages. 'New Look' Meals Pass Year Test 'M- An SlU-pioneered program setting up a "new look" in ship­ board meal programming goes into its second year this month hailed by crews, companies and interested observers. The SIU program began a-* year ago when SIU steward comments. Early this year another department specialists went membership-elected steward com­ aboard ships of SlU-eontracted companies to institute the new procedure as part of preliminary work toward formulating new SIU steward department working rules. Summarizing one year of action, SIU officials and steward depart­ ment experts feel the program has *een successful in every respect, resulting in happier crews, less waste and more efficient galley operations. The objective of the new system has been to replace mass feeding with an individual approach. It in­ volves, among other points, cook­ ing to Older as much as possible; doing away with steam table cook­ ery; carving of meats to order; use of- side dishes in serving most vegetables; an emphasis on neater messroom set-ups and a consider­ able upgrading of night lunches. First In Bull Line The program was first instituted on ships of the Bull Line and later extended to the Alcoa and Water­ man ships where it also proved to be an immediate success. Subsequently a committee was elected in headquarters composed of 15 steward department men to study and formulate a set of de-. pai'tment working rules as well as a meal guide for all SIU stewards to follow. The outports sent in sug­ gestions and an'interim report was made with recommendations to the membership. This report, was sent to all ships requesting their suggestions atld, mittee was convened and a revised set of working rules drawn up that incorporated all suggestions and ideas gathered during the preced­ ing six month period. The commit­ tee's final report was accepted and the new rules went into effect on all SIU ships in March of this year. The biggest single result of the new system has been the notice­ able decrease in food beefs. Where such beefs occur it is usually found that the steward department has not followed the- SIU working rules. Expect To Continue The program of having steward department experts ride the ships is expected to be continued to as­ sist steward department personnel in achieving the highest degree of ability under the new program and to strive for even better meals. SIU stewards have found that during the past year they are re­ ceiving full cooperation from their crews as well as, in most cases, the company shoreside officials. The resulting greater stability felt by the steward has greatly dimin­ ished the disputes that often arose. One of the big achievements has been a sharp reduction in waste. It was found that where ships were using an excess of food they were feeding the poorest, had the linhappiest crews and were often running short of supplies. As a re­ sult: of better preparation - frid utilization bf theib ktipplits! >th%' Steel Strike No Bar To Phila. Jobs Two of the SIU consulting stewards who' supervised the in­ stallation of the "new look" feeding program on SIU ships are Seafarers ClifF Wilson (left) and Phil Reyes. They are shown here checking cuts of meat. crews of these ships are now eat­ ing better and the stewards are not running out of food. The past year operation of the SIU's "new look" has not only drawn the attention of SIU crews and companies. Non-SIU outfits and other maritime unions have viewed the plan in operation and hailed the results. Several have indicated they intend to adopt the SIU system. Not, cdntent to rest on ..their la;ulr6l^ SIU stb'Ward' dbpartinent experts are still working for greater improvements aboard the ships. Among the matters curI'ently holding their attention are: • A minimum storing list for all ships. • Overcoming the lack of fresh milk in the Far East. • The heavy spoilage of fresh fruit. • A possible cut in the size of I stores- bags from .100 pounds to a maximiim of 50 pbuhds.^ PHILADELPHIA — Shipping is holding up well in this port, al­ though the steel strike has forced some of the Calmar Line ships which normally pay off here to go into Baltimore and lay up. The good shipping is expected to continue, according to SIU Port Agent A. S. Cardullo. The outlook for the next two weeks is bright­ ened by the prospect of at least four payoffs during the coming period. While registration is keeping pace with shipping, men in black gang ratings are especially wel­ come, Cardullo said, because these rates are in short supply. The Val Chem (Valentine), and Rebecca (Intercontinental Trans) paid off and signed on again, while the Steel Seafarer (Isthmian) signed on. In transit were the fol­ lowing: Chickasaw, Fairisle (Pan Atlantie); Jean, _ Emilia (Bull); Steel Seafarer (Isthmian); Robin Hood, Robin Mowbray (Seas Ship­ ping), -and Cantigny (Cities Serv­ ice). ' . •' M I �f SEAFARERS Paf« Six •i;'; . I'' t- BALTIMORE—The SIU has offered its full support to striking AFL-CIO steel workers'here as the nationwide steel strike nears the end of its third w;eek. About 650,000 members of the United Steel Workers of America employed in plants NEW YORK — Stricken by a heart attack in his home, Willy Dorchain, US represen­ : - •;£ •. .-i tU It's Father's Day At Sill 51U Otters Support To Steel Strikers; Oreships Laying Up Dorchain, ITF Leader In US, Dies Suddenly •J i Inly 2f, l«Sf IPG tative of the International Transportworkers Federation, died here July 11. The veteran ITF repre­ sentative was 52 years old. A familiar figure at SIU of NA conventions, Dorchain has been ac­ tive in seamen's affairs for a num­ ber of yeaij. As ITF spokesman here he had han­ dled the state­ side aspects of that organiza­ tion's campaign to improve con­ ditions on run­ Dorchain away flag ships. Efforts were made to bring these ships up to the standards of legiti­ mate maritime natio. , which were successful in a number of instances. Last .summer the ITF opened a special seafarers' section organiz­ ing office at 33 Whitehall Street which was to concentrate on or­ ganizing work among Panamanian, Liberian and U^nduran flag crewmembers. Aided On Immigral jn Other assignments handled by him included winning relief for alien seamen fror the restrictions of the McCarran-Walter Immigra­ tion Act and assisting reorganiza­ tion of the Indi ..n seam n's move­ ment. A native of Belgium, Dorchain had "'i "^r a great ma: y jears as radio operator on Belgian ships. He came ashore in the US in 1943. It has been reported that he was on assignment with the Office of Strategic Services at the time. Surviving are his wife, Marie; a son, Pierre; and two daughters. Georgette and Jeannie. of the nation's 12 largest steel pro­ ducers went off the job July 1 in a "no contract-no work" dispute. The workers previously rejected the companies' package money of­ fer coupled with a firm five-year contract. The length of the pro­ posed pact was later cut down to four years and four months. The union has indicated it might agree on a three-year agreement, providing the steel -ompanies' offer on wages and other benefits was scaled upwards. The pro­ posed contract has been character­ ized as one that offers "too little" for "too long." It is feared the strike may continue for some time. While the strike has caused the lay-up of a number of Ore and Calmar ships here", SIU port offi­ cials have been quick to offer what­ ever aid is needed for the striking mill workers. "Needless to say, this offer was well received," Port Agent Earl Sheppard commented, "but as yet , we have not been called upon." No Backlo' N.eded Both Ore and Calmar are owned by lethlehem Steel, one of the "big three" steel producers with US Steel and Republic Steel. Since -none of the steel plants are working, there is no need for the ore fleet to accumulate any further backlog of raw material at the mills. This is the second occasion since the AFL-CIO merger last Decem­ ber that the SIU has volunteered its support for a major beef involv­ ing a former CIO affiliate. Sea­ farers were active here during the recent long Westinghouse strike by the International U. ion of Electri­ cal Workers, particularly in help­ ing d feat a ^ apany-fostered 'back to work" movement at two local plants. Subsequently the company yielded on new contract terms. Due to the lay-up of some Cal­ mar and Ore vessels, shipping dur­ ing the past two weeks slowed up again, but is likely to boom again in the current period. Of the seven payoffs scheduled, only three are Calmar and Ore vessels. Dur­ ing the past two weeks, 15 ships paid off, seven signed on and ten stopped off in transit. Cuddling up to dad, these young misses make cute camera bait during visit to SIU headquarters. With Seafarer Martin Sierra, 2nd cook, are Joann, 2 (left), and Annette, who turned 4 just last week. Sierra was on the Robin Mowbray last trip. >-v :V:- i '•i'i- - SIU, A&G District BALTIMORE 1216 E. Baltimore St. Earl Sheppard, Agent EAstern 7-4900 BOSTON 278 State St. James Sheehan, Agent Richmond 2-0140 HOUSTON 4202 Canal St. C. Tannehill, Acting Agent Capital 7-6558 LAKE CHARLES, La 1419 Ryan St. Leroy Clarke, Agent HEmlock 6-5744 MOBILE 1 South Lawrence St. HEmlock 2-1754 Cal Tanner, Agent NEW ORLEANS 523 Bienville St Lindsey Williams. Agent Tulane 8626 NEW VORK ... 675 4tb Ave., Brooklyn HYaclntb 9-6600 NORFOLK 127-129 Bank St. Ben Kees, Agent MAdison 2-9834 PHILADELPHIA .. 337 Market St. S. Cardullo Agent Market 7-1635 PUERTA dc TIERRA PR Pelayo 51—La 9 Sal Colls, Agent Phone 2-5996 SAN FRANCISCO . 450 Harrison St Leon Johnson, Agent Douglas 2-5475 Many Breithoff, West Coast Representative SAVANNAH .. 3 Abercorn St E. B. McAuley, Acting Agent Adams 3-1728 SEATTLE 2505 1st Ave. Jeff GUlette, Agent Elliott 4334 TAMPA , 1809-1811 N. Franklin St Torn Banning, Pbo^e ,2-13^ ..i: BOSTON—Owners of the Ital­ ian-flag steamer Etrusco, which went ashore at Scituate, about 25 miles southeast of here, in a heavy storm last March, have finally classed the ship as a "total loss" and released her to the insurance underwriters. The cost of trying to refloat the ship was considered to be more than the vessel might be worth, and these efforts might not even have been successful. No other unusual developments occurred here during the past two weeks, as shipping remained fair. Port Agent James Sheehan report­ ed. Both the Bents Fort and Gov­ ernment Camp, two Cities Service tankers, paid off and signed on again, and six in-transit vessels stopped off in transit. The in-transit ships were the Michael (Carras); Orion Star (Oil Carriers): Robin 'Wentley (Seas Shipping); Edith (Bull); Steel Rov­ er (Isthmian), and Mount Vernon (Rockland), All beefs were settled on the ships. ^ All of the followtng ^SIV families will collect the $200 maternity benefit plus a $25 bond from the Union in the baby's name: John Zananski, 3, finds a suitable title for easy reading in one of the library racks at the headquarters shipping hall, as his dad, Frank Zananski, oiler, looks on. It's a baseball book, so Zananski has busy days ahead. Fan Relief Due For Tampa Hall TAMPA — Sweltering Tampans at the SIU hall here can expect some relief before long. A supply of new fans to cool off the prem­ ises is already on its way and due any day from New York. Meanwhile, shipping continues at a better than usual pace in this port for the third straight period. The activity should hold on for a while yet, Tom Banning, SIU port agent, added. The payoff of the Gateway City (Waterman), and the payoff and sign-on of the Auburn (Alba), kept things busy during the past" two weeks, what with nine in-transit vessels alsos needing servicing by Union representatives. Included among the in-transit ships were the Del Viento (Missis­ sippi) ; Iberville, Chickasaw (twice), Bienville, Fairisle (Pan Atlantic); Natalie (Intercontinental Trans); Alcoa Ranger and Pairiter (Alcoa). All the ships were in gobd sbape. Kalian Ship Off Bostan Total Loss WILMINGTON, CalU 605 Marine Ave. Reed Humphries. Agent. .Terminal 4-2874 HEADQUARTERS....675 4th Ave.. Bklyn. SECRETARY-TREASURER Paul HaU ASST. SECRETARY-TREASiniERS J, Algina, Deck C. Simmons, Joint J. Volpian. Eng. W. Hall, Joint E. Mooney. Std. R. Matthews, Joint SUP HONOLULU PORT COLBORNB 103 Durham St Ontario Phone: 6591 TORONTO. Ontario.......272 king St. E. EMpire 4-S71S VICTORIA, BC......ei7V2 Cormorant St. Empire 4531 VANCOUVER, BC:...........298 Main St. Pacific 3468 SYDNEY. NS ...804 Charlotte St Phone 6346 BAGOTVUXE, Quebee.. .20 Elgin St. Phone: 545 THOROLO. Ontario .62 St. Davids St CAnal ,7-3^02 QUEBEC ..........88 St. Pierre St Quebee Phonef 3-1S69 SAINT JOHN.,...'.'.......85 Gerpialn St, NB Phone: 2-5232 16 Merchant St. Phone 5-8777 PORTLAND. 211 SW Clay St. CApltal 3-4336 RICHMOND, CALIF. 510 Macdonald Ave. BEacon 2-0925 SAN -FRANaSCO 450 Harrison St. Douglas 2-8363 SEATTLE 2505 lit Ave. Main 0290 Great talcet District WILMINGTON SOS Marine Ave. ALPENA .....^1215 N. Second Ave. Terminal 4-3131 Phone: 713-J NEW YORB 676 4tb Ave., Brooklyn BUFFALO, NY..180 Main St. HYaclnth 9-6165 ' Phdne; Cleveland 7391 CLEVELAND...... 134 Ukeside Ave., NE Canadian District Phone: Main 1-0147 ...............1038 3rd St HALIFAX, NX. 128'A BoUiS St. DETROIT Headquarter! Phone: Woodward 1'6867 Phone; 3-8911 531 W, Michigan St. MONTREAL 694 St. James St. West UULUTB ' Phone: Randolph 2-4110 PLateau 8161 . 13261 it 92nd St FORT WlLUAfll-. i130rSlmi»wn- St. SO^H CHICAGO. * Ptaonai'Eucs 6-2416 Aurelia Colon Ortiz, born April 30, 1956, to Seafarer and Mrs. An­ tonio Colon, Barranquitas, PR. David John Allison, born June 10, 1956, to Seafarer . and Mrs. Cornelius Allison, Conshohockln, Pa. Jimmy Lee Garza, born May 31, 1956, to Seafarer and Mrs. Antonio Garza, New Orleans, La. Sherry Ann Wedgeworth, born June 7, 1956, to Seafarer and Mrs. Charles K. 'Wedgeworth, Gulfport, Miss. Jeffrey Wayne Magras, born May 25, 1956, to Seafarer and Mrs. Thomas Magras, Philadelphia, Pa. Joseph Arthur Valiente, born June 14, 1956, to Seafarer and Mrs. Arturo Valiente, New Orleans, La. Christopher Wesley Siar, born June 13, 1956, to Seafarer and Mrs. Richard C. Siar, Elmira, NY. Joseph Edwardo Rios, born June 3, 1956, to Seafarer and Mrs. Angel Rios, New York, NY. Alfred Anthony Volkerts, born June 17, 1956, to Seafarer and Mrs. Archibald Volkerts, Brooklyn, N'Y. Yvonne Louise Martin, born May 29, 1956, to Seafarer and Mrs. Samuel J. Martin, Mobile, Ala.' Janet Gloria Wendell, born June 9, 1956, to Seafarer and Mrs. Richard J. Wendell, New York, NY. Kimberly Scot Otvos, born June 10, 1956, to Seafarer and Mrs; Francis R. Otvos, Mill Valley, Calif. Beverly Torres, born March 2, 1956, to Seafarer and Mrs. Wilson Torres, Brooklyn, NY. Steven Richard Anderson, born June 20, 1956, to Seafarer and Mrs. Richard A. Anderson, Saranac Lake, NY. Michael Daniel *Bedgood, born June 16, 1956, to Seafarer and Mrs. William C. Bedgood, Brooklyn, NY. Donna Marie Brancoccio, born April 14, 1956, to Seafarer and Mrs. Dominick Brancoccio, New' York, NY. ; . ; Bay Anthony Kelly Miles, born April 2q, 1956, to Seafarer and Mrs, Aultoh . K. Miles, pTichard, . , . . ; V �(. itht TOUR DOLLAR'S WORTB Seafarer's Gilide To Better Buying tsy Sidney Margolius Stamps, Premiums Dazzle Shoppers i- ' '• l)y P«re Se^hni'^' S EXF A R'EnS^L^lG^ If the store or service station that has the best Values gives trading stamps, by all means take them. But If you cpnfine your slmpping to stores that give stamps or products that have premiums attaclied, you very likely will pay more in the long run than'you gain in premiums. Stamps and premiums, are sweeping the country to the extent that consumer organizations are warning housewives not to be dazzled by the premiums to the point of losing their shopping judgment. A survey by this department shows that premiums attached to spe­ cialty products such as breakfast cereals, waxes and toothpastes, are even more likely to beguile you into paying a hi^er price than the trading stamps now. being given by many stores. In some cases, now that many mass supermarkets are giving stamps, you may get good comparative value along with the stamps. But the danger is Uiat you will pass up good buys at other stores in order to accumulate stamps, or even.be coaxed into higher-priced stores to get their stamps. Both high-priced and low-priced stores are now giving stamps, and it will be costly to you to decide where to buy the family's groceries on the basis of who is giving premiums you want. Our investigation shows thai^the stamps offered by a typical large supermarket chain aetually are equal to about a two percent discount You get a book of i,200 stamps for every $120 of purchases, or, a stamp for every ten cents you spend. A typical premium like a toaster that has a list price of $20 but actually can be bought for $16 or even less at many appliance shops, requires 6 and Vi books, or total purchases of $750. This is a bonus worth a little over two percent. A set of dish towels worth about $1.75 requires ^' one book. In this case the premium 9/ represents only about 11^ percent f discount. This writer compared the total cost of a list of 30 food and house­ hold items at a large chain offer­ ing stamps, and one that doesn't. The list cost $10.26 at the.chain that doesn't give the stamps, and $10.48 at . the one that does. The difference in cost is just about two percent, and equal to the value of the premiums. However, the chain giving the stamps proved to be ap­ proximately equal in values of­ fered to a third chain that does not give Stamps, so here the premiums do repre.sent.a saving. ' The best money-saving shopping technique, and the one that trad­ ing stamps are aimed at coaxing you to abandon, is to compare val­ ues and specials offered by the dif­ ferent markets in your neighborhood each week and get to the store that has the best buys, whether or not it gives stamps. Premiums attached to individual products such as dry cereals have another and costlier aim—to get you to overlook the actual high cost. Perhaps tile worst example is the highly-advertised brands of breakfast cereals which use premiums as a device to get kids to pressure mothers into buying various brands. They use television heavily for this pur­ pose. This department's investigation shows that the cereal manufac­ turers plugging premiums most heavily are actually offering the poor­ est values in the food itself. For example: one rice cereal offering a comic-book premium is priced at 17 cents for a 4ti-ounce box com­ pared to an unadvertised-brand rice cereal priced at 19 cents for an 8-ounce box. Com cereals offering various premiums cost typically 24 cents for a ten-ounce package compared to 18 cents for the 12ounce package of an unadvertised brand. The high-price breakfast cereals with premiums reach their peak of cost in the variety box of individual servings, A survey by the New York State Extension Service found that those variety packages ac­ tually cost two to three times as much per serving as larger boxes of the same or similar products. ' >. Not only are premiums often used to get you to. buy items which are proven poor-comparative values, but there is also noticeable exaggera­ tion of the value of the premiums. Manufacturers of various products such as soaps, toothpastes and ofher toiletries and equipment, are offer­ ing such premiums as a blouse for $3 Maimed to be worth $10; stock­ ings at $1, claimed to be worth $2, a manicure set for $1 claimed to be worth $3, etc. Admittedly some of the premiums do offer good value at their cut prices. For example, one brand of toothpaste is offering 15 items in­ cluding watches, dolls, mixers, housewares and sports equipment, at reduced prices. The toothpaste package includes a certificate for tak­ ing advantage of this offer. The toothpaste itself happens to be among the costlier higher-priced brands. If you buy it a couple of times to get the premiums you want, you may be ahead of the game. But if you continue to buy it, you'll be paying about twice as much for tooth­ paste as you need to. Sinillarly the manufacturer of one of the higher-priced brands of wax has been offering a small copper-clad saucepan for $1, with the claim that it is worth $3. The $3 comparative price claim is exaggei> ated, but certainly at the pan is worth getting. But if you continue to buy that brand of wax, you will pay more thaU you need to for wax. On the whoie, (in outright reduction hi price would be much pref­ erable and more useful, to Ihdus^'. itself-.u:weU'ias consumecs;^thaa premiums and even.trading stamps. 'Hopeful' Qn Tanker Charfeir Bid WASHINGTON—^Prospects appeared hopefvil for favorable action on a bill to charter 20 US tankers to the SlU-contracted Pan Atlantic Steamship Cbinpany., The Houire of Repre­ sentatives this week voted unanimously in favor of the chartering measure which is now pending before the Senate, Previously, the bill had been the subject of heated debate in the Senate when it was brought.out to the floor by its Senate sponsor, Sam J. Erwin (Dem.-NC). The Senate voted to recommit the bill after critics demanded that the Maritime Administration be heard from on the measure. As a result the bill was sent back to committee, with MA spokesmen to be called on to testify. Sen­ ator Warren Magnuson, committee chairman and staunch merchant marine suppdrter, led the fight for the bill in committee as proqii^-d. "When we get the bill back in committee," he said, "I'm going to urge that it come right back to the floor after we've heard the views of the Maritime Administration." The bill was then reported out to the floor of the Senate. . Charter And Conversion The tanker charter proposal con­ sists of two sections. One would permit Pan-Atlantic to charter re­ serve fleet tankers at a price of $150,000 a year and convert them for its new tanker-dry car^o serv­ ice in the coastwise trade. The conversion consists of erecting a flight deck superstructure capable of handling 1,200 tons of"* deck cargo in trailer loads. Another section of the bill would permit the company to Seamen's Papers Tom? Get New Ones Pronto ~ 5 trailer cargo in ballast voyages southbound and with oil north­ bound. The Ideal X began the service between New York and Houston on April 26, and was fol­ lowed by the Almena a week later. Additional ships are also being said those holding mutilated papers might otherwise find themselves involved in a Coast Guard check designed to trip up seamen using altered, fraudulent documents. Although no men on SIU ves­ sels have been involved, the Union cautioned Seafarers tlmt they might still be delaj'ed in signing on while a check-up was made, and thereby lose but on a job. The crackdown by the Coast Guard came in the wake of dis­ closures that some men, particu­ larly on coastwise, voyages, had been using papers on which they had not only substituted their own photographs but had added ratings .4 4" Several uew pulp and paper agreements bave been completed by the International Brotherhood of Pulp, Sulphite and Paper Mill Workers. Increases range from 9Mt to 23\i cents at various plants for different crafts. Contracts were isi^ed with the Pacific Coast Asscebitiqa of Pulp and Paper Mauofaetucein;!' ! coveriofl <19,000' wtkkdts, th# Northei^a ' 'aTid i papers "which are cracked, split or otherwise mutilated" are urged to immediately apply to the near­ est CG^ffice for a new duplicate, where a temporary certificate will normally be issued to permit ship­ ping on the intended voyage. Richard Brown Contact your wife at 716 Hilltop Road, Baltimore 26, Md., as soon as possible. Severe illness in family.' - 4' 4 4 Allen "Carl" Svensson Get in touch with Z. Sweeney as soon as possible at PE 2-9259, Bal­ timore, Md. 4 4 4 Herman Drusage Jimmy McCrae E. Rhine You are asked to get in touch with Francis J. McQuillan, 24 Maple Ave., Pennant Hills, Syd- . ney, NSW, Australia. 4 4 4 Peter Drevas Contact wiper who was with you Gulf coast ports. in 1955 on SS Cecil N. Bean c/o In addition to providing a full Orion Steamship Corp., EO Broad SIU crew for the Maxton, the port St., New York, NY. enjoyed another busy shipping 4 4 4 period and looks forward to lots Jerry O'Neil more of the same, SIU Port Agent Congratulations. Contact Ivan, Cal Tanner stated. A .number of Strakhovsky at Box 567, Prince­ ships are due in during the present ton, NJ. two weeks, several of which will 4 4 4 also take full crews. Wally Mason In addition to the 100 regular Contact Ernest B. Avant, 3400 deep-sea jobs dispatched, an equal NW 98 St., Miami, Fla. number was shipped to various re­ 4 4 4 lief jobs in and around the harbor. Frank "Chin" Lehan Get in touch with Victor N. Litardi, c/o VA Hospital, Ward 8, Sunmount, NY. lABOR ROUND-lIP Long notorious for its anti-union positions on legislative matters, the American Medical Association has closed its hundred-year-old unioh printing shop in Chicago. All of its work will now be done by a non-union printing firm in Nashville. Telln. The AMA's ac­ tion was denounced by AFL-CIO president George Meany for its "callous disregard" of the welfare of its printers. This Meany said, was in line with AMA's standing opposition to disability benefits and other legislation which would aid working people. •••Xr Seafarers whose validated papers are mutilated or damaged in any way are urged to apply for new duplicate papers as soon as possible in order to avoid the possibility of being barred from sighing _ on 0^1 for-^' new voyages. to those originally shown. SIU headquarters officials Legitimate holders of validated MOBILE—One of the first tankers to be repaired and out­ fitted in a local shipyard with "piggyback" deck rigging for hauling loaded truck trailers in coastwise service, the SIUmanned Maxton has now^ ~ joined her two sister ships op­ sought for this experimental coast­ erating in the Pan Atlantic wise service, which will eventually link most deep-water Atlantic and "piggyback" fleet. See the special feature story on the Maxton, on the back page of this Issue. - -..v ^1 Passage, of the bill would un­ trade in dry cargo vessels towards construction of new supertankers doubtedly'put Pan Atlantic in the which would also have extensive forefront of the reviving domestic trades. deck cargo capacity. Mobile Crews Third 'Piggyback' Tanker The ships are war-built T-2s, to which a special deck platform has been added for carrying truck i 4 4 4 Edmund H. Marsh Contact your brother, P. Marsh, Wadesboro, NC. P. southern divisions of the Interna­ 4 4 4 tional Paper Company affecting Vi Miller 16,000 members, among other Write Jack Pietzak. SS Coe Vic­ plants. tory, c/o Victory Carriers Inc., 655 4. 4 4. Madison Ave., New York 21. NY, An unusual seven-year contract or c/o Mitsubishi Shipping Co., has been signed by the Coca-Cola Ltd., PO Box 186, Kusata Building Bottling Company of New York No. 20, 4 Chome, Kar-yan-dora, with the Soft Drink Workers Nuka-ki, Yokohama, Japan, 4 4 4 union, a Teamsters affiliate. The Anthony Adamaitis contract merely provides that both Contact your sister Stella right parties endeavor to bargain year away. Important. by year and submit any undecided 4 4 4 issues to'arbitration. An early test J. McKarek, M-681 of the agreement is slated, with Your dues receipt for the. fird; the union seeking wage changes. quarter of 1956 is being held at 4« 4 t the Boston SIU hall. Two unions with similar juris­ 4 4 4 John Quigley diction, the Upholsterers Interna­ tional and the Furniture Workers, Please contact your wife Lucille, have voted a "partial, merger." A 103-28 107th St., Richmond Hill, confederation is being formed LI, NY. headed by a joint board on udiich 4 4 4 Thomas Scanlon both unions will be equally rep­ You are asked to contact your resented. The board would direct organizing, public relations and PQ- wife at .Ji30,]Eddy..Street, Sqn Frati- ;• Cisco. Urgent. litic'hl e'dhcation actitifibk '' ' �Page Eiiiit SEAFARERS ' V . "• iii -- ^ iiiiiiiii iliiiib:: - • ••:vv.:.:.;.;.;.; m • LOG iiiil loly n, 1956 ::iii §m '• , -.,v A V 'J' - " ': iiiiSiiisn • xm>: ..MmrnM Mils'' •jutmr iiiil: \ xoxySrN::;:; iliiiiil ililMMiiMl 'j liiiilii < : : .uSsMiiMsMIMIIM-sSS-ilS liP Steel Worker crewmember "Chips" Barnes, above and at right, pursues his hobbies aboard ship. In photo above he tests a battery in the electrician's foc'sle and at right proudly dis­ plays mullet-type catch made in the Persian Gulf. Seafarer Merwyn "Doc" Watson, who took above photos, poses in what is "supposed to be" the Garden of Eden. Doc noted that tree stump underfoot is supposed to be the tree of wisdom behind which Adam hid after par­ taking of forbidden fruit. lilMMfliii FiMiiMMliSM • gililiiP iiii||||||| liiiiiiiiii; iii liliiiiiiiill M \ I liiii Ili . i ^ J. 1 1 ' *ili ' liiss - ' ' iiii I 9 :sMM y I-;-;-:': i -- , ' ili • IliiMiMiil liiiiil'' taiiiiiiiiiiiiii siilllpiiiiiiiiiil llplPlliiliiiili: il V 4 111 '' , IMIMiMiliMI; • I lis Pli iiiiiliii lii / SM;.!' iMI ;::|x:vXv:J;;;:; vV;;;:v;v;;;v:;X 'V Bosun L. Collins of the Pennmar enjeys a short breather on deck while the vessel loads a coast­ wise cargo of lumber in Longview, Washington. iMi i ' 1 I Dont touch me," is expression of sun-burned Sea­ farer George Vourloumis, baker on the SS Alice Brown. Vourloumis receives the sympathy of Pat Green, saloon messman, while enduring the after­ effects of a snooze in the sun. photo by fellow crewmember William Calefato. j �Pare Nine m The heavy burdens borne by Pusan women draw the passing attention of Seafarer Paul Tatman, AB on the SS Bienville. Photo by William Calefato. IliiiilllK* ••• • iSiij! •••••' • ;=i Standing a long watch at the top of the aangway ts Seafarer Chicle McGee. Ship is the SS Alice Brown, which was unloading lumber in New Haven after mak­ ing an intercoastal trip. Part of the routine safety precautions aboard any ship is the.testmg of the ^ Seafarers aboard the SS Alice Brown. Bloomfield, take part in test^ing one of ships lifeboats ^ujin^g a recent intercoastal trip. In front. In shorts, is the chief engineer. The other crewmembers in the boat are not identified. Photo by Seafarer William Calefato. Two opposing views of life aboard the SS Jose Marti enroute to the Mediterranean. In a whodunit is rnii Phil rron. Pron. BR. DI Photos by Luis Ramirei, �Pare Tern SEAFAREKS July ii. iWMJl®L LOG Lebanese Trad# Unionists Tour SiU The deaths of the following Sea­ drowned on April 28, 1956. Burial took place In the Cemetery of St. Michele in that city. Brother Gil­ more had been sailing SIU ships since 1952, joined the Union in New Orleans and worked in the Liils Ramos, 39: A resident of engine department. He is survived Brooklyn, Broth­ by his wife, Mrs. Frances Gilmore, er Ramos died in of Bronx, New York. Caracas, Vene­ zuela, on May 9, 1 956, while James D. Thomas, 30: Brother swimming at Thomas died at Ganango Beach, sea aboard the Sailing in the SS George A. steward depart­ Layjrson on March ment, Brother 18, 1956, of a Ramos Joined the cerebral hemor­ Union in New York in 1943. He rhage. Brother leaves his wife, Josephin Ramos, Thomas had been of Brooklyn,. New York. sailing in the deck department Warren G. Whltmer, 33: On June since the latter, 12, 1956, Brother Whitmer died in part of 1945, Joining the Union in Baltimore, Maryland. Burial took Tampa, Florida. He is survived by place in Pleasant Valley Cemetery his wife, Shirley Thomas, of New in Weyers Cave, Virginia. Brother Orleans, La. Whitmer had been a Seafarer since t> 1955, Joining in the Port of New York, and was sailing in the engine William N. Price, 62: Brother department. He is survived by his Price died on April 15, 1956, in the mother, Mary Esta Whitmer, of Charity Hospital in New Orleans, Staunton, Vii^lnia. Louisiana. Place of burial is not t t * known. Brother Price is survived Daniel Gilmore, 44: While in by a brother, Henry G. Price, of Venice, Italy, Brother Gilmore Taccoa, Georgia. farers have been reported to the Seafarers Welfare Plan and the SIU death benefit is being paid to their beneficiaries: ' i Lebanese frade union officers visiting US get tlie lowdown on the SIU Welfare Plan and other Union operations from Ray Denison, managing editor, SEAFARERS LOG (seated, 4th from leftl, during tour of SIU headquarters. Interpreter behind Denison explains welfare set-up to the group, here under auspices of the US Labor Department. They represent transport, machinists, electricians, barbers and other unions in Lebanon. 'Wreck' Law Foes Score Again Anti-labor "right to work" backers have suffered two new setbacks in efforts to spread restrictions on unions. In Montana, an attempt to get a "right to work" proposal on the bal­ lot failed to secure the necessary petition signatures and in Washington A similar move att-tracted only scanty support,• with doubt as to whether it would get on the ballot there. Sheet Metal Strike Hits Lake Charles 11 ! i- !-l • ^I i i: ir- l ; i/ hi- [iI S" 'U I ¥ LAKE CHARLES—Except for a strike by AFL-CIO Sheet Metal Workers against a few contractors, all is quiet on the local labor front here. Tlie sheet metal workers are standing firm in" the beef, and ex­ pect to win their demands before long. Most of the other building trades agreements have been nailed down already. Although shipping fell off a bit during the past two weeks, it ac­ tually ran close to the activity of the previous period due to the number of men sent to fill jobs in other Gulf ports, particularly Houston. At the same time, some jobs went begging for lack of im­ mediate takers, said Port Agent Leroy Clarke, so that several class C men got jobs, mostly in the black gang. West Coast Tow_ Among the slfips calling here, in addition to eight Cities Service tankers, was the tug El Sol (De Long Corp.), which is taking a tow to the West Coast. This .seagoing tug was the tender servicing militarj' and civilian per­ sonnel during the construction of the "Texas Tower" radar platform anchored 100 miles off Cape Cod, Mass. The Cape Cod tower is the first of a string of these radar warning stations planned all along the Atlantic coast to provide ad­ vance warning of any hostile" air­ craft heading for the United States. Other Vessels Other visitors during the period were the Natalie (Intercontinental Transt, which is the former SS Celestial, in Beaumont, Texas; the Mount Vernon (Rockland), 'n Port Arthur, and that steady caller, the Val Chem (Valentine), in Port Jvieches, also in Texas. Ail of the ships were in good 81131)6 and,took a f w men each, A final item reported by Agent Clarke was the condolences sent to the Tamily of Seafarer Robert Kehrly, who died last week at the marine hospital in Galveston. The Union' sent a floral wreath to the, burial services in Port Arthur. ^. ' lEVIEW of TRIALS and APPEALS The Montana Right-to-Work As­ sociation could come up with only December 15, 1955 — June 15, 1956 5,636 people out of a state popu­ lation of 600,000 who signed peti­ tions in favor of putting "right to work" proposals on the ballot. A Membership-elected trial committees during the past six months in SIU ports throughout minimum of 21,104 signatures is the Atlantic & Gulf District handled nine trials and one appeal of Seafarers. required to get an initiative vote. All proceedings were conducted in strict accordance with the SIU constitution and are In Washington, a similar peti­ tion drive could come up with only summarized below in accord-"^ for performing; on SS Marie Hamll wat much as this was first ship of new com­ 63,000 names. The state has a pop­ ance with SIU policy of fired for performing after three days on pany and gave Union a black eye. ulation of 2Mi million and normally ship. keeping the membership fully draws a million voters to the polls Trial CommlHee: D. Claussen, C-339; P. AprU 18. 19M « L-326: C. Cobb. C-22: Robert Calla­ each year. The 63,000 signatures informed. The current six month Llbby. han. C-323: L. Bollinger. B-133; J. Mc- Accused: M-47; Accuser: C-S would be enough to put the issue summary is the seventh that the Clarence, M-439, Charges: Misconduct and neglect of duty. Findings: Guilty. Because of his past Drunk and unable to turn to on watch. on the ballot, as 50,000 names are LOG has printed. record, committee recommends that he Trial CommlHee: G. Ortiz, 0-26; J. Marequired. lone, M-187; O, Townsend, T-324; E. SIU trial procedui-e as specified be suspended for two years and fined Sarensen, S-365: W. Wells, W-36. $90. Signatures To Be Checked in the SIU constitution hews close­ Findings: Brother admits to charges. Fined $50 as fii-st offense. Reprimanded However, AFL-CIO officials ly to the, traditional pattern fol­ December 19, 1999 for offense Inasmuch as this was first ship of new company and gave Union a pointed out that the lists-still have lowed in courtrooms. Trial com­ Accused: PB-124; Accuser: W-203 Charges: Accused was overheard on pay black eye. to be checked for invalid signa­ mittees are composed exclusively phone in Union haU teUlng someone that tures. It is usual practice, for about the SIU was engaged in a labor dispute. May 3.-1996 of rank and file Seafarers, with He told this unknown person that ho 15 per cent of the signatures to Union officials barred from serving. would keep him Informed each day as Accused: D-4; Accuser: G-2 be thrown out. to what the SIU's plans were that might Charges: Drunk aboard ship and being The accuser must be present to affect the sailing of ships. unable to perform his duties. The "right to work" laws out­ confront the accused, and the ac­ Trial Committee: H. Llbby, L-402; A. Trial CommlHee; A. Gonzalez, C-119; G. law any contract provision provid­ cused is given full ri^ht of cross- MUefsky, M-80; C. GladhlU. G-449; Frank Castro, C-359; P. Chopln.skl. C-960; M. ing for union security, such as the examination of witnesses and to Maher, M-3G9; G. Parker. P-49; B. Mont- Reges,. R-6O1 J. O. Roy. R ^lh sikaris, M-5S9. Findings: Brother admits to charges. union shop 'or a maintenance of Findings: GuUty as charged. Recommend Fined $50 for first offense, Reprimanded membership clause. New workers call witnesses in his own behalf. that he be expeUed from Union. for offense inasmuch as this was first He can also call on other Union ship of new company and j;ave Union a can be hired in a contracted shop members to assist him, if they so black eye. February 36, 1998 without any requirement that they desire, in preparing his defense. Accused: M-109i Accuser: M-T join the union. E-xisting membei'S Before the trial can begin the Charges: Accused of being intoxicated for May 3. 1956 are free to drop out during the life two days and failing to complete over­ Accused: C-220; Accuser: W-3 accused must be properly notified time of the contract. sheets, thus denying men overtime Charges: Bringing the Union into dis­ of the charges against him. The for these days: accused of being drunk repute iU conduct. Accused did inAt the same time, the unions are charges must be read at member­ at payoff: accused of being incompetent Jury to by Union by blasting the Union and compelled to protect and represent ship meetings to determine if they and unable to carry out duties. its officials on repeated occurrences in Conimlttse: S. Beattie, B-167; J. gin mills. non-members and give them all are brought properly under the Trial Vega, V-4fl; F. McGlone. M-411; R. Prin­ Trial Committee:, R. Himel. H-197; E. the benefits of union membership. constitution. The membei'Ship cipe. P-92; J. Arras, A-190. Davies, D-526: J. - Shaughnessy. S-397; D. Findings: Not guUty of falling to flU out Boyne, B-8; G. Melting, M-31. "Right to work" backers made meetings also act on the findings overtime; not guilty of being incompe­ Findings: Guilty, but recommend leniency merry in the last ten years, getting of the trials and appeals commit­ tent; guilty of being drunk at payoff by due to long membership In the Union. own admission. Recommend $90 tine. Committee doesn't condone action and the law on the books of 18 states, tees. recommends no leniency In any future but they have suffered two severe violation. Recommend $50 fine. The constitution specifies in February 36, 1996 setbacks in recent months. detail the headings under which Accused: PB-1S16S: Accuser: B-4 One was a Supreme Court de­ charges can be brought and sets Charges: 1—DeUberate faUure to loin May 3, 1956 ship; misconduct aboard ship: walked off Accused: D-322; Accusers: G-76 and L-39S cision which said the laws do not limits on the penalties that can be ship; threatened to kill crewmembers; Charges: 1—Misconduct and neglect of apply to railroad eihployees. The imposed for the various offenses. attacked a crewmember and had to be duty ship for seven straight days. subdued. 2—Charged with bringing Union Drunkaboard second was the action of the Louis­ on several occasions and refused Each accused member has an Into disrepute. to do work assigned to him. Pulled a iana legislature in repealing that appeals procedure open to him Trial CommlHee: S. Beattie, B-167: J. knife in the messroom. 3—Negligent faU­ state's right to work law after a from the findings of a trial com­ Vega. V-46: F. HcGlone, H-411: R. Prin­ ure to Join ship. cipe, P-93: J. Arras, A-190. vigorous campaign by labor and mittee; to a rank and file appbals Findings: 1—GuUty of faUlng to loin ship Trial Committee: M. Dellano, D-176; L. Hitclyier, H-451; L. Paradise, P-270; M. the SIU in that state. committee also elected by the and guUty of misconduct on ship. 2— Pappagakl.s, P-308; A. Howard, H-299. GuUty of bringing Union into disrepute Findings: 1—Recommend that he be ex­ membership and to the interna­ by being drunk on duty and refusing to peUed from the Union. 8—Recommend a work. Recommend expulsion from Union $50 fine. tional conventions. on first charge: recommend two year sus­ Names of the accused and accus­ pension and $50 fine on second charge. If a crewmember quits while Appeal ers are omitted for purposes of a ship is in port, delegates April 19,. 1996 -. . Appeal of PB-m . publicatiom are asked to contact the hall Accused: L-369: Accuser: G-f Appeal, CommlHee; J. Ziereis. Z-12; F. immediately for a replace­ Charges: Deliberate faOure to Join ship Lukban, I,-133: Harry PhilUps. P-131: Trials after being dispatched to Aip to stand Blatthew SUbUe, S-634; Michael MUler, ment. Fast action on their part midnight watch. December 19. 1SS9 H-686; Juan Vega. V-46: C. Leader. L-6. will keep all jobs aboard ship AceuM<li G-64: Accuter: ,W-3 Trial CommlHee: O. Ortic, O-H: O. Town- Committee met on February 8, 1996. " filled at all times and elimi­ Cherget: Mleconduct or neglect of duty send. T-334; E. Sarensen, 8-389; J, Malone, Appellant requested an adjourmnent untU foUowing day. Committee adjourned untU nate the chance of the ship, aboard ship; faUed to perform tais duties M-187; W. WeUs, W-36. and hadr to be paid. Off. .OK SS Neva Weat > Flndlhgs: Brother adnllttid KA frlis 'driink; Taquested time, but he did not appear.' sailing, shorthandted. • i....: had fouled up and was lined $90; on SS and unable to turn to,'fBre«.$ak 4M;ftF$t. FlRdlngs: Uphold 'findings of trial -com- ' Shorthanded? Genevieve PetorUa w$e logged end' tired offense. Reprimanded for offense Inas- mitteo. �Jaly 2f. U56 SEAVARERS Pay* C1«TCB LOG 'To Form A More Perfect Union!' British Adopt New Type Rafts To Replace Boats When cord is pulled, rubber dinghy inflates to this size. It is credited with several rescues. An improved version of the self-inflatable rubber liferaft has been approved for official use by the British Ministry of Transport on certain types of vessels and been adopted by a number of British steamship companies. It is claimed the danger of sinking from colli­ that the liferaft is superior to sion with the sides of the fishing 'ii. ••il After four years of successful operation the SIU constitu­ tion will undergo some minor amendments, if.the member­ ship agrees by secret vote that the changes should be made. The amendments themselves represent a few refinements of the Union's election procedure. In the opinion of head­ quarters and. a rank and file constitutional committee these refinements will establish further safeguards around the con­ duct of Union balloting and the voting rights of the member­ ship. The amendments then, will serve to strenghen the basic rights of Seafarers as originally written into the revised con­ stitution back in 1952. They clarify, but do not alter the democratic procedures and safeguards which were incor­ porated in the constitution to govern all aspects of the Union's operations. As is the normal procedure in the SIU, the disposition of these amendments will be decided in the ciu-rent referendum. The individual Seafa/er himself will rule on the issue behind the voting curtain after examining the proposed amendments and the recommendations of the constitution committee. Trials Report The trials and appeals conducted under the constitution over the first six months of 1956 are fully reported on in this issue. Nine trials and one appeal took place during the period, continuing a record of relatively few violations of membership-adopted rules. All that speaks well for the responsible outlook of the SIU membership both on ship and ashore in Union halls. It means that there are very limited instances of fouling up or other irresponsible actions on SIU ships. That in turn reflects the good conditions and benefits of the Union agreement which give Seafarers good reason to live up to their end. All of the trials which took place were conducted by mem­ bership-elected rank and file committees in accordance with established courtroom procedure. The right to cross-examine, to present witnesses for the defense, to get assistance in pre­ paring the defense, and the right of appeal are all incor­ porated in Ihe SIU trial system. * Past experience has shown that the trials and appeals pro­ cedure has worked fairly in dealing with violations of Union i -iMiJ s^coAStitutio tsnsTiV nsTiV. sc« The SIU Canadian District has purchased a building for a new union hall in Fort William, Ontario, at the head of the Great Lakes. The hall will be air-conditioned and have modern shipping and re­ creational facilities. The district already owns its own buildings in Montreal, Thorold, Vancouver and Toronto. The SlU-afliliated Marine, Cooks and Stewards Union opened talks this week on quarters and man­ ning scale for the SS LaGuardia, now undergoing conversion to an 800-passenger liner. About 200 steward jobs are involved on the California-Hawaii ship. i> $> In the two and one-half years of its pension plan, the SlU-affiliated Sailors Union of the Pacific has pensioned 232 members. The aver­ age SUP retired member who is 65 years old or over receives $88.17 per month. With Social Security he receives an average of $83.32 additional. conventional lifeboats, being launched with ease and having good seaworthy qualities as well as a canopy arrangement to pro­ tect survivors from the sun and bad weather. Thus far the use of the rubber rafts has been limited to fishing vessels and coastwise passenger and freight ships in sheltered waters. To date, they have been used in four fishing boat rescue operations and have proven their efficiency. The most recent instance took place last April 20 off northern Scotland where the fishing trawler Osako sprang a leak. Another trawler, the Thessalonian, equip­ ped with the rubber dinghies, came to her rescue. Force Seven Gale With a force six to seven gale blowing and heavy swells running, it was considered too risky to launch lifeboats. The Thessalon­ ian therefore launched two of its own dinghies while the distressed ship manoeuvered alongside them and the crew took them aboard. Subsequently, the Osako started leaking badly, so the crew climbed into the two ten-man dinghies and were picked up by the Thessalon­ ian while the Osako went down. Crewmembers praised the din­ ghies, particularly since they could be launched so easily and could bounce alongside the ship in rough seas without being' dam­ aged. Conventional lifeboats would have been very difficult to laimch under the circumstances and faced vessel. The rubber dinghies come in three different sizes to accommo­ date six, ten and 20 men respec­ tively. The six and ten man sizes can be launched by one person, with two men required to handle the biggest size. The rafts are packed in a valise, so that all that has to be done is to throw them into the water and pull the oper­ ating cord. The cord releases gas from a cylinder which inflates the dinghy within a few seconds. In the proc­ ess, a protective, double-skinned canopy is erected. It has an orange top for rapid spotting. E. B. Hardcastle Check covering travel wages and subsistence from SS Lewis Emei-y, Jr., is being held by Victory Car­ riers, 655 Madison Ave., New York 21, NY. Ernest S. Ncwhall Check and voucher for travel wages and subsistence from SS George A. Lawson, voyage 15A, is being held at Pan Oceanic Naviga­ tion, 25 Broadway, New York, NY. Finn Durkee Check covering overtime on SS Shinnecock Bay, voyage 19, can b« obtained from the Veritas Steam­ ship Company, 44 Wall St., New York, NY. Make Checks To 'SIU-A&G' Seafarers mailing in checks or morej* orders to the Union to cover dues payments are urged to be sure to make all of them payable to the SIU-A&G District. Some Seafarers have sent in checks and money orders in the names of individual headquaiv ters officials. This makes for a problem in bookkeeping which can be avoided if checks are made out W the Union direcHy; < ;i'> ! f-f ! 'iH •; • .a: Ten-mm rubber dinghy is shown in satchel form before being inflated. man can hahdie it. , •vii ^ v.' �rar*. Twelr#, SEAFARERS 1»• LOG Foc'sle Over Boiler Keeps Cooks Cookin'\ Instead of the pots, the cooks are boiling over on the Camp Namanu these days in !; • K !• If P 11 iff '. r I.?Part of SlU crew and delegates who served.as pallbearers are shown at bier of Seafarer Prentice R. Brandon, who died on the Del Sol. Burial was four days out of Rio. ;iv it ;Ci '.fS <»• DELEGATES ASSIST FINAL RITES FOR SIU VETERAN Stricken with a heart attack while working out on deck aboard the Del Sol, Seafarer Prentice H. Brandon was buried at sea recently, about four days out of Rio off the northern coast of Brazil. * He passed away a short with all four SIU delegates i^rving as pallbearers, including Ed Rouse, while • following the attack, deck; Ed Blackman, engine; A. F. after all efforts to revive him failed, Kothe, steward department, and G. F. Fowler, ship's delegate, who Fowler, ship's delegate. notified the LOG, said "Brother Brandon was well liked by the whole crew, and was a good sailor and a good friend who will be missed by many Union brothers. He had been a member of the SIU since 1941. USPHS HOSPITAL BALTIMORE, MD. One of the passengers, the Rev. Adams Gorman T. Glaze Joseph H. Preston, a Baptist mis­ TerreU G. £. Anderson Edward Huizenga Kenneth Bewig Ira H. Kilgore sionary, officiated at the services Edward Blevins Manuel Lourido attended by ali the crew. Burial Elmer L. Brown Francis H. Mason Philip Navitsky took place at sea when Brandon's Francisco Bueno Copani Gerardo Riviera next of kin could not be located, Rosario Delaware Eldemire Robert O. Smith K: SIU Newcomer T. C. Finnerty Dolan D. Gaskill Joseph Gill Florentinb Teigeiro Harold We.stphall Joseph A. WilUams USPHS HOSPITAL BOSTON. MASS. A, A. Barbaro Hobert J. Gardner K, n, Douglass Joseph Garello John Filer USPHS HOSPITAL G.ALVESTON, TEXAS Ernest C. Anderson John E. Markopolo Alfred A. Hancock Concpcion Mejua 6TH DIST. TB HOSPITAL MOBILE, ALA David jM. Baria ' USPHS HOSFJTAL AIOBILE. ALA. William Havelin ii?: Just starting out in the world, Shirley Bonita Reeve, daughter of Sea­ farer Herbert Reeve, pump­ man, sleeps off the summer heat at her Philadelphia home. She was born May 25th. USPHS HOSPITAL NEW ORLEANS. LA. Claude F. Blanks William" Paris Robert Brown William A. Perry Sebastian Carregal Theodore Phelps Ciosie Coats Jerry Pontilt Floyd Cummings Wlnford Powell Chas. F. Dorrough Joseph A. Proulx William Driscoii Randolph Ratelifl' Jaime Fernandez r,migdio Reyes Clarence Graham Edward Samrock William Holland John Sercu Fred Holmes Wade H. Sexton Charles JelTers Toefil Smigielski Martin Kelly West A. Spencer Edward G. Knapp Lonnie R. Tickle Leo H. Lang Luciano Toribio "Williain Lawless James E. Ward Ale.x Martin Charles E. Wells James M. Mason' Cavid A. Wright USPHS HOSPITAL SAN FRANCISCO, CALIF. Marcelo B. Belen John J. Lefco Leonard G. Dower Milton Reeves Charles Dwyer A. L. Wadsworth M. M. Hammond Editor, ^ SEAFARERS LOG. 675 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn 32, NY I would like to receive the SEAFARERS LOG—pleaseput my name on your mailing list. . (Print Information) NAME a foc'sle cleverly placed right over the' ship's boiler room. The result is the cooks get done before the eggs, especiaily in the tropic cRrnes which they have been frequenting. Sympathetic fel­ low. crewmen, agitated enough by their own troubles with the heat, report pretty harsh conditions in the cooks' room, which is said to be too small in addition to being too hot. Urge Better Quarters At a recent ship's meeting they recommended that better qulfrters be found for the cooks posthaste. This room should be condemned as unfit to sleep in on all .ships of this type," crewmen urged,- -The Camp Namanu is a war-built T-2 tanker. • "For the record," said one anon­ ymous spokesman via-thn; minutes, "we kept a .theriporaeter fin , the room while we wtoe inl^jfefi^ It easily re^Stet^'f^^ up to 98 degre^i-^'witli Swp'fans working." Sltl ' ^ promised to. 'and 'ierf^^ tta situation as soon as thefkhip/reaches its first US port. . USPHS HOSPITAL MANHATTAN BEACH BROOKLYN! NT Edmund Abitaly Leonard Leidig, Manuel Antonana . •Anthony. D. Leva Fl.'.dio Arls Mike Lubas Fortunato Bacomo Joseph D. McGraw Win. C. Baldwin Archibald McCuigan Frank W. Bemrick H. F. MacDonald Frank T. CampbeU Michael Alacliusky Wm. J. Conners Albert Martinelli E. T. Cunningham Vic MUazzn Walter L. Davis Joseph B. Murphy Emiliu Delgado Ralph J. Palmer R. ; I. Douglas George tc. Phifer Julin .1. Driscoii James M. Quinn Robert E. Gilbert George E. P.enale William Guenther D. F. Huggianu Bart E. Gurailick G. E. Shumaker E. F. Halslett G. Sivertsen Taib Hassen Henry E. Smitli Joso.oh Ifsits Karl Treimann Thomas Isaksen Harry S. Tuttle Ludwig Kristiansen Frgd V/est Fr. nk .1. Kubek Norman West Frederick Landry Virgil E. "Wilmoth James J. Lawlor Pon P. Wing Kaarel Leetmaa Chee K. Zai USPHS HOSPITAL STATEN ISLAND. NY Adrian Aarons John McWiliiams Joseph S. Barron Jose L. Marrero George Carlson Thomas Moncho Joseph Clevenger Alonzo Morris Francisco Cornier John F. Murphy Rafael Cuevas Telesfore Olivares Horacio DaSilva Charles W. Palmer Irving Denobriga Aniceto Pedro Benedetto Porceilo Lucius DeWitt Jose Quimcra John Dovak Harry W. Reisgner Newton Erington Philip Frank Alfred Ridings George H. Robinson Estell Godfrey Jose Rodriguez Edward Kagen James Higgins Robert P. Rogerson Frank A. Rossi Konstant Kain Philip Sarkus Alfred Kaju Edward Kaznowskl Richard Siar Walter Snell Vladislavs Kelpss Robert R. White Donald MeShane USPHS HOSPITAL NORFOLK,. VA. Francis J. Boner Stephen Sceviour Clarence A". Dowdy John Zahil Thomas B. Harmon USPHS HOSPITAL SAVANNAH. GA. T. P. Barbour Francis L. Finigan 'Maximino Bernet R. L. Johnson Jr. Jose Blanco Jimmle Littleton USPHS HOSPITAL SEATTLE, WASH. L. Bosley Rudolph Johnson T. H. Hawkins Robert L. Morrow USPHS HOSPITAL FORT WORTH. TEXAS B. F. Deibler Rosendo Serrano John C. Palmer VA. HOSPITAL ALBEBQUERQUE. NM Charles Burton .STREETADDRESS STATE ..... VA HOSPITAL MEMPHIS, TENN. BUly R. HUl • Signed . ...... T .... VA HOSPITAL DURHAM. NC Oscar Pearson TO AVOID DUPLICATION: If you or* «n old, subscribor and havo a changa of address, please give your former adcfress below: USPHS HOSPITAL LEXINGTON, KY. Schuyler J. Plerson ADDRESS VA HOSPITAL CITy ..... CORAL,GABLIKSf-ri'A-. ErOeit H. Webb -.•/i f-'G. iif July SO. 1950 In TB Hospitalp Yearns For. Sea ' 1*0 the Edlton I'm not a very good hand at writing, but I would like to lo» cate two or three- crewmembera who were with me aboard the Frederic C. Collin froifl April . 11 to August 23, 1955. This was a grain run from SeattlS' to In­ dia, which paid off at Newport News, "Va. I've been here at th? VA hos­ pital, in Kerrville, Texas, eight letters To The Editor All letters to the editor for publication in the SEAFAR­ ERS LOG must be sighed'by the writer. Names will be , withheld upon request. months,''and they seem to think 1 still have a long way to go. I stire would like to get to some place where I might at least see a- llitle tugboat once in a while. I see in the LOG where the SIU is taking another step fsirward which may keep a lot of brothers from getting in the same shape I'm in. I'm speak­ ing of the SIU medical centers piknned for several ports. I doH'fhave any voice on things like that, but all the brothers should be 100 percent for it. It sure is a morale-builder when the LOG comes here and I pass it along to some of the other patients. "There are no sailors here, although there are a lot of-would-be-se&men. I greatly appreciate the SIU hospital benefits and I'm look­ ing forward to my next ship. Lots of luck, health and happi­ ness to all SIU brothers. Billy R. Hill t t Asks Husband's Pals To Write also want to take thl« means'.df. thanking the men who visited him at tin . hospital; namely, Teny Barto, who was his friend from the very first ship he took; Eddie Spradley, at whose home he was often a guest when ours was far from port; Mr. Mosely whom I never met, but, who, with his wife and pbildren, made Curt an honored guest at a port in Florida, and others too numerous to mention. Lauds SIU Officials I will also never forget the SIU officials in the Baltimore haU. The SIU has a group of the best seahien in the country." I know, for we enterta'ified; many of those away from 'Home at holfday season, when we lived in Baltimore. Home is now c/b General Delivery, Clintwood, Va. Curt was a good seaman, loyal Union man and the best and kindest husband a woman could have. Grace M. Borman 4* 4" "ii English Seaman Hails SIU Gains To the Editor: Recently a copy of the SIU's 1952 contract with the shipping operators came into my posses­ sion. Although it is by this time improved still further, it was a reliable guide for other mari­ time unions to follow, and an inspiration to all men who have the interest and welfare of sea­ farers at heart. I myself am a seaman and a member of the National Sea­ men's Union hero- in England, so tfie wages and conditions" which the SIU haS obtained for its membei-s are of particular interest to me. I have been wondering what other Improve­ ments the SIU has obtained since 1952, but I have no means of finding out. I know that the SEAFARERS LOG is for members of your Union only, but .as I am unable to be a member of your Union, I wonder if it would neverthe­ less be possible for me to be on your mailing list, aS I would like to he kept up to date on SIU activities. In conclusion, may I express a_,sincere wish that the SIU may continue to succeed in ob­ taining still further improve­ ments in wages and conditions for its very fortunate members. William T. Clarke Liverpool, England , To the Editor: I hope you will print this so that some of the seamen who shipped with my husband, Curt Borman, will see it and get in touch with me. Curt passed away at the USPHS hospital in Baltimore last December 16. He had can­ cer and had been suffering for about seven months. He had been a member of the SIU since 4< 4- 41943, and loved the sea and the Union. At the time of his death, sev­ eral men owed )iim a little To the Editor: rhoney. I know that if they I wish to thank the SlU for knew how to get in touch with me they would pay it back the prompt service given me when they have it, for.that's the • while I was hospitalized. I am very proud to know that kind of fellows they are. there is such a Union to stand Shipped On DeSoto It took all of the insurance by in time of need. I am also to clear the debts. He shipped proud that my husband is a one solid year on the DeSoto so member of such a wonderful that i could have the best doc­ Union. Please extend my thanks to tor money could buy, and sent the SIU officials in New York me to the Mayo Clinic. Six months previous to his and to the entire Union mem­ illness I was operated on for a bership. Mrs. Samuel A. Tate cancer from which I have never .. 44» 41 fully recovered. He then went back to sea on the Atlantic Water and that was his last ship. I bought a new typewriter on time and am getting work to do To the Editor: at home; I am writing this in Please send me the LOG at. the hope that the boys will see my new address, 714 Plater St., it and, if he owes any of them, Aberdeen, Md. ' ' I would like to clear the debt I would appreciate it very also. . = much, as I am laid up sick with I would like to hear from the multiple sclerosis and finable to boys who shipped with him on visit, the hall .often, enough in the DeSoto and on the last trip order to keep informed of he made. Some of them I have . what's going on. Thank you met personally and I've keard very much. ra talk about' raany-oithem" T ' j ' -V. ' .Df Fpucke'' SIU Help For Wife Lauded Laid Up Sick, Asks For News I . �SEAFARERS LIWIS IMKRY JR.* (VIcUry Ca^ rl»rt)< Jvn» IT—Cli«Sfmsii, ^ VariMulliaaiu Sacratary. O. Mvart. Asked for satisfactory agreement, concerning cepalra and stores before signing en or off. Storeroom to be sprayed. Cots needed. No master certificates on board. Repair iist to be turned in. cama aboard in Sasebo. 130 hours disputed for second pumpman, gni reports read and accepted. Crew to dress properly in messrooras. LOG Underwater Maneuvers U§hi^l: REBECCA (Maritime), Juna 19 — Chairman, A, Kestan; Secretary, T. Thompson. Ship's fund 98.00. SIU report read and accepted. New dele­ MARYMAR (Calmar), Juna ii — • gate and treasurer elected. Requested Chairman. H. Culnlar; Seerstary, R. spare washing machine so as to have Robblnt. Ship's delegate left sliip in' one for work cloUies and one for Baltimore. Ship's fund tis.05. New white clothes and dress apparel. Ship delegate elected. to be fumigated. CALMAR (Calmer), Juna 19—Chair­ man, T. Jackson; Sacratary, B. Hot^ man. New reporter elected. Report to be sent to Seattle hail concei-ning beef about pantryman who got off at Newport. Last man on standby to IMmM: I ALCOA POLARIS (Alcoa), Juna 19 —Chairman, R.' Schwarz; Sacratary, J. Hannan. Water to be purchased in man missed ship Ship's fund 970.04. and accepted. is scarce. . Fruit Paramaribo. One in New Orleans. SIU report read AUBURN (Alba), Juna 14-Chalrman, R. High; Sacratary, T. Savage. Special meeting called due to per­ forming in crew. Discussion regard­ ing men fouling up.. Anyone unable to perform duties to' be brought up on charges. ALCOA POLARIS (Alcoa), July 1— Chairman, J Croton; Sacratary, J. Oammon. Purchased radio from ship's fund—9100.00. More fruit to be or­ dered In Trinidad. clean pantry and messhall. Suggestion to start ship's fund. CUBORR (Ore). June 21—Chairman, L. McNair; Sacratary, B. Andarson. All repairs made. Cuts to be issued by captain. Wind • chutes to be re­ ferred to patrolman. Report accepted. Drying room to be kept closed. All cups to be returned to pantry. Galley not to be used for passageway. FAIRI9LE (Pan Atlantic), July -1— Chairman, B. Varn; Secretary, T. Smith. Ship's fund 98.00. Report ac­ cepted. New delegate and treasurer elected. Gloves and balls purchased for Softball team and games sched­ uled for New Orleans and Panama City. Collection proposed for porch glider for after deck. Swings to be purchased in New Orleans. Steward asked coperation on linen change, night lunch and black gang coffee. 9UEENST0N HEIGHTS (Mar Trad* Corp.), Juno 24—Chairman, E. Ray; Socrotary, S. Johnson. One brother hospitalized in Singapore. Communi­ cations and LOGS received, no over­ LEWIS EMERY JR. (Victory Car­ time sheets. Letter regcived stating men need not send in discharges to riers), April 29—Chairman, Nail Abarnathy; Secretary, D. Rivers. All re-' headquarters for vacation pay but to hold same until vessel returns to the pairs to be done in Houston. Suffi­ US. Supply of milk to be taken in cient stores to be put aboard in final port of discharge. New delegate Manila before proceeding to Bataan. elected. Cigarette butts not to be Endeavor to get US dollars for draw thrown in showers. Recreation room in Guam. Poop deck awning received. to be cleaned by each department. Ship's fund 912.00. Reports accepted. Drinking glasses not to be put in sink. Ten dollars donated from arrival pool to ship's fund. Fire hoses needed to ROBIN TUXFORO tSaas Shipping), take on water in order that regular Juna 10—Chairman, A. Reaiko; Sac­ hoses along catwalk fore and aft may ratary, J. Misner. One crewmcmber be left intact In case of flre and involved in some trouble in Lourenco emergencies. Visitors to be kept off Marques, performing on ship. No ship while in the Philippines. charges to be preferred against mem­ STEEL DESIGNER (Isthmian), May ber, delegate to eonfer with captain. Siiip's fund $27.00. New treasurer 29—Clialrman, W. Colia'rd; Seerstary, elected. Some disputed overtime. W. Pedlar. One brother hospRalized jMore stores needed," particularly In New Orleans. Gear taken off at flour, assorted dry cereals, mixed pilot station and turned over to agent. Reports accepted. Repair list from Juices. Night lunch requested. last trip not turned In. Supplemen­ tary repair list to be turned in in ROBIN CRAY (Saas Shipping), Juna San Francisco. Laundry to be left 17—Chairman, J. Lapolnta; Sacratary, E. Watson. Rumors regarding selling clean after using. of ship. Two men in siiip's hospital ALCOA POLARIS (Alcoa), Juna 14 awaiting transfer to hospital in Lourejico Marques. Ship's fund 913.73. —Chairman, J. Morton; Sacratary, W. Few hours disputed overtime. New KItclox. Ship's fund 942.00. Pantry washing machine needed. Each de­ to be left clean at all times. partment to report needed repairs. DEL MAR (Mississippi), July 1 — ALCOA RANGER (Alcoa), Juna 9— Chairman, G. Perdreauvllle; Secretary, Chairman, V. Douglas; Secretary, A. R. J. KIpp. Several logs laSO trip, Carpenter. Headquarters reports read some lifted. Ship's secretary-reporter and accepted. Delegate to be ehanged to attend safety meetings. Draws to every two trips. Bunks to be checked be oht-iined during designated time. as clothes are getting torn and people Reported delays in restoring electric getting scratched. Washing machine power after failures because engi­ to be turned off after use. neers refuse to pay electricians over­ time. New secretary-reporter elected, SEATRAIN SAVANNAH (Soatrain), ship's fund 970.32. New delegate Juna IS—Chairman, A. Mauffray; Sec­ elected. Suggestion that 10 percent retary, E. Hansen. Sailed short one of-all raffles and arrival pools be do­ man from New York and also one nated to ship's fund and to be used man short from Savannah. Repair for sick members, repatriates, maga­ Hst to be passed on. Discussion on zines and books, movie rentals, etc. new shipping rules. Ship's fund 963.22. Spent $10.33 for TV parts. INES (Bull), July 2—Chairman, J. Communications read and accepted. Evans; Secretary, E. Rosado, Question Discussion on porthole dogs. about cigarettes. Secretary-reporter and treasurer elected. Few hours MV PONCE (Ponca Cement), Juna disputed overtime. Less coffee to be 22—Chairman, D. Rose; Secretary, G. consumed by black gang. Fan needed Knowles. Overtime beef to be settled in laundry room. Electrician to in­ by patrolman. Ship's fund $11.75, stall one. STEEL APPRENTICE (Isthmian), Juna 17—Chairman, J. Ohannaslan; Secretary, J. Johnson. Crew requested to send pictures or story suggestions to LOG." Foc'sles snugeed and painted. Decks to be painted and all rooms to be sougeed. Water to be checked by Public Health Department. SUNION (Kaa), Juna 17—Chairman, V. Riiiuto; Secretary, C. Storey. One man missed ship at Aden: replace­ ment signed on in Karachi, Pakistan. One man hospitalized in Centa, Span­ ish Morocco. Saloon mess man re­ ported binoculars and two pairs of slacks missing. Ship to be fumigated. Crew recommended steward get off the ship. ALCOA RANGER (Alcoa), Juna 9— Chairman, V. Douglas; Secretary, A. Carpenter. Union reports read and accepted. Delegate to be changed every two trips. Bunks to be checked. SEATRAIN NEW YORK (Seatrain), June 7—Chairman, J. Broad; Secre­ tary, 1. Peacock. Ship's fund $11.10. Reports read and accepted. Wrote letter to company about milk. Dis­ cussed donations for TV. CITY OP ALMA (Walerman), Juna 13—Chairman, J. Gellatly; Sacratary, ALCOA PATRIOT (Alcoa), June 14 —Chairman, H. Tewnssnd; Secretary, D. Knapp. Ship's fund 9104.22. Bought new TV antenna. Some disputed overtime. Reports accepted. Treas­ urer elected. ANNiSTON (Ace), June 2—Chair­ man, A. SIrlgnano; Secretary, P. Hug- gins. American money to be issued as long as it lasts. Mattress and cigarette situation taken care of. New delegate elected. Washing articles to be placed in laundry. All excess linen to be returned. Schedule posted for cleaning laundry and recreation room. BARBARA PRIETCHIE (Liberty Navigation), June 3—Chairman, J. Jallette; Secretary, O. Payne. All re­ pairs made except lockers. Request ship be put on subsistence and galley closed while loading grain because of unsanitary condition created by dust. Messroom and pantry to be kept clean. Urge care in using washing machine. Drinking water to bo colder. Night lunch to be put out in whole pieces for trial. ALCOA PATRIOT (Aieea), May 13 —Chairman, E. Grady; Secretary, J. McCaslln. Ship's fund 9121.73. Re­ ports accepted. New delegate elected. J. Shearer. Repair lists to be made MAS (Bull), Juna 14—Chairman,'C. up. Ship's fund 931.63. Union reports . Hestefetter; Secretary, W. Morris Jr. read and accepted. ' Question about time involved when cleaning and defrosting )neat boxes. FEDERAL (Trafalgar), Juna It — Ship's fund 913.66. Reports accepted. Chairman, M: LIpkIn; Secretary, A. New electric refrigerator needed. Ex-~ Hasklni. Two men hospitalized in tra motor for ventUating blower need­ Sasebo and one man in Singapore. ed. Extra bucket and soap powder Tajiks to be cleaned and new wash­ needed by engine crew. Present sup­ ing machine to be purchased. Ship's ply of soap powder insufficient. Check fund 10,400 yen. MCR asked to donate on nro^resRitpadC'-gn'safety gangway, 1,000 yen" to fuild. • Four new men CIlarificafiohs needed. 'WHO FORGOT THE DAMN PLUG . . .?' Sign Painter None But The Lonely Hearts On Seastar? Unaccustomed to such tributes, Seafarer "William "Moon" Mullins was a bit put-out when be was secretly elected "presi­ dent" of the "Lonely Hearts Club" on the Seastar. Duly noti­ fied of this honor by fellow crewmen, be let out a bowl more, the Seastar had a long trip that could be beard all over ahead. Getting set to paint some new signs around the ship, Bosun Zenon R. Rivera plays ABC with stencil let­ ters d-o line up the job. Photo by R. J. Burton, ship's reporter, on the Alcoa Runner. An SIU oldtimer, Rivera is a well-known and well-liked crewmember, says Burton. the ship. The notification came unexpectecUy, when Mullins opened the door of his foc'sle one morning. Reposing on the door was a huge silk heart with his new-found title chalked above it. Since he was somewhat agitated at the time, he might be pardoned for the roar of indignation he expressed at the Sight. Lots Of Horseplay Horseplay like this seems to abound on the Seaster and ship's reporter J. J. Rutter, wiper, noted that the tomfoolery helps to pass the time. Each department shares in it, "making the trip anything but boring." Bound from Philadelphia to Alexandria, Egypt, with a load of grain, and then due to load up at the ore docks and return to Haiti- CHELSEA TOWELS VANISH, BECOME INDIAN TURBANS "But with a clean- ship, good chow, ideal weather and working c o n d itions, the crew is in fine spirits. The cuisine is above and beyond our finest expec­ tations, planned Klepeif by steward Rob­ ert Morrisette and prepared by such stalwarts of the galley as chief cook R. Acevedo and 3rd cook Mike Klepeis. "Unloading time in Egypt is ex­ pected, to be from ten to 15 days and many beach parties are in the making," Rutter added. "Many old acquaintances are being renewed between such old salts, as P. 'Jiggs' Jcffers, H. 'Frenchy' Robbin Jr., Eddie Parr, 'Muscadoodler' Paul Rogasch anil 'Wild Bill' Healy. It's a rollicking crew compased of one half New Orleans men and one half from Philadelphia." Jeffers is ship's delegate, R. Kyle the deck delegate, F. Ilurd. black gang, and J. McCree for the steward department. Tbose turbans worn by tbe native launcbmen in Quilon, In­ dia, weren't turbans at all, steward Bob Kiedinger on tbe SS Cbelsea decided recently. His deductions were strong-' ly reinforced by tbe evidence; Coe Victory In (1) tbe turbans looked a little too much like ships' linen for it to be a coincidence, and (2), linen supplies seemed to be running short. Putting it all together, Kiedin­ ger addressed a special ship's meeting in the south Indian port to advise crewmembers they Kiedinger might have to finish out the voyage using damp Kleenex after their showers if the linen supply got any lower. He urged them to he on the lookout for possible pilfering. Favored By Launcbmen Launcbmen provided by the company agents in Quilon began appearing in the terrycloth head­ gear soon after the ship arrived. How the boatmen and the towels got together is not known. But aqyhody want some genliin# Ihdiap, turbans . . . Full Control Tilt situation leems to be well in hand, with the black gang from the Coe Victory out in force at this nightspot in Bremerhaven, Germany. The menfolk (f to r) are R. Cole, chief en­ gineer; Lee Feher, FWT, and V. E. Keene, wiper. The frauieins aren't Identified, but the ratio teems just about right. �SEAFARERS LOG SIU Constitutional Committee Report We, the undersigned, duly elected Constitu­ tional Committee, elected at the regular member­ ship meeting of June 27, 1956, at Headquarters, as per Article XXVII, Section 2, of our Union Constitution, to study, and report on, the consti­ tutional amendments that were proposed at the. regular membership meetings of all Pohts on June 27th, 1956, make this report to the member­ ship. The proposed constitutional amendments have been studied in their entirety by this Committee. They are as follows: 1. Article X, Sec. 1(d), is amended by changing the next to the last paragraph thereof to read, as follows: "At the first regular meeting in August of every elec­ tion year, the Secretary-Treasurer shall submit to the membership a pre-balloting report. This report shall rec­ ommend the number and location of Ports, the number of Assistant Secretary-Treasurers and Agents, and the number of Port Patrolmen which are to be elected for each Port. It shall also recommend a bank, a bonded warehouse, a regular officer thereof, or any other similar depository, to which the ballots are to be mailed or de­ livered at the close of each day's voting, except that the Secretary-Treasurer may, in his discretion, postpone the recommendation as to the depository until no later than the first regular meeting in October." 2. Article XI, Sec. 1, is amended to read, as follows: "Section 1. The following elected officers and jobs shall be held for a term of two years: Secretary-Treasurer Assistant Secretary-Treasurer Port Agent Patrolman The term of two years set forth herein is expressly subject to the provisions for assumption of office as contaired in Article XIII, Sec. 6(c), of this Constitution." 3. Article XII. Sec. Kb), is amended to read, as follows: "(b) He has at least four (4) months of sea time aboard an American flag merchant vessel or vessels, covered by contract with this Union, or four (4) months of employ­ ment with, or in any office or job of, the Union, its sub­ sidiaries, or affiliates, or at the Union's direction, or a combination of these, between January 1st and the time of nomination, and" 4. Article XIII, ^Sec. 2(a), is amended by changing the first sentence thereof to read, as follows: "A Credentials Committee shall be elected at the first regular meeting in September of the election year, at the Port where Heauquarters is located." 5. Article XIII, Sec. 3(d), is amended to read, as fol­ lows: "(d) No member may vote without displaying his Union Book, in which there shall be placed an appro­ priate notation of the date and of the fact of voting, both prior to being handed a ballot. A ballot shall then be handed to the member who shall thereupon sign his name on a roster sheet (which shall be kept in duplicate), to­ gether with his hook number, and ballot number. The portion of the ballot on which the ballot number is printed shall then be removed, placed near the roster sheet, and the member shall proceed to the voting site." 6. Article XIII, Sec. 3(g), is amended to read, as follows: • "(g) Voting shall commence on November 1st of the election year and shall continue through December Slst, exclusive of Sundays and (for each individual Port) holi­ days legally recognized in the city in which the Port affected is located. If November 1st or December Slst falls on a Sunday or on a holiday legally recognized in a Port in the city in which that Port is located, the bal­ loting period in such Port shall commence or terminate, as the case may be, on the next succeeding business day. Subject to the foregoing, voting in all Ports shall com- mence at 9:00 AM, and continue until 5:00 PM, except that, or -Saturdays, voting shall commence at 9:00 AM and continue until 12 Noon, and, on regular meeting days, voting shall commence at 9:00 AM and continue until 7:30 PM." 7. .^rticle XIII, Sec. 4(a), is amended to read, as . fol­ lows: "(a) Each Port shall elect, prior to the beginning of'the voting on each voting day, a Polls Committee, consisting of three members. For the purpose of holding a meeting for the election of a Polls Committee only, and notwith­ standing the prons of Article XXIV, Section 2, or any other provision of this Constitution, five (5) mem­ bers shall constitute a quorum for each Port, with the said meeting to be held between 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM, with no notice thereof required. It shall be the obliga­ tion of each member wishing to serve on a Polls Com­ mittee, or to observe the election thereof, to be present during this time period. It shall be the responsibility of the Port Agent to see that the meeting for the purpose of electing the said Polls Committee is called, and that the minutes of the said meeting are sent daily to Head­ quarters. In no case shall voting take place unless a duly elected Polls Committee is functioning." 8. Article XII, Sec. 4(b), is amended to read, as follows: "(b) The duly elected Polls Committee shall collect all unused ballots, the voting rosters, the numbered stubs of those ballots already used, the ballot box or boxes, and the bal.ot records and files kept by the Port Agent. It shall then proceed to compare the serial numbers and amounts of stubs with the number of names and corre-, spending serial numbers on the roster, and then com­ pare the serial number and the amounts of ballots used with the vei fication list, as corrected, and ascertain whether the unused ballots, both by serial numbers and amount, represent the difference between what appears on the verificatiqn list, as corrected, and the ballots used. If any discrepancies are found, a detailed report thereon shall be drawn by the Polls Committee finding such dis­ crepancies, which report shall be in duplicate, and signed by all the members of such Polls Committee. Each member of the Committe. may make what separate com­ ments thereon he desires, provided they are signed and dated by him. A copy of this report shall be given the Port Agent, to be presented at the next regular meeting. A copy shall also be simultaneously sent to the SecretaryTreasurer, who shall cause an investigation to be made forthwith. The results of such investigation shall be re­ ported to the membership as soon as completed, with . recommendations by th^ Secretary-Treasurer. A majority vote of the membership shall determine what action, if any, shall be taken thereon, with the same effect as in­ dicated in Article I." / 9. Article XIII, Sec. 4(e), is amended to read, as fol­ lows: Jvly to, ION bodyint the foregoin^scribed thereon, in which eVciBt, these envelopes shall be used by the Polls Committee tor the aforesaid purpose. Nothing contained hereip shall prevent any member of a Polls Committee from adding such comments to the certificate as are appropriate, provided the comments are signed and dated by the member inaking them. The envelope or envelopes shall then be placed in a wrapper or envelope, which, at the discretion of Headquarters, may be furnished for that purpose. The wrapper or envelope shall then be securely sealed and either delivered, or sent by certified or reg­ istered mail, by the said Polls Committee, to the deposi­ tory named in the pre-election report adopted by the membership. The Polls Committee shall not be dis­ charged from its duties until this mailing is accomplished and evidence of mailing or deliveiy is furnished the Port Agent, which evidence shall be noted and kept in tbe Port Agent's election records or files. The Polls Committee shall also insure that the ballot box or boxes are locked and sealed before handing them back to the Port Agent, and shall place the key or keys to the boxe-: in an envelope, across the flap of which the members of the Committee shall sign their names, book numbers, and the date, after sealing the envelope se­ curely. In addition to delivering the key and ballot box or boxes as aforesaid, the Polls Committee shall ^de­ liver to the Port Agent one copy of each of the roster sheets for the day, the unused ballots, any reports called for by this Section 4, any files that they may have re­ ceived, and all the stubs collected both for the da} and those turned over to it. The Port Agent shall be respon­ sible for the proper safeguarding of all :he aforesaid ma(qrial, shall not release any of it until duly called for, and shall insure that no one illegally tampers with the material placed in his custody. The remaining copy of each -roster sheet used for the day shall be mailed by the Polls Committee to Headquarters, by certified or regis­ tered mail or delivered in person." 10. Article XIII, Sec, 5(a), is amended to read, as follows: "(a) On the day the balloting in each Port is to termi­ nate, the Polls Committee elected for that day shall, in addition to their other duties hereinbefore set forth, de­ liver to Headquarters, or mail to Headquarters (by certi­ fied or registered mail), all the unused ballots, together with a certification, signed ^d dated lay all members of the Committee that all ballots sent to the Port and not used are enclosed therewith, subject to the right of each member of the Committee to make separate comments under his signature and date. The certification shall specifically identify, by serial number and amount, the unused ballots so forwarded. In the same package, but bound separately, the Committee shall forward to Head­ quarters all stubs collected during the period of voting, together with a certification, signed by all members of the Committee, that all the stubs collected by the Com­ mittee are enclosed therewith, subject to the right of each member of the Committee to make separate comments un­ der his signature and date. The said Polls Committee members shall not be discharged from their duties until the forwarding called for hereunder is accomplished and evidence of mailing or delivery is furnished the Port Agent, which evidence shall be noted and kept in the Port Agent's election records or files. 11. Article XIII, Sec. 5(b), is amended to read, as follows: "(b) All forwarding to Headquarters, called for under this Section 5, shall be to the Union Tallying Committee, at the address of Headquarters. In the event a Polls Committee cannot be elected or cannot act on the day the balloting in each Port is to terminate, the Port Agent 'shall have the duty to forward the material specifically set forth in Section 5(a) (unused ballots and stubs) to the Union Tallying Committee which will then carry out the functions in regard thereto of the said Polls Committee. In such event, the Port Agent shall also forward all other material deemed necessary by the Union Tallying Com­ mittee to execute those functions. All certifications called for under this Article XIII ,shall be deemed made according to the best knowledge, information, and belief of those required to make such certifications." "(e) In order to maintain the secrecy and accuracy of the ballot, and to eliminate the possibility of errors or irregularities in any one day's balloting affecting all the balloting in any port, the following procedure shall be observed: At the end ot each day's voting, the Polls Committee, in the presence of any member desiring to attend, pro­ vided he observes proper decorum, shall open the ballot box or boxes, and place all of that day's ballots therein in an envelope, or envelopes, as required, which shall then be sealed. The members of the Polls Committee shall thereupon Sign their names across the flap of the 12. Article XIII, Sec. 5(c), is amended to read, as follows: said- envelope or envelopes, with their book numbers next "(c) The Union Tallying Committee shall consist of 14 to their signatures. The Committee shall also place the members. Six shall be elected from Headquarters Port, date and name of the Port on the said envelope or en­ .and two shall be elected from each of the four ports of velopes, and shall certify, on the envelope or envelopes, Baltimore, Mobile, New Orleans, and San Francisco. The that the ballot box or boxes were opened publicly, that six to be elected from Headquarters Port shall consist of all ballots for that day only were removed, and that all two from each of the' three departments of the Union. of those ballots are. enclosed in the envelope or envelopes The others shall be elected without regard to department. The election shall be held at the last regular meeting in dated for that day and voted in that Port. The Polls December of the election year. No Officer, Port Agent, Committee shall check the rosters, and any other records Patrolman, or candidate for office, of the Job of Port they deem appropriate, to insure the foregoing. At the Agent or Patrolman, shall be eligible for election to this discretion of Headquarters, official envelopes may be pre­ Committee. In addition to its duties hereinbefor.e set forth, the Union Tallying Committee shall be charged pared for the purpose of enclosing the ballots and the ., with the tally of all the ballots and the preparation of a making of the aforesaid certification, with wording em- closing report setting forth in complete detail, the results �SEAFABtRS LOG I :,?J| > el thf election, Indu^iqg ji oomi^tp accounting ;ol all . but. In any case, so as to reach Headquarters in time to ballots and stubs, and reconciliatioii of the same with the enable the Secretary-Treasurer to prepare bis report as rosters, veriiieaUon lists, and receipts of the Port Agents, required by this Section 5(g). An accounting and certifi­ 'all with detailed reference to serial numbers aiid amounts, cation, made by the Port Agent, similar to those required and with each total broken ddwn into Port totals. -The of Polls Committees, shall be enclosed therewith. The Tallying Committee shall be permitted access to the elec- Secretary-Treasurer shall then prepare a report contain­ , tlon recprds and files of all Ports, which they may require ing a combined summitry of the results, together with a to be forwarded for inspection at its discretion. The re^ schedule Indicating in detaU how they affect the Union port shall clearly detail all discrepancies- discovered, and Tallying Committee's results, as jet forth in Its closing ' shall contain recommendations for the treatment of these report. The form of the letter's report shall be followed discrepancies. All members of the Committee shall sign as closely as possible. Two <2) copies shall be sent o the report, without prejudice, however, to thq right of any each Port, one copy of which shall be posted. The other member thereof to sulnnlt a dissenting report as to the copy shall be presented at the next regular meeting after accuracy of the count and the validity of the ballots, with the Election Report meeting. If a majority vote of the . membership decides to accept the Secretary-Treasurer's pertinent details. "The Tallying Committee Is also Charged with the re­ report, the numerical results set forth In the pertinent ceipt and evaluation of written protests by any member segments of the Tallying Committee's closing report shall who claims, an Illegal denial of the right to vote.. If it be deemed modified accordingly, and, as modified, ac­ finds the protek Invalid, It shall dismiss the protest and cepted and final. If the report Is not accepted, the so inform the protesting member, by wire, on the day of -numerical results in the pei'tinent segments of tl\e Tally­ dismissal. If It finds the protest valid, the Commilttee ing Committee's closing report shall be deemed accepted shall order a special vote, to be had no later than within and' final without modification. the period of^lts proceedings, on such terms as are prac­ If ordered, ' recheck and recount, and the report tlieretical, effective, and just, but which terms, In any event, on by the Union Tallying Committee, shall be similarly shall include the provisions o^ Sectioq 3(c) of this Article disposed of, and deemed accepted and fl. 'l, by majority and the designation of the voting sfie of the Port most vote of the mejrnbershlp at the regular meeting following ' convenient to the protesting member. Where'' a special the Election Report meeting.. If such recheck and evote Is ordered In accordance with, this-Section 5(c),:these count is ordered, the Union Tallying Committee shall be terms shall apply, notwithstanding - any provisions to the required to continue Its proceedings correspondingly. contrary contained in this Article. Protests may be made 16. Article XIII, Sec. 6(a), is amended to »ead, as follows: only In writing and must be received by the Union 'Tally­ "(a) The person elected shall be that person having the ing Committee during the period of its proceedings'. The reports of this Committee shall Include a brief summary largest number of votes ca^ for the particular office or job Involved. Where more than one person Is to be * of each protest received, the name and book number of the. protesting member, and a summary of the disposition elected for i 'particular office or job, the proper number of the said protest. The Committee-shall take all reason- of candidates receiving the successively highest number ^"able measures to adjust the course of its proceedings so of votes shall be declared elected. 'These determinations as to enable the special vote set forth in this Section shall -be made only from results deemed final and ac­ 6(c) to be completed within the time herein specified. No cepted as provided in this Article. It shall be the duty^ closing report shall be made by It unless and until the of the Secretary-Treasurer to notify each Individual special votes referred to In this Section 5'c) shall have elected." • ^ been duly completed and tallied." 17. Article XIII, Sec. 6(c), is amended to read, as follows: "(c) The duly elected Secretaiy-Treasurer, Assistant. 13. Article XIII, Sec. 5(d), is amended to read, as follows: "(d) The members of the Union Tallying Committee Secrethry-Treasurers, Port Agents, and Port Patrolmen shall proceed to Headquarters Port as soon as possible shall take over their respective offices and jobs, and after their election but. In any event, shall arrive at Head­ assume the duties thereof, at midnight of the night of the quarters Port prior to the first business day after Decem-, Election Report meeting, or the next regular meeting, ber 31 of the election year. Each member of the Commit­ depending upon at which meeting the results as to each tee not elected from Headquarters Port shall be reim­ of the foregoing are deemed final and accepted, as pro­ bursed for transportation, meals, and lodging expense oc­ vided in this Article. The term of their predecessors casioned by their traveling to and returning from Head­ shall continue up to, and expire at, that time, notwith­ quarters Port. All mentbers of the Committee shall also be standing anything to the contrary contained in Article paid at the prevailing standby rate of pay from the day XI, Sec. 1. This shall not apply where the successful subsequent to their election to the day they return, in candidate cannot assume h'- office because he is at sea. normal course, to the Port from which they were elected. In such event, a majority vote of the membership may "The Union Tallying Committee shall elect a chairman grant additional time for the assumption of the office or from among themselves and, subject to Ihe express terms job. In the event of the failure of the newly-elected of this Constitution, adopt Its own procedures. Decisions Secretary-Treasurer to assume office, the provisions of as to special votes, protests, al!d the contents of the final Article X, Section 2(a), as to succession shall apply jintil report shall be valid If made by a majority vote, provided such office is assumed. If he does not assume office there be a quorum in attendance, which quorum Is hereby within 90 days, the line of succession shall apply until fixed at nine (9). The Union Tallying Committee, but not the expiration of the term. All other cases of failure to less than a quorum thereof, shall have the sole right and assume office shall be dealt with as decided by a majority duty to obtain the ballots from the depository immediate­ vote of the membership." ly after the termination of balloting and to Insure their 18. Article XXVII, Sec. 2, Is amended to read as follows: safe custody during the course or the Committee's pro­ "Section 2. When a proposed amendment Is accepted ceedings. The. proceedings of this Committee, except for the actual preparation of the closing report and dissents by a majority vote of' the membership. It shall be referred therefrom. If any, shall be open to any member, provided to a Constitutional Committee In the Port where Head­ he observes decorum. In no event shall the Issuance of quarters Is located. This Committee shall be composed the hereinbefore referred to closing report of the Tallying of six memo rs, two from each Department and shall be Committee be delayed beyond the January 15th Imme­ elected In accordance with such rules as are established diately subsequent to the close of voting." by a majority vote of that Port. The Committee will act on all proposed amendments referred to It. The 14. Article XIII, Sec. 5(f), is amended to read, as follows: Committee may receive whatever advice and assistance, "(f) At the.Election Heport meeting, there shall be legal or otherwise, it deems necessary. It shall prepare taken up the discrepancies, If any, referred to hi Section a report on the amendment 'together with any proposed 5(c) of this Article land the recommendations of the Tally­ changes or substitutions or recommendations, and the ing Committee submitted therewith.' A majority vote of reasons for such recommendations. The latter shall then the membership shall decide what action, if any, In ac­ be submitted to tlje membership by the Secretary-Treas-. cordance with the Constitution, shall be taken thereon, urer. If a majority vote of the membership approves which action, however, shall not include the ordering of the amendment as recommended. It shall then be voted a special vote unless the reported discrepancies affect upon, in a yes or no vote by the membership of the the results *of the vote for any office or job. In which Union by seciet ballot In accordance with the procedure event, the special vote shall be restricted thereto. A outlined In Article XIII, Section 3(b) through Section 5, majority of the merabershlp, at the Election Report meetr except that, unless otherwise required by a majority vote ing, may order a recheck and a recount when a dissent to the closing report has been Issued by three or more mem­ bers of the Union Tallying Committee. Except for the contingencies provided for in this Section 5(f), the closing report shall be accepted as final." 15. Article XIII, Sec. 5(g), is amended to read, as follows: "(g) A special vote ordered pursuant to Sec. 5(f) must take place and be completed within seveft (7) days after the Election Report meeting, at each Port where the dls" crepancies so acted upon,took place. . Subject to the fore; .going, and to. the limits of the vote set by the member­ ship, as aforesaid, the Port agents In each Port shall . have the functions, of the Tallying Committee as set forth In Section 5(c), insofar as that section deals with the terms of such special vote. The Secretary-Treasurer shall make a sufficient amount of the usual balloting material Immedi­ ately available to ^rt Agents, for the purpose of such spe­ cial vote. Immediately after the close thereof, the Port Agent shall summarize the results and communicate them, to the SecretaryrTreasurer. The ballots, stubs, roster sheets, ; and unused ballots pertaining to the special vote shall V ..be .forwarded to: Headquarters, all.Jn the. same.^package, ; .;,!huiilQund scnacateiyid^y thfi .most|»ldd'mjeaag»pi;G^08ble, Vv:' iLix'iMi iifv- SiSsSi ;;!/::: • of the membership at time it gives the approval 'uMessary to put the referendum to a votO-, the . Union Tallying Committee shall eqnslst of six (6) members, t'vo - from each of the three (3) departments of the Union, elected from ileadquarters Port. The amendment shall either be printed on the ballot, or if too lengthy, shall be referred to on the ballot. Copies of the amendment shaU be posted on the bulletin boards of all Ports and made available at the voting site in all Ports." This Committee reports as follows: 1. We found the proposed amendments im­ prove the election procedure by adding provisions of great benefit to the voting members. They, also eliminate "lame duck" periods; they call for an official depository such as a bank or similar depository, in whjch the ballots are placed each night; and they provide for outport participation in the final tally. 2. We find that the proposed amendments are satisfactory and to the benefit of the membership. We propose only two changes which are these: With respect to the qualification provisions, we recommend that Section 1 (a) and Section 1 (b) of Article XII, be amended so as to make it clear that the seatime set forth thex-ein be unlicensed seatime. In that way, it would insure that those who run for office must have experience in the jobs occupied by our membership. Accordingly, we propose that Section 1 (b) of Article XII (Item 3 in the above proposals) be further amended to read as follows: "(b) He has at least four (4) months of sea­ time, in an unlicensed capacity, aboard an Ameri­ can flag merchant vessel or vessels, covered by contract with this Union, or four (4) months of employment with, or in any office or job of, the Union, its subsidiaries, or affiliates, or at the Union's direction, or a combination of these, be­ tween January 1st and the time of nomination, and" We propose further that a new item, be,added to the proposed amendments, changing Article XII, Section 1 (a), to read as follows: "(a) He has at least three (3) years of seatime, in an unlicensed capacity, aboard an American Flag merchant vessel or vessels; if he is seeking the job of Patrolman or Assistant SecretaryTreasurer in a specified department,'this seatime must be in that department, and" With these changes, we recommend the adop­ tion of the amendments in their entirety, and that they be placed upon the ballot in their en­ tirety, and voted in accordance with Article XXVII of the Constitution. We particularly recommend adoption of the other voting details set foi'th herein. 3. The voting shall commence on Thursday, 9 AM, July 12, 1956, and shall continue, Sundays and holidays excepted, thi-ough August 8, 1956. . 4. Voting shall commence at 9 AM and end at & PM, Mondays through Fridays, and commence at 9 AM and end at 12 Noon Saturdays, with the exception of July 25'and August 8, when voting shall be until 7:30 PM. 5. Polls Committees shall be elected and shall supervise the voting in ports in the same manner as in an' election of officers, port agents and patrolmen. No voting shall take place unless a duly elected Polls'Committee is functioning. 6. Port Tallying Committees shall be elected at the August 8, 1956, meeting, the tallying com­ mittee of Headquarters Port to be the Headquar­ ters Tallying Committee, and shall commence their tallying immediately. They shall then send their tally, along with the required certifications, to the Headquarters Tallj^ing Committee, if not in person, then by registered, airmail, special de­ livery. 7. Tallies shall be made as in an election of officers, port agents, and patrolmen. The ballots shall be in the usual form. 8. The voting shall be on this question: "Do you approve the above constitutional amend­ ments," and shall be a yes-or-no vote. 9. It is to be noted that, pursuant to Article XXVH, Section 3, of the Constitution, that if the proposed amendments are adopted by a twothirds majority of the valid ballots cast, the amendments are immediately effective. Fraternally submitted, K. Puchalski, P-89, J. L. Roberts, R-360, R. Prin­ cipe, P-52, E. Pushalski, P-157, F. Panette, P-438, and W. Patterson, P-73 " • •2li �LOG SEAFARERS AWARDED FIRST PRIZE • GENERAL EDITORIAL EXCELLENCE GENERAL EDIlutUAU • 195# • iNTERNATIONAL LABOR PRESS OF ' AMERICA i OPFICIAL ORGAN OF THE StAFARERS INTiRNATIONAL UNION ' ATLANTIC AND gUlF DISTRICT ' AFL.CIO_; / 't v- -h,.. • • "• • ., • i -- ' ,."i - * " •' • • * *• -i ' u ' -J •'• i ;.%i ' ^ '' T-'r - '•'* -i 4j.' ••- • i- < •'*- •• ' - ' ^ ^/ '' ' ' ' I ''' ^ ' :N. •• " y -V •. .•••yffiiT" Vr-.. • Another Tanker Is Converted To Piggyback :I- Aerial view shows SS Maxton during conversion work at Mobile Ship Repair, Inc. Over 400 SlU-affiiiated Marine Allied Workers took part in the Jj deck nears completion while deck is being framed in over tanker s after deck. The SlU-contracted Pan Atlantic Steamship Corp. put a new piggyback tanker into service last week, signing on a full SIU crew at Mobile, Ala. She is the SS Maxton, the third placed in ip; m ife-j "A " " '• • 14 ^ the company's sea-land service, operatmg between Newark and Houston. Like her sister ships, Ideal X and Almena, the Maxton is a T-2 tanker, with a special deck mounted above the regular cargo tanks. On this deck, loaded truck trailers can be carried, thus permitting the vessel to carry a paying load in both directions, to and from the oil fields. This newest ship in Pan Atlantic's sealand fleet was purchased in April from the Marine Navigation Co., Inc. of New York for $1,275,000. She was then the Marine Leader. The new owners changed the name to Max­ ton, after the North Carolina birthplace of Malcom P. McLean, president of McLean Industries, Inc., which owns both Water­ man and Pan Atlantic Steamship Corps. The Mobile Ship Repair, Inc., under con­ tract to the SlU-affiliated . Marine Allied Workers, was low bidder for converting the tanker. It took six weeks, and 500 SIU marine al­ lied \Workers, to complete the conversion. The special deck, containing approximately 3/4-million pounds of steel, gives the Maxton the appearance of an aircraft carrier, with the flight deck divided at midship. Carries 66 Trailers on Deck The Maxton is designed to carry 66 trailers, giving the SIU ship a total deck carrying capacity of 2,800,000 pounds. There are 20 33-fool; trailers, with a capacity of 44,444 pounds, six lOVa-foot trailers, with an aver­ age weight of 22,222 pounds each, located on the forward deck. The after deck carries 40 of the 33-foot trailers. . A special lifting device fits over the top of the trailers and can load or discharge a trailer in five minutes. A simple locking de­ vice is used to secure the trailers aboard shifv^ Through special square holes in the deck of the ship, legs from the trailfers fit. A wed^shaped piece of steel is driven through .a slot in the legs, thus drawing the trailer down tight arid locking it in place. • - Two SlU-MAW members wetd near slot (foreground) where trailer is fastened. Struts, I-beams and braces support new flight deck over regular deck of tanker. Finishing touches are put to flight deck aft. This deck car­ ries 40 33-foot long trailers. Others are up forward. Making a test, crane sets a trailer down on aft deck. In regul^ service an automatic device releases trailer.- � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1950-1959 Description An account of the resource Volumes XII-XXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource July 20, 1956 Description An account of the resource Headlines: GOOD SHIPPING DUE TO CONTINUE TRAMP AID SOUGHT ANEW IN CONGRESS BEGIN VOTE TO AMEND SIU CONSTITUTION GERMANS SEEK OLD US LIBERTYS FOR COAL TRADE COURT AGAIN HITS CG SCREENING SIU MEDICAL CENTER PLAN NEARS WRAP-UP SEATTLE LULL DU TO END SHORTLY SENATE SETS $3 BILLION SURPLUS EXPORT TARGET SENATE BODY APPROVES NEW PASSENGER SHIPS ‘NEW LOOK’ MEALS PASS YEAR TEST STEEL STRIKE NO BAR TO PHILA. JOBS SIU OFFERS SUPPORT TO STEEL STRIKERS; ORESHIPS LAYING UP FAN RELIEF DUE FOR TAMPA HALL ‘HOPEFUL’ ON TANKER CHARTER BID MOBILE CREW THIRD ‘PIGGYBACK’ TANKER ‘WRECK’ LAW FOES SCORE AGAIN BRISTISH ADOPT NEW TYPE F=RAFTS TO REPLACE BOATS DELEGATES ASSIST FINAL RITES FOR SIU VETERAN SIU CONSTITUTIONAL COMMITTEE REPORT ANOTHER TANKER IS CONVERTED TO PIGGYBACK Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 7/20/1956 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. XVIII, No. 15 1956 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/6ca20e2a14e590aa57cee653d902e499.PDF 9b61070a6c417acbc4078038f1366e0f PDF Text Text *• •" I 'llllllllllllni—UMI. rim. M •it./ INDEX I V«I.XXH NO. IS SEAFARERS^LOG July 20 1960 • ^ 1 OFFlCiAL ORGAN OF THE SEAFARERS- INTERNATIONAL UNION • ATLANTIC, GULF, LAKES AND INLAND WATERS DISTRICT • AFL-CIO News Of SlU Inland Boatmen's Union —Pages 8, 9 Runaways May Take Russian Oil Charters News Of %>'• > story On Page 3 SiU Great Lakes Union I'C rT —Pages 10, 11 Nqminations Begin; 43 SIU Posts Open News Of SIU Pacific District Unions -Story On Page 2 —Pages 22, 23 '• '9 News Of I-f- SIU Commercial Fishermen's Union —Page 18 SIU Welfare Covers $6,280 Hospital Bill News Of -Story On Page 3 SIU Canadian District —Page 21 News Of SIU Industrial Workers Union MTD Assails Defense Dep't Ship Travel Ban -Story On Page 5 —Page 26 News Of •h Safet/, Medical Departments ^ —Page 12 hOOOth Blood Gift Made To SIU Reserve News Of :l: —Story On Page 2 Social Security, F6od, Ship Sanitation •^i'' > —Page 13 Shipboard News,, Letters, Minutes •:K.:> 'I.{••-;• \ ... —Pages 27 through 30 '.J' Editorial Cartoon ir"#- —Page 15 <r ; ¥r • Shipping Report —Page 6 Alcoa^ Bull Planning To Modernize Fleets - ^ story On Page 4 Elect Steward Croup On Recertification -Story On Page 3 "t :• �9af Twn SEAFARERS July SO; 106# LOG Nominating Open For 43 Elective Positions in SiU 2 Nations Seek Ship Registries Lebanon and Somalia have taken a look at the runaway-flag busi­ ness, found It to their liking, and are preparing to set up shop. Their problem will be to lure the cus­ tomers away from' Panama and Liberia, who are already deep in the trade. Lebanon is prepared to offer exemption from payment of income taxes, Lebanese crewmen who labor without a minimum - /fi wage seal? and an annual fee of about eight cents a ton. Somalia, which attained her In­ dependence July 1, plans to accept registration of ships regardless of origin or ownership. The only fees • "Vl will be based on tonnage. The Journal of the International • Transport Workers Federation had this thought on the prospective Somali registrations: "It is feared that the use of a Somali registry will enable a certain type of owner to pay lower fees and observe lower standards of safety and con­ ditions for new members than arercqpired by major maritime coun­ tries." A total of 43 elective posts, one of the largest number of positions ever to be placed on an SIU ballot, are now open for nominatians under the revised SIU constitution. Nomi­ nations, opened July 15 and^ will run .for a month, until in an unlicensed capacity, at least August 15. In the last elections four months of which must be be­ there were 38 positions on the tween January 1 ^nd the time of ballot. The number of posts to be his nomination; has been a full filled and their distribution were member of the Union in good approved by the membership in standing for three years prior to headquarters and in all ports fol­ his nomination; and has completed lowing presentation of the presi­ a certificate that he is not now, or dent's pre-balloting report and has not been for the last five years recommendations. a member of &e Communist Par­ Onw-theuMndth pint of blood coHa'ciad by SIU blood bonb it do­ The increase in the number of ty or convicted of a felony. nated by Seafarer Vincent M. Mocketu, AB.' It was Mocfcelis' elective posts and the changes in The last requirement is neces­ second donation to the bonk which serves ol Seofarers and their their distribution reflect the sary to comply with the provisions growth and changes in the SIU. of the Landrum-Griffm law, which fomSies. Under the new constitntion, can­ bars, anybody from holding union didates will be elected to posts in office if he or she has been con­ the seven constitutional ports and victed of a felony within a fiveheadquarters. Other ports maiiv- year period preceding the voting. tained by the Slli, which are not The headquarters, positions open specified in the constitution, will are: president, executive vice-pres­ continue to operate but will be ident, secretary-treasurer, viceserviced by joint patrolmen as­ president in charge of contracts signed from the nearest constitu­ and contract jmforcement, vicetional port. president in c^ge of the Atlan­ The SIU Blood Bank in New York collected its 1,000th pint For e^umple, Norfolk will be tic Coast, vice-president in charge of blood early this month as Seafarer Vincent M. Mackelis, serviced out of Baltimore, Jack­ of the Gulf Coast, vice-president July 20,1960 Vol. XXIi, No. 15 sonville out of Mobile, Boston out in charge of the Lakes and In­ AB, contributed to the centoiQ blood reserve for Seafarers of New York and so on. land Waters, and three headquar­ and teeir- families. Mackelis was followed in to eall upon tho lesonrcM of other As in the past, voting will ecun- ters representatives. mence on November 1 and con­ The port positions <901 are: short order by John Fancutt, coitral blood banks for relatively PAUL HALL, President tinue through December 31, ex­ New York—i agent, 10 joint pa­ AB, who started the blood bank rare types of blood iriiirii would HERBERT BBAND, Editor. BERNARD-SEA­ clusive of Sundays, or holidays trolmen; Philadelphia—1 agent, 2 on its second thousand go round. not be obtainable otherwise. MAN, Art Editor. HERMAN ARTHUR, legally, recognized in the city or joint patrolmen; Baltimore — 1 Since the blood bank was estab­ In several instances, the blood AL MASKIN, CHARLES BEAUMET, ARTHUR lished, it has assisted hundreds of bank has supplied rare and hard- SEGAL, ALBERT AMATEAU, Staff Writers. state in which the port is located. agent, 4 joint patrolmen; Mobile Voting will be between the hours —1 agent, 4 joint patrolmen; New Seafarers aU over the country and to-obtain blood needed for surgery BILL MOODY, Gulf Area Representative. of 9 AM and 5 PM daily and 9 to Orleans—1 agent, 4 joint patrol­ members of their families in meet­ upon Seafarers and members of monthly at the headquarterE 12 on Saturdays. men; Houston—1 agent, 2 joint ing the need for blood transfusions. their families. Xisrge quantities of Published of the Seafarers Intarnatlenal Union. Ah blood can also be supplied as in •antic Gulf. Lakes and Inland Wafara Under the constitution, any patrolmen and Detroit—1 agent. Operated Through NT AFL-CIO, «7S Fourth Avenue, member may submit his name as Pre-balloting Report, see page 14. Operated through ffie New Yozk the ease of a Seafarer's daughter DIstricf. Brooklyn 33, NY. Tel. HYacinth 9-iMO. Second class postage paid at the Pest who needed pints because of a a candidate for office provided he clinic of the Seafvers Welfare Office In erooklyn, NY, under the Act has at least three years' seatime Plan, in conjunction with the delicate "(^n heart" operation. of Aug. 24, 1912. IH Brooklyn Donor Center, the SIU All her needs were met through blood bank has exchange arrange­ the SIU blood bank. ments. witl) other blood banks Members who wish to submit throughout the country. As a result, blood can be deliv­ their names for nomination are required to either deliver, or send, ered without delay to Seafarers or the following material to the members of their families in any credentials committee at head­ major city. The drafts against the SIU blood bank are then balanced quarters: off through exchanges with blood a) his name banks in other cities. b) his home address and mail­ Trustees of the Seafarers Welfare Plan have okayed an­ As a result of this system, the The International Transporting address other five Seafarers for the special disability benefit of $35 a'' blood bank not only supplies blood workers Federation congress e) his book number when and where needed, bat also week because the applicants are not medically qualified to opened in Berne, Switzerland, on d) the title of the office he Is can come up with relatively rare sail anymore. The\five were^ July 20, with representatives of seeking flood types. The exchange ar­ approved for the disability formerly sailed in the steward US maritime unions, including the e> proof of citizenship rangements enable the blood bank benefit at the June 29 meeting department. SIU, in attendance. The congress I) proof of seatime of th* Uruatcc*. will take up matters affecting sea­ f) the certiflcate that he is not Seeberger, who Is ailing with a The latest llvo to bo a^ed to heart condition, is 62. He was a men, railwaymen, airlines employ­ now, and hasn't been for the tba special- disability Ust are: member of the steward departmentees and truckers in the various last five years, a member of Geerge Goodwin, when he sailed. worldwide unions which are mem­ the Communist party, or Louis H. Harris, Scares was inactivated from . bers of the ITF. convicted of a felony. Santiago Pascai shipping by Injuries he sustained The seamen's matters being dis­ In addition, all candidates are Gewge H. See- in a shipboard accident. He is now cussed by the congress include asked to submit a statement of berger and Jose 52, and used to ship in tHe deck the continuing campaign against approximately 100 words on their department. ' . the runaway flags and specifically, qualifications, and a passport pho­ BALTIMORE—Business had been developments in the Internaticmal tograph to the LOG to be run in slow here, with a total of 2S1 men Goodwin, age The SIU dlsabiUbf benefit is pay­ Maritime Workers Union drive and the Union newspaper in advance shipped since the last meeting, but 06, was disabled able to Seafarers of any age whov in the various court cases and of the voting. the overall picture looks a little because of dam­ are no longer able to sail because other proceedings as to the rights The certificate reads as follows, brighter with a possibility of erewage to the retina of physical infirmities. Twelve , of unions to organize the run­ as per the SIU constitution: ing up at least three ships In the of both ^es. He years' seatime on SIU ships is the Goodwat aways. near future. They arie the Alcoa wat a member of basic requirement for an applicant. "I hereby eerti^ that X am not The Congress is also being asked now, nor, for the five (5) years Pennant, Bethcoaster and Village. the engine department In edition to the 'SlU benefit— to act upon decisions of the Sea­ last past, have I been either a Porlr Agent Rex Dickey writes Harris, who sailed in the steward' which totals up to $150 a month— < farers Section including revision member of the Communist Party that payoff have beeq - running department, la 6# and has been the individual Is also covered by of the Seafarers Section charter, or convicted of, or served any part smoothly aboard the Emilia, Mae stdehned heeanae of a heart ail­ Social Security benefits if he is revision of the runaway-flag policy of a prison term resulting from and Jean (Bull); Chilore, Feltore ment. disabled and over 50, plus the as recommended by the American conviction of robbery, bribery, and Santore (Marven); Beth- Pascal was found not fit for duty usual benefits paid to those over unions, action on the issue of free­ extortion, embezzlement, grand coaster and Bethtex (Ore Naviga­ due to heart troublel He is 71 and 65. dom of the seas and blacklists and lyceny, burglary, arson, violation tion); Alcoa Pennant and Robin similar matters. of narcotics laws, mturder, rape, Sherwood (Robin). SlUNA President Paul Hall is assault with intent to kill, assault Signing OB were the Chilore. attending on behalf of the inter­ which inflicts grievous bodily in­ Santbre, ^Bethtex and Monnational union along with vice- jury, or violation of title II or HI tego Sea Feltore, (Lion). president Hal Banks, representing of the Landrum-Griffin Act, or Canadian Seafarers. Also attend­ conspiracy to commit any suph ing as members of the SIU delega­ crimes." tion were Fred Stewart, SIU head­ quarters representative, and ^ Bob Dated: Signature of member Pomerlane, from the port of Bal­ timore. -, Book No. fmed Hoorris Seeberger boores Blood Bank Gets Its lOOOih Pint SEAFARERS LOG • ITF Congress Opens; Takes Up Sea Issues Requirements For Nomination Five Seafarers Approved For Disability-Pension Ship Crewings Aid Baitimore I*.; •« ' I '*y' -• 4 �mm Mr St. ItM SEAFARERS LOG EXPANDS,GOES ON NEW SCHEDULE ^oader coverage of matters of interest to Seafarers, both in the maritime industry, in the labor movement and m the world at large will be featured in the new revised vr SEAFARERS LOO, which will now be published on a monthly basis. As this issue indicates, each monthly edition of thq,. LOG will consist of 32 pages and will include coverage of the many areas in which the SIU is active, within the various divisions of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District as well as the activities of other SIUNA affiliates in the US which would be of interest to Seafarers. LOG Par* Tkre« iRunoways 'Study Red Oil Charters, Peril US Control The change in scope of ne\Vs coverage reflects the change in recent years in the District and its activities in areas other than the deep sea field. For example, the SIU represents large groups of workers in the Inland Boatmen's field, including tugs, barges, small coastwise cargo operations,. excursion boats, railroad tugs, dredges and the like. The Union also has a sizable group of allied marine workers in industrial plants in major East Coast ports; a Puerto Rico division including industrial workers on the island, and fishertnen in Massachusetts. I'A*.. •The nwnthly schedule of the LOG reflects the new structure of the Union with membership meetings being held on a monthly basis. The LOG will be coming out on a regular schedule after the monthly meetings have been held in the seven major ports. • 1I 'ni Despite severe damage to bow suffered in Mediterranean Sea crash, Soviet supertanker Peking rushed cargo of oil to Havana. Sending of ship on voyage in this condition reflects Soviet shortage of tankers, leading in turn to Russian moves for deals with runaway tankers. The manufactured myth of "effective contror' as a justification for registering ships under the runaway flags may go up in smoke as the result of the Soviet Union's entrance into the world tanker trades. Runaway ship operators in the oil-carrying business are, eyeing ways^ are not subject to US controL and means of getting into ness from giant American ships The point was stressed by the the Russian oil trade with­ oil companies. SIU counsel in recent hearing be­ fore the National Labor Relations Russia's sudden emergence out losing out on their busiBoard on the Union's right to SIU Welfare Pays $6,280 Benefit,Largest On Record • y -^1 I Lakes Activity Increases SIU activity on..the Lakes is on the rise as a result of the opening of the St. Lawrence Seaway, and this area will conw in for regular coverage in the LOG. New programs set up for the benefit of Seafarers in negotiations with SlU-contracted operators include the A&G Food Plan, the Safety Department of the Seafarers Welfare Plan and the Social Security Department of the Welfare Plan, along with the standard weifare benefits for Seafarers and the operations of the various SIU clinics. These, activities will also be given regular coverage on a departmental basis. # Outside of the Union Itself, there are constant developments in the maritime field, in the AFL-CIO, or in the nation and world at large which have an impact on seamen's livelihood and conditions. The new LOG will include increased information on such activities. International affairs are becoming increasingly important to seamen, both the activities in the labor field in such organizations as the International Transportworkers Federation, and the International Confederation of Free Trade Unions, and developments in relations between the US and other countries which have a marked effect on the patterns of shipping. % "sji: The exceptional coverage provided by the Seafarers Welfare Plan for even the most extended periods of hospitalization was demonstrated on July 8 when a check was issued to Seafarer Ronald Bowden forr $6,280 in benefits. This was, by far, the largest benefit ever paid by the Plan for family lospital and surgical cover­ Seafarera families would mean that the greatest need for coverage staggering hospital bills which they would be In just such cases of age. chronic or long-term illnesses,, the The benefit payment covered 392 could not afford to meet. Including the unlimited provi­ type of ailments, incidentally, days' hospitalization for Bowden's wife, Margaret Rose Bowden in the sion in the benefits, the trustees which affect a growing percentage " Firland Sanatorium in Seattle. Mrs. of the Welfare Plan had In mind of the population. Bowden was beihg treated for tu­ berculosis, and In addition, had to have some surgery performed. Hospital Room and Board Under the SIU Welfare Plan, Mrs. Bowden was entitled to the $15 daily hospital room and board benefit for her entire period of confinement. By comparison, the Five chief stewards have been elected by the headquarters New York Blue Cross Plan limits its coverage to 21 full days and 180 membership to draft recommendations for a recertification .discount days, and most insurance program for chief stewards on SlU-contracted vessels. The company hospitalization plans gen­ action by the July 5 head--*^' erally run no longer than 30 to 60 quarters meeting kicks off ship would become subject to col­ days. study and consideration of lective bargaining between the SIU The Welfare Plan also paid for what standards should be estab­ and its various contracted steam­ hospital extras up to $200 for the lished to be met by men sailing in ship companies. first 31 days and a maximum of the chief steward's rating. In calling for the election of a $200 therafter. Mrs. Bowden col­ The committee's recommenda­ committee to deal with this sub­ lected the full $400 allowance as tions, when drafted, will be sub­ ject it was pointed out that there she had 53 laboratory tests and 12 mitted to the membership at a never has been a set of standards x-days during her confinement. subsequent meeting for the chief steward rating. Elected to the committee were The largest previous benefit paid Since the chief steward's respon­ by the fund was $2,334 to Seafarer Walter C. Patterson, Richard H. sibilities are largely administrative, Simon P. Morris, May 13, 1959, Simpson, Nicholas Nomikos, £. B. covering such areas as work assign­ covering 159 days' hospitalization Rosado and Walter Marcus. ments for members of the galley of his wife. The committee will study pro­ department, storing, inventory con­ The Bowden case, along with cedures to be established to recer­ trol, meal planning and . menus, other long-terra hospital confine­ tify men now sailing chief stew­ shipboard sanitation, galley equip­ ment cases, emphasizes the value ard as well as a uniform system ment and shipboard housekeeping, of the WelfarS Plan's unlimited for upgrading to the top steward the committee will discuss what hospital benefit feature. Without department rating. Any proposals qualifications the chief steward such a_ feature,, extended periods drafted by the committee and sub- should have to handle these various of hospitalization for members of 1 sequently approved by the member­ responsibilities.- Elect Steward Committee To Study Recertification in the world oil picture .was highlighted by Cuba's seizure of American and British-owned refineries and its agreement to import oil from Russia to supply them. In addition, the Russians have contracts to run oil to India, Finland, Italy and other nations. Russian Pitch - Short of tonnage itself, the Rus­ sians are now making a pitch to independent tanker operators un­ der the runaway flag and European flags as well. Already, numerous British, Greek and Italian-regis­ tered tankers have contracts to carry Russian oil. Further, a report from business representatives of Aristotle Onassis in West Germany states that the Soviet Union is going to try to put the squeeze on the runaways through the govern­ ments of Liberia and Panama. The purported "squeeze" may be the excuse the runaways are looking for. The SIU and other maritime unions have long warned that run­ aways could not be relied on to be loyal to the US in times of emergency, despite thb claims by the State Department that these vessels are under the "effective control" of the United States and can be relied on to keep the US supplied. Further, the untons have pointed out that the crews, as well as the Be Sure To Get Dues Receipts Headquarters again wishes to remind all Seafarers that pay­ ments of funds, for whatever Union purpose, be made only to authorized A&G representa­ tives and that an official Union receipt bo gotten at that time. If no receipt is offered be sure to protect yourself by immedi­ ately bringing the matter to the attention of the secretary-treas­ urer's office. organize runaway snips. The crews in many instances come out of labor movements in which there are strong Communist or pro-Com­ munist organizations. Up until now, it has paid the operators under the runaway flags to do business with US oil com­ panies, because they moved the bulk of oil in the international trade. If the Russians grab off • big hunk of that trade, the run­ aways will inevitably drift into their orbit. Such a development would be a serious blow to the ability of the US fo meet an inter­ national emergency. Esse Warning The oil companies themselves have shown their concern about their ability to hold onto the tanker operators, with Esso warn­ ing that it would not give a charter to anybody who handles Cuban oil. However, one of the major oper­ ators in the runaway field, Stavros Niarchos, already has long-term contracts to move Russian oil on Greek-flag vessels. Both Niarchos and Onassis felt impelled to come out and deny that they would carry Russian oil in the Cuban trade. Onassis readily agreed that the Cubans and Soviets had both ap­ proached him for tankers. Another factor in the situation is the degree to which the United States Can compel such indepen­ dent countries as Panama and Liberia to toe the line on this issue. There are strong anti-American and pro-Castro elements in Panama who would probably like nothing better than to tweak Uncle Sam's nose by having Panamanian-flag vessels carry Soviet oil. Before Cuba's seizure of its refineries, the refineries were suppliLd by oil from Venezuela carried on runaway-flag ships. Esso and Texaco were the American com­ panies in this trade, with the Royal Dutch-Shell combination also op­ erating runaways on this run. �rac« Wmm SEAFARERS LOG haru,im LABOR President Signs Trade-In Biii; 'BOUND THE WORLD Aicoa, Buii Can Upgrade Ships THE FACT THAT TRADE UNION MOVEMENTS ABE A battle­ WASHINGTON—^An important boost for, non-subsidized steamship companies was ground between East and West was pointed up once more in the course approved by President Eisenhower recently when he signed a bill permitting shipowners of the riots anJ demonstrations in Japan against the Japan-US security not receiving Government subsidies to trade-in older ships for C-2s, C-3s and C^s. treaty, which led to the cancellation of President Eisenhower's visit to that country. The bill will permit the^*'^ ^^ It shouId*not be overlooked, that despite the identification of some SIU - contracted Alcoa and argued that the trade-in method operates in the domestic trade and Bull lines to improve their was the only way they could Im­ consequently has to have its ships sections of the Japanese union movement with the anti-US demonstra­ tions, other groups, including the. All-Japan Seamen's Union, and fleet by swapping older vessels for prove their preSint fleets. With­ built in an American shipyard. Under the bill, Alcoa, Bull and Japanese unions affiliated with the International Confederation of Free more- modern and more efficient out construction subsidies, they ones. It was designed to upgrade would be forced to run their pres­ other unsubsidized companies, Trade Unions steered clear of the demonstrations and criticized them. the American-flag non-subsidized ent war-built ships until they could such as tramp operators, would That the Communists made some serious penetrations in Japanese labor no longer operate. This was par­ obtain tonnage which had been should not be denied, but at the same time, a balanced verdict on the fleet. The unsubsidized operators had ticularly true for Bull Line which traded-in to the Government by outcome shows that the contacts between Japanese labor and free world subsidized companies. The subsi­ labor organizations have been a not inconsiderable asset. dized companies are turning in In the United States, of course. Communist penetration of trade their C-type ships to Government unions as a means of affecting national policy is not now a serious prob­ boneyards as they replace them lem. There is one major exception to this general observation and that with Mariner-type or other ad­ is on the West Coast. There Harry Bridges still utilizes the long-range vanced vessels under construction. Communist Party tactic of attempting to penetrate and disrupt existing The bill was supported by the non-Communist trade unions and then utilizing them to, promote the American Merchant Marine Insti­ political objectives of the Soviet Union, tute, representing Atlantic and The ILWU apoaratus under Bridges uses two basic tactics. It collides Gulf Coast shipowners, the De­ head on with existing unions via raids in an attempt at open takeover. partments, of Commerce and De­ Or, where this is not possible, it seizes on any available issue or griev­ fense and the General Accounting ance as a means of chipping away at the union's structure and encourag­ Office. ing factional disputes so as to pave the way for eventual takeover. It was. opposed by the Pacific There is an undeniable link between Bridges and the Japanese dem­ American Steamship Association, onstrations. One year ago, in the spring of 1959, he presided at a con­ and ran into some tough sledding ference of pro-Communist trade unions in Tokyo. in hearings before the House Mer­ Among other business transacted at this conference, was a resolution chant Marine Committee, but the calling for the abolition of US miUtary bases in Japan, which would combined support of the various leave that nation defenseless in the face of Red China and the Soviet Government agencies apparently Union. This was also the objective of the anti-US demortstrations in was sufficient to swing the balance Tokyo in June. in favor of its passage. At the time,'the SEAFARERS LOG characterized the conference as Alcoa had announced at the foUows: "A transparent effort to blacken US foreign policy in nonhearings that it would use the bill Commuist Asiatic countries ... to make it appear thkt maritime labor as a vehicle for trading in its C-ls la mouthing the Soviet line on World issues . . ." for C-2s or C-3s. The company has That conference was boycotted by the All-Japan Seamen's Union not yet revealed what its specific and the Japan Trade Union Congress, an affiliate of the International plans are along these lines. Bull Confederation of Free Trade Unions. It should be pointed out that plans to apply for two C-4 ships the All Japan Seamen's Union has friendly relationships with the SIU immediately, offering some of Its of North America, the product of many cordial and informative conThis quartet spoke for crew during Transnorthern payoff In Duluth, older tonnage, possibly ^Liberty tacts and discussions between leaders of that union and the SIU. (L to r.) Fred Gentry, firemanj Joe Donovon, AB{ W. McKeon, ships, in exchange. If it obtains The same holds true for other waterfront and shoreside unions in the larger vessels. Bull Line will Japan who maintain relationships with the AFL-CIO and the dCFTU. MM. Phil Quahm, AB. be able to modify them so as to One footnote should be added here. Last September when Soviet DULUTH—The SlU-manned Transnorthern became the accommodate between 48 to 178 Premier Khrushchev was in the US, he made a point of visiting first Union-contracted ship to pay off at this Lake Superior 35-foot containers and still have Bridges' headquarters on two separate occasions the same day to greet port on June 30, and if her experiences are any criterion, enough space to carry as much and warmly applaud Bridges and his cohorts. That alone should con­ break-bulk cargo as its priesent C-2 vince anybody of the importance the Soviet Union attaches to penetra­ Seafarers hitting here should < ^ vessels do when fully-loaded. expect to run into a species of the Liberlan-flag Transcape (for­ The number of containers the tion of the trade union movement. Coast Guard operation, which merly an SlU-manned vessel) run C-4s could carry would depend on * * * went out long ago on the deep sea by the same operators. "I wonder the amount of rebuilding done on THERE HAS BEEN A SIGNIFICANT DEVELOPMENT WITHIN ports, how much overtime the men on the ships. The-simplest plan would tfie International Confederation of Free Trade Unions, namely the "The Transnorthern was paid off the Panllbhonco-flag Transcape involve moving the C-4 midship election of Omer Becu, general secretary of the International Transby two Coast Guardsmen who had collected on their last voyage from bouse aft, leaving the forward portworkers Federation, to the general secretaryship of ICFTU. Since never paid off a deep-sea ship be­ the same company," Drews ob­ decks clear for the stacking of con­ 1949, ICFTU has been the meeting place and spokesman of the free fore," reports SIU rep. Pete Drews. served. tainers as deck cargo. world labor movement, including the AFL-CIO. "The man in charge . . . insisted It is to the credit of the world maritime labor movement that one upon placing charges against nine of its members has been chosen to head up the world labor organiza­ men for missing one day's work tion. Becu has been active in trade unions for 40 years. A native of during a 3V^-month trip. One man Belgium, Becu started out as a seaman, serving as a radio operator on was charged by the Coast Guard Belgian ships. Later he became head of the Belgian longshore union for missing one watch. It took from movement, and subsequently was named to the ITF position. 8 o'clock in the morning to 9:30 In the ITF, Becu has been a staunch supporter of the fight on run­ at night for this commander to away-flag ships and has worked closely with the SIU and other US type up misconduct charges against A Navy researcher just found out that dolphins (porpoises) maritime unions to protect the Interests of seamen everywhere. nine men. The Coast Guard held • * may be smarter than men. His name is John C. Lilly, in case up the men's money until the anyone wants to send him a telegram. He started out without charges were presented." AT THIS WRITING THERE ARE A NUMBER OF AREAS of the After waiting all day for the any prejudices, but the dol--*^ world, particularly in Africa, where new nations are obtaining their Coast Guardmen to stop playing phins won him over to their marlin are running. Your West independence, or are about to in the near future. In some instances, piiblic prosecutor, the ship'.s crew side, and now he says that Coast tuna fishermen already use the transition to independence has been made sifioothly. In othere, was finally rewarded for its pa­ they possibly have superior brain dolphins to spot the locations of a there has been a great deal of difficulty and even chaos. One of the keys to the nature of the transition has been the exisb tience when Drews and Paul Dro- power to men, perhaps from eat­ school of tuna. ence of a sufficient group of trained, experienced leaders who are zak paid off the ship and straight­ ing fish. We don't know what will come ened out a number of beefs, in­ Some of Lilly's arguments are of this, but whatever happens, we'll capable of stepping into the shoes of the former European administra­ tors and taking over the operations of a government. cluding some on delayed sailings. as follows: Dolphins have a lan­ keep the membership informed. In that respect, the world labor movement has made a valuable con- ' The Transnorthern had carried guage of their own in which they tribution. For a number of years now, for example, the AFL-CIO grain during her last run, and was communicate with one another. has been active in the international field in assisting the development a--' in Duluth to pick up another load The Navy has been listening in on of embryo trade unions in underdeveloped countries, helping them of wheat, this one headed for their wave lengths, and aS soon as set up their machinery, advising and educating their leaders and so on. Spain. we decipher the code, we'll know The same has been true of other free world trade unions. As a result, While the Transnorthern was in what they've been sajdng. leaders have emerged In a number of tiiese countries right out of port, she was berthed right next to Dolphins swim to each other's labor's ranks, and, more important than.that, having sympathy for aid when in trouble. This is more and -understanding of democratie proeednres because of thei^ eloae than can be said for man on some relationships with the AFL-CIO and other western trade unions. Union Has occasions. The world labor movement's role is particularly important here be­ Lilly is trying to teach one of Cable Address cause the leaders of the new nations, of necessity, arise out of theSeafarers overseas who want his smart dolphins how to com­ ranks of their labor' movements. In most instances, business, ad­ to get in touch with headquar- municate with man. The bright ministration, trade and government were in the hands' of Europeans. ten in a hurry can do so by fish had "three-two-tbree" said to The Jabor movements of thesd new nations were one of the few avenues cabling the Union at its cable him and said it right back. Only of, advancement for members of the native population and industrial address, SEAFARERS NEW thing is, his voice sounded kind labor jobs were their source of employment. of waterlogged. YORK. It the industrial and governmental leaders formerly in control of The Navy is hoping that these Use of this address will assure these areas, had done a better Job of training replacements, it is agreed speedy transmission on all mes­ splendid fish when they get enough by all concerned, that the transition to self-government would be made sages and faster service for the training can be used to tip us off more smoothly in these countries. In this respect, they might have on all the ocean's secrets, such as men involved. borrowed tiie approach used by the AFL-CIO in .^ts efforts to assist weather, tides and where the best citizens of new nations to assume the responsibilitiesdf self-government. Coast Guard Mars StU Lakes Payoff Porpoises Smarter Than Sea Lawyers? W '1 �Mr M. UM SEAFARERS LOG f- ^|V > i>• \ I Pag* ilv* Operators^MTD Hit Defense Dep'f Air Travel Plan WASHINGTON—American-flag passenger ship operator! stand to lose 10 percent of their revenues as the result of an announcement by the Department of Defense that it will switch to the airwaysIn mov-' ing members of the Armec years, had depended heavily oa US Government business and spe­ Forces and their dependents cifically, Defense Department car­ -K to and from overseas points. go and passenger movements to A diatter of dollars and cents keep active. In turn, the Defense was involved, the DefSme Depart­ Department is constantly calling for the existence of a strong mer­ ment claimed, in Its decision to chant marine as an essential cog use air transport exclusively, start­ in national defense planning. ing September 1, 1960. The Defense Department waa The decision drew immediate asked not to sacrifice the longfire from the seamen's section of term benefit of a functioning mei> the Maritime Trades Department, chant fleet, specifically in the The Department charged that the passenger transportation area, for Military Sea Transportation Serv­ the sake of immediate savings la ice carried over one-third of the transportation of military pas­ military passenger traffic in 1959 sengers. New Del Rio for Delta Line hits water with a splash and banners flying after broadside laonching at as compared to only 2ti percent In the current fiscal year, com­ Avondale Marina Ways in New Orleans. Vessel will replace one of present C-Is on West Africa run. transported on privately-owned mercial passenger ships are carry-" passenger ships. ing about 25,000 passengers on If the primary reason for elim­ behalf of the military. They will inating military passenger travel lose all this traffic as of September on ships is to save Defense De- 1. By contrast, last year, some NEW ORLEANS—^The first vessel in the Delta Line's rebuilding program, which will pa rtraent dollars, the statement 348,000 iiiiUtary passengers moved involve 14 new ships, was launched here recently at the Avondale Marine Ways. The Del added, then why keep MSTS in on - commercial airliners. Rio, which will replace one of the company's C-ls on the African run, is the largest vessel operation? Companies that will be hit by ever constructed on the Misr>— the decision include Matson Navi­ sissippi River. It is one of tioned In the dining quarters and more cargo capacity. three which will be built by will feature certain innovations The Avondale yard won the gation and American President Avondale. such as mechanical batch covers right to build the three vessels Lines, under contract to the SIU The vessels will be air-condi- and heavy lifts. Other unusual fea­ with bids of slightly less-than $10 Pacific District, as well as US Lines tures include a split island design million for each of the three. Other and American Export. of the tanker type, which will al­ bids ranged as high as $12 million The Maritime Administration has asked the Defense Department low for speeder cargo handling as per ship. the hatches will be concentrated In Miss Stella Evans Farwell, grand­ to allocate a small percentkge of the center of the vessel. daughter of the late Rudolph S. its military passenger travel to The Del Rio is 506 fet long, 70 Hecht, one of the founders of the American shipping as a means of feet in the beam and draws 28 feet. Delta Line, launched the vessel. maintaining a functioning mer­ British seamen in several areas At 18 knots it is far faster than It will go into service some time chant marine. The Defense spokes­ man took the position that the have walked off their ships in, an the present C-ls and also has far in 1861. Armed Forces are not in the busi­ unofficial" strike over bass wages ness of subsidizing maritime. Per­ kins McGuire, Assistant Secretary and the length of the work week. of Defense, told a House Merchant The strike has not been endorsed Marine subcommittee that contin­ by the National Union of Seamen. BATON ROUGE, LA.—An antiuing use of American-flag passen­ With a base pay of around $109 etrlkebreaklng bill, after passing ger services by the military would a month and no weekend overtime both houses of the Louisiana legis­ amount to a "double subsidy." He lature, was vetoed by Gov. James A Virginia garment company are 10,500 Machinists at various pointed out as an example, the cost for watchstanders, the striken are which has opened a plant in Ire­ California locations. And in East of transporting passengers to reportedly seeking a four pound H. Davis. land has reached agreement with Hartford, Connecticut, 31,000 lAM Hawaii from the West Coast was ($11.20) monthly increase and a In spite of concentrated employ­ the International Ladies Garment and United Auto Workers mem­ $65 by air as compared to $300 by er pressure to defeat It, the bill Workers Union setting up 44-hour week. Such an arrange­ in­ bers went into the fifth week of ship. passed the lower house of the surance fund out of which workers their ment would give watchstanders strike at the world's largest In retort, shipping representa­ legislature by a vast margin. It will be paid if their earnings drop jet engine plant, operated by four hours' overtime on Saturday tives argued that the national in­ also went through the Louisiana due to the new plant. Their aver­ United Aircraft. terest is committed to a healthy and eight hours on Sunday. The Senate, by a count of 23 to 12. » 4^ » merchant marine. They said that present OT rate under the British At that point Davis kiUed it with age wage at present is from three to six times greater than the Irish A Presidential emergency board the iperchant marine, over the bis veto. contract is four shillings (56 workers' income. The agreement has been set up to investigate a The bill, fiercely opposed by came after a brief strike at the contract dispute between the cents) an hour for most ratings. publishers, forbids the use of plant. Switeluneii's Union of North Amer­ Watchstanders do not get over^ strikebreakers imported'from out­ ica .and a group of mid western time for Saturday and Sunday 4^ 4 i side the state by any "person, firm railroads. Appointment of the work. Instead there is a paid leave As a way of fighting unemploy­ or corporation not directly in­ board under the Railway Labor arrangement for Sundays spent at volved in a strike or lock-out. The ment brought on by automation, Act has the effect of postponing sea. newspaper and printing industries the Meat Cotters' 20th general con­ strike action-for at least 60 days. SIU membership meet­ are well known for their employ­ vention at Atlantic City called for Wage rates and working rules at Walkout Spreads ment of professional strikebreak­ a massive effort for a shorter work issue will be investigated by the ings are held regularly tie-up began originally in ers and their "schools for scabs." week. Delegates were told that board. once a month on days in­ theThe steward department aboard ths Pennsylvania is the only state that major economic dislocation for the dicated by the SIU Con­ Canard passenger liner, Carinthia, 4^ 4i' t entire nation is threatened by the cow has such a law on its statute trend to automation in industry Organized labor in Mississippi stitution, at 2:30 P.M. in and from„ there spread to many books. has opened a drive to block efforts other ships in the British Isles. after industry. to write the state's "right-to-work" the listed SIU ports below. S^pathy protests were held 4^ t i law into its constitution. Officers All Seafarers are ex­ briefly in Canada and US ports. Representatives of more than of the Mississippi State AFL-CIO British seamen are subject to ar­ 80,000 retail clerks in California have challenged the legality of an pected to attend those rest if they walk off their ships in pledged their "vigorous and ef­ announced referendum and have who wish to be excused an Empire port other than in the fective" support to the consumer petitioned the chancery court for should request permission United Kingdom itself. boycott of Sears, Roebuck and Co., an injunction to block the vote. by telegram (be sure to Shipowners have been threaten­ which was launched by the San Specifically, the suit charges that ing to consider the contracts of include registration num­ Francisco Labor Council. The boy­ official 30-day notice of the elec­ seamen broken by the walkout, cott came- about after Sears re­ tion was given in only one of the ber). The next SIU meet­ which would pave the way for the fused to reinstate 262 employees state's 32 countries through publi­ ings will be: British government to draft all who were fired for refusing to cation in three local newspapers. strikers under the age of 26 into New York August 8 cross a picket line. In addition, the union group the British armed forces. Philadelphia August 9 i 4. 4, charged that the legislature, which Members of the International As­ voted to submit the amendment, Baltimore August 10 sociation of Machinists voted to was not properly apportioned as Detroit August 12 ratify new two-year contracts cov­ required by state constitution. It Houston August 15 ering 27,500 Convair workers and explained that in Mississippi—as ^,000 Douglas employees at San in other states—large population New Orleans August 16 diego and, other California loca­ areas are under-represented in the Mobile August 17 tions. Stilliout on strike,) however. state legislative bodies. 'T V 5<:«l •i'd . fit m.;, 1 Delta Line Launches New Ship Seamen Off BritishShips In Wildcat Anti-Scab Bill Vetoed In Louisiana SCHEDULE OF SIU MEETINGS ' -n J ,I • •l" ,SI ••5 !i i �,',<'v: •"•••- • rare Six V SEAFARERS Jxly to, lOM LOG -^1 SEAFARERS ROTARY SHIPPING HOARD i 4 4-^ (Figures On This Page Cover Deep Sea Shipping Only In the SW Atlantid, Gulf, Lakes, and Inland Waters District.) June 22 Through July 5,1960 Shipping feli off slightly during the last period as the total for ail classes dropped from 1,106 to 1,051 men. This marks the second period in a row that shipping has declined. Ship activity also slipped from last period's 222 payoffs, signons and in-transits to 203 for this period. Payoffs were down to 54, for a drop of 4 from last period. There were 19 signons and 130 in-transits a^ com­ pared to 28 signons and 136 in-transits for the previous period. Registration of men on the beach at the end of this period was 2,953, a drop of a few hundred from the previous period's total of 3,284. All ports serviced vessels in-transit this period, but the ports of Norfolk, Miami, Wilmington and Seattle had no payoffs, and Boston, Norfolk, Jacksonville, Miami, Mobile, Wilmington and Seattle had no signons. Last period three ports had no payoffs and four had no signons. Ship Atfivify Shipping made its biggest gain in the Port of Houston and declined the most- in Seattle. Mobile and Baltimore also recorded drops, as shipping declined in seven outports. Pay SI9R la OHt 0ns Troa9.TOTAK _ 2 3 i _ — Boitoa - . • r.•.. 3 Naw York ....19 Philadelphia .. 2 Raitimera .,,,19 Norfolk .. 2 Ports with ICQ or less (A & B) men registered on the heach at the Jackkonvlllo Miami .......— end of the -two weeks were: Boston, Philadelphia, Norfolk, Jacksonville, Mobila ....... 7 Naw Orlaaas .. 3 Miami, Mobile, Houston, Wilmington, San Francisco and Seattle. Houston ..... 5 Ports with fifty or less A men on the beach were the same as above, Wilmington .. Son Francisco . 3 except for Mobile. Sasttte ....;.— By classes shipping for the period was: Deck, 376; Engine, 348; and ^Steward, 327. Last period's figures for these departments were, respectively, 405, 395, and 306. The- general shipping forecast is moderate shipping for the next Totals few weeks. 5 2 — 2 — 54 19 3 17 11 14 4 7 3 5 23 26 8 2 5" 130 6 30 16 29 6 9 3 12 31 33 0 7 8 203 DECK DEPARTMENT Registered CLASS 8 Registered CLASS A Shipped CLASS A Shipped CLASS B Shipped CLASS C TOTAL SHIPPED Registered On The Beech CLASS A CLASS B GROUP GROUP GROUP GROUP GROUP GROUP GROUP GROUP 3 ALL 1 3 ALL 1 3 ALL 1 1 2 2 2 2 3 ALL A 2 3 ALL 1 C ALL 1 B 2 3 ALL 1 2 3 ALL Boston 17 — 8 — 4 12 1 2 3 11 — 3 J1 1 1 2 —« 1 2 2 3 16 9 ? — 15 4 28 3 2 5 New York. 70 — 24 33 13 23 19 37 8 64 2 7 12 21 2 5 64 4 19 2 1 21 5 90 92 125 40 257 2 18 45 65 — ' 2 Philadelphia 3 3 5 9 —. 4 4 3 6 — 9 1 1 9 3 12 11 . 19 7 37 2 3 1 Baltimore 7 7 29 2 8 10 8 15 26 2 10 15 3 3 5 1 1 26 10 37 32 1 81 14 -127 4 17 36 57 —.— Norfolk — 6- 2 12 7 11 2 8 — 4 1 1 .3 1 2 4 2 2 11 8 2 21 4 8 2 14 3 3 — Jacksonville 5 17 — 2 6 1 -5 •ir 2 11 1 4 2 5 — 1 1 2 2 7 5 2 14 9 16 1 3 26 ... 7 10 — — — — — — — — — — — — : hliaml................ — 3 — 1 — 3 1 2 2 4 1 1 2 Mobile. 7 2 10 — 1 3. 11. 4 18 — 1 — 1 1 18 1 1 2 — '1 2 21 29 1 40 6 75 1 ^ 4 7 12 ._ New Orleans 16 61 4 16 9 26 4 8 39 2 3 6 ... 12 4 11 3 3 39 11 3 53 58 93 22 IV 6 21 21 48 Houston 13 21 25 14 60 2 16 25 8 49 3 5 5 5 9 16 — 1 1 2 60 16 2 78 16 30 2 48 2 6 5 13 — — Wilmington 6 — 3 3 3 9 — 4 3 7 3 2 1 1 — 1 — 6 1 7 11 12 4 27 3 7 4 — — — — — — . — _ San Francisco 6 1 4 2 10 6 18 5 5 18 5 23 15 17 4 36 1 2 2 5 — Sr?;;' • • 5 — 2 8 1 11 1 2 3 — 3 — .— — 2 1 1 2 3 1 4 17 — 13 3 33 2 7 2 11 25 46 87 164 55 1 306 8 84 2 5 14 I 21 872 29 54 1 91 75 155 42 1 272 13 84 20 1 376 303 471 111 885 18 TOTALS 90 133 241 Port 1^I'' p:^ • ¥• life': •— —• ENGINE DEPARTMENT VK- Registered CLASS A Registered . CLASS B Shipped CLASS A Shipped CLASS B * I Shipped CLASS C TOTAL SHIPPED GROUP GROUP GROUP GROUP GROUP GROUP 3 ALL 1 3 ALL 1 1 2 3 ALL 1 2 3 ALL 1 3 ALL A 2 2 2 B — Boston — 8 — 3 6 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 3 2 2 2 New York 12 43 62 3 11 11 25 17 51 4 6 U 7 29 5 12 *6 22 1 4 1 22 __ 13 Phiiadelphia. 3 7 1 1 8 _ 9 —. 4 10 8 __ 5 3 8 2 13 Baltimore 28 — 10 6 16 2 3 23 2 6 27 — 3 — 3 27 19 13 11 24 24 _ Norfolk 5 — 2 ,2 4 4 1 5 6 1 2 3 2 2 6 1 3 — 3 Jacksonville _ 10 1 5 — 8 — 2 2 3 — 2 2 1 1 1 2 2 — .— — — — — — _ — -'. _ _ hAiami................ — 1 ^— 1 Mobile 5 19 — 7. 14 — 2 9 4 7 3 14 5 ,1 1 14 1 4 5 New Orleans 45 2 8 8 34 3 5 15 9 19 — 28 1 3 10 . 14 '1 1 28 14 Houston 52 3 16 10 39 3 5 24 7 36 6 2 8 50 6 49 1 17 14 32 32 Wilmington — — — 4 5 1 1 4 — 3 8 — 4 4 — 4 — 3 3 3 _ — San Francisco 13 1 1 3 3 5 1 9 1 9 1 11 1. 3 ~ 4 _ 11 4 Seattle 3 6 3 12 — .— - 1 1 2 5 — 2 1 1 1 1 5 1 1 — -760 49 1 120 45 143 26 214 6 47 198 24 1 269 11 58 56 120 1 8 14 23 205 126 TOTALS Port I Registered On The Beach CLASS A CLASS B GROUP C ALL 1 2 1 6 1- 13 79 39 126 6 21 1 9 3 54 8 69 2 11 2 5 ' 5 6 19 1 2 20 12 1 50 1 43 30 89 90 9. 8 24 7 2 10 15 3 28 7 6 1 25 23 348 120 469 1 • 3 ALL 3 17 21 186 11 1 7 84 7 —1 25 1 . 4 3 65 8 127 1 34 2 14 1 32 4 35 52 1 641 GROUP 1 2 3 ALL 1 3 1 1 2 5 66 . 73 1 3 4 16 22 38 2 3 5 1 5 8 14 1 1 2 8 12 20 1 21 16 38 2 5 3 10 1 6 5 12 2 3 5 2 4 5 11 TO 77 148 1 235 1 '1^ STEWARD DEPARTMENT Registered CLASS A Port Boston New York...., Philadelphia... Baltimore Norfolk ..... Jacksonville... Miami Mobile New Orleans.-.. Houston Wilmington.. San Francisco., Seattle TOTALS Registered CLASS B Shipped CLASS A Shipped CLASS B Shipped CLASS C TOTAL SHIPPED GROUP GROUP GROUP GROUP GROUP GROUP 123 ALL 1 3 ALL| A 23 ALL 123 ALL 1 2 23 ALL 1 B — — 4 112 4 — — 1 4 2 1 1 1 2 2 2 17 6 29 52 1 14 55 2 19 22 16 55 13 15 5 34 15 — — 14 — — — 8 6 — 2 8 — 8 6 _ 2 6 2 3 6 2 3 12 3 12 27 1—11 ' — 1 24 1 6 12 7 2 15 5 6 24 / — 3 2 5 — 1 2 1 4 — 1 1 2 4 2 — 1 3 2 4 — 6 2 3 6 11 — 1 3 4 4 6 2 — 1 3 — _ — 6 1 11 18 — 1 14 8 — 9 1 9 5 — 9 14 — 8 1 7 " 14 8 40 62 — 7 40 7 16 1 21 40 2 29 16 22 9 16 17 6 10 33 — 49 2 —- 13 '— 5 5 49 15 — 9 9 14 6 29 15 — — — 4 3 2 3 — 8 2 1 — 3 1 — 3 4 — — _ 12 1 3 1 10 1611 13 3 5 6 10 — 4 — 2 5 2 3 1011 12 1 2 4 1 1 1 — 2 ^ — — 97 37 118 1 25218 7 79 ~94 68 81 19 128 I 215 2 71 81 — 31J1 91 215 J • 7 •— •'f' Registered On The Beach CLASS A CLASS B 1 GROUP GROUP C ALL 1 2 3 ALL 1 2 3 ALL — - "i 6 5" 2 6 13 1 2 4 7 84 79 14 38 87 204 2 5 66 73 — 14 14 6 8 28 10 10 I 31 42 1 2l 29 92 3 4 26 33 7 — 1 3 3 6 1 2 3 1 .10 5 5 2 12 3 2 2 7 — _ a^ 2 — 5 7 23 37 1 11 ,38 86 1 21 22 63 56 7 21 104 181 1 3 43 47 5 69 10 6 2 18 2 2 2 6 — 4 5 1 4 10 2 1 2 5 '• * " Vi. — 13 10 4 15 29 1 8 9 3 15 1 7 8 30 3 3 7 13 ,' i nj 327 280~ 115 311 716 18" 24 193 [235 1 •i •1^ ' 7! SUMMARY Registered CLASS A w DECK ENGINE STEWARD GRAND,JOTALS , Registered CLASS B Shipped CLASS A Shipped CLASS C Shipped CLASS B GROUP GROUP GROUP GROUP 1 2 3 ALL 1 2 3 ALL 1 2 2 3 ALL 1 87 164 55 306 8 29 .54 1 91 75 155 42 272 13 25 47 198 24 269 11 60 49-1 120 45 143 26 214 6 58 97 37 118 252 8 7 79 1 94 68 2 19 128 215 8 231 399 197 827 27 96 182 1 305 188 317 1^6 ,701 27 3 ALL 46 84 56 120 71 .mm si TOTAL SHIPPED ^ GROUP CLASS 2 S ALL ABC 1 84 20 2 5 14 1 21 272 1 14 8 1 23 205 120 23 - 31 1 31 215 81 31 ?85 . * Registered On The Beach CLASS A CLASS'B GROUP ALL 1 23 1 376 303 471 111 1 348 120 469 52 1 327 280 115 311 GROUP ALL 1 2 3 ALL 1 885 .18 90 133 241 1 641 10 77.148 235 1 716 18 24 193 235 19 53 1 '75 C92 285 .*74 |1051 703 1965 474 r2249 46 191 474 711 �Mr MiltW SEAFAREttS Si^ SIDNEY MARGOLIVS LOG Duty-free Bill For Seamen OK'd By House Committee WASHINGTON—A pet project of many Seafarers, a bill which would allow them to import a limited amount of items duty-free, has been favorably reported to the House by Drug manufacturers by and large have shrugged off Uie recent ex­ the House Ways and Means Committee. Action on the bill awaits the resumption of Con­ poses of excessive prices charged for vital drugs.and medicines. A gress after its current ad-^~ " survey by this department finds thfct: journment for the Democratic tariCEs. Passengers traveling on might make, the limitation on an 1—There have been no price cuts of any significance. and Republican nominating ships or airliners are able to bring annual basis could effectively bar home a specified amount in mer­ abuse and profiteering. 2—New drug items -arriving on the market are as o^ensive as tlM conventions. In reporting the bill favorably chandise without paying duty. At present, seamen and crewolder ones criticized widely as unnecessarily cosUy. to the House, Rep. Wilbur Mills Seamen have long complained 3—Drug manufacturers are continuing uniform pricing of their members of airliners in interna­ (Dera.-Ark.) noted: "Your com­ about this provision as discrimina­ tional trade are not permitted to products as though Senator Kefauver and the Fedm-al Trade Com­ mittee feels that officers and crewmission didn't even exist The fact that manufacturers e/t supposedly- bring purchases from idwoad into tory and unfair, pointing out that metnhera of vessels and alTCTaft no matter how many voyages they competing drug brands charge the same price js mie of the biggest the US withoiit paying th# usual arriving in the United States problems. should not be discriminated For example; Hottest drug item at this time is a diuretic used for against in comparison with other One For The Railroad Buffs kidney problems and other illnesses in which it is necessary to relieve returning residents with respect the body of excess fluid. There are now three brands or versions en to their ability to exercise the the market: Diuril, Hydro-Diuril and Esiderex. All three are priced at duty-free allowance which is ap­ the same suggested list of $9 per 100, with some variations in price plicable today to all other Ameri­ depending on quantity and how much an individual druggist cans returning from abroad. By providing that such officers and charge. crewmembers shall be able to ex­ Significantly, these new diuretic dru^ with their high imifoi-m ercise this privilege to the extent prices were introduced after the Kefauver hearings. This shows tiie of only $500 in any calendar year, attitude of the drug industry toward the public indignation. abuse of privilege will be avoided The only price concession has been a small unofficiai aiM, pondb^ and reasonable parity of treatment only temporary and not necessarily of benefit to the public unless will be -accorded such officers and people know about it. Manufacturers' salesmen are repwted to be crewmembers. It should be noted, giving retail druggists an unofficial discount on the vital antibiotie however, that the maximum al­ drugs in the form of ten percent free samples witti each order. lowance accorded under your com­ But the exposes have had one effect Unions and co-ops are pushing mittee's bUl is less than the maxi­ hard to find ways of cracking drug prices. These etiortf are tatdng mum allowance that is possibl* several fonns: under existing law for other re­ 1—Simplest method ueing used turning residents." by a number at local unions in Detroit, New and several other ^es Is to arrange wtth a local phaihiacist or chain for re­ duced prices for jnembers. More unions have been developing sudi arrangements as the result of tha Kefauvm- exposes. Depending on the efficiency of tho i^iarmaelM involved, this method can sava a worthwhile part of ttia cost Imt A professor of medicine has just doesn't solve the basic inoldan of offered a bit of advice all coffeemanufacturers' high prices. Ift loving Seafarers ai'c going to find alscnecessary to police such a plan repugnant. "Cut down on tho because it's difficult for the con­ coffee" urges Dr. Herman Hellersumer to check the charge for a stein, and turn your coffee break compounded prescription to see if into an "exercise" break. he is getting a genuine reduction. According to Dr. Hellerstein, a One way to police is by sending professor of medicine at Western out shoppers from time to time Reserve University in Cleveland, with an Rx to check prices against labor has been eliminated from those quoted by otlfer pharmacies. most jobs to such an extent that 2—Unions and group health co-ops also are expanding pbarmacan"exercise" breaks may be needed Heavy lift derrick swings a locomolivB aboard Ae SlU-manned tical services of their own health centers. A pharmacy operated as to keep workers physically fit. Robin Gray for voyage lo ,Wrican port. Cargo was put aboard part of a health center has the advantage of strong control over prices, Following this advice would lead at 22nd Street, BrooMyn, pier. economies of volume byying and avoidance of some of the duplication to some strange doings. Imagine of brands necessary in regular drug stores. a typical exercise break on your As one pxample, the healtt centm- for New Yotk hatel woriEers last ship. There's the steward lifting year filled over 37,000 prescriptions ^th none costing over $S, 50-poimd weights, an FWT comes by skipping rope, whils a wiper Another example is the pharmaceutical service provided by Group does handstands on the poopdeck. Health Cooperative of Puget Sound. Meanwhile, back in the engine 3—Still another approch is straight insuranca. For exmnple, tat San room, toe oilers are busy with Jose, California, the bricklayers' union has arranged group insurance push-ups. The mate is doing turn­ covering prescription drugs. The plan has the cooperation of the local ups on toe hi^i-bar, and the ridpdruggists' association and is insured through a Ufe-insurance company One of the five winners of the SIU's four-year $6,000 schol­ at a cost of $1 perononth per family. The plan has been able to cer­ arship awards, William Besselievre. Jr., son of Seaf^ BiU ate in the black during Its first six mmiths. BesseUevre, has already achieved an enviable record m his Insurance has the advantage of assuring that in severe illnesa fmnUies will get the medicines they need without financial hardship. But first two years at BudmeU-*a member ef toe gymnastles squad unless an insurance plan also enlists local doctors and pharmacists In UnivMsity. at Brooklyn Tech, and wuks out A civil engineering major, every trying to keep down the costs of medicines, it doesnt solve tha priea summer with the Brooklyn problem. In fact, insurance alone may serve to papetuate ht^ prices. Besselievre has been on toe dean's Central YMCA team. 4—Most comprehensive plan is that being developed by a number list every term so far, and is atan*T needn't aay how sur^deed Of New York unions in collaboration with Health Insurance Plan of ing to keep up this top record of and happy I wai when I heard Greater New York. As developed so far. It proposes to set up ntaie disttamtlon. target Is a Bache­ that I was granted the SlU sdholarpharmacy depots to fill subscribers' prescriptions and also to provide lorffisof immediate Science degree, whirii he riiip- This grant has made me feel, Insurance to cover drug costs, and to educate doctors to prescribe hopes to obtain in June, 1962. very ^ud, and I thank you vrondrugs under basic (generic) names at lower cost than under brand Beyond that Us plans are Inde­ dertol peoj^e for making tola names, where possible. finite. He's considering going for sdiolarship possiUe.** 5—Some unions also are exploring the possibility of operating their a master's degree in engineering own pharmacies in their union halls, like the one operated for mem­ before going to work In his field Make Checks bers for many yeato by District 65 of toe Retail, Wholesale Departmeat of specialization. Store Workers in New York. A Staten Iriand resident, young Te 'SiU-A&G' Several readers have asked about toe safety of fjUi^g j^reseriptions BesseUevre attended BroUdya Seafaren mailing in toetos by mrii torou^ the drug plan sponsored for older people bir toe Ameri­ Tedinical High Sdhobl. riding the w money orders to too Union can Association of Retired Persons (Suite 410. DuPont Circle Building, ferry to and from school each to cover dues payments are Wariiington 6, D. C.). Membership in the association costs f2 a year day. BroUdyn tech is one of the urged to be sore to make all of and is open to people over 55. (dty's three specialized hi^ sriiools toem payable to tho SfU-A&G Pharmaceutical experts consulted by this department advise that for top-calibre science students and IRstricL per Is dmnf "stretch" exercises there is no danger in filling Rx's by mail from a reputable firm which traditionally has one of toe best Some Seafaren have went in hanging from an overhead pipe. double-checks them. The problem Is that In as many as 15^20 percent, student bodies and toughest cur- checks and money orders in toe Somehow It doesn't seem likely of Rx's, must be checked by phone with the doctor because they're rleulura requirements any public names of individual Headquar­ that this will get much of a recep­ Illegible, or omit the quahlily of strength wanted er. oven tiw exact hi^ etoool in the country. ters officials. This makes for a When not involved in the in- problmn in bookkeeping which tion on ships. Not only would tho name of the product. Hbwever, this department does not recommend AARP'a health in­ tricncies of engineering atndies, can be avoided if checks are brew object to tiie loss of the surance plan where local Blue Cross plans admit ^ar people and Besselievre likes to work off ^eam made oat to too Union dtaecGy. coffee, but also the loss of toe conversation that goes with it by practicihg- gymnastics. He was provide €uH«: benefits at little or no more cost. • . { -- I Drug Companies Ignore Abuses f— .f *.T> •V Ca/isfhen/cs Beat Coffee, MD Claims > *• r^ •Je Seafarer's Son Headed For Engineer Career ••-Mi • 1 �|:r VagwHgU SEAFARERS Jaly U, IfM LOG News of m--- snr muwD BOATUENTS UNION INLAND BOATMEN'S UNION • SlU ATLANTIC. eULF. LAKES ft INLANDBOATMEN'S UNION OF THE PACIFIC • SlU 55c Wage Boost, Job Security Top List Of Contract Demands By SlU RR Marine Deckhands INLAND WATERS DISTRICT OF NORTH AMERICA Hq Sightseers Negotiation of an improved seniority system which will provide greater job security and steadier employment for more than 800 railroad marine deckhands in the SIU Inland Boatmen's Union is a major objective of current contact talks with seven East Coast rail­ roads. In addition to the job"* ' security demand, the SIU rail­ road deckhands are seeking increased wages and expanded welfare and vacation benefits. Railroads involved are the Penn­ sylvania, NY Central, B & O, New Haven, NY Dock, Bush Ter­ minal and Brooklyn Eastern Dis­ trict Terminal. On the wage issue, the nego­ tiators for the deckhands' group WC Boatmen Key SIU Unit When a ship docks in a West Coast port, the chances are over­ whelming that it will be handled by one of the tugs under contract to the Inlandboatmen's Union of the Pacific, one of the many affil­ iates of the SIU of North America. The IBU has under contract ap­ proximately 50 tug, barge,- ferry and sand and gravel companies up and down the coast from Ketchiliian, Alaska, south to San Diego, California. Its members also man coastwise tugs and barges running between the various Pacific Coast ports. The headquarters of the union which is headed by Capt. John Fox, a vice-president of the SIU of NA, are in Seattle, with regional divi­ sions in Puget Sound; Alaska; Co­ lumbia River (Portland); San Fran­ cisco; San Pedro and San Diego. Working closely with the SIU Pacific District, the IBU has been a key factor in the progress of West Coast maritipie. have presented demands calling be able to retain and add to his for a flat 55-cent hourly increase. pension credits. Assisting the railroad marine In addition, wage increases re­ sulting from the cost-of-living pro­ deckhands in their drive for bet­ vision in the existing agreement ter seniority is the fact that a would be frozen into the new wage system similar to this is already scale. in effect among SIU tugworkefs On the seniority issue, the Un­ on the Great Lakes and was re­ ion is seeking a system that would cently won by SIU boatmen in the protect a deckhand's job with his Gulf and on 'the Misissippi River own railroad, and at the same as well. Other demands submitted by the nme give him first call on any open jobs on the other roads. At SIU railroad deckhands are for present, experienced deckhands four additional holidays per year, from one railroad may be fur- broader vaciltion and sick leave loughed off the job for lack of benefits, the addition of death ben­ work, while another railroaiT may efits for deckhSifds, and a new be hiring outsiders and newcom­ cost-of-living provision. , Grievance Board Set Up ers off the street. The deckhands have already Seniority Now Limited scored in one area, with the failThat is because under the pres­ roads agreeing to form a New ent seniority system, each man York Harj)or Marine Board of Ad­ has seniority on his own railroad justment, consisting of two com­ only. That leaves the railroads pany and two Union representa­ free to hire men who have. not tives. This Board would be em­ previously worked in the industry. powered lo handle all grievances This is done although there usually in the harbor with the Union re­ are men available for these jobs serving the right to refer disputes who are on furlough from one of to the National Adjustment Bpard the other railroads. in Chicago if so desired. The es­ At the same time, such a systeni tablishment of a Harbor Board would keep outsiders from diluting will save the Union thousands of the seniority of the regular deck­ dollars previously spent fn rer hands. , ferring every dispute tO the Chir If the Union is successful in its cago^oard. Handiinr Negotiations negotiations, fach unlicensed deckhand would continue to have Handling the negotiations for his present seniority - on his own the unlicensed deckhands are coroad. He would also have a crack chairmen G. P. McGinty and Wal­ at open jobs on all the other roads. ter Mielnicki. Claude Simmons, In this way, he could continue to vice-president in charge of con­ retain seniority on his own road tracts for the SIU, is assisting in after being temporarily furloughed the talks at the request of the' from his original Job, and would deckhand negotiators. SIU Tug is 4th of July Race Winner in Detroit it":" f.?-. iS:; rv ; Eil Winner of this year's 4th of July tugboat race in the Detroit River was the SiU-affiliated Superior, of the Great Lakes Towing Co. In front, holding trophy, are Business - Agent Max Tobin (in cap) and Grand President Gus Wolf, of Tug WorkersVAssocia­ tion. Others (1-r are. Alex Dolsen, deck hand; Gus Lindquist, engineer; Merl Dickehs, oiler; Bill Grogal> oiler; Floyd Yon, scowman, and Gordon Fucher, engineer. ; At SIU Hq with daughter Kathleen Anne, is tugboat mate James P. Waters. Jim's with New York Docks Railroad. Phi la,T ug PacH Win Pay Gains PHILADELPHIA Three inland water ways companies under contract to the SIU here have been signed to new con«. tracts. The C. G. Willis company, which operates five tugs and a motor cargo vessel on the coast­ wise run, signed a two-year agree­ ment retroactive to January 1 call­ ing for wage increases, improved travel allowances and a schedula of room and board benefits when men are detained ashore outside their home port. Approximately 70 men are covered by the agreement. Joins Welfare Plan On thg Chester Ferries, deck­ hands won a 13 cents-an-hour pack­ age effective January 1 and July 1. The company agreed to participate in the SIU deep sea Welfare Plan, effective July 1, with a .consider­ able increase in per-man Welfare Plan contributiohs accordingly. Ferry captains, formerly outside the contract, were. brought under the agreement; The Wilson Line, which operates excursion vessefs in Boston, New York and Baltimore, agreed to ,a three year contract as of l^rch 1, 1960. The agreement provides for $20 per month increases each year of the contract, making $60 a month in all. The same agreement was reached with Wilson Line of Washington, DC, effective July 16, 1960. Seniority, Pay Gains Won By Gulf Boatmen • i 7^: •V -.11 J fl - V 4 1 VJ NEW' ORLEANS—By an overwhelming majority, some 300 SIU boatmen in the Gulf area have approved a new threeyear contract calling for one of the finest job security pro­ grams in the harbor industry. The neyr contract also calls than 1,000 barges involved in the for wage increases of $20 per transport of general cargo, start month, fringe benefits amounting to an additional $20 per month, and three additional paid holidays not previously included. JoW Security^^ System The highlight of the agreement was the successful negotiation of job security clause, which in­ cludes a seniority system patterned after that of the SIU deep sba agreements. As a result, boatmen with long service in the Industry will get preference oh hiring anh be protected against" the inroads of newcomers and outsiders. An hppeals board of four SIU and four management members will admin­ ister the system. The new agreement covers the employees of Dixie Carriers, GulfCanal Lines and Qoyle Lines, op­ erators of more than 25 tugs and pushboats in Uie waters- of Ala­ bama, Texas, Louisiana, and Florida, as well as upstream on the Mississippi arid Ohio Rivers as far north as Pittsburgh and Chicago. Base wages for deckhahds oh these'boats, which h(i|idle more at $17.78 per day for deckhands. Houston Firm Signs Previously the SIU had signed a new agreement for the G&H Towing Company of Houston in which that company's boatmen bad been, brought under the protec­ tion of the deep sea Welfare Plan as well as a job seicurity program on the deCpf 8e.a pattern. The G&H men also got a fiye pei^cent acrosstbp-hn»rd wage increase; The aotivities of the various inland boatmen, railroad marine tugs, deep sea tugs and harbor craft under the SIU banner are dealt with here. The SIU fam­ ily includes various groups of .boatmen throughout the nation —on the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts, on the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers, the Great Lakes and^ in Pacific Coast ports. These craft operate in support of deep sea shipping and supplemeht such shipping Jn con­ fined waters, and their activitin concern all seafaring trades. '-(1 i '•"il h- r-^l M �'.^"y ftfr tf. 1N« SEAFARERS lr>^ r<' L«I4 t* l-'v •. ! 111 Pac« Nina LOG Neivs of Sro INLAND BOATMEN'S UNION 11 :§• fi'. I' t In I t fcY.- '*•! r> » • Discussing pact on tug Carolyn are (top 1. to r.) Wm. Loesch, John Ward, Medford Hall, Captain Brown and Union rep Ray Herold. Father-son team of skippers Adam Krause Sr. and Jr. pose on tug Kings Point (below). f' * Baitintore Harbor i /\ . '>)«' "1/ •f i •ij' ft.' One of the nation's largest and most active ports, Baltimore do* pends upon SlU men on harbor and inland waterways craft in the port to hand e its harbor traffic. SlU Boatmen crew tugs of the five major tug fleets servicing Baltimore and the Chesapeake Bay area. They berth an Siitlmated 500 ships of all nations every month in addition to assisting vessels which run aground and hauling barges and scows. Pictured hero are a few of the port's boatmen on and off their boats. t >, / ' i •» i:> «-i» Another father-son team, Melvin and John llton, have 68 years' time between them. Skipper James Bromweli of tug Kings Point Cr^members of the Port Welcome wave from bow of excursion vessel. They are a. to r.) W. T. Hunton, C. Jason, I. Levin. "Sam", C. W. Phillips. •^1 Presiding at meeting are (1. to r.) Ted Nohler, :-John Blanchfield. John Hamilton.- Liberian tanker Triton needed a tug off Wagner's Point. Out-went the SlU-manned Curtis Bay tug J. P. Pulliam to push the big fellow around. Triton was formed registered under American flag. �-jy Y".- JUy M. IMt SEAFARERS taC News of SIU GREAT LAKES UNION ,I •i -d>j f] ( OP THE SIU ATLANTIC, 6ULP. LAKES AND IN L A ND WATER S D I S TR I C T V, V,' Spotlight On. • • f'J Seafarer Earl Brewer SIU member Earl Brewer is a sailor wise eaa pr<«dly tay he has •ailed on some of the Qneeas of the Great Lakes, the now atioet D&C boats. >• As he remembers, the Detroit afrd come off watch and had 'finished Cleveland Navigation Company was breakfast when a tremendous jar divided into divisions with one line shook the boat The bow of the City of Cleve­ running from Detroit to Cleveland, another from Detroit to BufiFalo, land HI had been rammed through and an upshore division that sailed by the Norwegian freighter Havenjell. One passenger was killed to Mackinac Island. instantly and four others died later Earl recalls that in the early in a hospital. One of the passen^ days of the D&C you had to go gers was flung overboard and had through an employment agent if to -be dug out of the debris. Earl you wanted a job. This was be­ recounts that it was short fore the SIU was even in exist­ of a miracle that onenothing of the boats ence. The employment agent kept sink or that more people a book of rules and if yon had too didn't weren't hurt many marks Sad Mcunent against your One of the saddest moments of name you his life was when the last of the couldn't get a D&C boats was destroyed. The job. Seamen boats were old and the cost of were fired for making them seaworthy was pro­ breacking such hibitive—so they were burned. rules as no pro­ For the past' three sailing sea­ fane language sons Earl Brewer has been a aboard ship, no wheelsman for .one of the Bob-Lo smoking on duty, excursion boats, the Columbia. no card playing Brewer or having a reputation of "fre­ quenting saloons where liquor is •old." 4,*'i •' - I f' (I The battered City of Cleveland IH Is shown here after being ranuned in the fog by the Norwegian freighter Ravenjell at Harbor Beach Light near Port Sanilac on June 26, 1950. Seafarer Earl Brewer aboard the D&C boat when the collision occurr^ Five, persons were killed and scores injured in this tragic Great Lakes accident. Voting In Favor Of SIU Pays Oft In Job Security For Lakes Crews In 1920 Earl sailed on his first D&C boat, the Eastern, as a watch­ man. The Eastern carried passen­ gers, mail and freight to and from Cleveland. It was then the D&C was jokingly referred to as the Great Lakes seamen who ¥oted for the SIU in recent representation elections are learning that their votes bun frog fleet. Each D&C boat had a picture of a huge bull frog are paying off fm* them, esq^edaily in terms of solid and concrete job protection through the SIU Job Secu­ painted on the side of the bow. rity l^ogram. Inside the Eastern there was a Steinbrenner seamen voted Union and other basic features In Support SIU Fight big plaster-of-paris bull frog that The unlicensed seamen The 120 for the SIU, 7 for "nonunion" all contracts. The interim agree­ always stood a different way than of Steinbrenner (Kinsman and 5 for the Lake Sailors Union ment also provides for negotiations On Ohio lipbioss S which the boat was sailing. Because (Ind.). Pioneer voted 213 for the to take place on the matter oi of this the bull frog was always Transit Company), for in­ SIU and 94 for "no union," and working rules. AH ot these were OLiEV ET<ANu — SIU ddoriding backwards. stance, are now under the full Buckeye voted 77 for the SIU and promised during the t^ahizing gates and 1,883 other delegates This was also the time when all protection of the SIlTs job se­ 18 for "no union." eampidgn. representing 770 locals 69 the gasoline was drained out of the curity program and Great Tfae^ext step. In the announced The sigBin^ of the job'security intematisnsl unions in the state passengers' cars because <d.the fire Lakes welfare plan as a result plan of the SIU, is a meeting with program and the welfare plan of Ohio have unanimously adopted hazard. , When the boat got to. of a contract signed last representative crewmembers of the the Steinbrenner Company was a Seafarers International Union Cleveland the owners were given The contract, follow­ Steinbrome^ fleet to discuss work­ hailed by Tanner as "an outstand­ res<flution calling for unemploy' back only two gallons of their gas. month. ing a series of negotiating sessions, ing rules and contract matters af­ ing example of responsible collec­ ment eonqimisstion for Ohio sea­ Earl chuckles when he tells about was signed by company vice-presi­ fecting life and work aboard ship. tive bargaining SUd good faith by men duriiig the Winter months. the many passengers who pushed., George Steinbrenner and SIU The same procedure will be fol­ both the company and the Union." The action was taken at the second their cars aboard the boat so they dent This latest development in the biennial convention of the AFLafter the signing of the con­ could get the two gallons of gas director of organization A1 Tanner. lowed tract fw the Buckeye and Pioneer SIU's riecfion record follows the dO. Negotiations are also nearing free when they got to Cleveland. fleets. SIU's sCasbn-ehding victory last Under file j^esent Ohio law, seacompletion on contracts for the Another D&C hoat that Earl In the contract dgnlng, the December wl^n the 12-boat Reiss men employed by Ohio companies •pent much of his sailing time on Buckeye and Pioneer seamen of Steinbrenner Company agreed to fleet voted for the SIU. Union are.barred ftnr collecting unemploy­ was the Western States. It had a the Hutchinson Company. the .fall provisions of the job se­ negotiators completed a working ment iwy for time laid off from the Voted For SIU regular one-week cruise taking pas­ curity pro'gram, the welfare plan rules Sro contract for' the Reiss fourth Sunday in December to the sengers from Detroit to Mackinac Last month the unlicensed sea­ and an. Interim agreement which seammi 'on May 10, and this was fourth Sunday in March. The SIU's Island. From there it went to men of Steinbrenner, Buckeye and provides- for recognition of the ratified by aR Reiss crews. proposal would bring the law into Harbor Springs and then back to Pioneer voted by overwhelming line with that of other states, such Mackinac Island to pick up the margins for SIU representation. as Michigan, where seamen are people. The Western States com­ eligible' for benefits the year pleted its cruise by going to Mid­ around. The SIU Great Lakes Union land, Ontario, and back to Detroit, is a union of, by and for Great bi Ship Crash Lakes seamen which has made SIU Greof Lakes As for thrills. Earl has had tremendous progress in advaneplenty of them on the D&C boats. ing the security of SIU men Union Halls He was aboard the City of Cleve­ sailing under Its banner. One HBADQUABTSBS STEWARD TOTAL DECK ENGINE PORT land III when it was hit by a for­ of its greatest aceompUshments isms W. UOerton, Biver Rous* 18, Wch. Vinewood 3.4741 eign freighter. The boat was on is the seniority and job secnrity Alpena 7 23 10 Fred J. Faxnen, Secretary-Treaiuicr Stanley F. Thompson. Asst. Sec.-Treas. a run in Lake Michigan picking system which gives Lakes men 40 7 17 16 AtPENA...... 137 River St. up Chamber of Conunerce officials protection under the seasonal Buffalo Horman JoUcoew, Asent. -ISmwood 4-3618 when it ran into heavy fog. The shipping set-np. Once confined Chicago 28 1 11 16 BUFFALO, NY. 98 N. Pearl St. radar broke down and the boat to Inland waters, activities of Address mall to: 890 Main St. GRant 3728 •ailed in circles before the fog SIU men on the Lakes now have Cleveland 71 11 39 21 CHICAGO 0383 Ewlnf Ave. lifted. This was only the prelude greater sfgnifkance with the South .CUeaxoi lU. 187 50 83 54 to the trouble the boat was to opening of the Seaway and its Detroit . SAglnaw 14)733 encounter. . CLEVEZ.AND... ^. .1«0 W. use by fanndreds. at deep sea Dulutb , 76 13 38 25 Stanley Wares, Amat HAin Again at Harbor Beach Light ships. The Lakes have become DVI.CTH .......aa W. and St. near Port Sanilac they ran into America's fourth seacoast and Frankfcnrt 51 19 17 15 Matt AnttOa. AssBt....ltAndol8h 3^10 dense fog. The City of Cleveland's developments there are of in­ FBANKFOar. Mich........ am Bbin St. 31 6 9 16 fog horn was soun^ng three blasts creasing interest to all men in Toledo Address HaU to: ^O. Box 387 Glen Bcaucoehr Afent mdln 7-2441 per minute when Earl said he the SIU family of onions. 114 524 175 ' 235 TOTAL TOLBDO ..130 Summli St. heard a long whistle. He had just CHerry 8-3431 Great Lakes Shipping June 3^-Jiily 1,1960 • < (• 4' A- �laiy M. UM SEAFARERS Par* EJevMi LOG News of SIU GREAT LAKES UNION •i'l -M •fti On The Co With Bob-Lo 'i; John Biggerstaff is lookout on SS Columbia. Behind him (1-r) are Captain L. Beattie, wheelsman Paul Boldon and first mate Six Nietzler. 1} i'. - ir' .r" e, k'- ^• Columbia's steward gang includes (1-r) steward Barney Gogolewski, dishwasher Irving Shultz, waiter Henry Trainor,^nd cook Henry Howard, waiter Wayne Hardon. What does it take to' be a sailor on the SlU-contracted Bob-Lo boats? Well, it takes a special kind of seaman — one who can cope with hundreds of screaming xind shoving pas­ sengers each day, and still smile. It takes much more than just being a good sailorit takes a knack for understanding people. And espe­ cially during the school children cruises it takes a little child psychology. You have to know when to be stern and when to be gentle. When the kids start throwing chairs overboard — then is the time to be stern. But when two small chil­ dren are lost and holding each others' hands for dear life — then is the time to be gentle. On the daily pleasure cruises the SS Columbia and SS St. Claire (Browning) take to Bob-Lo Island, it takes a real seaman. He's just as salty as his brothers on the Lakes freighters — yet he's something extra. He's a mother, father, policeman and friend to the thousands of people who ride his boats each season. He's a meticulous housekeeper making sure his boat is always clean. He's a- master wheelsman navigating the narrow channel and docking his boot twice every two hours. He's everything o good SIU seaman should be—and a little more. He's Captain Bob-Lo to every kid aboard. .;i! !' �Wt» Twclvs SEAFARERS Mr LO& MM MEDICAL and SAFETY i'\ New Safety Poster Contest Launched By Joe Algina Director, Seafarers Safety Departmet M' ti-' • w !v, Ursre EarfY Health Exam Renewal The Medical Department of the Seafarers Welfare Plan urges Seafarers whose clinic cards are expiring to get them renewed fat advance and not wait until the last minute. This is particularly true fat cases where a man has just paid' off a ship and expects to be ashore awhile. If the examination at the SIU clfaiic is taken imme­ diately, then if there is any need for medical treatment it can be obtained through PHS without having to delay ship­ ping out. It is not necessary to wait until the year is up to ge^ the clinic card renewed at the SIU health centers. This can be done as much as two months in advance of the expiration date. Safety aboard ship, the same as anywhere else, is a matter «f training and experience. By means of education and consant repetition, everyone develops that ectra little bit of caution necessary to get any job-* done safely. Training helps over­ ment Safety. Seafarers hi any de­ come some of the many built-in partment can submit as many origi­ hazards on a ship at sea by provid­ nal entries as they want on any ing the reminder that there's al­ subject. Thus, a cook or oiler may ways a safe way and an unsafe have a prize-winning idea on how way to do the job. an AB can do a particular job It's for this reason, plus the lack safely, or vice versa. of enough suitable poster material "general" category will take for shipboard safety training, that in The those for safe living and the Safety Department has just working items on the ships that cover launched its own Safety Poster all such as how to Contest. All SIU men can com­ movedepartments, up and down. ladders, proper pete for the series of prizes of­ lifting of heavy objects or how to fered and have a chance to design safely board or leave the vessel via the safety reminders they think the gangway or pilot ladder. Such are needed aboard ship. reminders displayed in prominent Open to any Seafarer eligible locations can help make every ves­ for. SIU Welfare Plan benefits, sel a safe "no-accident" ship for the contest covers four separate the benefit of all Seafarers. subjects: (I) General Shipboard Safety, (2) Deck Department In order to make full participaDiscussions are now underway Safety (3) Engine Department lion possible for all those wishing Safety and (4) Steward Depart- to enter, the final date for all en­ between the Safety Department tries will be December 31, 1960. of the SIU Welfare Plan and of­ A fully-equipped Polaroid flash ficials of the Atomic Energy Com­ Camera will be given as the contest mission on necessary precautions grand prize for the best poster. In aboard ship for handling radioac­ addition, four transistor radios will tive materials in the event of leak­ be awarded as first prizes and'four age, breakage or accidents o£ any subject groups. There will be only kind. one prize given to any one indi­ The July Issue ot the "Safety vidual, however. Line," publication of the Safety An entries sltoiiU be submitted Department, noted one such meet­ Medical examinations of SIU wMh a return address to: Safety ing held in Washington with of­ members and their dependents at Department, Seafarers Welfare ficials of the AEC's License Safety all clinics operated by the Medi­ Plan, 11 Broadway, New York 4, Branch and indicated others WQuId cal Department of the Seafarers New York, before January 1, 1961. follow. One of the major problems Welfare plan totaled 27,093 as of There's no limit oh the size or concerns the failure of existing June of this year. number of entries that can be en­ regulations to clearly specify what A total of 24,099 seamen re­ tered, and any material suitable to do whea accidents* occur fat or ceived medical examinations in for postCT reproduction In black about radioactive materials carried the New York, Baltimore, New Or­ and white or color can be used. as c«-go aboard ships at sea. leans, Mobile and Houston clinics, No one has to be a Rembrandt Questions of necessary emerg­ and 2,998 women and children to enter, so everyone is urged to ency procedures, special training dependents of seamra were given try his hand on a poster in peqcil, and detective devkes that may be meilical examinations in those ink, crayon, watercolor or what­ needed aboard such vessels are to ports since the beginning of the ever dse is available. Safety really be explored at future meetings program. IS everybo^'g job! with AEC • personneL - Study Safe Handling Of Atom Cargo SIU Clinics Check Up On 27,000 Preventive Work Vital For Health By Joseph P. Logiie, MD Mediedl Dirccter, Seafarers Weltoe Flan The importance of preventive medicine as practiced by the SIU Welfare Plan's Medical Department and other group plans can never be overstated. Time and time again^ the value of the Health Center pro-"^ gram hss been amply demon­ portant function in checkmating a strated for Seafarers, their fam­ problem befmre it could no longer be controlled. ilies sitd the industry. Proper The Health Centers, of course, diagnosis and methods for detect­ do not serve only Seafarers. Their ing disease and its potential In the purpose, under the Welfare Plan, early stages can produce dividends is to protect each man's depend­ for aU. ents the same as the breadwinner b Mo fleld ef tabcreekMis himself through periodic examfaiap alone, as far as seamen are con­ tions and check-ups. Where ad­ cerned, the disease appears to vanced or incipient conditions are have been drastically checked and detected, SIU wives and children controlled by early detection and are advised to seek treatment as proper treatment thereafter at the promptly as necessaty through appropriate medical facilities. This their own doctors or other treat­ is a . significant accomplishment, ment facilities available. The main and one from which *we can all object of the dependents' program, as in all forms of preventive medi­ take hope for the future. b still another area where a cine, is to provide the means serious medical problem exists, through-which illness or disability the SIU Health Center In New of any kind can be detected in its York has found that one out of early stages. A Tfa» to the Health Center or every six seamen examined are overweight 15 percent or more to any doetwr idiould be a matter above what is considered their nor­ of annual routine. Anyone who mal weight Proper diet and em­ waits until a disability sets In be­ phasis en different types of food fore visiting the doctor i« sub­ and physical activity should re­ jecting himself to serious abuse. duce this proportion within a mat­ The human body is a magnifleent ter of time. Excess weight can be machine but, like any man-made very serious when coupled with instrument, it requires proper other medical eonditiona such as maintenance, rest and care. Thoso a heart deficiency of any kind. For who abuse it by Improper or in­ this reason, overweight conditions adequate care are playing a dangei^ are checked carefully during our ous game In which they are the biggest losers. examinations. StaOmiy, regriar tmSaaSmaUtm have detected a one out of six in­ cidence of (defective vision .among I the seamen examined at the Cen­ ters. Th«e defects, with varying degrees oi seriousness, have been checked, reduced or eliminated through proper eye cafe and the Welfare Plan's free eye^ass pro­ gram for Seafarers. Here again preventive medicine served an im­ Xdl it t« tlie liog! Cover Up Those Toes! J Tliere ore enough hcaards woritmg oround o ship in terms of foiling objects—boxesi fools, whot-hove-you—to mob the prudent Seoforer take precoutions such os weoring heovy work shoes ond work gloves. Light­ weight or open-toed shoes ore fine for gofng oshore, or o day at the beach, but they ore o kozord on boord ship. Even wolking around decks is dongerous with this kind of footgeor. Keep the toes covered and yam ovotd o poinfiil ond disobling Occident. - ' 1 An SIU Ship Is A Safe Ship �M. 1M» BEAFARERM LOG SOCIAL SECURITY • FOOD and SHIP SANITATION Insicte Track On Food Plan Food Plan Goals Produce Results •J By Cliff Wilson Technical Directcnr, Pl^ of the A&G Contract Companies Operations under the Plan of the Atlantic and Gulf Con­ tract Companies since its inception about 13 months ago' in­ dicates great strides in upgrading the generally good feeding on SlU-contracted Vessels.^ —— Better known as tha Food ventilation hazards, understoring Plan or, simply, PAG, this of some items and overstoring of Members of the remk-and^ile Stewords Coirunittee elected at the lost SlU headquarters membership meeting get a few pointers on the A&G Companies' Food and Sanitation Plan from Cliff Wilson (right). Seafarers on committee (l-r) are Nicolas Nomikos, Waiter Marcus, Enrique R. Rosodo, Rich­ ard H. Simpson and Walter C. Patterson, (chairman). They are recommending proposals on revising steward department upgrading, certification and training procedures for membership adoption. program Is dedicated to two ba­ sic objectives: (1) Improving feed­ ing; (2) Eliminating waste. Each of these items is strongly linked with the other; success in one area means success in both. Good Feeding Important Good feeding is of prime impor­ tance to every sailw because tas­ tily prepared, balanced meals us­ ually mean a contented crew at sea where mealtime is one of the few available diversions. "Is she a good feeder?" is often the first question asked by a new crewman hoarding a ship because the experi­ enced band can take almost any­ thing from the seas and elements when he has a good meal under his belt In seeking better feeding and eliminating waste, PAG consul­ tants visit an average' of 120-130 SlU-contracted ships while they're in port each month. They try to assist the stewards and their de­ partments in reducing sanitary and Battle Due On Mekiical Care For Aged By Joseph Vol^n, Director, Seafarers Department of Sociay Securty Next month will formally mark the 25th anniversary of Social Security in the United States. This Federal program was signed into law on August 14, 1935 and has been changed and broadened many times since then. A few days from now, when Congress reconvenes following the national political party conventions, Social Security will again he the focal point for a major legislative hattle.t could accept what would then surance to Insure the over-65 The debate this time will be dtizens. Medical ears for the aged has amount to charity. Some states, group. But where the cost of pri­ over a medical care program been debated back and forth since more subject to pressure by local vate insurance is low, the benefits for the aged. Many of the same elements that fought unsuccess­ fully against the welfare legisla­ tion of the leSO'i will again be arrayed against proposals to link health care for the aged to-the fiocial Security System. Labor Determined The labor movement and other forces in Congress and throughout the nation are equally determined. No one wants to see the same, haphazard system as now exists in BO different states on Unemploy­ ment Compensation applied to what should be a uniform federal medical care prdgram for older Prove Eiigiliiiity For Hospital S N L Seafarers being admitted to a Public Health hospital are urged to carry »hb them Hieir Union book plus proof of eiigibility for SlU benefits; namely, a record that they have at least 80 days seatime during the previous year and at least one day during the previous six months. Failure to have the proper credentials will cause a delay in payments to the Sea­ farer. If the Seafarer Is admitted to a hospital which is not a PHS Institution, he should contact the Union immediately. The Union will arrange with the USPHS for a transfer to a Pub­ lic Health hospital in his vicin­ ity. The PHS will not pick up the hospital tab for private hospital care, unless It is noti-' fled in advance. j,-. 1957. Since 1960 Is as presidentialelection year and the issue is a popular one, some type of pro­ gram is expected to become law this year. However, the question of emphasis is important. The pro­ gram should be built on the prov­ en, sound principle of social in­ surance, under which a worker by regular pasmients based on earn­ ings during bis working years— through contributions to the Social Security System — Insures his health benefits when he retires. Opponents favor the so-called "voluntary" approach through Fed­ eral grants to the states and ad­ ministered by the states with vari­ ous strings attached. One of these gimmicks would require applicants to take a pauper's oath so tfaqr opposition Interests, might never get around to passing appropriate legislation. The oldtimers needing medical care would just have to sit around and wait. Fortunately for SIU men, those who are ret^d on the disabilitypension benefit receive the contlnused protection of the family hos­ pital^ and surgical benefits under the Seafarers Welfare Plan. Other unions have similar provisions for their retired members. But the overwhelming majority of retired Americans have no such protection other than what they might be able to afford to buy, If they can get it in the Insurance market. While costs of medical care sky­ rocket, some have also suggested using private, commercial health in- are lower. Where benefits are ade­ quate. the cost is too high for peo­ ple of limited retirement incomes. Besides, as the SlU and^ther un­ ions right in New York have re­ ported, group medical insurance costs have become so high that even many workers, for whom these plans were designed, no longer can afford them. The answer to the problems of the aged right now Is a system of Federal insurance via Social Se­ curity where those who will ulti­ mately derive the benefits pay their own way. others so that spoilage is mini­ mized. Food beefs by the crew and beefs in Hie galley are checked out to see what can be done to make the next trip a smooth one for all concerned. Generally, these are the major findings, though they do not apply to any or all ships across the board: Sanitation Stressed Messhalls and pantries are us­ ually in good order and are kept painted and sanitary. Galley con­ ditions are generally good, but some need painting, a minor range repair or adjustment of galley blowers or ventilation systems. The problem of keeping unauthor­ ized people out of the galley is a constant one harassing the stew­ ard department. A frequent source of spoilage, reflected in high food poundage consumption, is higher than nor­ mal temperatures in refrigerated spaces, which aids deterioration. Sometimes voyage stores are brought aboard before these boxes are repaired and rapidly become spoiled in the same manner as be­ fore. Checking Waste Waste • is evident aboard ships where the companies still use No. 10 tins of table fruits and vege­ tables instead of smaller sizes. The same exists in the use of 100pound bags of rice, beans and dry peas which are not only difficult to heft around but also inevitably mean waste because of their bulk. In addition, some 'dry storerooms have little or no ventilation. Th« companies have been urged to in­ stall a small electric fan in these rooms since hot, humid, moist and still air will assist in'the hatching or multiplication of weevils. Proper control of keys, and adequate lock­ ing devices are also vital in these storerooms. Despite these isolated problems on SIU vessels, cooperation with the PAG by the companies and the shipboard personnel plus the more receptive attltrlde Is producing results. More Operators Improve Shipboard Steak Quality More and mor« Seafarers are enjoying better-grade steaks these days as a result of the A&G Food Plan's feeding im­ provement program. Twenty-three more siu--^ Aggregates, DeBardeleben, contracted operators have tion Elam, Epiphany, Fenway, Globe. agreed to store "good" grade Isthmian, Lion, Marine Carriers, In the hospital? Cfill Sni HoU immeeliafelyl .i i: . . , •..-.V - . steak meats Instead of the "c«nmerical" grade previously carried. Beet graded "good" by the US De­ partment of Agriculture is far supwior to the "commercial" grade product. The 23 latest companies are In addition to 24 others announced earlier as participants in the steak upgrading program. A listing of the ^-crnpanies now storing "good" grade beef includes the following: Albatross, Alcoa, Atlantic, Bloomfield, Bull Line, Calmar, Colonial, Consolidated Mariners. Construc­ «• Marine Tankers, Metro Petroleum, Mississippi, National Transporta­ tion, New England Industries. Also, Oceanic Petroleum, Olym­ pic, Ore, Overseas Oil, Pan Ameri­ can, Penn Marine, Penn Naviga­ tion, Penn Tankers, Penntrans, Petrol Shipping, Ponce, Robin Line, Rye Marine, Sea-Land, Seatrain, Sea Transport, Tankers and •Tramps, Texas City Refining, Transeastern, Transocean Petro­ leum, Tramp Shipping, US Tankers, Valentine Chemical, Victory Car­ riers and Waterroan, •, , , 1 • '•;-J. ... 4 • I' �r^-' • ••[': Fat* FoartecB SEAFARERS ^.••.; . , . ;':V„.'"'.; -y,^^"".' ;•• H'"- '., :, .'i';',." L'. . • r,' ^•ly LOG Runaways' Quick Switches Seek To Evade Unions 's .-' ' IHt ' Question: What are the most unusual loads you've eaten aboard ship? What are your favorites? Runaway shipowners are continuing their complicated maneuvers-to avoid the possibil­ Joseph Savoca, bosun: Well, we Glenn Lawson, AB: I found that ity of their crews being organized by the International Maritime Workers Union. The got fried oysters and shrimp cock­ the variety of fresh fruits, vege­ tables, fresh Oys­ tail quite fre­ latest sampling of transfer devices shows the following complex switches by the Niarchos ters and other quently on Delta interests: fresh items Line ships. And A T-2 tanker, the World Treaty, was previously under the Liberian flag, owned by a Liberian cor­ poration which was, in turn, con­ trolled by US citizens. Technical­ ly then, the vessel would be sub­ ject to IMWU organizing activi­ ties. The ship was switched to an­ other Liberian corporation, this one allegedly alien-controlled, and then transferred to the Greek flag —all with the approval of the Mar­ itime Administration. The new allegedly alien-controlled owners of the World Treaty, the Achilles Shipping Company, and a second company in the Niar­ chos stable, the Statel Cia de yap- ores, owners of record of the tank­ er World Toil, are making an agreement with the-Maritime Ad­ ministration to be bound by the terms of the US foreign transfer policy. The Panamanian corporation, als'b allegedly alien-owned, has agreed that its ship, the World Toil, will be under the "contract­ ual control" of thC" United States. Actually, the principal stock­ holder of record of both ships and companies is Niarchos. Obviously, the motive here is to evade union organizing by switch­ ing a citizen-owned ship to an alien corporation and the Greek flag, while at the same time, plac­ ing another alien-owned ship un­ der US "effective control." International maritime union policy, as agreed to under the In­ ternational Transportworkers" Fed­ eration, is that unions from the countries exercising ownership or control over a vessel have the right to organize the vessel, no matter where she is registered—hence the complicated switches of ownership. The Maritime Administration can then argue it is retaining "ef­ fective control" over a specific number of ships while letting others go to Greek registry as a haven from unlops. President's Pre-Balloting Report (The following is the text of the president's pre-halloting report as submitted to mem­ bership meetings of July in all STU constitutional ports!) Your President, also recommends, pursuant to Under the Constitution of our Union, the Seafarers International Union of North Article- X, Section 1 (E), and Article XIII, Section America—Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland 4 (E) of the Union's Constitution,'the depository to Waters District, Article X, Section 1 (E), the Presi­ dent shall submit a pre-balloting report at the regular meeting in July of every election year. The Constitution of our Union also calls for seven (7) constitutional ports of the Union, which are: New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Mobile, New Orleans, Houston and Detroit. As your President, in consultation along with the Executive Board of the Union, a careful ap­ praisal has been made as to what -we feel will be the needs of the organization in all the constitu­ tional ports, including the Port of New York and Headquarters, for the coming term of office of the officers and other elected representatives of our Union. Since the Constitution provides for seven (7) constitutional ports, it was felt that it was ad­ visable to place on the ballot the elective jobs of those ports. Where necessary, the personnel for other thatn the constitutional ports may be assigned as needed from those constitutional ports, where pos­ sible. As the membership is aware, it is necessary for the Union to keep abreast of the changes in the shifting of the job requirements of the com­ panies with whom we have contracts, as well as in being prepared to meet the opportunities for expansion through the means of organizing. This will enable the Union to maintain maximum serv­ ices to the membership, and to meet the needs of the organization resulting from the changing char­ acter of the industry. As a result of the foregoing, it is the recom­ mendation of your President, in this, the preballoting report, required under Article X, Section 1 (E) of our Constitution, that the following offices be placed on the next referendum ballot of theUnion for the election of the officers and other elected representatives of the Seafarers Interna­ tional Union of North America—Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District: Headquarters I' s - - Ir' 1 - J 1 1 1 1 1 3 Ifrs" iP, - President Executive Vice-President Secretary-Treasurer Vicg-President in Charge of Contracts and Contract Enforcement Vice-President in. Charge, of the Atlantic Coast Vice-President in Charge of the Gulf Coast Vice-President in Charge of the Lakes and Inland Waters Headquarters Representatives New York 1 Agent 4 Joint Patrolmen Philadelphia 1 Agent 4 Joint Patrolmen 1 Agent 2 Joint Patfolmen ii>v- Mobile 1 Agent 10 Joint Patrolmen Baltimoro 1 Agent 4 Joint -Patrolmen New Orleans Houston 1 Agent 2 Joint Patrolmen Detroit 2-Agent which the Polls Committees shall deliver, or mail, be certified or registered mail, the ballots after the close of each day's voting in the coming Union election, be as follows: Mr. Harold Bach, Executive Vice-President Commercial Bank of North America 1400 Broadway New York City, New York' It will be the function of the depository to re­ ceive all the envelopes delivered, or mailed in, as aforesaid, to safeguard them properly in the bank, and to surrender them only to the duly authorized Union tallying committee, in ^accordance with Article XIII, Section 5 (D) of our Union Constitu­ tion, on or about the first business day in January, 1961. Proof of authorization shall be a certification by the Vice-President in Charge of the Minutes, Claude Simmons. The Union tallying committee shall be authorized to sign a receipt -for the said envelopes. The depository shall be requested to certify that all the envelopes received by the de­ pository have been properly safeguarded, have been surrendered only to the said tallying com­ mittee, and that no one, other than appropriate bank personnel, have had access to them. The polls committee is especially urged to in­ sure that, whether delivered or mailed, the en­ velopes are properly addressed, properly stamped if mailed, and certified as per the Constitution. It is the further recommendation of your Presi­ dent that, in addition to the regular constitutional requirements, each candidate for office be re­ quested to furnish a regulation passport picture of recent taking as wejl as a statement of not more than one hundred (100) words, giving a brief sum­ mary of his Union record and activities, such pic­ ture and statement to be run in the Seafarers Log just prior to the commencement of voting. This is to be done in accordance with previous mem­ bership action to familiarize the membership with the names, faces, and records of all candidates for office. As provided for in Article XIII, Section 1, nom­ inations open on July 15, 1960 and close August 15, 1960. All documents required for eligibility of candidates for Union office must reach Head­ quarters no earlier than July 15th, 1960 and no later than August 15, 1960. . Your President wishes to point out that this preballoting report provides for one of the largest number of elective posts to be placed on the ballot since the inception of the Unioq, It is strongly recommended that the maximum number of quali­ fied members, who feel they can be of assistance to the Union in an official capacity, should submit their credentials. In this connection, the member­ ship is reminded that the Secretary-Treasurer, A1 Kerr, is available to assist them in properly filing their credentials for nomination to Union Office, if they desire such assistance. Fraternally siibmitted, ...4 Paul Hall, President . some Waterman vessels I've been on served Eskimo pie —^ a frozen dessert which is quickly heated and then covered with a chocolate topping. Best I've ever had. Again, certain other Waterman ships used to serve pizza to the crew. I think this goes over pretty big, too. t $ 4 Stanley Rowe, AB: I like to sam­ ple foreign fruits from foreign lands — such as mangoes, pome­ granates and avacodos. They're tasty and unusu­ al. I was once on a ship in Aus' tralia and - they brought a huge crayfish aboard and served it for dinner. Very good—and just like lobster. You might say that when I'm hungry, there isn't anything I dislike. Food on these ships is very good too, I might add. served on the Seastar appealed to me greatly. And thefe was a baker on board who used genu­ ine flavoring whenever possi­ ble. This resulted in mote appeal­ ing desserts. I'd also like to men­ tion that some of the ships I've been.on served their vegetables in separate dishes—rather than mak­ ing a stew of the main course on the same plate. » » ^ Dave Van flom, wiper: My fa­ vorite food is ice cream. Also like m i li u t e steak with my eggs for breakfast. Wo get beef steak on here regularly, but I don't care too much for it because I just am not a steakloving sailor.; So you might say I am easy to please as far as food Is concerned, and I can't complain about the quality or quantity I have eaten on any ship, for that matter. . Dwight Skelton, DM: My favor­ ites are: steak (medium), hot rolls, fi-esh piq, fresh iti milk and fresh Harry Banm, OS: I guess the fruits. Speaking mos,t unusual dish served to me of fresh fruits, was pizza. But they never seem I'm a spareribs to last the whole and sauerkraut trip and conse­ man myself and quently, I' miss like the way the 'em a lot when cook aboard this the supply is ex­ ship (De Soto) hausted. I think prepares them. I the food on these SIU ships is out remember getting of this world—especially compared shrimp gumbo on to that I had to exist on during the another Waterpast two years, when I was in the- man ship and lobster tails on a Army. Robin vessel. Seafarer's Son Tops In Physical Fitness When It conies to physical achievement, Seafarer Julio Evans' 17-year-oId son, 'Angel Luis Evans, doesn't have to take a back seat to anybody. In his junior year at Eli Whitney Vocational High 4——' School', . you^ng Evans ran cai fitness contest, scoring 173 away With the school's physi- points out of a possible 200 in a series of physical exams devised by the US Marine Corps. His near­ est competitor got 115 points. The test is comparable in some respects to an Olympic decathlon competition, calling for all-around excellence in a variety of skills. Included are rope climbing, situps, push-ups, running high jump, chinning, basketball shooting and an obstacle race. EVans ranked number one in 12 students who qualified for Marine Corps athletic certificates. The sturdily built 125-pound youngster also scored well in his schoolwork, with an average be­ tween 80 and 85 in all major sub­ jects, and won several certificates in the process, including one for machine shop achievement. He will enter his, senior year in the fall, and expects to become a machinist upon graduation. He has been a resident of the This is the physique which United States for four years, hav­ helped win Angel Luis Evans ing lived in Puerto Rico before physical fitness crown in high that. His father sails as bosun on SIUs'ships, ; sphool, ppntest. r: | �z: Mr ft. lift Vviliiiia:; BIM -r SEAFAREltS tOff FBOM THB IS Business SlU in WASHINGTON [• OHCAU4 S-liE-JCY. • u.d. STATE DEPARTMENT Waterman Substdr Case. FMB has decided that Section 605 (c) of the 1936 Merchant Marine Act does not bar It from awarding an operating-differential subsidy to Waterman on the following serv­ ices: (1) Eighteen to thirty sailings per year with cargo between U. S. North Atlantic ports and ports in continental Europe north of Portugal (not Including Baltic and Scandinavian ports); (2) One out­ bound sailing per month from North Atlantic ports cargo des­ tined to the same continental European ports; and (3) Eighteen to thirty sailings per year with cargo from Far East ports to U. S. At­ lantic and Gulf ports. U. S. Lines has filed an action in the U. S.. District' Court for the District of Columbia, asking that Court to reverse and set aside the FMB decision on the grounds that is is beyond the scope of FMB authority, arbitrary and unreasonable, and unsupported by substantial evidence in the record. The basic U. S. Lines contention is that the areas indicated are already adequately served. • ?r* -- Ever since the mass rush to the runaway flags got underway, the'SIU and other mari­ time unions have been warning of the dan­ ger to American security that was involved in relying oh these ships to carry US caroes. To coimter these union warnings, the tate Department and the nmaways came up with a label, "effective control" with v^ch they plastered over all the evils of runaway operation. The argument used was that ships were not need^ under the American flag because we can always count on the nmaways. The State Department, the Maritime Ad­ ministration and the Defense Department all turned a deaf ear to charges, that they were gambling with the nation's security. The maritime unions, time and^time again, warned the US that there was no substi­ tute for having a vigorous merchant ma­ rine, manned by American seamen, so that both ships and inen Would be on call at all times. But these obvious truths were put aside by the Government in its eagerness to appease giant oil and metals companies and enable them to ship their raw materi­ als on vessels which did not pay taxes on earnings, or American wage scales to their crews. ' Now it appears that the warnings of American maritime unions are being justi­ fied by the press of events. The Soviet Un­ ion has entered the international oil trade with a vengeance. It is determined to wrest control of oil markets from the US and other western countries. But the Eussians, while they have plenty of oil, have very few tankers. Here's where the runaways come in. If the Russians succeed, as they have in Cuba and elsewhere, in winning conh-acts to supply oil, then they, and not the Ammcan companies, will have the cargo charters to give. out. In order to keep their oil con- , . tracts they will have to assure delivery, and since they can dangle attractive terms r undoc- the noses of the nmai^ays, they un( doubtedly will wind up with many a runr^away tanker operatpc in their comer. § I • » Graee Great Lakes Operation.—Grace Line sought to discon­ tinue its service between the Great Lakes and the Caribbean, con­ tending that it is losing and will continue to lose money in the opera­ tion, and that it could profitably sell the ships involved. The FMB staff. Operating Subsidy Branch, believes the prospects are good for stabilization of rates at a compensatory level, and therefore had asked Grace to continue its present services for at least a two-year experimental period. However the Board subsequently agreed to let Grace drop the run. « * * FMB Chairman.—Secretary of Commerce Frederick H. Mueller has administered tiie oath of office to Vice-Admiral Ralph E. Wilson, retired Deputy Chief of Naval Operations, as a member of the FMB. Admiral Wilson assumed his. new post as of July 1, 1960, and it is ^ expected that he will be designated as Chairman by the President. As Chairman, he will also have the title and authority of Maritime Administratol. » * » Snli^ies. and Antomatlon.—^The war against the Maritime in­ dustry continues on all fronts. Recently, in a report known as "Project Walrus," the National Academy of Sciences recommended that the government and the maritime industry review the entire subsidy program with a. view to reducing or terminating subsidies, and making the American Maritime Industry more competitive. To that end, MA has asked Steven's Institute to make a study of the U. S. Maritime Industry in order to aid in the development of a program which would make it plausible to reduce subsidies. MA has also authorized studies of ways and means to Increase mechani­ zation and introduce automation Into the maritime industry. Experts have indicated that, by adaptation of existing automation devices. It In fact a major operator in the runaway^ would be possible to operate either a large cargo or passenger ship a crew of 3 or 4 button-pushers. Indeed, science-fiction dreamers field, Stavros Niarchos, already has a long-^ with are talking about superllners without crews operated exclusively term contract to move Russian oil on by electronic devices. Query: How do you organize electronic devices? Greek-flag ^ps, and numerous Europeanflag oi^ators are following suit. Obviously, if all of the runaway-flag ships own^ or controlled by the American oil companies and their allies, were under the American flag where they belonged, or were subject to Ammcan union contracts, then it would not be possible for the So­ viets to get enough tankers to break into the international oil trade in a big way— The fact remains that the only allegiance of a runaway tanker operator is to the char­ terer who gives him business. "Effective control" as justification for the existence of a runaway-flag fleet is simply a slogan which deludes only those Government agencies "who framed it and parrot it. t t • Pnty-Free Souvenirs? For years now, seamen have been com­ plaining about the injustice of US regula­ tions whereby American tourists can bring home hundr^ of dollars worth of souve­ nirs duty free and seamen are deprived of the same privilege. Now, for the first time, there is a chance that legislation on this issue^ay be acted on. The issues at stake here are simple. Any American traveler can go abroad, buy cam­ eras, perfumes, silks, suits, chinaware or other items and bring them back duty free as lohg as they are within the prescribed dollars and cents ceiling on duty-free al­ lowances. This can be done, and is done, year after year by passengers on ships or plane& drewmembwa^ of these same ships and planes are deni^ that privilege. It would seem only fair that they receive the same privileges in that area as all other Am&ricans, with the limitation that th^ would he eonflned to professional seamed and a calendar year basis. 0 * * Legislative Summary.—The President has signed the following bills previously passed by Congress, so that they are now law: S. 3189, P. L. 86-583, which provides that no vessel of more than 500 gross tons can engage In the .jcoastwlse trade if construction work on Its hull or superstructure is perfbrmed in shipyards outside the U. S. or its possessions: S. 2618, now P. L. 86-575, which will permit war-built vessels owned by American companies to be exchanged for mora modern and efficient war-bulit vessels in the U. S. Reserve Fleet; and S. 2481, now P. L. 86-577, giving the Interior Department power to establish a program of government mortgage insurance for fishing vessels . . . The following legislation was not passed by both houses and is therefore still pending: (1) Wage Hour Legislation; The Housa killed the Roosevelt Bill backed by labor, and adopted a substituta which would raise the minimum wage to $1.15 for those now covered, and establish a $1.00 rate Hn: an estimated 1.4 million retail em­ ployees. (2) Common-situs picketing; this bill which would have legal­ ized common-situs picketing by the building trades at construction sites, was pigeon-holed by the House Rules Committee; (3) The Housa passpd a bill providing a very inadequate program of medical cara for the aged, which is now pending before the Senate Finance Com­ mittee, and will be acted on after the recess; (4) Dirksen Bill: Thia bin would eliminate the legal compulsion for employers under the Railway Labor Act and Taft-Hartley to bargain with unions on "crea­ tion or discontinuance of positions and would authorize Courts to issue injunctions against strikes In support of demands for such bar­ gaining. t h\ n POftTO'CAU 675"- 4»<AVSMBr - l2/e »ALn7MOBP eKCJCHiOfM. -; �SEAFAItERS »•••'t., - •- •*-•• •• <-«•: i-:,- • , - ,t »••—••<••'•,'•-'SaV7^-i ,^•'•'»"•-^•i•' .•- . :•• -, .i-,,i;v'^' ; ^ :::;V • •'•'• -' * ••"''M-'V ' •' Uust bdck from a long run to the For East, crewmembers aboard the DeSoto (Water­ man) were getting in their last licks in Port Newark when these photos were token. A couple of hours later, the gong lined up for a fat payoff and several of them piled off to spend some time ashore with their fam­ ilies. The De Soto then picked up cargo down the coast before heading out for an­ other Far East run, including Yokohama and Inchon among its ports of call. I Ii Mr M, INt LOG r Seafarers ^ Is^rtfes:. Aboarcl The De Soto ^ c•v.,'TO'-.V ^ ^^•SSeisr^ ^ ' -r . J . '• Lv-.f 'til- D. L. Skeltqn, DM, totes bag of clean laundry up be Soto's gangway. Looks like a spic and span weekend coming up. , t' ' -1 III,, I •i ... 'i-y: )! Mt, -.1.- rf' • • ' -"-Til' '' " Carving "bird";in De Soto galley is night cook-baker Frank Hall. In backgroimd: 3ni CQok D.; Ai MitcheH. ' • V ty &.....4.. .'.T. .Jd • wmm& 'I.' 1 �Discussing menu preparation (L-R): chief cook Sam Merkerson and L. A. Mitchell, 3rd cook. V Checking out anchor windlass brake on focs'le of De Soto Is Joe Savoca, bosun. Brake had recently been realigned. Squaring away drill rack in De Soto work­ shop In engine room is Dave Van Home, wiper. Dave believes in neatness. ^4 -J :i f Wiper Preston Smith coils extension flight used on a little repair job in engine room. Good housekeeping pays off. •M • Pantiyman A. S. Villariza slices into juicy, ripe watermelon which^^ w^ for dessert at crew^s lunclC PTeaving a 4x4 board on De Soto are 0- to r.) F. P. Childress, AB and Harry Brown, OS. In back­ ground watching: Joe Savoca; bosun f Lawson, AB and ship's delegate, and Tom Moriarity, deck engineer. Hatches had been opened to-load cargo. •r;' -•Ji �Mr ft. im SEAFARERS tOff 't; •. News of EtdAl. FISHERMEN'S innON SlU C( OF Jj THE StU AJLANTIC. GULF. LAKES AND INLAND WATERS PISTKICT OF THl SEAFARERS INTERNATIONAL UNION OF NORTH AMERICA SlU Set For Election At PR Tuna Cannery Memorial Day Rites Heldin New Bedford ' ii i:iie SlU has been successful in organizing activities at Star Kist tuna factory in Puerto Rico, r^oirts Mrs. AndreaGomez, Vice-President of the SIU of NA. Mrs. Gomez, who represents fish and cannery workers on the International dent of a victory In any forthctnnExecutive Board, said that the ing election. Bfrs. Gomez had been invited to SIU had a significant majority of the 440 workers at Star Kist's Pu­ inspect the plant and investigate, erto Rican plant, and was confl- in behalf of SIU cannery workers, a charge that' she made—napely thid the Star Kist company had "run away" from California to Puerto Rico in ordmr to find "cheap labor." Star Kist Is schednled to begin operating Its Puerto Rican plant on WlbMINGTON—A reduc­ August 1, mid the SIU hopes to tion in the price of albacore have the plant organized shortly caused albacore fishing boat aft€r this time. owners in Southern California to Originally, the tuna canning in­ picket several canneries. dustry was centered In California, Most of the albacore fishermen but in recent years, the packers own their ou'n little boats and oc­ have set up shop in such far-flung casionally have a hired man or two areas as Samoa and Puerto Rico, partly in the hope of evading SIU assisting them with the fishing. Viulon and gwMls crowd around Memoriol Day servicos condudod at docb at Now Bedford, Iwma The albacore fishermen, who are fish cannery wage scales, workbig of scoflop industry m Amorica. TTio sorvicos wore in memory of fishermen lost ot soo. not organized have been consulting conditions and other benefits. with the SIU. Vice President Gomez reported the SIU is ready to assist them. Violation DIspntes Several disputes, due to the vi.olation of contracts, were on the verge of going to arbitration, but have been settled. Many of the dis­ putes were concerned with viola­ The New Bedford Fishermen's Union, an SIU affiliate, is tions that had been pending for tadding one of the perennial |H*oblems that plague fishennen some time, but mattem were even­ tually ironed out to the satisfaction —the matter of safety at sea. to obtain the best safe^ deof all. A meeting was hdd recent­ and vicses tor the-ships. Frosen Foods ly by the Safety Committee, Howard Nidserson, secretaryThe union is conducting ui or­ ganizing drive on several small which is composed of mem­ treasurer of the union, was elected ctf the Safety Ckunmlttec frozen-food packers, some pet food bers of the New Bedfmd Fishexw chairman and it was that meetings plants and a "by products" process­ men's Union, and tiw New Bed­ would be heldagreed mmthly, the seieing plant, and the union's member­ ford Seafood' Producers Associa­ ond Wednesday of everytm numtk ship should increase If all goes as tion- in an eNort to bnprove on the Attending the meeting also'wei^ is expected. safety practices of the fidieimen Robert Moore, r^resenting the American UnivMsal Insurance Co., and John Murray, safety direcfnr of the US Fish and WUdlife Sendee. Sixteen lliousand hungry Joim Burt, New Bedford Rdwrnm's Union, and Choplaih Gano The group drew tip a list of 18 scallop-lovmrs assembled in Landry of tha Seaman's BaHiri whaal a 13-yaar-dd organ id safety measures which they TMiontMamorial Day Servicas. Bathal was moda famous in "Moisy Didc.** New Bedford last year, and mended. Some of the measures suggested were: resurfacing of an even larger turnout is expected decks with ridd-resistant surfacing this year' for the Third Annual and CMnpanlonway ladder tread Scallop Festival, to he held and winch platforms, installation of August 12, 13 and 14. The event ladders on all scallop booms, guard will cost one dollar, with all the lines or rails on forecastle heads, scallops one can eat, cooked every bollard guards on all deck bollards, way imaginable. The festival is installation of self^inflating lifesupported by the New Bedford Members of the SlU-affiliated Alaska Fishennan's Union, rafts, use of safety hats while un­ the oldest of its kind (founded in 1902) are proud of their Fishermen's Union and the local loading and self-actuating fire scaliop-dragging industry. -welfare plan, which includes one of tha few pension plans, alama systems. Scalloping is the major actiidly if not the only one, in exist-^ of the New Bedford fishermen. ence for fishermen. plans and can'have thewame bene^ Scallops •PleBttful' Aaaoag nnlm in the SHT are fits {H-otection Utat other work­ The Union covers giU net a numbM ef gro^w of commer­ tisheitnen, men working aboard ers and The US Sei^. of Agriculture has have, even though they are a cial IliiieimMi en 'all eoasta, aa declared scallops MI its "plentiful small element as compared te cannery tenders and vessels pick­ well as shoreslde fiSh eannerles ing up fish from fishermen, plus many other worker food" list for August, national food groups., and jwoeessors. Th^ are iiH distiibutors are going to promote Tha various fishermen's uniona workers employed in canneries and Tolved JB neh wid^-ttivMUlscallops, knd an annual scallop in this industry are now working beachmen, tallymen and others. fled IteUag eperatioin as eralrecipe contest will be held to find The union's Health Welfare and towards finding a solution to the loptag, tana fidUng, saimea some new. Interesting, delicious Penshm program lib doing much to problem of protecting their legit­ fisheries, eed, haUbut and aaany way to serve them. bring the benefits of MganiZed la­ imate rights as workers, and pre­ otiiecs. Grtwve Involved Inolnde The acallops will be donated to tiM New EedfMd Fl^rmen's bor to the men. As a rule fisher­ serving' the. suppl"/ of fish. the promotion venture by the 80bt addition to this union protec­ UitiMi, Alaska FisherBiea's men have no welfare plans or tion, vessel New BedfM-d scallo^^ Neet. Alaska fisherman and dtiien othMunten protection because the Unien, tana flSh and cannery Cooking will be done by the Ex­ will recdlve financial help frma seasonal nature of thdb: work h» nnlsaM apweilng «nt cf CMlchange tlub, sponsMx of the ev»t hantyeted organizing e^rts in the tile US Govffiument which will go ibmia' peris and grenps in Sometime during the event, a new toward the purchase of newer and Brtotal Bay, Kedlak, and clae- past. YHracioui Terasaibu SwoMsy 'Miss Scallop Festival'^fM: 1960 Howeyoi!', the Alaska Fisher­ bt'tter fishihg equipment, enabling ahera In tha far pimlhwesi will be cbosen from among a bevy: foigawdi Imt yoor's ses»o|i men's Uhien has shown that Hsher- them to better compete in the •pacfflis. of cbarming young ladies. moi can have workable welfare world fish market. •I -11 • r'f 'JJU aJL. WC Canneries Are Picketed Safety Studied At New Bedtord Scallop Fesfival Due r-"-- Alaska Fishermen Proud 7 Of Their Pension Plan 1 »«' -'i �Mr Mi 19M P> rar« NlBctMa BE. ^ . •t aa •Sht C. NIWS .u •tr 'i. HIADLINEt IN REVIEW Bi6BlHOWBZ Cl/t& CFF OF CueAH9lkSAR. 35CAU9^0F, ^KD ^eiZiJl^BOFAMBeiCAM 'RFW,.. i^RJi}SHCH0^Cm09 ~ ro CVBA^ SIVB.WAPfJS . OF RUGBlAN fW^TB, '••-•It Missile Chasers in Soulh Africa !•' When fhe US fired on Atlas mis­ sile 9,000 miles, oil the way from Cape Canavaral to the waters off Sooth Africa, the SlU-monned Timber Hitch was on the spot to track the flight with its electronic gear and visually as well. Pic­ tured above is the Hitch standing off Capetown's famed Table Mountain. At left. Seafarer Joe Smith, OS, poses on deck with a model of the Atlas nose cone. The Hitch did not attempt to re­ cover the cone which splashed into the ocean about five miles from the ship. (Photos courtesy The Cope Argus, Capetown.) pR.dARBmM^, H\KlHBBNBU6hl\fE&STARiAt^fCBOBS^ U9. BVFmiNS^PA^ s..C£LBBWBBWfP CHMPA^NBA^ miCAfZfrn^. AfeWPMA/£ CRISIS X u SB-r\^B£N OB.ANO RUSSIA AS REVSSRaCfT ^ VDWA!ARCnCFLiei4r/ ' CAPTURE OF OeM , Jl^lEM'^^e'SB/AR, U/im^ARMBV ^RCB-JORB^rof^ ORDER lfJCO\lGO AFTBRCHADBmARB Oi;r/^ CO^ARMV,.. NY Straightens Out Medical Beef }A\*i& OF TMILAM) MmtS US., PlA\^ CIARIRSTANP SAiCAT smH^cxypMAR 44M Sess/av. J'*- I NAimAi LEAajBvmL' ^BU'OILBO KBNNEINMACPNB iSH0SAMERICAMlBA&JE ^rANOS OLD PROS ON THB/R -TWICE INFO)RIR ALU' . NEAPS TO WIN DEMOCRATIC eTAROARBSAfiLANSiS- NOMINATION OR FIRSTMUOT ,.» SOHNSCN 6BTS Rice CYTi ANT> NBWSORiC' fRESIPmriALWMlNAWN. TRAMSfW WORRERB SjRlKE iN . INDIA.., SXRl^BRS WANTINAGBS^ RAIBEP ID 4 REARS'PER MONTN- MILANBBE DOCTOR, LEADS FOLlOlNEf^lO mLNTAiNmRBAr-p AWAnEND OF WORLD,, APtERAPfVlNWDfkX^^ ^uePTHeMouTtSAim ~ '^ANiBOCN QNmEA N\STAACE, ...v- BOROFEA^ FLBE . MANSARBAB. , WSISH COAL MtNER WHO iROeBtD L£ADBRSne IN f eiZiriSH LABOR. PAfOVARO WA/er/Mff coAuriOA/ SO\/£PNNBJT,D/&Ar€lZ. ' • 4- COMPUmCONERBSe IN PARIS fiNDSNBW mcNlNESW/UBB ABLETOTNLNK,,, Shipping in the port of New York was moderate to slow during the last period, Head­ quarters Representative Bill Hall reports. The outcome for the next period is for it to "remain the same." delegates on the ships paid An agreement has been number of ordinary seamen and ment wipers are upgrading themselves off in New York were lauded by reached with Isthmian Lines to AB and FWT. Also, the lifeboat Hall for bringing in real clean on the matter of health in­ school is still going strong, and is ships. "Except for a few minor spections for men. In the past men often lost out oh jobs with Isth­ mian because the company doctor turned them down and they didn't have enough time to go to the USPHS for its final say on a "fitfor-duty" slip before - the ship sailed. The SIU and Isthmian have agreed now that when this par­ ticular situation arises in the fu­ ture, the man will he allowed to sail, but must check at the USPHS at the next port of call. If he re­ ceives an okay, he will he able to remain on the ship. If he is turned down by the USPHS, Isthmian will pay his transportation back to New York. Another innovation in the New York headquarters was made when the service counter was divided into two areas—one for dues, beefs, and registration, the other for va­ cation and welfare. It is hoped that this new plan will enable the staff to give the membership bet­ ter service. The Ocean Evelyn paid off re­ cently after a trip to the Great Lakes and on its way to Europe. SIU patrolmen wer able to collect more than 500 hours of disputed overtime for the men who had per­ formed work outside of the con­ tract. specifications. The SlU Training School is pro.gcqssihg .and an incceasingly large beefs, mostly on repairs, the ships open to all departments. The various ships and depart­ were all in fine shape," he said. Gov't Sees Overcharging On MSTS Freight Rates WASHINGTON—The Federal Maritime Board has issued orders for the investigation of possible collusion and price rigging by steamship companies carrying MSTS cargoes during the 1950-1956 period. ' Such a move by the Companies involved in the companies. Government could conceivably hearings that are contracted cause economic difficulties to any to the SIU and its affiliates include American-President Lines, Isth­ mian Lines, Moore-McCormack Lines,' Waterman Steamship Cor­ poration and Bloomfield Steam­ ship Co. Conspiracy Charged The FMB is looking into the pos­ sibility that a number of the com­ panies were acting jointly to "con­ trol, prevent or destroy competi,tion" in bidding for MSTS con­ tracts, and were conspiring to­ gether to keep rates high. If the Board decides that there was overcharging, the repercus­ sions could be rather serious for the ^ip operator. The Govern­ ment might take steps to recapture any excesses' it paid out, and might investigate the subsidies which it is granting to many of the shipping company "padding" its charges. Companies Notified No specific time lias been set for the hearings but all of the ship­ ping companies involved have been notified to be ready. Houston Meeting in Oil Union Hail The next meeting of the Hbuston membership will be held in the Oil Workers Union Hall at 2306 proadway in Hous­ ton. The change was made to accommodate Seafarers in this port because the growth of SIU shipping activity in this area has outstripped the meeting capacity of the SIU Houston, hall. 'a'•'s I i ^•:m .'.rJ �^ SEAFdRERi Idr M. IfM lOE Courf Eases Piekefing Ban; Splits On IMWU Activity Stubborn About It All ; Attorneys for the International Maritima Union are now preparing for the third roun< In court over the IMWU's right to picket the runaway-flag Incre Line ships. An appeal will be filed in the New York State 0>urt of Appeals after the Apellate Division split, 3 to 2, in favor of State Supreme* Court action in issuing an in­ organize the crewi. NevertheleH, overtime, hoiurs of work, and vari­ crewmemben of the Nassau re­ ous working conditions aboard the junction against the union. IMWU attorneys were heartened fused to talm the vessel out untU vesseL Before this, the operator by the split in the Appellate Divi­ they won agreement from the com­ had been paying |60 a month and sion's findings and also by the ac­ pany for improvements in wages. working the men long hours. tion of the majority in sharply lim­ iting the scope of the injunction. They pointed out that two of the five judges agreed with the union's stand, namely, that the case involved a labor dispute un^ der Federal labor law and was con­ sequently not within the jurisdic­ The alliance between Harry Bridges, fellow-traveling head tion of the state court. Such an of the International Longshoremen's and Walrehousemen's interpretation would leave the Union, and James Hoffa, president of the International IMWU completely free to resume Brotherhood of Teamsters, is* picketing. ^ The majority decision, while getting a big play in "The Dis­ negotiating of a warehouse contract holding that the state court did patcher," official organ of the with a Northern California Em­ have jurisdiction in the matter, Bridges union. Hoffa got top bill­ ployers Association. To celebrate cut down on the blanket injunc­ ing in the June 17 issue of the event, a Joint meeting was held tion against picketing issued by Bridges' newspaper, elbowing in the Longshoremen's auditorium Fidei Castro and Communist China addressed by Bridges. the lower court. Speaks Via Phone As a result of the action of the into subsidiary spots. Hoffa, who was in Washington, majority, it appeared that the The occasion was the Joint addressed the meeting In absentia IMWU has some leeway in taking by telephone and called' coopera­ -picket line action for protest pur^ poses, to object to substandard tion between the two unions "Just ship North American, under contract to SIU Grpat Lakes ' conditions aboard the vessels. the beginning." Bridges, in turn, Dictriot, firmly resisted efforts of several tugs to pull her off sand In presenting its case, the IMWU declared "I'm proud to know Hoffa bar in St. Lawrence River for several days. All 347 passengere had argued that the lucres Line and to work with him ... we are had to bo taken off before ship finally got free. was doing business here in the geing to pool our efforts." Optical benefits under the Sea­ Recent efforts by the ILWU in­ United States and operating out of the Port of New York. Conse­ farers Welfare Plan are now avail­ cluded an unsuccessful atempt to quently, the union said, the com­ able to SIU men in the Boston raid SlU^contracted tuna fishing pany was subject to the laws of area. Free eye examfustions snd boats on the West Coast, where the the United States, including the eyeglasses, if needed, may be ob­ Bridges union was set back on four Labor Relations Act, in the same tained at the. office ot Dr. Morris boats, and ad equally-unsuccessful manner as any shoreside concern I. Cowin, 1 Meridian Street, East move to block 1,200 Crockett sugar here that might be owned by for­ Boston, Massachusetts. An arbitrator has awarded the Marine Engineers Beneficial workers from affiliation with the The optical benefit may be used SIU, . despite angry threats made Association a five percent increase in wages, overtime, penalty eign nationals. The IMWU tied up the runaway- by Seafarers once every two years, earlier by ILWU lieutenants in a time and night relief rates for engineers sailing on passenger flag passenger ships Victoria and with the Welfare Plan paying the desperate effort to defeat the SIU. and dry cargo ships, tankers* Nassau in May as crewmembers of cost. and freighters. certain inequities between engi­ This brings to eight the number the vessels refused to sail without Dr. Donald F. Shaughnessy neers' wages and the pay rates of union representation and a con­ of ports where the Optical Benefits Tell it to the LOG made Uie award after an arbitra­ mates and other unlicensed sea­ tract. Previously, the lucres Line Program functions. Others are: tion proceeding between the men. Houston, San Francisco, Phila­ had rejected union demands that MEBA and the American Mer­ As a result of the decision. Jun­ It be recognized as the bargaining delphia, Baltimore, New Orleans, chant Marine Institute in New ior 3rd assistants will get an in­ New York and Mobile. Any Sea­ •gent for the crews. York on June 17, 1960. The lucres Line went to the New farer 'desiring this service should crease of $48.16 a month on class York State Supreme Court and ob­ go first to the port agent to make The A&G Commitee also gained B freighters and $46.32 a month on tained an injunction ordering the siire of his eligibility and then to an additional increase of about two the average tanker. The increases IMWU not to picket the ships or the designated optical service. or three percent by eliminating are retroactive to June 16. Hoffa Gets Feature Billing In Bridges' Union Paper ^.>- Boston Has Eye Benefit Award Engineers 5 Percent In East Coast Arbitration ' FELTORe (Ora NavigaHon), Juna as—Chairman. Jamat Watt; Sacratary. Richard N. Fottar. On June 10. U and 12. wash water was aalt water, yhia constituted a just cause for applying for compensation (86 per day, 3 days, total $18) for insufficient quarters, and will be applied for on the OT sheets. Utensils for night lunches should be available in the pantry. A rack wiU bo built to hold the cups. Some insecticide needed to keep roaches under control. DEL NORTE (MiMlsslppI). June 2« —Chairman. W. Kaiser; Secretary. E. Leonard. Ship's delegate reports few minor beefs taken care of in New Orleans. $1S9.40 on hand at end of last voyage. Spent $170.00 to have movie machine completely over­ hauled. .Balance on hand $22.53. Movie director purchased seven movies for this trip. Spoke to movie men in both New Orleans and Hous­ ton. NO man says he wiU not change his prices. The man in Houston is much cheaper so will consult the Sud and Mar before decisive action is taken. M.'S/C to have a list of aU B and C card mep posted by their respective delegates and they be in­ formed that they must re-register after 60 days or two trips. M/S/C to •lect F. Simple new ship's delegate. CITIES SERVICE NORFOLK (Cities Service). June 26—Chairman. Robert Fink; Secretary. Ted Jones. Ship's delegate reports no beefs—everything running smoothly. One man missed ship In Baltimore. His possessions are with captain. Ship's delegate has his book and papers. AU agree we have a good running ship and crew. 1^' r;-'. ELEMIR (Marine Carriers). July 1— Chairman. S. Cray; Secretary. J. Balderston. Disputed OT to be taken up with patrolman. Need clarification as to our status—signed on at tanker . rate of pay carrying dry cargo. Due to local weather conditions and a strike of longshoremen we have been unable to get launch service. Started ship's fund with $l contribution hieach crewmember. to bo used for ship's business only. Discussion re launch service and time of spying on 0Take thU tl "hook.** Ship's delegate to ap with captain. Also matter of get­ ting our maiL Captain instructed steward to use coffee urns temporarUy to replace worn odt percolators and eords. PENN EXPLORER (Penn Shipping), June 12—Chairman. W. B. Yarbrough; Secretary. Cruz Mata. Captain wiU put travelers checks out in all ports. Steward had to be put off In Freeport —injured arm. No beefs reported. Suggest ship's delegate sea captain and chief engineer about a Jury toilet and water on deck for natives. Also see mate about having the screen doors fixed. Dent mistreat natives—it can cause trouble. ALCOA PARTNER (Alcoa). July 2— Chairman. Joseph McAndrew; Secre­ tary, K. C. Smith. Movie fund to bo properly after lita. Steward has or­ dered more cUms fruits and other fruits but port steward has been cut­ ting order. Steward and delegate to see patrolman and food program rep­ resentative abont Miortages and cutting of requlaitlons; also about atoring earUer in port. ' . FAIRLAND (Saa • Land Service), July ie—Chairman. J. Sweeney; Sec­ retary. R. SImpkint. No beefs; every­ thing running smoothly. Delegate to aee patrolman about cab expenses to hospitsi in' San Juan for two men. Discussion on buying radio, electrlo iron and Spanish checker set. All three to be bought this trip in New­ ark. Company has not hsd messroom ciiairs fixed yet. These chairs have been on the repair list for the past six trips. CALMAR (Calmar). June 25—Cbsirw man. Walter Kohut; Secretary. M. Kondylas. Captain to give port dis­ charges in Long Beach. Should hava screens for portholes. No wind scoops. Stilp's delegate resigns with vote of thanks from crew. MYRIAM III (International Naviga­ tion). May 2t—Chairman. J. T. Sigmom Secretary. John Straka. Jr. Most ALCOA CORSAIR (Alcoa). July 3— Chairman. R. M. Roberts; Secretary, D. -Atordne. Ship's delegate reports day's lodgings not received by men who had rooms painted a good while back. Everything running smoothly. No beefs reported. Movie director's report: on hand at end of voyage No. 223. S266.12. Hen asked to leave safety pamphlets and literature on bulletin board so all members can read same. Washing machine put on repair list, pump broken. Polish stow­ away found one day out of Trinidad. Complained that the food wasn't too hot. Qalned ten pounds before arrival In MobUe. FRANCES (Bull). July 10—Chair­ man, L. Williams; Secretary. N. Lam­ bert. No major beefs reported. Men are not cleaning washing machina ORION STAR (Orion). June CiMlrman, G. Creggs; Secretary. J. Sanchez. Ship's delegate reports Ccards are not producing work and refuse to cooperate with other Union brothers. Lots of disputed overtime. Engine delegatb reports three men picked up In Yokohama. Steward delegate reports they have 4 "A" books. 3 "B" books, 1 "C" book, and one freeloader. Discussion on return­ collected at first draw. Salt shakers wanted for messhaU. Short stores on board for coastwUe trip. No library on board for this trip. Han off watch to clean raesshall for next watch. Man on watch to make coffee for men on watch. Foc'sles need painting. repairs taken care of. Captain will put a draw a day before we, get to Madras. India. Chief cook doesn't want anyone to sleep In room with him. Steward department wiU take care of this. Everyone to take better - care of fans and washing machine. ing cups to psntry. Do not scream in passageways as it wakes up the watch. Fans are no good—they are constantly under repair. At the be­ ginning of the trip we received 11 new U-hudl fana but the chief engi­ neer stadied them away and lUs re­ fused to put them out. Those fana were put «m board for the crew. Also we should see the Union about white table cloth for the crew and largar sheets and spreads. BAOLI TRAVELER (Unltad JHarltims). Juna 26—Chairman. Robert Grant; Sscretary. Jamts A. Ray. An­ swer from headquarters on timo allotted sanitary men (4 hrs.). read. I.etter re disputed OT sont to head­ quarters. One man hospitalized in Yokohama; one man missed ship in Vokohama. Air conditioning to be repaired in recreation room. M/S/O that no one sleep in recreation room. DEL BGL (Mississippi), June 11— Chairman. C. Thompson; Secretary, Ramon Irbsrry.. Fred Carpenter elected ship's delegate. Discussion to see chief engineer to clear lines in washing machine as It takes a long timo for water to drain. Repair lists to be made up. New mattresses to bo ordered as they are Iri bad shape. EOITH (Bull), June 26—Chairman, G. Bozec; Secretary, J. Kucharskl. No beefs reported by ship's or de­ partment delegates. MAI (Bull), June 13—Chairman, W. Morris; Sscretary, T. Drzewickl. Harry Byrd elected new ship's delegate. Discussion to let coffee perk~ till ready. Donate for new TV. TITAN (Cerso Tanfcship), July 4— Chairman, J. M'cKrsth; Secratary. R. Ransoms, Two brothers hospitalized. Reports sent to headquarters. Crevemembers leaving ship are reminded to strip biinks of linen and return to steward. Also to collect shot cards. Vote of thanks to steward department for Job well done although short threo men. Suggestion to have fam installed in laundry. Suggestion that masks be supplied for gangway watch during loading and discharging grain. Crew reminded to return glasses to pantry. STEEL APPRENTICE (Isthmian), June I*—Chairman, Paul Whitlow; Sscretary, Evsrett Perry. Captain was unsuccessful in getting Pall Mall cigarettes. MUk in Okinawa must first have approval by the American' consul before it goes to ships, to be taken up with Union upon arrivsL AU current repaira to be turned in to me and all disputed overtime after we leave the Islands for the States. No major beefs except a 14-hour caUback in deck department in Okinawa to be taken up with patrolman. Vote of thanks giveiS to steward depart­ ment for their work In the almnco of chief cook who died at sea. M/S to discontinue issuance of travelera checks in overseas ports and doUara be issued as we lost money on the exchange. Crewmembers to come to messhall and pantry properly dressed. Suggestion that coUection ba taken up for flowers for chief cojk. MARORE (Ore Navigation), July 4 —Chairman. F, O'Neill; Secretary. C. Bedell. Ship's delegate reports beef re exterminator not doing a thorough Job when he comes aboard. Steward to order new washing machine as the old one is beyond repair. Patrolman will have to settle port OT beef for Steward dept. BatUo operator'and dayman's beef explained to the mem­ bers. Election of.^new ship's delegate put off tUl payoff as there are quite a few men leaving tha ship. Need new toaster. ATLAS (Carso A Tankihlpt. July 2 —Chairman. Robart McDavItt; Secra­ tary. A. JohansMn, Deck delegate reports one "C" book AB was first signed on as a non-working workaway. Was later signed on articles as AB when one man failed to Join ship. This man is to be paid off under mu­ tual consent in Port Said. Suggestion to buy lounge- chairs for crew's recreation haU out of Miip'a fund in Japan. YORKMAR (Calmar), July 4—Chairman, E. Brown; Secratary, W. Crass- man. No beefs reported. W. Cressman elected new ship's delegate. . �M7 tf, IfM SEAFARERS LOG Face Twcnty-Oac News of sra CANADIAN DISTRICT OP THi SEAPAREKS INTERNATIONAL UNION OP NORTH AMERICA Union Gets Crodift Gov't, Canadian Shipping Hopeful Of Canada-Flag Deep Sea Revival • ''5^4 •M 'M MONTREAL—Canadian ship operators and government officials are talking hopefuUy of a rebirth of the-once-great Canadian deep-sea fleet, and members of the SIU Canadian Dis­ trict are getting much of the credit. Recent developments indicate that there will be a mod­ est bulid-up of Canadian ships*' er Just launched is being placed on the deep sea trades, al­ under the Canadian flag. though it is doubted that Ca­ Canadian-flag Burlington, manned by members of SlU Canadian District, is shown entering the Welland Canal at Port Weller, Ontario. Canada shipping is facing stiff Seaway competitors. Canada SlU Seeks Seaway Flag Curb Two Canadian maritime unions and Canada's largest ship­ ping firm have demanded that the Government do something about stopping foreign-registered vessels from turning the Seaway into what they de--* scribe , will become ..a "grave­ ships," said Paul Gagne, SIU rep­ resentative in Thorold. yard for Canadian ships." Canadian sailors receive about four times as much as their British counterparts, and because of this many vessels in the Canadian fleet have runaway to an English flag registration. The Canada Steamsltlp Lines, ''largest Seaway carrier; the SIU Canadian District and the Cana­ dian Merchant Service Guild have combined to fight the inroads made liy English vessels in the Seaway. "Canada's sailors didn't pay taxes to build the Seaway to be put out of Jobs by cheap labor 'World Fair* Planned On Canada Ship If'S Plans are underway to establish « "floating fair" to celebrate Can­ ada's hundredth birthday, the cen­ tennial of her Confederation, in 1967. The floating fair' would be turned into a mobile "world's fair," and used to promote Cana­ dian Industry the world over. A group of Canadian businessmen working on the plans estimate that it would cost about $500,000 to keep the fair, which would be set tip on the "Empress of Canada," In operation. However, it is esti­ mated that the floating exhibit might bring in as much as $400 million in orders. Canada is trying to get the World's Fair for Montreal during 1967, but this is being fought by Bussia. The Canadians see the mobile "floating fair" as the cor­ nerstone of what might develop Into some kind of a Canisdian Inlernational trading agency. The British sailors receive about $100 a month, on vessels that carry all sorts of cargo between Toronto and Newfoundland. The British ships stay nine months and pay no taxes while Cahadian sailors and officers have to go on unem­ ployment Insurance. No Domestic Rides Canada, unlike the United States, has no regulations requir­ ing that shipping in Its domestic trades fly the Canadian flag. As a result, there are many Britishflag vessels operating exclusively in the Canadian domestic trades. These ships never go near Eng­ land, but ply Canada's waters while paying British wage scales to the seamen, plus a modest bonus for service in Canadian waters. The set-up deprives Canadian shipping and Canadian seamen of employment opportunities. It also works a severe hardship on the crewmembers of the British-flag vessels who have to try to live in the Canadian economy on an Eng­ lish wage scale. We have "no quarrel with for­ eign vessels engaged in interna­ tional trade," said Gagne, /but we want to keep them out of domestic shipping." nada will ever regain the position in deep sea shipping it once enJoyed. At the end of World War II, the Canadian deep sea fleet w«s com­ posed of more than 400 vessels and was the fourth largest in the world. However, Canada had no program for maintaining a deep-sea Cana­ dian-flag fleet and the result was that Canadian ships tranferred enmasse to British and other flags to escape payment of Canadian union wage scales. Canadian seafarers' contracts and wage scales are comparable to those enjoyed by seamen on SIUmanned American-flag ships. Canadian Crews Efficient Two reasons are being given for the revival of deep-sea maritime in Canada. Ship operators are crediting Canadian seamen, with greater efficiency than crews ob­ tainable under other flags, thus making up for the low wages of foreign seamen. A second reason is the develop­ ment of shipping to the Canadian Artie because of economic growth in the Canadian northland, largely sponsored by the Canadian govern­ ment. While Canada has no laws Canadian Districf President Hal Banks hat (ought for re­ vival of deep-sea shipping under Canada's flag. requiring that ships in its domes­ tic trade fly the Canadian flag. Can adlan ships are generally favored for such operations, particularly since many of them involve defense Installations. New Shipi At present, a new Canadian-built freighter, the Eskimo, is in regu­ lar transatlantic service, while the newly-formed Canuck Lines Ltd., has transferred two deep sea ships back to Canadian registry. An­ other ship, a new 40,000-ton tank- Drowning In Montreal Averted By SIU Tugmen SIU men helped rescue other SIU men as a tragedy was narrowly averted recently when a Swedish freighter, the Polaris, jammed her rudder and out of control, rammed into a small coaster, the Federal** Express, anchored in Montreal Harbor. Quick work by SIU men aboard the tug Mathilda, which had drawn near in the course of an assign­ ment, enabled all the men to es­ cape as the Federal Express, fatally holed, sank in less than 15 minutes. The skipper of the Mathilda saw that the Express had little time, so he quickly directed the bow of his tug against the stem of the sinking Express. The crew of the Express and the longshoremen who were below when the accident happened, were thus able to Jump onto the Mathil­ da's deck without injury, though many of the men were "shaken up" a bit. Jane 1 through June $0 Afterwards the men, 18 in all, Jobs were given quarters in the Mon­ Port Shipped treal Sailors Institute for the night. As one Canadian Seafarer, Paul Montreal 279 Therrien, 29, described it: Toronto 103 "I was tired and hit my bunk ten Thorold ..... 219 minutes before the mishap. I was Fort WilUarn > • ooaohooev 85 Vancouver .. half asleep when I heard a loud 109 Quebec City . •••••••fOO 43 noise and the ship listed heavily. I Owen Sound voopaooooo 16 grabbed sojne clothes, put them on 18 and rushed on deck with my valise. Halifax We- found out that we couldn't Total Jobs Shipped. .. 872 launch the lifeboat and were we Canadian SIU Shipping Canada maintains a thriving fleet under its flag in the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River teade, in addition to the operation of ships on the Canadian West Coast. Last year, two of the world's largest ore carriers began plying the Great Lakes and St. Lawrencs River under the Canadian flag. glad to see that tug. It was an eight or ten foot Jump to her deck but it didn't seem far, with us going down so fast. ""When I got ashore," he con­ tinued, "I called my mother and father. Will I continue as a sailor? Of course, I will." Canadian Seafarers, members of the SIU Canadian District, are a vital element in the mari­ time picture generally and in the SIU family of unions. They man ships under Canadian flag across-the-board—deep sea off the Atlantic Coast, wi the Canadian West Coast, on the Great Lakes and the Seaway. The Canadian SIU also repre­ sents large groups of Canadian tugboatmen, dredgemen and al­ lied crafts. The Canadian Distriet works closely with the oHier SIU anions throughont North America and the mutual relationship has been of great advantage to all SIU members. ' - ;j'II [ Seaway Activity On Rise ItTanyone's guess as to how thu Seaway did last year. The statis­ tics aie all available, but there's some question as to their signifi­ cance. Upbound cargo tonnage passing through the locks in April was 132 percent ahead of April last year, but this year the Seaway opened a week earlier. Downbound cargo showed a gain of 45 percent, too, though the aver­ age increase in tonnage per ship was only 52 tons. Bigger Ships However, certain general facts are evident, and they are general­ ly encouraging — for the ship­ owner anyway. There is a trend toward bigger ships in the Sea­ way, with more cargo on the ships, and this, of course, means bigger profits for the owners and means more business. Canada earned 73 cents out of every dollar earned in the canal, leaving 27 cents for the US which is proportional to the investment by each country in the Seaway. The Canadians put up about 70 percent of the cost of the water­ way. Lewis B. Castle, administrator of the US St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation, pre­ dicted that traffic would doiibls in the next ten years of operation. The Seaway, which first opened to traffic in 1958, has had a great effect on shipping and other busi­ ness in the Great Lakes on both the US and Canadian sides. SIU Canadian Distriet Halls FORT WILLIAM Ontario HALIFAX. N.S 408 Simpion St. Phone: 3-3331 1381,4 HoUi* St. Phone 3-8911 MONTREAL 634 St. James St. West victor 3-8161 QUEBEC 44 SauIt-au-Matelot Quebec LAfontaine 3-1569 THOROLD, OnUrlo 53 St. David Sti CAnal 7-53U TORONTO. Ontario 373 King St. R. BMpirc 4-S«i3. ST. JOHN, NB 177 Prince WUUam St. OX 3-5431 VANcouvn. BC /...ie* Mafai at. 4 • •••".'>'11 �JNm Tmni^-Tm SEAFARERS lOG MIy M. IMt News of snr PACIFIC DISTRICT SAILORS UNION OF THE PACIFIC, MARINE FIREMEN'S UNION, MARINE COOKS ! STEWARDS UNION • SlU OF NA Constitution Being Voted By MFOW Skipper, Company Hail SUP Crew Rescue Action Deck gang crewmembers of the President Van Buren, mem­ bers of the Sailors Union of the Pacific, were applauded by the skipper for their efficient handling of a transfer at sea, despite dangerous weatherconditions. The transfer in­ Van Buren for over two hours volved the surgeon of a Japa­ treating the passenger ami leaving nese passenger liner to treat a instructions for the crew. Mean­ dangerouslyMlI womaa passenger while the winds, already strong, had freshened considerably. Never­ aboard the Van Buren. The incident took place on June theless, the boat crew again made B, 1960, while the Van Buren was it back and forth, returning the en route to San Francisco, at Lati­ Japanese doctor to his ship. Writing to the American Presi­ tude 44 degrees north and 162 de­ grees east longitude. A rendezvous dent Lines on the subject, the Van was made with the Japanese vessel Buren's skipper put it this way: "I at dawn, but the weather was such wish to take this opportunity to ex­ that the skipper and chief mate press my appreciation and my ad­ were uncertain as to whether to miration for the willingness with which the men responded to this risk a transfer. However, it was decided to go call of duty. And I further wish to ahead with the attempt because of commend the chief officer and the the serious condition of the pas­ men of the boat crew for the man­ senger. The number one lifeboat ner in which the mission was ac­ was launched with the chief mate complished without any injuries be­ out a ten man boat crew. A half ing sustained. SUP members in the crew who hour later, the Japanese doctor off the Yamakiku Maru boarded the manned the boat were Anthony S. lifeboat and 31 minutes after that, Morris, bosun; Bradford 6. Temthe boat was alongside the Van pleman, Charles S. Lawrence and William E. Northern, DMs;. John Buren. The doctor remained aboard the Segale, William Yesko, John Batteff, William A. Muldoon and Her­ man V. DeMarkque, ABs; George Wong and Denver S. Cburch, or­ dinary seamen.The letter was passed on to SUP Secretary-Treasurer Morris Weisberger from APL headquar­ SUP HONOLULU....51 South Nimitz Highway ters, with the comment that the PHone 502-777 crew's action was accomplished NEW ORLEANS 523 BienvUIe St. Jackson 5-7428 "with enthusiastic willingness and NEW YORK 675 4th Ave., Brooklyn HVacinth 9-6605 cheeful disregard of the physical PORTLAND 211 SW Clay St. dangers surrounding the duty per­ CApitol 3-4336 SAN FRANCISCO........450,Harrison St. formed. . . . "all of us in the Amer­ Douglas 2-8363 SEATTLE 2505 1st Ave. ican President Lines wdsh to ex­ Main 2-0290 tend our sincere cwigratulations to WILMINGTON 505 Marine Ave. Terminal 5-6617 the Sailors Union of the Pacific and particularly to each member of MC&S the boat crew." SlU Pacific District Halls HONOLULU... 51 South Nimitz Highway PHone 5-1714 NEW ORLEANS 523 Bienville St. RAmond 7-428 NEW YORK 675 4th Ave., Brooklyn HYacinth 9-6E00 PORTLAND 211 SW Clay St. CApitol 7-3222 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St. EXbrook 7-5600 SEATTLE 2505 1st Ave. MAin 3-0088 WILMINGTON 505 Marine Ave. .fTErminal 4-8538 PHOTOS sfoeies. ^ ?o£TRy MFOW HONOLULU....56 North Nimitz Highway PHone 5-6077 NEW ORLEANS. 523 Bienville St. MAgnolia 0404 NEW YORK 130 Greenwich St. COrtland 7-7094 PORTLAND 522 NW Everett St. CApitol 3-7297-8 SAN FRAN-CISCO 240 Second St. DOuglas 2-4592 SAN PEDRO 296 West 7th St. TErminal 3-4485 SEATTLE 2338 Western Ave. I MAin 2-6326 M'emfbik Pacific District Shipping Port SUP 6/1 to 8/27 MFOW 6/1 to 6/30 MC&S 8/1 to 6/30 Total San Fran. 638 169 389 1,198 battle '63 53 36 152 t»ortland 147 42 36 225 Wilmington 296 (no halj) 89 385 New York 88 30 38 156 New Orleans 41 (no haU) 11 52 . 19 (no haU) 31 20 70 71 (no hall) 71 Honolulu San Pedro Total 1,292 396 619 2.307 A secret referendum vote on • new proposed constitution for members of the Pacific Coast Ma­ rine Firemen, Oilers," Watertenders and Wipers Union is now un­ derway. Voting started June 1, 1960, and will wind up on August 31, 1960. Navy hospital ship, SS Constellation, renamed the SS Hope, is The constitution makes certain due to take Pacific District crew shortly. changes to comply with the re­ quirements imposed upon unions by the Landrum-Griffin law. In addition, the proposed constitution seeks to broaden and make mora effective the democratic guaran­ SAN FRANCISCO—The People To People Foundation, tees available to MFOW members. A revision of the constitution which has been raising funds to send a fully-equipped floating hospital to Southeast Asia, has announced plans to get the was indicated because of constant changes and amendments to the project underway sometime-* —" existing MFOW constitution over tion to be visited "by the ship, the years. The MFOW member­ in September. The foundation has obtained which will go on to other South­ ship has been urged by Sam Ben­ the Navy hospital ship Constella­ east Asian countries depending nett, MFOW president, to elimi­ tion, to be renamed the SS Hope, upon the availability of funds, nate this "patchwork quilt" and which will bo the base for the snr to Famish Crew come up with » new document. project. A crew of doctors, nurses American President Lines will Among the provisions contained and medical specialists will serve operate the hospital ship and the in the document are specific guar­ aboard the vessel which will call SIU Pacific District will supply the antees of membership rights in­ at various Southeast Asia ports and unlicensed crew. The ship is due cluding a trials and appeals pro­ offer medical treatment as well as to arrive in San Francisco the cedure that follows the established Instruction to local medical men. week of August 24 and to crew up methods used in US courts—name­ In addition, for the Orient a couple of weeks ly the right to confront the ac­ Indonesia will be the first na­ after that. cuser, cross-examine and the like. Medical Ship Set To Sail For Asian Ports in Fall MCS Open Hearing Scheduled For August 8 In Headquarters At the request of Ed Turner, Secretary-Treasurer of the Marine Cooks and Stewards Unioii, SlUNA President Paul Hall has scheduled an open hearing on issues raised within the union. The hearing has been scheduled to begin Monday morning, August 8, 1960, at 8 A.M. As per the text of the following two wires sent by President Hall, the membership of the ~- to all members of the executive comntittee of MCS has been notified to be present, if possible at the International." this open hearing. News of the hearing has been , Paul Hall, president displayed prominently in the "Stewards News" Seafarers International Union of official publication of MCSi and In the various MCS North America, AFL-CIO halls and ships. • • • The folowing are the texts of the two messages!.. The second wire also addressed to Turner, reads Ed Turner, Secretary-Treasurer as follows: Marine Cookis and Stewards Union "In view of the public hearing to commence on 350 Fremont Street, San Francisco August 8, 1960, at 8 AM in the MCS heaquarters "This will acknowledge receipt of your wire of building, and in order to give every member and June 17, 1960, requesting an investigation. Have officer full opportunity to attend such hearing, I hereby request that you do the following: also received communications from other sources reference the, same subject. "1. Under the terms of the constitution of the "In light of your telegram and communications MCS, call for a special meeting of all members on an investigation will commence forthwith to be the beach for 8 A.M. August 8th, at the MCS head­ followed by an open hearing. quarters building, 350 Fremont Street, San Fran­ cisco, Calif. "Union business requires my and other lntei> national officers' presence at the ITF congress to "2. Notify all members aboard ships in and be held in Berne, Switzerland, through July 30. near the Port of San Francisco of such special I am therefore directing that an open hearing on meeting so that they will have available the in­ these matters be held at the MCS hall, San Fran­ formation regarding this special meeting and pu}> cisco, California, commencing at 8 AM Monday, lie hearing in the event they wl.sh to attend same. August 8, 1960. I am further requesting that all "31 Pursuant to MCS constitutional procedure, members of the MCS desiring to file corpplaints call an agents' conference of the MCS to be held are to make such complaints in writing to bo at the MCS headquarters building, 350 Fremont mailed by registered mail return receipt requested Street, San Francisco, to commence at 8 AM, on August 8th. to Paul Hall, president, SlUNA, 675 Fourth Ave­ nue, Brooklyn 32, New York. All such complaints "4. In calling for this special membership meet­ shall bear the signature, the book number of the ing and agents' conference, it is further requested complainant and must be received at my office that the point be emphasized to all members and above not later than Saturday, August 6, 1960. At officers alike that this special membership meet­ the open hearing all complaints' will be given full ing and the agents' conference are being held for opportunity to present evidence in support of their the express purpose of allowing a maximum at­ complaints and the open hearings will continue tendance in the open hearing as referred to in my wire to you of July 6, 1960. until all complainants have been fully heard. "In the Interest of the entire membership of "5. Please cause this wire or an identical copy the MCS, I further request that you give the con­ of same to be posted in ail MCS union halls forth­ tents of this message the widest publicity by post­ with and, further, if in the event publication of the next issue of the "Stewards News" Is prior to ing the same in the union halls, publishing the same in the next issue of th» "Stewards News" the open hearing, that tills wire be carried ver­ batim In same." and by such other means that you normally have Paul Hall, president' of contacting the membership. Advise as soon as possible the steps you have taken to comply with Seafarers International Union this request Copies of tois wire have been se^t; ;. . of North America, AFL-CIO r �S^»9, 1H9 I Fice TwcBiir-TlHM SEAFARERS tO€ News of sro PACIFIC DISTRICT SAILORS UNION OP THE PACIFIC. MARINE FIREMEN'S UNION, MARINE I'ii •'i COOKS 1 STEWARDS UNION • SlU OP NA WC Ships Facing British Threat The "declaration of war" by British shi^qsing interests Rgainst West Coast American-flag operators points up the value of combined action by Pacific District unions on mutual problems. » British ship operators are ^the service offered to passengers. obviously going all out to grab Here, undoubtedly, the training off a big chunk of West Coast pas­ school operated by the Marino senger and freight trade. The Cooks and Stewards .Union at merged P&O and Orient Lines is Santa Rosa, Calif., is an invalur putting 18 ships into service, in­ able asset. The School upgrades cluding passenger vessels. The men working in shipboard steward director of the merged service de­ departments and also offers ap­ scribed the union of the two com­ prentice training for those entei> panies as "adding strength to ing the field. strength" and predicted a "decisive The P&O-Orient combine is not , turning point" would come soon the only issue confronting West In the Pacific trades. Coast maritime. Like AmericanThe targets of the combined op­ flag shipping operations elsewhere. eration are principally Matson West C(^ operators have had to. SS Motsonia, of Maison Lines, is one of passenger vesseb manned by members of SlU Pacific DisLines and American President compete with runaway-flag ship­ tricl unions. Ships like these ore focing increased competition from British, especially from new P^Lines, the biggest operators in the ping, the Military Sea Transporta­ Orient Lines combine. West Coast trades. tion Service and the destruction Since the SlU Pacific District of coastwise and intercoastal ships mans all the passenger ships on the by railroad rate cutting, West Coast, including around-theDIMUSS Pooling Facilities On these pages' is news of world, trans-Pacific and Hawaii In order to meet competition in activities 'of the SITT Pacific passenger runs, the ability of the trans-Pacific freighter operations. District representing the three District to pull together on the operators are now. talking West Coast unlicensed unions. challenges facing West Coast ship­ Coast of poolingf facilities so that they ping will have an important bear­ can halt the decline in cargoes car­ fbe SaUmn Union of ttie Pa­ ing on the outcome. ried by American-flag vessels. The cific, the Marine Firemen's Progress Since '55 companies involved are American Union and the Marine Cooks Undoubtedly, since the Pacific President Lines, Pacific Far East District was set up in 1955, includ­ and American MaiL The percent­ and Stewards Union, who sail ing the Sailors Union, Marine Fire­ age of outbound cargo carried by under the SlU banner predomi­ men and Marine Cooks, .consider­ American-flag ships in this area nantly in the Pacific trades to able progress has been made in has dropped sharply in the last Hawaii, Alaska, the Far East the form of improvements for their four years. and mi 'rmind-the-world mns. respective memberships and in The Pacific trade offers rich The SIU Pacific District Unions smoother and 'more stable rela­ prizes, with Alaska and Hawaii, be­ tionships with the steamship opera­ coming the 49th and 50th states, are a key group In the SIUNA, tors on the West Coast. and the industrialization of Aus­ representing as they do the The initial success of the new tralia, the Philippines and other entire msritime indnsky on the alignment was the victory of the Far East countries promising grow­ West Coast. District over Harry Bridges and ing trade in that area. bis ouster from the shipboard steward departments on the West Coast vessels. This, of coiurse, has considerable bearing on the suc­ cessful operation of West Coastpassenger vessek. Passengers aboard President Cleveland, d American President In the 1955 election on ^ ships, the Pacific District trounced Lines, demand top service during lunch on deck. MCS troining Bridges 3,931 to 1,064. The Marine Cooks and Stewards Union special referendum school in Sonto Rosa prepares and upgrades men for this work. Subsequently, the tfarea com­ bined unions went on to record on the one-year rule came to a close on July 30, 1960, with important gains in the area of all indications of heavy balloting on the issue. wages, welfare and pension bene­ The proposed rule would"* fits. since June 1, 1960. All limit a member's maximum branches Must Surpass Service indicators point to a minimum of A key element in the competi­ time aboard ship to one year. 2,000 ballots east. The proposition tion now facing the American-flag Its backers argue it would micour- calls for anyone who has been on passenger ship operators on the a ship for a period of one year to age job turnover and get men off West Coast is the ability of Ameri­ pay off and make room for a re­ can shipping to match and surpass the beach more easily. placement. Voting has been in progress at Acted On August 17 MCS headquarters and all Should the membership vote for the one-year rule, the report will be submitted to the August 11, WHEN CHAf4SING 1960, meeting. The proposition calls /ADDRESS ON LOQ In line with the Pacific Di^ for the incorporation of the one MMUNG USX trict 'contract negotiated in year rule into the shipping rules at the wage review • coming up with 1958, the three Pacific District the Pacific Maritime Association on unions come up for a wage review September. 30,1960. on September 30, 1960, with every ^ NUNiBER • expectation of emerging with wage When the original proposal was gains for their members. submitted to the MCS headquarters Indications of a wage increase, membership on May 5. 1960, a pattern in West Coast maritime standing vote showed 358 for and are emerging as the result of in­ two votes against putting the issue creases granted in contracts with up for referendum. other maritime unions. These in­ SUP HM Rule clude a five percent boost for members of the Marine Engineers The Sailors Union of the Pacific had an overwhehuing vote for a Beneficial Association on the At­ lantic and Gulf, and hourly in­ seven-month rule back in 195^ and This is a typicaf stateroom oboord a Matson Lines passenger creases for shoreside longshore the Marine Firemen's Union has vessel. Matson and APL are biggest operators in West CMSt and related crafts on the West long had a similar time limitation trades. Coast on the books. '1| - —I MCS Vofing Ends On One-Year Rule New Wage Gains Expected On Coast 11 w r I �j'-v" • r»l« Twin^-VMv SBdFAREnS Both Presidential Hopefuls Seen Concerned By Maritime Projilems LOO lair M. IfM Family Satting in Cafataria WASHINGTON—Whichever way tha national election comes out this November, the United States is going to have a Presidwit from a maritime state in the White House. Whether this will make any difference ai far as the maritime industry and working seamen are concerned re--* mains to be seen. But there is the maritime Industry has long legislation backed by the SlU and , hope that the incoming ad­ played a leading role. For exam­ other maritime unions. ministration, Republican.or Demo­ ple. Rep. John MacCormack, the Kennedy himself has Indicated crat as the case may be, might tend majority leader in the House of concern with the deteriorating to be more sympathetically in­ Representatives, has often spon­ position of the US merchant ma­ clined to the problems of seafar­ sored legislation of interest to sea­ rine and has stat^ that he would ing men and the industry in which men and fishermen. On the Senate tackle the problems faced by they work. side, the senior Senator from American-flag shipping, such as Democratic nominee John Ken­ Massachusetts, Republican Lever- the runaways, coastwise shipping nedy, the Senator from Massachu­ ett Saltonstall, has also been an problems and similar matters, if setts, comes from a state in which active supporter and sponsor of elected to the presidency. • The front-runner for the GOP, Richard Nixon, vice-president of the United States, started his political ca/eer in California, which is also a major maritime state. In his service as Representa­ tive, Senator and Vice-Pfesident he has been known to express Caught by camera at SlU cafeteria are Seafarer John Soreh,--AB, views which were sympathetic to with hf( wife, Isabella, son Mark, ZVzi and Robert, 4. Another the problems of the maritime in­ son, 5-year-old Ian, was at school when photo. was token. dustry. California, like Massachusetts, has long been a state in whic^ Follows States Mqrine Lead maritime problems have been of major concern, particularly since much of its prosperity rests upon a flourishing shipping industry. Congressional representatives from ^ m AHmCAlf SBAMBf California have long been asso­ ciated with legislation dealing with maritime matters and many mem­ WASHINGTON—With the recent States Marine waiver bers of the California delegation paving the way, another US-flag operator, and a Government have served on House and Senate maritime committees, such as Sen­ subsidiary hopeful, has petitioned the Federal Maritime Board ator Clair Engle (Dem.-Calif.) now. for permission to continue its S mA if« Hlo —MwtWtha Ta.lh.'uw.'"'"" if I ""'j!' ** tdtA-tnAm. laMorMllMttlto Wtai'iriHiu a member of the Senate Commerce the subsidized' companies will fol­ Committee', and ex-Representative foreign-flag activities. The low the policy of "if you can't lick To John Allen, Republican, who is company, Waterman Steam­ 'em, join 'em." It would surprise currently Undersecretary of Com­ ship Lines, was unopposed in its nobody if the bulk of the US sub•a •«« MBafi B* Salle** Uolon of th* bid for permission to continue act­ sidized.,steamship industry now in­ merce. Bat whet U** weAen Apparently, some of the first ing as agent in Puerto Rico and vests money in foreign-flag ship­ •l«nl»l»MU»rhftlWJ'prta »,• own.<»«««. decisions the new Administration Antwerp for three foreign-flag ping, rather, than in expanding Not ao la B«* 8 !_ —iTwMli a« »*«« — «»JTS tog a«<i B»ie« •« WoOetta. American-fiag operations. is going to have to make will deal steamship lines. 'eCthe ceno of the Uaion. Waterman's bid came close on Isbrandtsen Steamship Company, irt wux « SIililSS wt«Mith*» with maritime problems that have been hanging fire for some months the heels of recent decision of the another subsidy bidder, also has a tbaa »«, betwtm the Sniaad otM*new. Among them are the ques­ MA allowing States Marine to con­ waiver petition in process and is tion of reserving a percentage of tinue its foreign-flag eperations, in expected to win swift approval. think' at nigl'tbwlMM think ht night. oil imports for US flag tankers, re­ spite of the. fact that the company Tim action by the Federal Mari­ i.A.4.tighUr«>. Wtnl» vamping the Interstate Commerce has approval for a Government sub­ time Board involves waivers of the nln#il«>—t.' w'is'.iti'tw' »>»»• I"r.';r. Commission's approach to coast­ sidy for its American-flag vessels. provision of the 1936 Merchant r;;;^,"irthr~.l«t l*t™n H- InAinU-l jTt l.«.V fo=r hMn• Kfg •"»— 12*?*d U« gghe ol •* I wise and intercoastal shipping, the Waterman's bid was a re-phrasing Marine Act which bars foreign ties role of the Milllary Sea Trans­ of the States Marine petition in for those operators receiving US portation Service in the shipping stating that their foreign-flag' ac­ subsidies. industry and, of course, how to tivities were in no way competing Yes, the activities of the Seafarers Jnternadeal with the flight of American with US-flag vessels, operating reg­ ularly over any essential trade tionai Union in behalf of its members is con­ shipping to the I*unaway flags. route. tinuously being noted in the most importont As has been expected In marlmoritime publicotions, both newspapers time circles, the States Marine decision will open the door to ond magazines. Recently, for instonce. The many US-flag operators to expand Industrial Bulletin, the official news mogtheir foreign flag acitvities. The ozine of the New York State Department of decision reversed a 26 year prec­ The recent earthquakes in edent in which the Board had re­ Labor, published o comprehensive orticle fused a subsidy to any American Chile and the tidal waves regarding the Union's activities. This'or­ flag i^mpanies who maintain for­ which followed it mean additicle hos been reprinted by the SlU ond is eign-flag operations. tional hazards for shipping, an in­ The lack of opposition to Water­ surance group reports. The quake now ovoiloble for free distribution. If you man's move, after the bitter fight hove not yet seen this orticle, ond would made by many US operators on and disturbances associated with like o copy, just clip the enclosed coupon States Marine's bid, indicates that it are believed To have spread MATsoja-rngsiukcm and mail it to THE SEAFARERS LOG. floating mines over a wider area of the world's oceans. Moving? Notify Minefields put down In World SlU, Welfare Editor War II and during the Korean War Seafarers and SIU families are the source of the peril. As re­ SEAFARERS LOG who apply for maternity, hos­ ,675 Fourth Ave._ pital or surgical benefits from cently . as March of this year, a the Welfare Plan are urged to French coastal motor vessel was Brooklyn 32. N.Y. , SWAP keep, the Union' or the Wel­ damaged by a floating mine, and I would like to receive a copy of the article reprinted from VAPMS ANDlMflciCM fare Plan advised of any a German ship also suffered mine The Industrial Bulletin. changes of address while their damage last January. Since the THERCHTSONTV. applications are being proc­ end of World War II there have (Please Print Information) A/EW LOW PRICES essed? Although payments are been 451 vessels sunk or damaged often made by return mail, by mines. AfiOUDt^AimS NAME Additional sightings have been changes of address (or illegible reported on several occasions dur­ WBLCcmUBflEAT return addresses) delay them ing the month of June off Japan when checks or "baby bonds" STREET ADDRESS YdtoeOMW PLACE. and in the waters around Great are returnea. Those who are OMiV£a4M>Of¥EAiH> Britain. It is estimated that about moving or plan .to move are CITY ZONE.. STATE advised to immediately notify 500,000 mines were put down by BY1HE5EAE4RER& SIU headquarters or the Wel­ various nations during World War (If you would like more than one copy of the above publica­ mUNlON-ACIEAR fare Plan, at 11 Broadway, New II. plus an unknown number in­ tion, please indicate the number here volved in mine-laying operation! ^ York, NY. sitice then. ' / Your Unions In The News! Waterman Seeks Subsidy^ OK On Alien Flags^ Too SMitKO llnioi Sahju't' Wttte U to Mwhn At How All At \$ i:-' p• f'', £«s^' i:~ f 'Quakes In Chile Increase Hazard Of Floating Mines Arfi^-iULis. I- •/^. , /•- -^1 �i Jaljr M. MM 8BAPARERS TANKER DOLDRUMS MAKE T-2 PRICES NOSEDIVE AGAIN •V'- 4 . !^ > 1: Faf0 Tw«ity-Ft*» LOG Seafaier's Son Lives Dangerously-On TV Reflecting the sorry predicament of the tanlcer industry, several American and foreign T-2 tankers have been sold in Seafarer John R. Webb, 67, leads a comparatively quiet life aboard SIU ships, but he has recent months for between $225,000 and $315,000. This is less a son who lives dangerously—on the television screen, that is. Webb's son, Richard, is star of a TV cops 'n robbers series called "US Border Patrol." than one-tenth the 'asking Once a week he catches- • price for T-2s at the time of majPr reason being the construc­ smugglers and assorted nefar­ the Suez War in the fall of tion of large numbers of super­ ious characters in ^ minutes' tankers which have made the T-2 1956. ' Right after the war and the blockage of the Suez Canal, the Niarchos interests put some for­ eign-flag T-2s on the block with «'n askinig price of over $4 million. American-flag T-2s could have gone for some $2 million—and un­ doubtedly 'many an American tanker operator is kicking himself tpday for not having sold out. . Now, the prices of T-2s are little more than their scrap value, the largely obsolete, plus the slack in the ship market. ' Actually, prices of T-2s on the world market are dropping down to the level of the Liberty ship, a vessel of considerably less dead­ weight tonnage capacity.Th world shipping depression has led to the lay-up of 674 dry cargo ships as of June 1. The big backlog of idle shipping Is en­ couraging the scrapping of older vessels. As a result of the depression, which is even more severe in the tanker field, owners of Ameridanflag supertankers are pressing for a moratorium on Governmentguaranteed ship mortgages, to keep the Government from fore­ closing on their vessels. The mor­ atorium is being opposed by, oper­ ators of US-flag Libertys and T-2s, who argue that such assistance would give the supertankers an unfair advantage in competing for Government farm surplus cargoes and other dry cargo freight char­ ters. However, all of the independent tanker operators are agreed that an American-flag oil import quota, such as exists in all other major maritime nations, would solve the problems of the American tanker fleet at no cost to the Government. Remember When... - AUGUST 4, 1939; The cre\vs of three P&O ships, in Miami, Tampa and Port Ev.erglades, Went on strike against a company policy of pay­ ing only for overtime work perform^ on Saturday afternoons, Sun­ days and holidays. . . . Company supervisors aboard the Chicago, Duluth and Georgian Bay Transit Co. ships fiave been practicing a "checkoff" system. Money is taken from men they hire. They let the oldtimers alone for the most part, but they make their killing by Intimidating young employees, some of whom earn as low as $30 a month. In some instances they have forced these boys to pay as bigh as $9 for the right to work on the job. AUGUST 18, 1939: ThC worst fog in the history of Boston, -which delayed ships and shipping, has cleared. The fog lasted for eleven days . . . An approaching boom in maritime transportation is expected by the tanker outfits, who look for trouble in Europe before the end of the year. (P.S: It was to come In exactly 14 days.) SlU officials want boostpd wage scales to meet the new need, with bonus scales for members on ships navigating dangerous waters or carrying "dan­ gerous" cargoes. Also, compensation rates for seamen injured or shipwrecked, etc. * * * AUGUST 5, 1940: Sign of the times: A new kind of beef beset the Dutch Oranje Line's Prins Willem III, which lay outside the break­ water at Chicago. The crew refused to sail aboard an unarmed ves­ sel. Crew members said that the 2800-ton freighter was the target of German bombers off Flushing, Holland, on May 10 and that they wanted armament to protect themselves in the event of future at­ tacks . . . Representatives of seamen offered an abundance of evi­ dence at Maritime Commission hearings that American merchant ships have been woefully underst^fed. Particularly stressed was the fact that the type of ship which used to carry eight AB's carries five or at most six. Union representatives called the undermanning of vessels detrimental to safety at sea. AUGUST 14: An overwhelming majority of members of the SIU voted for the amalgamation of the Atlantic and Gulf districts of the organization ... "The Seagull" reminisces on the founding of SUP. He says—"In 1885 I was sitting on a lumber pile in San Francisco, when a group of seamen organized what they called a union. Thinks 1 to myself: It sounds good, but I'll stick around a while, because these guys are goofy and can't do any good to themselves. Why, at this time, if they even as much as quit a ship they are due for the brig. Every time they take a drink they are liable to wake up at sea under some bucko, mate worse than the last one. Some young square­ head called Furuseth did a lot of talking and seemed able to sway the men. So 1 decided to keep an eye on this lad." We may look for quite a number of young fellows trying to join the Union if the draft act passes. There will be quite a feW who, faced the alternative of either getting married or ^o^PE fO: -i® avoid the draft, will choose the latter. •i-'- running time on the WABC televi­ sion network. If it's necessary, in the process, to drop his prey with a pistol from an outboard runabout at 50 yards, or drop them in an alley, Webb is equipped for that, too. He spent four years in the US Army in which he be­ came an instruc­ tor in judo and the use of small arms. Webb, Sr. The senior Webb, who sails in the steward de^^rtment on SIU ships, started out as a seminal student. His family had turned out Baptist preachers for many generations, but Webb broke the pattern and turned to the prosaic life of a shoe salesman in Chicago. In 1934, he tired of fitting shoes to customer's feet and went to sea instead, starting out on a tanker. Subsequently, in 1940, he joined the SIU and has been shipping steadily ever since. Among his ex­ periences he counts a submarine sinking in 1943 in which the entire crew survived unscathed. Webb's son, Richard, also started out in the fatnily tradition. Aftet three years in theological school, he took off for New York and an acting career which included per­ formances on the Broadway stage and in " Hollywood movies. In "US Border Patrol" he plays the role of Deputy Chief Don Jagger' He haa also played the lead in "Captain Midpight," another TV mayhem^ show. Shown here in his TV role in "US Border Patrol" is Richard Webb, son of Seafarer John R. Webb. Notify Union On LOG Mail As Seafarers know, copies of each issue of the SEAFARERS LOG are mailed every two weeks to all SIU ships as well as to numerous clubs, bars and other overseas spots where Seafarers congregate ashore. The procedure for mailing the LOG involves calling all SIU steaniship companies for the itineraries of their ships. On the basis of the information supplied by the ship oper­ ator, three copies of the LOG, the headquarters report and min­ utes forms are then airmailed to the company agent in- the next port of call. Similarly,- the seamen's clubs get various quantities of LOGs at every mailing. The LOG is sent to any club when a Seafarer so requests it by notifying the LOG office that Seafarers con­ gregate there. Aa always the Union would like to hear promptly from SIU ships whenever the LOG and ship's mail is not delivered so that the Union can maintain a day-to-day check on the accuracy of Its mailing lists. HYDROFOILS-SHIPS OF TOMORROW? .-I| Artist's sketch shows hydrofoil ship in action. A report issued by a House Committee on Science and Astronautics states that high­ speed cargo vessels operating on hydrofoils would be of great value in supplying American military forces, should they ever become involved in overseas hostilities. Sush vessels, operating at speeds of 60 knots and over, would be capable of outrunning the nuclear out the usual amount of hull friction, the vessel submarines certain, to be lurking in the. reaches extremely high ispeds. The drawback is that few funds have been alwrters of the world in any future war. loted for the real work to be done in bringing these Navy Investigation Urged ships to a stage of commercial reality. About all The report suggests that the US Nayy investigate that has been done so far is that a contract has been ihe possibility of developing such vessels in the awarded for an 80-ton ship which could iravel at 80 knots. 1,000-ton range. If such a future ever comes, it might possibly Hydrofoils work When the forward motion of tfle vessel is speeded up sufficiently to lift the hull revolutionize the maritime picture, giving American out of the water and onto tne hydrofoils. The ves­ shipping an insurmountable advantage Oyer foreign sel theh rides along on tbka like water aids. With­ competition. �MrM. INt SEAFJRERS LOO I' fiK News of SIV INl>nSTBIAl. WOBKERS' 13N10N91 OF THE SlU ATLANTIC. GULF. LAKES AND Welfare Plan Benefits Reach $133,446 Total INLAND WATERS - DISTRICT Benefits For Disability Upped To $50 A Week The Marine Allied Workers Divisim membership is in line for a raise in weekly disability payments, linder the MAWD Welfare Plan paym^ts to Marine Allied Workers Division members and their depend­ Welfare Plan, in keying with the recent increase in dis­ ents during the last reported period—the mmth of June—totalled $9,163.98. New York ability briiefits by the State* Bobert T. Creaaey reported to toe paym&ats in June totalled $2,208.10, bringing the grand total of payments In the New Yoric of New York. board that a report ef the plan's area to $55,149.36 through the ' At a special meeting of the funds had been filed both in New at Port«>- Mathews Company. Inc., Welfare Plan board ef trustees. York State and Washington, as Is end of Jtme. Philadlephla. It was unanimously voted that tha required by state and federal laws. MAWD manbors outside EdM and Chaitles Garea, $1^90 present $49 benefit toould be in­ Creasey also repmted tha foiv th« New Yoric ares zeeelved creased to $50. the new New Yoik mulatlon of new administrative for the birth of a diild at the $6.9^.88 during June, bringing State figure that became effective policies within the Welfare Plan. the overall total of payments to Kensington Hoq^tal. Philadlephla, July 1. AU members wlU receive All MAWD onploy*** will be re­ June 7, I960. Gorea la eraidoyed $133,4^.87. the increase regardless of the state quired to sign e specially peepsrod Two youthful boaters, one in which ha or aha teddes and posonnel data card. Beneats paid to data W to* at Air Mostor CorpenUsa, Phfladelidiia. an SIU-MAWD man, kept the is employed. Tha new card will show the MAWD Welfare Plan to all mem­ Tirglnla and Gary Itoyden. $180 Flan Under Study required personnel date of each bers and dependents now total harbor patrols of the De^ifor the birth of a child at Temple Also adi^tted ]by the groiq> was MAWD member, his personal qual­ $188.59623. University Hosidtal. PhQadelftola, ware River bu^ reewitly when a plan td bring the Welfare Plan ifications, numbo' and age of de­ E^ht maternity claims were paid February 22. 1900. Drydea Is also their parents reported toem as under a self-insmance program. pendents and other pertinent facta. during the month .of June. They onidoyed at Air Ma^er. Phila­ missing following a boat outing. Ways and means of placing snob It was explained to the board that delphia. Seven hours later. Frank Mc- a plan in effect are being worked the card is necessary to fadUtate went to: Dora and Isadaiw Sannden, Cafferty. 19, and John Berger, 20. out by a two-man committee. more rapid handling of memba> Mr. A Mn.^ S. Andrsejewskl, $62.50 for the birth of a child at Serving on the committee are ship insurance, hospitalization and $182.50 for the Idrth of a child at Coney Island Hospital. Brooklyn, sailed into the Biverton. NJ.. area trustees A1 Kerr, representing the general welfare matters. The cards St. Mary's Hospital, Philadelphia, June 25, 1960. Saunders is em­ from which tiWT b*d left, not union, and Fredrik Paulsen, rejure- wiU be issued to the employer for that a full-scale search the employee to eomplete, and is May 21. 1960. Andrsejew^ is ployed at toe Edward L. Durham knowing was in progress. McCaHerty. an senting toe employers. designed to give permanent docu­ The self-insurance program in employed at the Alumacraft Manu­ Company, Inc., Brooklyn. MAWD membo- three months, is mentation for each member. effect will bring MAWD members Mary and Albertns Shaw. $120 facturing Company. Philadelphia. employed at toe Mallard Manufac­ additional convenienibe in insurance Kept .confidential, the cards will Mary and Robert Great, $180.50 for the birth of a child at the turing Company in Penndel. Pa. Germantown Hospital, Pa., June The two youths brou^t their matters plus greater flexibility in ba maintained by tha Welfare for the birth of a child at Woman's 12, 1960. Shaw is onployed at the the setting of payments. Han staff and used fbr these pur­ 14-foot outboard motorboat to Welfare PlaiL Administrator poses only. Hospital. Philadelphia. May 21, Belfield Welding Company, Phila­ safety at one of toe municipal 1960. Green is also employed at delphia. piers in Biverton oWy after the raiaab^ and John Dwyer, Berger's father had reported to Alumacraft in Philadelphia. Nancy and John Estrada, $182.50 $167.95 for the birth of a child at the police that the boys had never Cooper Hospital, Philadelphia, for toe birth of a child at North­ June 7, 1060. Dwyer is employed reached their destination nor had they returned. Fearing something eastern Hospital^ Philadelphia, at the Air Master Corporation, had happened to toem enroute. the May 30, 1960. Estrada is employed Philadelphia. search ^gan. ALBANY—The New York State minimum wage law, pro­ Motor Harbor Police all along the .Delaware Rivm- area were viding for a minimum wage of at least $1 an hour for all aleirted. Patrols kept up their con­ employees in the state, with certain exceptions, goes into stant search for seven hours until effect October 1, 1060. The*" the unharmed youths reappeared This is one in a series of features which the SEAFARERS LOG will at the New Jersey pier, near where law, of course, will primarily accurate records, of tha wages paid to all employees, the hours wotked publish regarding members of to* SW^ffi^iated vntona working on their trip had originally started. aid non-union workers. by the employees covered by the Motor trouble had. eaused their The former minimum wage law hourly minimum wage rate, and maritime production and alHed fields. delay. setting 75 cents as a minimum is such other information as the In­ repealed. dustrial Commissioner deems ne­ Formerly, a state minimum wage cessary. SISTER CLAIRX F. WAUI is Bratoo' LUIS E. PAGAN Is applied only to industries covered omployed at the Display-Re Adver­ employed at Schaevits EnginewAll records must be made avail­ by a specific minimum wage order. tising F(»dwarding Company in ing. of Camden. New Jersey. A able to the commissioner upon re^ The 10 industries covered by the New York. Lids resident of Cam­ old law were: retail trade, restaur­ quest for Inspection. Employers den. Claire baa is manied and ant, 'hotel, building service, amuse­ must also make available any em­ been employed at has a daughter, ment and recreation, laundry, dry ployee or employees needed for in­ Schaevits since Janetta. The fam­ terview in connection with workAH union members dMNild cleaning, beauty service, confec­ wage practices, at tlfeir place of October. 1999. ily lives in Brook­ tionery, and counsellors in child­ reguloiiy attend the member­ and has been an lyn. Twenty-five employment. ren's camps. years of age. MAWD member ship meetmgs in iheir orao. Extends Coveraga since Decembor, Pagan has been These meetings'^ are devoied working at Dis­ 1959. Employed The new law extends minimum to discussions of matters Wtal to as a crimper and play Re AdverUswage protection to all employees the weHora and security oS in New York State with amended and Solderer, ing since April eveiy MAV^ member jond his exceptions. Now exempted from Claire was a typist and bookkeeper of this year and became an MAWD member in Jmm, 1980. DRcA For­ before }oming Scfaaeivtx Engineer­ (am%. the mandatory $l-aa-bour wage HEADQUARTERS warding has been under SlU com ing. The Camden firm haa been What's mon, these meetings and from any minimum wage order 875 Fourth Are., Brooklyn. N.T tract since August, 1959. under MAWD contract since April, provide every MAWD member are those in domestic service in the HYecinth 9-6609 1958. with die opp^unity to speak up home of the employer, farm labor, executives, administrators and pro­ * ft t The news on tois page deals BROTHER RAYMOND DACOS- and stale his yiewl about these fessionals, outside- salesmen, and Baltimore. . .1216 E. Baltimore St. with people working under the vital matters. EAstem 7-4909 taxicab drivers, clergymen. Gov­ SIU banner In shoreside estab- TA is employed by the Air Master Manufacturing Company of Phila­ Here is the schedule of the Houston ....4202 Canal St. ernment employees, workers in Ifshmenls engaged in maritime delphia, Pa. An next meetingst CApital 3-4080 non-profit institutions that are re­ prednetieB and elUed fields, assembler, Datodiuted among the iteme NEW YORK-Toesdoy, Au- ligious, charitable or educational, Miami 744 W. Flagler St. Costa haa been W 2k at 7 r.M., SIU HaM, students and apprentices. made are eordage, eanvas, FEanklin 7-3564 employed at Air Students, leai'ners, apprentices Mnavinr evidpnBent, diip's 075 Eoorlfi Ave., B'klyn. Mobile ..., .1 S. Lawrence St. Master since and handicapped workers employ­ gear and related tadmtrial HEmlocfc 2-1754 BALTIMORE-Friday. August July, 1955, and ed at profit-making firms are not pradaets. Beeanee there had has been an 5. at 8 P.M.. SIU Hall, New Orleana 523 Bienville St. exempted from the minimum wage •at heen any ocganfaaiiaa avaliMAWD member order. TUIane 8626 1216 E. Bahfmere St. ntany ef these hUe to toem. since March, The State of New York has also Nerfolk sreaiten were fenaeiiy witoeto 416 ^Uey St SUNBURY-Svndoy, August 1959. A resident made It clear in the new wage or­ . 1^ 7-1082 7, of 2 PM.J FriendsMp fire der that higher minimums may be of Philadefphia, came wider the- SIU banner. Company. established after the October 1 nifladelphia......837 Maxket St. PernlepnifiitB in tlu^ area will DaCosta lives there with bis wife MAiket 7-1835 and two daughters. The Air Mas­ PHUADEIPHIA - Tuesday. date, through an Industry-by-indushers ter Corporation has been under try wage board procedure. August f. at 7:30 P.M., SIU Saaturoe, PR......1313 Fernaadai an an ImpoctaW pwt af ths an MAWO contract ainca Febru­ Hail, 287 Market SL Under the provisions of the new Junoos Ave. marlNmC industry. ary. 1959. law. employers are ordered to keep •'r . + . r Phone 2^998 I 'MISSING' MEMBER OF MAWD, BUDDY TURN UP SAFELY $t-An-Hour Minimum Wage Law In NY Takes EHeet October I With SlU Industrial Workers These Are Your Union Meetings —^Attend Them! SIU Halls, Marine And Allied Field w r a * e s ji V r i' » « I » e s e*« 1 ir"! �•' WW Jal7 M, 18« SEAFARERS Life's Just Devine LOG 8.A.NT.4 YSHSTIA (SIsB! Shipplns). May SS—Chairman/ Idward C. Bur­ ton; Socrafary,- Ralph R. Maldenato. Delegate raporta everything running smoothly. No beefa. Sink In crew pantry haa been tnataUcd. New re­ pair liata to be made up. 3 1 CS NORFOLK (Citloa SorvlcaO Juno U—Ship'a dalegatO/ Tod Jonoa. Dele­ gate reports one man mlaaed ship in Baltimore. Hla book and papers will bd given to patrolman at payoff In Phllly, unless he meets the ship. His olothes are with the captain. * f ALCOA PBNNANT (Alcoa), Juno If—Chairman, Joff Oavis; Sacrotary, fat* TwMiit-SeTcf trip. Thhms runalcg ssssot^ except lor few houre diluted OT. Need elariilcation on port time in Galves­ ton. Four-slice Toastmastcr and one dozen ice cube trays ordered to be put aboard in New Orleans, not re­ ceived. Aluminum paint requested for boat deck. DrinUng water to be piped from foimtain to deck to de­ crease traffic in passageway. May 28—Chairman, J. Hacker; $eeretary, O. Bryan. Screens and water line being taken care of. No beefs reported. Draws to be given in American money day before arrival. June 17—Chairman, Monroe Oaddy; Secretary, J. Hacker. Everything run-, ning smoothly so far. No beefs. Please flush heads. Take cere of cots. Question about painting out overdue steward department decks and quarters. O. C. Ballsy, Jr. Delegate reports aU repairs taken care of with excep­ tion of a few minor ones which will be made this trip. Ladders for top­ side bunks have not been sent aboard OREMAR (Marvan), June IS—Chair­ as requested. This creates an unsafe man, E. McNab; Secretary, J. B. Rack. situation for men in top bunks. Letter Everything going along fine. No beefs requesting donations for American Merchant Marine Library Association' reported. One man missed ship. Crew requests that captain secure hospital read. M/S/C to hold one meeting slips. a trip because of the shortness of each voyage. M/3/C to get small ship's fund together. Discussion ' on r . ' t keeping ship's launi^ clean: also locked in port. I. DOROTHY (Bull), June 12—Chair­ man, William Aycock; Secretary, Al­ fred J. Severe. One man paid off by mutual consent in Rotterdam. Four men hospitalized in Belgium. Food has improved. Draws have been heavy in every port. Sixteen-month .old Devin* Trevisono gives astonished glance d» h'er 'proud father Dominic smiles down at her. H* sails in the steward department. Cos Victory Gets Suez ^Brush-OfP Seafarers on., the Coe Victory received quite a reception from Egyptian demonstrators while the vessel was transiting the Suez Canal, the ship's minutes noted. The Coe Victory (Victory Carri­ ers) came through the canal at the time that the SIU. was picketing the Egyptian -'flag Cleopatra in New York. The picketline was protest­ ing Egyptian blacklisting of some American-flag ships as well as mis­ treatment of SIU crews in Egyptian ports. "We were picketed with big signs which read: 'Arab workers stand together and can hit back violently.' "The pickets shook their fists and hissed and would not take or deliver mail to the ship," the re­ port added. "But we did not pay any attention to any of the capers and only laughed." SHIPBOARD SKETCHES by Ben Graham STEEL CHEMIST (Isthmian), May 30—Chairman, E. A. Anderson; Secre­ tary, R. L. O'Brien. Crew asked to turn in linen to steward. All minor beefs being taken care of by departmenr delegates; the rest to be given to patrolman at payoff. $4.65 in ship's fund. Check on washing ma­ chine for next trip. Sougee deck and steward department rooms before ship gets in. Try and give change or dollar to ship's fund. Some "B" cards ask to ride to their home ports where they got on, according to SIU shipping rules. IBERVILLE (Waterman), June 13— Chairman, J. Lewis; Secretary, H. Carmlchael. Ship's delegate reports things running smoothly. Most of repairs taken care of in Gulf—a few . more will be squared away on the coast. Captain requests that all radio and TV antennaes be made neat as possible, otherwise he will have them taken down. Suggestion made that all coffee cups be taken back to crew pantry. Discussion on 'donation to­ ward the purchasing of a new or used TV. ERNA ELIZABETH (Albatros), May 2S—Chairman, David Jones; Secretary, Al Isaac. Headquarters to clarify the 60 day rule for "B" and ,"C" cards. Ship Relegate and department dele­ gate to call headquarters from Port Arthur. Vote of thanks to steward department for job well done. SEATRAIN LOUISIAN.A (Scatrain Lines), June 34—Chairman, Sam Nu­ gent; Secretary, R. V. Gelling. No beefs reported. Mate informed the ship's delegate that the deck depart­ ment would start on the steward de­ partment foc'sles on the way south next trip. He also has instructed the bosun about moving the "coffee bar." Accepted. Pillows should be replaced immediately. Deck chairs should not be left out on deck after they have been used as they could blow over the side. . CAROLYN (Bull),. May 5—Chairman, Boyd H. Amberry; Secretary, Jose F. Santiago. Fans and ventilators In gal­ ley to be cleaned for sanitary rea­ sons. No beefs reported. MOUNT WHITNEY (Cargo A Tank- ship), May 22—Chairman, William Barth; Secretary, D. Julian. Copy of letter sent to Union about the death of Charles T. McAvoy. read to crew. Flowers were dropped over the side during a service off Capri, for Brother McAvoy. Captain spent $10 for crew toward flowers and con­ sidered it a donation to the ship's fund. Everything else going okay. Some di.sputed OT. Repair lists are turned in to ship's delegate. Safeiy meeting was held. JOHN C (Atlantic Carriers), May 3» —Chairman, E. B. Sanders; Secretary, V. L. Harding.' Reports repairs were nof-completed this past trip. Locks on doors, keys fur same, were not taken care of. Crew to repair whatever is possible during voyage. No parts were received for various r^airs. New washing machine received. Ail other repairs to be taken up at last meet­ ing bcfooe arrival in States. Enough repair lists to be made up for de­ partment . heads, delegates, boarding patrolmen, port captain and port engi­ neer. Ship's delegate to see captain about looks and keys for doors. Bolt locks to be put on passageway doors. Only door to be left open in port is one by gangway. Gangway watch to watch same and to keep unauthorized persons from coming inside amidship house. Discussion on the way Ar.-ib countries are treating American sea­ men. Caution is to be taken when going ashore. Heat to be turned off in foc'sle. Dump trash over the side and not on deck. AMES VICTORY (Victory Carriers), June 19—Chairman, 'R. E. Gannon. Secretary, Harry Lowthar. Delegate reports one man paid off in Honolulu (medical). Some disputed OT. Wiper logged twice for failure to turn to. Have hospital cleaned, rooms sprayed and toilet fixed. IM: A.' ,f. , *Hey Buddyl Someone on the. first floor ":|5,:^rowers'fiere ^ j- ;' . said you give out if-' • - SAN MARINO (Peninsular Nav.l, May $—Chairman, Fred MInerth; Sec­ retary, George Bryan. Fairly good fc- . , / I i/f / W 1 ANGELINA (Bull), June 12—Chair­ man, —A—. Farrara; Secretary, H. R. Hutchlns. Beef regarding first assist­ ant engineer to be referred to patrol­ man. AU else okay. ALAMAR (Calmer), June IS—Chair­ man, Shortle Miller; Secretary, Elbert Hoggy. All'repairs have beeyi attend­ ed to except the ones that have to be done ashore. Few hours disputed OT. Department delegates elqpted to serve as safety committee. MV PETROCHEM (Valentine Chemi­ cal), May 19—Chairman, Floyd Pence; Secretary, S. Riviera. No beefs re­ ported. $11.80 in ship's fund. Motion to get a patrolman down to the ship next trip by sending a radiogram to Houston hall or -Philly. SEATRAIN SAVANNAH (Seatrain), June 21—Chairman, Joseph L. Czech; Secretary, John W. Parker. Few beefs settled satisfactorily. Because of lay-up, steward would like every­ one to strip bunks and turn in all linen. STEEL APPRENTICE (Isthmian), June 19—Chairman, Paul Whitlow; Secretary, Everett Perry. Captain was unsuccessful in getting Pall Mall cigarettes. Milk in Okinawa must first have approval by the .American consul before it goes to ships, to be taken up with Union upon arrival. All repairs to be turned in to me -and disputed overtime after we leave the Islands for the States. Some disputed OT. Vote of thanks to stew­ ard department. Motion to discon­ tinue issuance of travelers' checks in foreign ports and dollars only be Issued as we lost money on the ex­ change. M/S that all brothers come to messhall and pantry in proper dress.. "Proper" dress means pants and shirt, or shorts and tee shirt and at no time underwear or pajamas. Chief cook died at sea. Suggested that donations be made for flowers. STBSL AOVeSATS (itthmlsn). April 2$—Chairman, Jasper Andgp•ion; Secretary, Louis OuellnHs. Re- taken care of. Cabinet to ho gairs istalled in electrician's room. $19.09 In ship's fund. Beef on service In messroom. Table set up for watch only. Washing machine starting to go on the bum. Vote of thanks to ex ship's delegate Robert Flood. Rob­ ert Barrett elected new ship's dele­ gate. Chairman, Robert A. Barrett; Sec­ retary, Louis Guellnltz. Discussion re noise in passageway. Keep recreation room clean. Wa'shing machine should be kept cleaner. $19.05 in ship's fund. Few hours disputed OT. M/S to keep outsiders away from crews- quarters. AU hands to help gangway man. ROBERT FORT (Cities Service), Juno 24—Chairman, William Mitchell; Secretary, R. Bunce. Repair lists to be submitted to department delegates. No. 2 washing machine to be kept clean after use Galley messrooms, toilets and foc'sles need fumigation. Vote of thanks to Paul Gon.sorchik, Norfolk agent, for settling beefs with chief mate who has been hard-timing the deck department. NEVA WEST (Bloomfield), June 19 —Chairman, O. Oowd; Secretary, W. R. Gels. Captain unable to put out draw before arrival. Everything else OK. $28 in ship's fund. One man missed ship leaving New Orleans. M/S/C that man hours be set in port for deck and engine to work six hours per day so that men on day work having business to care for will have a few hours in the after­ noon to do so. Discussion to have screen doors placed on galley and me.sR halls and pantry. Vote of thanks to the steward department. ALCOA PLANTER (Alcoa), June 24 —Chairman, Paul Morris; Secretary, Harold P. DuCloux. One man missed ship in Barcelona. Repair lists turned in. No beefs. Everything going along fine. $14.60 in ship's fund. M/S to look into conditions in Houston clinic. Suggestion that due to crowded con­ ditions on board C-1 ships, the com­ pany be contacted in regard to crew using passenger space. Also suggest­ ed that captain put out a price list slop chest stores; put aboard wider variety and better quality stores. HILTON (Bull), July 2—Chairman, John S. Holley; Secretary, Barney Kelly. Ship's delegate reports every­ thing in order. Beefs to be taken up with patrolman. Need clarification as to who is supposed to take care of the wrenches. ROBIN KIRK (Robin Line), June 24 —Chairman, Carl E. Harcrove; Secre­ tary, Louis E. Meyers. Ship's dele.cate saw captain about men lor.^ed. Cap­ tain said he would take it up with boarding patrolman. Steward dele­ gate reports beef on baker's work and filthiness to be reported to boarding patrolman. Reefer doors in messrooms in need of repair. Repair lists to be turned in. PORTMAR (Calmar), June 24—Chair­ man, Joe E, Thomas; Secretary, D. Catlin. Steward reported theft of cups and silverware at Baltimore, presumably by stevedores. "Up-grad­ ing" of beef on this ship is non­ existent; still shoe leather and rubber overshoes. Three departments to al­ ternate care of recreation room and latindry room. COTTONWOOD CREEK (Bulk Transpor), June S—Chairman, A. Hannas; Secretary, S. Holden. M/S not to ALCOA RANGER (Alcoa), June 24— Chairman, Juan S. Rueda; Secretary, M. J. Morris. Repair list to be turned in to patrolman. $16.69 in ship's fund. No- beefs reported. M S fo have ship fumigated to get rid of roaches. YAKA (Waterman), April 23—Chair­ man, E. Conrad; Secretary', H. Menz. ERNA ELIZABETH (Albatross), Juno 30—Chairman. W. C. Snell; Secretary, Al Isaac. John Garher elected new ship's delegate. Vote of thanks for job well done to outgoing delegate D. L. Jones. Stewaard department commended for good food and service. pay off or sign on until repairs are taken 'care of. No locks for 'doors. Stack to be made higher sn soot and gas fumes do not come into the living quarters. $14.25 in ship's fund. Some disputed OT. Ship's delegate reports repairs com­ pleted: slop chest okay. Messman rooms to be painted out this voyage. All disputed OT turned in. Crew asked to keep shoes off messroom chairs and to keep .pantry clean after meal time; also not to put glasses in sink with cups. Crew wishes to thank Capt. E. Patronas; Chief Mate W. Epperly; Chief Engineer J. Bryant; 1st Asst. E. Hansen for cooperation given to crew on repairs. CHILORE (Ore), Junt 27—Chairman. Pierce; Secretary, K. Turner. Discussion re money draws. Wa.shing machine needs repairing. Water rusty. Don't dump paint cans down garbage chute. Vote of thanks to steward department for job well done. BIENVILLE (Sea-Land Service), June 2<—Chairman, Manuel Graza; Secretary,. Joseph Cayou. Ship's dele­ gate reports everything running smoothi.v. $33.50 in ship's fund. M. S that -patrolman see company about awnin.g for the after deck. M/S to get some chairs for recreation room. Ship's delegate to see patrolman about clothes dryer for crew's laundry. Officers have had one for a month. DE SOTO (Waterman), May 1 — Chairman, Tom Morlarify; Secretary, Red Barone. No beefs reported. Gen­ eral discussion to move deck engineer midships and mt fireman and oiler on same watch in one room. See captain about place for crew to hang clothes. June 2F—Chairman, C. Garner; Sec­ retary, J. B. While. Ship's delegate reports two men off sick. (Hiief engi­ neer refuses to allow crew to dry clothes on the engine room rails, so our recreation space Is cluttered up with two clothes lines through its middle. RAPHAEL SEMMES (Sea - Land), July 4—Chairman, B. Varn, Jr.; Sec­ retary, W. Blakeslee. Charlie Henning elected new ship's delegate. Dis­ cussion on getting clothes dryer for crew. Not enough pressure on heads aft. Vote of thanks to steward for handling ships fund, etc. Rusty water in galley fresh water lines. SEATRAIN NEW YORK (Seatrain), June 28—Chairman, T. Keyser; Secre­ tary, D. Cann. One man missed ship in Savannah. $5.60 in ship's fund to be used for purchase of magazines. Crew asks for adequate linen and soap. Keep cigarette butts in cans instead of on decks. PETROCHEM (Valentine Chemical Carriers), July 4—Chairman, Donald Peterson; Secretary, S. Rivera. Beefs to he taken un with patrolman in Philadelphia. Wind chutes to be or­ dered next trip. OCEAN DINNY (Maritime Over­ seas), July 3—Chairman, H. M. Thom­ as; Secretary, E. Pappas. Ship's -dele­ gate reports captain uncooperative. Curacao—no fresh milk and vege­ tables; Rotterdam—no fresh vege­ tables; Sofi and Leghorn—no Ameri­ can money and no attempt to get any. Some disputed overtime. M/S/C everyone to pay two marks to ship's treasurer. Need new refrigerator. New wind chutes don't fit portholes. Melons wanted for the next port. Vote of thanks to steward depart­ ment. BEAUREGARD (Saa-Land), No data —Chairman and Secretary, B. Brown. Discussion on getting air blowers turned on. Need repairs on messhall deck. No hot water. Food OK. �Mir 99. tm LOC R«d's Prld« and Joy LOO.A.RHYTHU: Dickie .Margaret Kelirwieder. I know what the "grand" In Grandmother meant Sparkling blue eyes. Faded blue jeans. A scamp full of mischief Wily and tricky That hoy who's my life My own grandson Dickie. Many miles separate us I'm as lonely as can be 1 think of the fun we had What he'd say to me. His favorite expression As my hand he would touch— Oh Nanny, Oh Nanny, I love you too much. Charles "Red" Slater s!fs on the steps of his house with his doughteTi Charlene, five-years-old. SS Titan Seafarers A Big Hit In Poland; Brought Grain Cargo (The following article teas submitted to the LOG by Seafarer J. E. McKreth.) On the first voyage of the SS Titan we went to Gdjmia, Poland, with a large cargo of grain. We received a very warm welcome at Gdynia upon our arrival, and movies were made on the ship and by air, and later the pictures were oh the front pages of the news­ papers all over the city* This was the largest ship to tality of everyone was Just wonder­ over meet there and enjoy the fine go into Gdynia and it carried ful. The club te clean and in mid- hospitality of these wonderful peo­ a record cargo. (Ed. Note: The Titan is a 47,500ton supertanker. Consequently it can haul a prodigious quantity of gram.) While there ID the port we spent much of our time in the Maritime Seaman's Club where tha hospi­ city—convenient for everything. They have papers and magazines in many language there, but not too many in English, so I suggest we send some copies of the LOG to the Polish maritime club. . They would certaiihy be wel­ come there, for seamen the world ple.. . . I know that everyone on the Titan certainly enjoyed them­ selves on our many visits to this fine club. On the Lucile Helps Two Lost Boats Big Family Man Things haye been happening to the Lucile Bloomfield. The ves­ sel recently won a 100 percent rating in the USPHS sanitary rating, and that's something pret­ ty special in Its own right. But then, other things have been going on, too. On the 2nd of July while the Lucile was a day east of the Bahamas It ren­ dered a bit of aid to a yaeht, the "Calypso," which needed some navigational assistance. Then, the following evening, while ofF Bimini, a power boat from Ft. LauteMale' inercepted the Lucile, flashing its lights on and off, Indicating distress. The Lucile gave it some, gasoline and, oil and set it off for the nearest port, then proceeded on its way. Which only goes to prove that sometime "lightening-" does strike twice, and when you least expect it. Otherwise, tha voyage is going pretty well, reports Lee De Parlier, meeting secretary aboard the ship. r-:. J'. List Details In Cables To Union I. I. e > j' Robert Leavy, OS, poses wirii fitree of his five children in the SlU headquarters haU, With him are: p. To r.) Charlene, 7; Bob Jr., 3, and Laura Jeqn, 6. ' » 4 i J # d * i. t • A .* • e * 4 < '.-d-d d a J i . . When noti^dng headquarters by cable or wireless that a Sea­ farer has paid off in a foreign port because of injury or illness, ships' delegates should include the following information: The man's full name, his SlU hook number, name of the ship, the port of payoff and the hos­ pital where he is being treated. The response of ships' crews to the Union's request for these notifications has been very good. Sometimes though, cot all of the above information has been included. Be sure to list all of this data so that the SIU can. act as promptly as possible. of the Gulf is Porthole Griaxard, one of our brothers whs is equsUy at east with a chip­ ping hammer or telling a good To the Editor: The Colonel John Turner atory. Porthole is best remsmFoundation will provide for any bered from his South Atlsntia ship's library free upon request days. Cool Breeze Bob Reynolds, by te^book, dictionary and read­ ing material In the interna­ way of our 50th Btate, is slways tional auxiliary language, Es­ alert and on the job. But ho peranto. Sailora of all people has a beef about not being able in the world meet the people to sleep 24 hours a day. Littlewho are kept apart by the bar­ man Anderson, the West coast riers of lingual diversity. The "Flash," became a member of curse of Babel inde^ growa the International act on our worsa ai tha nationa multiply. stay in Greece. Andy was viewed with some of the hewer ruins of Athens. Gentleman Paul Morris, the diplcmat G£ our crew, was best remembered for his attempt to crew-up the model of Colum­ bus' ship in Barcelona, along with Chuck Lindbaugh, who All letters to the editor for was trying to find a sailmaker publication ki the SEAFARERS with palm who would travel. LOG must be signed by the Chuck, who is our serang, is writer. Names will pe withheld our retired veteraq, and can upon request. tell many a hair-raising tale about life in Germany. Sailor Wentworth is second Sailors above all people could best make uia of the list , of in command and no sturdier delegates of the Universale hand at the helm can, be asked Esperanto Asoclo in all the im­ for. He has also called for a portant ports of the world. And sober payoff and we all back the' language Is at least 100 him. West Coast Charlie Johnson times easier than any of the hundreds of national tongues. was always ready with a strong From personal experience in hand and a good word to help Europe and Asia 1 know that it his fallen brothers get back on the path of good living. He has works! If you would like to accept started a mission for fallen this offer, write at once to Glenn women in Spain, and he would Turner, Middleton, Wisconsin appreciate any cohtrlbutions. Tex McCorvey, from FloridaT saying that you read about it was caught trying to trade in the SEAFABERS LOG. choice underwater lots In Mark Starr Swampland, Florida, for those old .ruins outside of Athens. We Brother Thanks have a top SIU crew who work hard and play fast. Chiiore Crew ' A couple of fellows wanted To the Editor: support in estabfishing a haU I am a crewman on the SS In Barcelona . . . someone thep Chiiore and would like to place said why not Yokohama. One these few words in the SEA­ brother came' up with a bit FARERS LOG: Mr. James Rob­ about being an American oU inson thanks all crewmen on kiug . . . Another friend want­ the SS Chiiore for their dona­ ed to set up a ginmill in one tion andfiowers sent to Charles­ of the old Greek temples. ton, SC on the death of his mate made the mistake sister. Ydur generosity was of The walking o;it on deck during greatly appreciated. a securing, and someone yelled James Robinson "It you want to play AB. ship $ S* out of the hall." All in all we have a top Mate (Speedy Gon­ Welfare Check zales) and one heck of a skip­ Is Appreciated ' per on the SS Alcoa Planter. To the Editor: The second mate, Bobby Park­ We, the family of Joseph B. er, also SIU, Is the photogra­ Murphy, (died March, 1960) pher and will snap anything or wish to express our thanks and anyone that crosses his lens. appreciation for the check sent Zee Young Ching by the Welfare Plan. iSliip's reporter Thanks also to Mr. Patterson & ^ (NY office) with wdiom we cor­ responded and Mr . Dakin Sees US Begglns (Boston offioe) for calling up. For Needed Ships Mm. J. B. Murphy To the Editor: and daughter Anybody who has been listen­ ing to the radio, or reading the newspapers and magazines these Alcea Planter days can see that Uie world is in Crew Reports pretty rough shape, and before To the EdttoR long there might be a few of To start off with, we have those International "police ac­ Lucky Yates, a newcomer to tions" going. our ranks, who has proven to Along with that we can ex­ he a worthy addition, and has pect to, find the orators telling contributed many a story about' us how vital the merchant ma­ fair play by Lady Justice in rine is and how much it's need­ Jacksonville. ed to help preserve peace in the Djtncing Joe Gross, a student world. The only trouble is of Arthur Murray, captivated there Isn't much merchant ma­ many a crowd in the fleshpots rine left to do/the job. of Spain and Greece with his With all that's going on now, toe stomping. you would think that the Gov­ Our $kipper. Captain Letcher ernment wouM own up that it Bailey, one of the finest, was made a sad mistake In permit­ surprised to find a fellow ting so many of our ships to go striker of '34 in the deck de­ Under the phony maritime flags. partment, and many a bloody When we need them we will yarn was spun. probably have to get down on Big Red Dailey, as they hand and knee and beg them called Mai around the Embar- to take Uncle Sam's dollarr— cadero, Is a number one ehip< if the Russians don't get them mate on anybody's list.' An­ first' . other well known old-timer mit AI Carter Esp«rantn Offer To Seamen i-' * - , s 'i ...i r I �Jidr M, MM Par* Pwcirtj-NiM BKAFARERS LO0 Paradise tosf—Pof/ucfc With Potlicker A Tall Tale Spun By An^Anonymous Seafarer (Tht following artlcl* IMU aubmltted by a Seafarer who reguested that his name not be attached because of his natural modesty, and his fervent imagi­ nation). • ' Recently a group of members were lamenting the fact that many good "unbelievable" sea stories are not published, merely because no one goes to the trouble to write them down, Burlington has its "liars club" and while I am sure no one would question the veracity of a fellow member of the SIU, some of their stories require unbounded faith to swallow. In order to supply a' vein of levity in an otherwise serious publication, why not run a con­ test in the LOG called the "Un- Iwlievabl* Sea Stories" tontest? Perhaps prizes like a gold plated marlinspike or i year's supply of salt-water soap would urge such people as Red Camp­ bell or Percy Boyer to put on paper, some of the preposterous (though true) events that surely must have occured in their color­ ful careers. If this idea is acceptable, please do not mention my name in con­ nection therewith. In the first place, I do not like to see my name in print and secondly I might possibly be a contestant. In fact you will Rnd enclosed "Paradise Lost" written on the backs of QT sheets, the only paper available at the moment. • "During the Administration, of the late Huey Long, a movement was started in Louisiana to na­ tionalize the charming bayou custom of dunking corn bread in tiumip green potlicker. "A committee was formed, funds were appropriated and a brand new T-2 tanker was char­ tered. Local boys filled the crew list, and being a world famous navigat<H' and a southern gentle­ man of distinction, as well as having a keen appreciation of fine foods including potlicker, I was selected from thousands of applicants to serve as master of the vessel on its maiden voyage to Boston. "The tanks of the vessel, the SS Gastric Climax were filled with potlicker and an 18-foot deckload of com bread was se­ curely chained to the decks. "Things went along swimming- ly until w* picked up the bar pilot' to enter Boston harbor. Upon boarding the ship, he re­ marked that it was unusual for an empty oil tanker to come into Boston from oil-rich Louisiana. "Looking around I agreed. We did seem a bit high in the water, and Investigation revealed that we were empty. It seems that during the long night watches the bugalee crew had absentmindediy broken off bits of the deckload and dunked it into the cargo hold, consuming it all. "This was not to be overlooked as a boyish prank, as the ship's manifest called for 125,000 bar­ rels of high octane potlicker and 2,750,000 board feet of corn bread. "Upon docking, I was sum­ moned before the Coast Guard and the US steamboat inspectors. A kangaroo court, composedmostiy of carpet-baggers and Republicans treated me as mildly as circumstances seemed to warrant. "After a lengthy trial, they tore up my master's license and suspended my seaman's papers for 99 years. In addition they cancelled my birth certificats and had my parent's marriage revoked retroactively for 75 years. "While I appreciated their consideration, you may readily imagine what this made me feel like. "P.S. Ever since then, ship­ ments of corn bread from Loui­ siana have been banned in Boston." Building Model Ships Is Seafarer's Hobby No Breeze From Fans In Storage Make Delicious Menu Materialize Seafaters on the Orion Star are asked to subdue themselves be­ cause the racket has been waking up the watch. Also, the fans aboard are no good—always breaking down. The ship re­ ceived 11 new 18-lnch fans but the chief engineer stowed them away and has refused to put them out. On the Del Norte the men have suggested that pickles, fresh on­ ions, radishes and other vege­ tables appear on the tables as well as on the menus. It always looks great to see a menu crammed with good things to eat, but its even better when the things on the menu materialize on table. i t J- Bombay Stopover i Strikes by longshoremen aren't limited to the USA, Seafarers on the Eiemir (Marine Carriers) discovered recently. When the vessel arrived in Bombay, the men discovered that the port had been tied up in a longshoreman's strike, which had just been. settled, and they had to hang out the hook while some 22 ships ahead of them were unloaded. This gave the men ten days or so to "do the town" and get their landlegs back in the mysterious land of India. 4" 4" i" Corsair Food's Not For Him? hp M. Phelps, meeting clerk on the , Alcoa Corsair, has a note in the latest ship's minutes about a stow­ away found aboard the ship one day out of Trinidad. . As he so tersely put it: "Polish stowaway found one day out of Trinidad. Complained that the food wasn't too hot. (Gained teif pounds before arrival in Mo­ bile)." Which makes us wonder—was this fellow a glutton for punish­ ment? Or was he just a glutton? t 4. 4^ More Texmar Tail Tales Litri* Charles Fox, 17 months eW, son of Seafarer Charles H. Fox, takes a drinic of water. From the Tesmar comn more reports about previously noted LOG-A-RHYTHM: tall tales concerning the fishy prodigies of three anglers aboard. At last count Gene, Dutch and Stone, the three fanatical fisher­ .IHUBSTON LEWIS. men, have caught more than a hundred fish during the trip. Supple as a sapling, the clean­ limbed youth. Hands in pockets, enjoying May, Does not tax his rtdnd vnth morals or truth Under the Union constitution Though he will consider them an­ other day. every member attending a Un­ him whistle and sing and laugh ion meeting Is entitled to Let and shout nominate himself for the elected And soar through space while his posts to be filled at the meeting heart is free. —chairman, reading clerk and Too soon must he ponder tohat life recording secretary. Your Un­ is about ion urges you to take an active And feel bound to solve its mys­ part in meetings by taking these tery. posts of service. Now be decorates earth with an And, of course, all members innocent face ... have the right to take the floor Prime production of the human and express their opinions on race. any officer's report or issue un­ Too soon will our systems stifle der discussion. Seafarers are and bind him urged to hit the deck at these And hard-wrought decisions furrow meetings and let their ship­ his brow. mates know what's on their Tomorrow we'll not find him minds. As cheerful as he is now! One of the favorite hobbies of seamen is making models of ships, and one of the best model-mak­ ing Seafarers shipping nowadays is Jacinto G. Guilles, who sails as a wiper. Shown below is a photo of Guilles with a model of a C-3 type vessel, the first cargo-pas­ senger ship he sailed upon, back in 1954, the Steel Maker. He started the model on Sept. 13, 1958, and built it all by hand. Guilles worked without a plan of any kind, relying solely upon his memory. There are 1,800 pins in the C-3 model, which gives an indication of the amount of detailed work and painstaking effort involved in building good model ships. The background for the model, a view of Manila harbor, wa» also made by Guilles, demonstrat­ ing his versatility. "Making models is a good hob­ by," says Guilles, "It keeps you busy on the long trips, so that you're not troubled by too much time on your hands," Guilles didn't say what ship h* plans to make for his next project but rumor has it that he's been eyeing the Transeastern. If he takes it on, it will be * lot of work since the Transeastem's about five times as big a* a C-3. Model Seafarer Cheerful Neighbor Speak Out At SIU Meetings Jacinto G. Guilles, wiper, exhibits a model of a C-3 cargo ship h* built. i.4 �rac« Thirtr SEAFARERS SEAFARERS IN DRYDOC SIU Welfare Plan Thanks Welfare For Bond, Ald^ 'Best Of All' Among the Seafarers currently In the USPHS hospital in Staten Island are N. N. Bathia, James Eichenberg, G. W. Faircloth, M. Y. Hamboussy and H. V. Morris. Bathia, who sailed last on the Steel Chemist as an electrician, was laid up with a broken left foot when some steel fell on him. He is making good progress. Eichenberg, last on the Massmar, underwent a chest operation which used four pints of blood received from the SIU Blood Bank. He sails in the steward department. Morris Eichenberg Faircloth Bothia Faircloth was in for treatment of a hernia condition and is making rapid progress. He should be released shortly. His last vessel was the Stbel Seafarer. Hambousy, last on the Steel Age, was hospitalized with a stomach ailment but is coming along well now. Morris was laid up with a bronchial condition and stomach trouble, and is progressing rapidly. His last ship was the Steel Flyer. Seafarers on the beach are urged to visit or write their buddies in the hospital. A visit or a letter from a friend comes in handy to those cooped up in the hospital. USPHS HOSPITAL GALVESTON, TEXAS Mack J. Acosta D. B. Patterson Seabastian C. FotI Adam £. Slowick Lars Johansen Edwin Whitehead William J. Jones USPHS HOSPITAL SAVANNAH. GEORGIA Belisarlo Alonso Ernest H. Webb Austin Kltchings John W. Whit* Jewel R. Rolins USPHS HOSPITAL STATEN ISLAND, NEW YORK Oscar J. Adams Paul Kronbergs A.. A. Arancibia Thomas Lauer Otho Babb Andrew Lewis Henning Bjork Marcos E. Medina Alexander Cherney James Mitchell Victor B. Cooper Joseph Smith Grady Faircloth Lawrence Smith George Fiance Roy C. Stem Michael J. Gaudio Richard L. Welch Michael Hamboussy Arthur A. WUlert Rolf Karlsen USPHS HOSPITAL NORFOLK. VIRGINIA G. J. Balaskos Lewis Harrison Dennis Cahoon Henri J. Robin Jr. James M. Davis Walter M. Sikorskl WilUam C. Dowdy USPllS HOSPITAL SAN FRANCISCO, CALIF. Matthew Bruno Henry Osterwald E. W. Huertas Edw. L. Pritchard Edw. H. Huhienga Leo Rondario John F. Malyszko R. W. WUUams Waldo M. Oliver VA HOSPITAL FORT MILEY, CALIF. Howard J. Watts USPHS HOSPITAL SEATTLE, WASHINGTON Richard C. Green Raymond Ruppert George B. Little S. T. Zetterman USPHS HOSPITAL FORT WORTH. TEXAS Frank E. Anderson Max Olson George Doherty Peter W. Sotir* B. F. Dciblcr Joseph P. Wise Woodrow Meyers Bozo G. Zelencld VA HOSPITAL WEST HAVEN. CONN. John J. DriscoU Henry E. Smith SAILOR SNUG HARBOR HOSPITAL STATEN 1SL.AND, NEW YORK Bart E. Guranick Thomas, Isaksen A. B. Gutierrez ST. MARY'S HOSPITAL • PHILADELPHIA, PA. Kosta Halgimisios US SOLDIERS HOME HOSPITAL WASHINGTON, D.C. Wm. H. Thomson • USPHS HOSPITAL BALTIMORE, MARYLAND AUen Cooper Manuel Lourido Wm. Crawford Michal Michallk Sidney C. Day R. E. Morrison Gorman T. Glaz* Emile J. Olive Loyd J. Griffis Chrisbol Palmer Mr f. IMt LOG John Schoch Frank W. Taylor Gerald F. Shaffer Edw. U>. Trainer Charles Shaw Norman Wallen Eugene E. Stewart MT. WILSON STATE HOSPITAL MT. WILSON, MARYLAND George Davis John Joseph Hazel VA HOSPITAL KERRVILLE, TEXAS WUlard T. CahiU VA HOSPITAL HOUSTON. TEXAS R. J. Arsenault Edward Talbot STOCKTON STATE HOSPITAL STOCKTON, CALIF. D. M. Christolos TRIBORO HOSPITAL JAMAICA, LONG ISLAND James RusseU VA HOSPITAL OTEEN, NORTH CAROLINA Joseph H. Bass VA HOSPITAL NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK Chgs. O. Bergagna USPHS HOSPITAL BRIGHTON, MASS. R. M. Davis John T. Keegan Glenn R. Ellis Joss E. Leston Leonard C. Ells Peter A. Marozag Armas E. Janssen VA HOSPITAL FORT HOWARD, MARYLAND R. E. Dabney VA HOSPITAL PERY POINT, MARYLAND Daniel R. Seabolt VICTOR CULLEN STATE HOSPITAL CULLEN, MARYLAND Alvino Terrazas VA HOSPITAL CENTER HOT SPRINGS SOUTH DAKOTA CUfford C. Womack PENNSYLVANIA HOSPITAL PHILADELPHIA, PA. R. H. Klrkwood USPHS HOSPITAL 1 NEW ORLEANS, LA. Joseph Basch Clyde R. Leggett WiUard Blumen Earl Middleton Accurso Bonti Cleon Mixon George Mi Chong James T. Moqre Virgil L. Coash Ernest Mosley John C. Munden Roberto DeFranza Bertram Eckert Kenyon F. Parka James Fail Frank S, Paylor Dawson Perry Edw. Fairfield Philip H. Prescott James Glisson Hubert Goley Andrew C. Reed Leo C. Hannon Chas. R. Robinson Wade B. HarreU Calvin A. Rome Gustave Hayzan Bobby M. Slade Herman J. Holmef Herman L. Smith B. R. Huggins Murray W. Sinith Hans Spiegel Edw. O. Johnson Eaden E. King Maximo Tangalin John Tromkino Norman W. Kirk Edward Knapp John A. Williama Luther E. Wing Leo H. Lang Rene A. LeBlana SIU Atlantic, Gulf Lakes & Inland Waters District PRESIDENT Paul HaU EXECUTIVE VICE-PRESIDENT Cal Tanner ^VICB PRESIDENTS Claude Simmons Lindsey WiUiams Earl Sheppard A1 Tanner HEADQUARTERS REPRESENTATIVES BiU llaU Eli Muouey HEADQUARTERS....67S 4th Ave.. Bklyn HYacinth 9-6600 BALTIMORE 1216 E. Baltimore St Rex Dickey, Agent EAstern 7-4900 BOSTON .•.. .276 State St John Arabascz, Agent Richmond 2-0140 HOUSTON 4202 Canal St R. Matthews, Agent CApital 3-4089; 3-408C MIAMI 744 W. Flagler St. Ben Gonzales, Agent FRanklm 7-3564 MOBILE 1 South Lawrence St. Louis Neira, Agent HEmlock 2-1754 NEW ORLEANS 523 Bienville St Buck Stephens, Agent Tulane 8626 NEW YORK 675 4th Ave., Brooklyn \ HYacinth 9-6600 NORFOLK 416 CoUey Ave Paul Gonsorchik, Agent MAdison 7-1033 PHILADELPHIA 337 Market St S. Cardullo, Agent Market 7-1633 SAN FRANCISCO 450 Harrison St Walter Sibley, Agent Douglas 2-4401 SANTURCE, PR. . 1313 Fernandez Juncos. Stop 20 Keith Terpe, Hq. Rep. Phone 2-5996 JACKSONVILLE 920 Main St., Room 200 WllUam Morris, Agent ELgln 3-0987 SEATTLE... 2505 1st Ave. Ted Babkowski, Agent Main 3-4334 WILMINGTON, CaUf 505 Marine Ave. Reed Humphries, Agent Terminal 4-2528 SUP HONOLULU... .51 South Nimttz Highway PHone 502-777 523 BienvUle St. Jackson 5-7428 NEW YORK 875 4th Ave., Brooklyn HYacinth 9-6605 PORTLAND 811 SW Clay St. CApitol 3-4336 SAN FRANCISCO 450 Harrison St. Douglas 2-8383 SEATTLE 2505 1st Ave. Main 2-0290 WILMINGTON 505 Marine Ave. Terminal 5-6617 NEW ORLEANS MC&S HONOLULU....51 South .Nimitz Highway PHone 5-1714 NEW ORLEANS 523 Bienville St. RAmond 7-428 NEW YORK..„..675 4th Ave., Brooklyn HYaclnth*9-6600 PORTLAND 211 SW Clay St. CApitol 7-3222 SAN FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St. EXbrook 7-5600 SEATTLE 2505 — 1st Ave. MAin 3-0088 WILMINGTON 505 Marine Ave. TErminal 48538 Great Lakes District ALPENA 127 River St. ELmwood 43616 890 Main St. GRant 2728 CLEVELAND 1420 W. 25 St. MAin 1-0147 DULUTH..., 621 W. Superior St. Phone: Randolph 2-4110 FRANKFORT. lUch PO Box 287 ELgln 7-2441 RIVER ROUGE.. 10225 W. Jefferson, Ave. Mich. Vinewood 3-4741 SOUTH CHICAGO 9383 Ewing Ave. SAginaw 1-0733 TOLEDO 120 Summit St. CHerry 8-2431 BUFFALO. NY Canadian District FORT WILLIAM * HALIFAX N.S 408 Simpson St. Phone: 3-3221 128"/4 Hollls St. MONTREAL 634 St. James°"st. ^West Victor 2-8161 44 Sault-au-Matelot -, LAfontaine 3-1569 THOROLD, Ontario 52 St. David St. CAnal 7-5212 TORONTO, Ontario..,...272 King St. E. EMplre 4-5719 ST. JOHN, NB ....177 Prince William St. OX 2'54'ii VANCOUVER, BC 298 Main St. QUEBEC MFOW BALTIMORE 1216 East Baltimore St. HONOLULU... .56 North Nimitz Highway NEW ORLEANS NEW YORK 523 ^envilfe^St! 130 "reenwfch" COrtlaud 7-7094 PORTLAND 522 NW Everett St. CApitol 3-7297-8 SAN FRANCISCO.,,.,...240 Second St. DOufflas 2-4592' SAN PEDRO 298 West 7th Sti TErminal 3-4485 SEATTLE 2333 Western Ave. MAin 2-6326 To the Editor: I want to thank the SIU Wel­ fare Plan for Its prq^pt pa/ment of my hospital claim. I received the check qiuckly and was advised that my doctor re­ ceived his payment for services also. Last night at my Sunday School Class Meeting the talk got around to the different hospltaliration plans and I was very proud to say that my husband's To the Editor: My husband Joins me la thanking you and the SIU for the bond sent to our son John, and the lovely letter. The bond will be used towards his col­ lege education. > I would also like to express my thanks for the aid the Union gave towards our child's ex­ penses during his 30-day in the hospital. Words can never express our thanks for such a great kind­ ness. ' Mrs, Alice Coher 4" 4" 4' Thankful For Union Aid To the Editor: Although 1 have only been with the SIU a short time, I have much to be thankful for; especially the welfare help which was offered to me while in the hospital and now whilo Seafarers Welfare Plan was tho I'm taking outpatient treatment. My hope is to continue to sail very best of any that were dis­ cussed, and also the promptest and to make a good Union brother always. In payment. Edward Poiakoff MI*. John W. Parker All letters to the editor for publication in the SEAFARERS LOO must be signed by the writer. Names will be withheld upon request. 41 t 4^ t Kiel's The Place To Get Sick To the Editor: I am in the hospital in Kiel, West Germany, and am being treated the best I've ever been . . . and I've sure been in hos­ pitals the last three years. I am a bed patient here and will bo for at least six weeks and then I'll have to.spend an­ other month convalescing. If any brother feels any doubt about treatment here (if he has to get off a ship,) forget It. My ship, the Galloway, is in Stetten, Poland, now, discharg­ ing grain. She will go to Bel­ gium and Holland then to Korea, for a good long trip. By the way, if any brother ever stops In Tampa, Fla., try to make the "Flaming Buddha." It is a swell joint and different —no drinks but the suki yaki is tops. Also, for a nice quiet drink and to meet a swell brother, drop into the "This is It" Lounge thete.'Bi'bther Ed Rushton Is the owner. Its located at 313 Tampa St. Good sailing to all. . . Robert "Curly" Nielsen 4) 4* 4> Morning Light Crew Praised To the Editor: Our sincere thanks and best wishes to the entire crew of the SS Morning Light for their kind expression of sympathy shown after the passing away of our sister. It was deeply appreciated and Is acknowledged by our family. Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth A. Hunter $1 4i> 4« ' Welfare Help Aids Family To the Editor: I wish to* thank you, as well as tho members of the Sea­ farers Welfare Plan for their continued support, extended to my growing family. My husband was out of Job when my son was born and had it not been for the Welfare Plan it would he very hard for us. Thanks again, and I hope someday my son will be of serv­ ice to the SIU. Mn. F. I. Ayson 4< 4^ Welfare Aid Appreciated To the Editor: My family and 1 gratefully appreciate the kindness you and your Welfare man Mr. Gilletto extended to us. The money sure has taken • burden off my shoulders. My late husband was so proud to belong to such a good Union. Many thanks again. Catherine Stevens 4» t - 4« Operation Came Just In Time To the Editor: * I wish to thank the SIU for their wonderful Seafarers Wel­ fare Plan. 1 had to have « sudden operation eight weeks . ago and they took care of mo wonderfully. They also have an outstand­ ing doctor and surgeon (Dr. Oscar B. Camp) here in Balti­ more. Because of him I am home and well, doing fine. My husband and I both wish to thank you again. Daniel and Isabella Moyland 4< 4" 4- Seafarer's Wife Likes LOG To the Editor: Enclosed is our new home ad­ dress. I have sure missed read­ ing, the LOG since moving here in November of last year, and would appreciate getting it once more as 1 look forward to. reading it while my husband is away at sea, which is most of the time. Again I wish to thank you all for such a nice little paper. Frances Ranev i 4> 4i Thanks Crew ForWreath To the Editor: I should like to acknowledge through this medium my sin­ cere appreciation to the crewmembers of the Alcoa Planter for the beautiful floral wreath and most comforting words of sympathy received during our bereavement in the passing of our mother (Mrs. Irene Pembrick). In behalf of my husband, my family and myself, let m9 say we are deeply grateful and may God bless you abundantly. Mrs. Thelma P. Talliver �asoto Jidjr M, 186« SIU BABY ARBIVALS All of the following SW families have received a $200 maternity benefit plus a $25 bond from the Union in the baby's name: 1^'M ' LOG Tv mr^-OM Put Postal Zone On LOG Address 'Featherbed^ Saves Train After Engineer Is Stricken SEAFARERS Constance Rooita Cameron, l)orn 21, 1960, to Seafarer and Mrs. April 17, 1960, to Seafarer and Wilmer G. Black, Dallas, Tex. Mrs. William R. Cameron, Mobile, 4; 4 ^ , Ala. Perry Michael Bosh, born June 21, 1960, to Seafarer and Mrs. Jon Ira Crabtrec, bom June 25, James P. Bush, Hialeah, Fla. 1960, to Seafarer and Mrs. Calvin A. Crabtree, Mobile, Ala. 4 4 4 SuBan Ann Gnflfano, born June ^ ^ Scott Brian Evans, bom May 26, 21, 1960, to Seafarer and Mrs. 1960, to Seafarer and Mrs. Zollle Anthony GuOiano, Elizabeth, NJ. Evans, Jr., Lebanon, Pa. 4 4 4 ^ Elizabeth Marie Maillho, bom Paul Shawn Loffler, born April Jnne 22, 1960, to Seafarer and Mrs. 23, 1960, to Seafarer and Mrs. John Milton P. Maillho, New Orieans, La. C. Loffler, Grafton, W. Va. 4 h'> Hariel Ortiz, born June 20, 1960, to Seafarer and Mrs. Francisco Ortiz, Bronx, N. Y. if i" it Jane M. Treltler, born May 22, 1960, to Seafarer and Mrs. Carl T. Treitler, Arabi, La. i ^ Ralph Tracy Wright, born June 15, 1960, to Seafarer and Mrs. Nor­ man R. Wright, Houston, Tex. — ^ Lorraine Mary Bertolino, bom June 16, 1960, to Seafarer and Mrs. Joseph Bertolino, Galveston, Tex. 4i J* $• Thelma Jean Black, born June 4 4 Erico Baailito Mennr, bom June 26, 1960, to Seafarer and Mrs. Victor A. Menor, Brooklyn, NY. '4 4 4 Bettina Loniae Meaaaaa, bom May to Seafarer and Mrs. Andrew Messana, Framingham, Mass. 4 4 4 Joseph MosakowsM, bom June 22, 1960. to Seafarer and Mrs. Joseph Mosakowski. Philadelphia, Pa. 4 4 4 John Joseph Mncia, bora June 4, 1960, to Seafarer and Mrs. Joseph R. Mucia, Brooklyn, NY. EVERY I SUNDAY I DIRECT VOICE I BROADCAST Atomit Ship Gets Checks OnRadiation Chewmembers of the SS Savan­ nah, the nation's first nuclear merchant ship, will be the most thoroughly examined seamen in America under the terms of an elaborate shipboard program, to maintain a careful check on radia­ tion. The vessel will be operated 1^ States Marine Lines. A staff of technicians, (^lerating under the joint supervision of the Atomic Energy Commission and the Public Health Service, wiU check out the crew exhausjjvely to determine how much radiation they might be abs(vbing as well as their general physical reaction to working on a nuclear-poweied ship. The technicians will have at their disposal a variety of radiation -detectors, monitoring Instruments and other devices. Where ship's personnel may have to service the container in which the reactor is installed, they wiR be equipped with protective clothing, respira­ tory equipment to breath only filtered air and other safeguards. Personals And Notices I I TO SHIPS IN ATLANTIC EUROPEAN AND SOUTH AMERICAN WATERS "THE VOICE OF THE The Post Office Department has requested that Seafarers and their families include postal zone numbers in sending changes of address into the LOG. The use of the zone num­ ber will greatly speed the flow of the mail and will facilitate delivery. Failure to include the zone number can hold up delivery of the paper. The LOG is now in the process of zoning its entire mailing list. James G. Kellog, Sr. Contact your wife, Gabrielle Kel­ log, at 75 Ranney Street. Spring­ field, Mass. MTD" 4 IVERY SUNDAY, 1620 GMT (11:20 EST Sunday) WFK-39, 19850 KCs Ships in Caribbean, East Coast of South America, South Atlan­ tic and East Coast of United States. WFL-65. 15850 KCs Ships in Gulf of Mexico, Carib­ bean, West Coast of South America, West Coast of Mexico , and US East Coast. 4 4 Meanwhile, MID 'Round-The-Worid Wireless Broadcasts Continue . . . 4 WCO-16908.8 KCs East Coast South America 4 Every Monday, 0315 GMT (10:15 PM EST Sunday} MARITIME TRADES DEPARTMENT 4 4 4 4 4 Nick Tator Get in touch with Joseph Malazinsky, Millburn, NJ, DR 6-7635. WCO-22407 KCs West Coast South America WMrd 81-11037.5 Northwest Pacific 4 Audley FoBter Please get in touch with your wife, care of R. Toomey, 2701 Hud­ son Boulevard, Jersey City, NJ. Anybody knowing where Brother Foster is, is asked to transmit this message. Every Simday, 1915 GMT (2:15 PM EST Sunday) WCO-13020 KCs Europe and North America WMM 25-15607 KCs Australia 4 Moustafa Fadl (or Fade!) Ck>ntact George J. Tomeb, consul general. United Arab Republic, 902 Park Avenue, New York 21, NY. Anybody knowing of the where­ abouts of the above seaman, should contact the consulate. WFR-85, 15306 KCk Ships in Mediterranean area. No^ Atlantic, European and US East Coast. J 4 Rudolph Cefarattf Contact your mother at 51 Clin­ ton Street, New Britain, Conn. Urgent. Also get in touch with attorney Lawrence Drasin, at 233 Broadway, New York 7, NY, as soon as possible. • 4 4 John Moiray Important you contact your son, c/o Gerner, same address as be­ fore. 4 4 4 Seafarers who knew the late King Elliott are asked to write Mrs. King Elliott at 813-41 Street, East Birmingham 4, Alabama. A di^l loc(»notive flreman—whose job would be aboli^ed as "featherbedding" by the railroads—saved a speeding train from going oflf the tracks when the engineer suffered a fatal heart attack, the "AFL-CIO-* News" reported. Fireman R. M. Berland took over the controls of the train, en route to Portland, Ore., and brought It to a stop after the en­ gineer had slumped over in his seat and did not respond to his name. The engineer's foot was resting on a device called the "dead man's pedal" which is supposed to bring the train to a stop In the event the engineer la stricken. In this case it didn't work. Berland, who is a member of the Locomotive Firemen and Enginemen, said that the train was headed down a steep Incline at the time and would have left the tracks bad it not been halted. The Association of American Railroads has been campaigning for the elimination of firemen's jobs on .dlesels. Railroad unions have fon^t the move, basing their argument, in part, on the need for a fireman to backstop the engineer and assiat in emergencies. Musicians Hit Runaway Notes First it's runaway ships, then runaway whiskey making the news these days. Now add another to the list: runaway music. In this case, the opponent is the Musicians Union, in cooperation with the Ruppert Brewery in New York. Both have stmck sour notes on the use of 'runaway' musical scores used in US-made TV shows which are on film. Ruppert, which is sponsoring the half hour "Sea Hunt" drama has announced it won't renew its contract with the ad agency handling the package unless the programmers agree to cease using the foreign music. Rup­ pert charges that the use of t^e background music is detrimental to the jobs of American musicians. FIRAL DISPATCH The deaths of the following Seafarers have been reported to the Seafarers Welfare Plan: Hubert C. Gei^a. 66: A cerebral hemorrhage after an auto accident was fatal to Brother Ctordon at the Mobile General Hospital in Mobile, Ala­ bama, June 8, 1960. He sailed in the SIU stew­ ard department since December 27, 1938. He is survived by his brother, Claude C. Gordon, of Tampa,i Florida. Burial was in the Pine Crest Cemetery, Mobile, Alabama. 4 4 4 Richard Chazarra, 60: Brother Chazarra passed away from a ma­ lignancy at the Public Health Hospital in New Orleans, Louisi­ ana, May 14, 106a He had sailed in the SIU engine depart­ ment since April 20, 1955. No sur­ vivor la listed. Burial was In the Metairie Ceme­ tery, New Orleans, Louisiana. 4 4 4 Sidney Turberville, 61: Brother Turberville died at the Public Health hospital In New Orleans, Louisiana, May 21, 1960. He sailed in the SIU deck department since July 31, 1939. His only listed survivor is his pother, Callip Turberville, of Pensacola, Florida. Burial was in the Pine Barren Cemetery, Pine Barren, Florida. William R. Burch, 50: Brother Burch died of natural causes at th* Public Health hospital in New Oiieans, Louisi­ ana, May 14, 1960. He sailed in the SIU en­ gine department since June 25, 1956. He is survived byhia mother, Carolina Burch, of S.' Pittsburg, Tennessee. Burial was in the Boligee Ceme­ tery, Boligee, Alabama. 4 4 4 Floyd T. Hurd, 35: Brother Hurd died of pneumonia at the Balti­ more City Hospi­ tal in Baltimore, Maryland, May 20, 1960. He sailed in the SIU engine depart­ ment since July 26, 1947. He Is survived by his widow, Edna Hurd, of Balti­ more. No place of burial was in­ dicated. Get That SS Number Right Seafarers filing vacation money claims should make sure that they use their correct So­ cial Security number. Use of the wrong number means a cler­ ical headache for the Vacation Plan office and slows up the handling of payments. Also, a Seafarer who uses the Incorrect Social Security num­ ber is creditin:; his tax deduc­ tions to some other US worker. • .i �,TJ 53« ii - k fe' n •' 3 f'* A '•ir r. I;. 'I'I w« D €velopments in the world today aL£Eect all American workers, perhaps seamen more than most. Whether these developments come out of Washington, Tokyo, New Delhi, Cairo or any other major world center, seamen are among the first to feel their impact. r• V .7 ith that in mind, the SEAFARERS LOG is attempting to keep you abreast of developments in three vital areas that affect the livelihood and welfare of SIU men as Seafarers and citizens—the maritime industry, the national scene and inter­ national affairs. kf r .-"f • • f^ :. • :-\i J 'jc'f . •I' SitfAMHIS INIEimilOIUl UNiON • ATUNTK, 6UIF( Uip jUIDJMI(W »- >'i- ' tu'i'.v-v'.rr," DBTlia ' Wl-CW •HP -•2' � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 1960-1969 Description An account of the resource Volumes XXII-XXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource July 20, 1960 Description An account of the resource Headlines: RUNAWAYS MAY TAKE RUSSIAN OIL CHARTERS NOMINATIONS BEGIN; 43 SIU POSTS OPEN SIU WELFARE COVERS $6,280 HOSPITAL BILL MTD ASSAILS DEFENSE DEP’T SHIP TRAVEL BAN 1,000TH BLOOD GIFT MADE TO SIU RESERVE ALCOA, BULL PLANNING TO MODERNIZE FLEETS ELECT STEWARD GROUP ON RECERTIFICATION ITF CONGRESS OPENS; TAKES UP SEA ISSUES 2 NATIONS SEEK SHIP REGISTRIES PRESIDENT SIGNS TRADE-IN BILL; ALCOA, BULL CAN UPGRADE SHIPS DUTY-FREE BILL FOR SEAMEN OK’D BY HOUSE COMMITTEE VOTING IN FAVOR OF SIU PAYS OFF IN JOB SECURITY FOR LAKES CREW RUNAWAYS’ QUICK SWITCHES SEEK TO EVADE UNIONS SAFETY STUDIED AT NEW BEDFORD COURT EASES PICKETING BAN; SPLITS ON IMWU ACTIVITY BOTH PRESIDENTIAL HOPEFULS SEEN CONCERNED BY MARITIME PROBLEMS WELFARE BENEFITS REACH $133,446 TOTAL SS TITAN SEAFARERS A BIG HIT IN POLAND; BROUGHT GRAIN CARGO Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Paul Hall Maritime Library Microfilm 1939-1993 Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 07/20/1960 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. XXII, No. 15 1960 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/00271cd06898f5acf2fde3190a479b21.pdf be056884637c439827949f8d9e7da69f PDF Text Text Volume 62, Number 7 SIU Active in Maritime Day Remembrances July 2000 SIU members recently welcomed new job opportunities aboard the Military Sealift Command's latest vessel, the USNS Charlton (top photo). The prepositioning ship was delivered in May. Pictured above are some of the Seafarers composing the Charlton's first full crew. Page 3. New SIU Hall Opens In Baltimore Construction of the union's new hall in Baltimore was ongoing when this photo was snapped in mid-June, but the facility remained on schedule for a July 1 opening. Page 3. STCW 'In Plain English' -------------Page 6 Crews React to SL-7 Pact _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Page7 �President's Report Progress In Y2K As we enter the second half of the year 2000, it already has been a fantastic year for the SIU. Consider what we've accomplished during the past six months. New jobs on prepositioning ships, car carriers, tankers and passenger vessels-with many more on the horizon. The ~ · opening of new SIU halls in Guam and Baltimore. Excellent new contracts for the fast sealift and Ready Reserve Force vessels, Michael Sacco the latter of which should come to fruition soon. At the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, new simulators are being installed. They are the best of their kind, and will provide new and experienced Seafarers alike the opportunity to fine-tune their trade. Additionally, members continue to express their strong endorsement of the historic merger of the National Maritime Union into the SIU. There is no doubt the merger will benefit both unions, and I appreciate the overwhelming support you have given. All of these developments begin with you, the rank-and-file member. The pride you take in your work, and the safe, professional way you go about your job, bring consistently positive feedback about SIU members from all segments of the industry. In fact, everywhere I go to represent the SIU, I am heart- ened by what others say about our members. But, like a sports team that's riding an impressive winning streak, we can't afford to let down or coast. Because the challenges and the competition do not end. Our industry is heavily regulated by the government, and so we depend on electing representatives who understand the U.S. fleet's vital role in national security. So much of our livelihoods are tied to politics. That's why we all must participate in the upcoming elections. We must throw all of our support behind the candidates who will work to ensure a strong, viable U.S. merchant marine. As we prepare to elect a new president, a new Congress and a third of the Senate, I urge you to be involved. This also is an election year for the SIU. Once again, it's important to participate. Every vote counts, so don't sit back and let others choose the leadership of your union. Get the facts, make an informed decision and cast your ballot. The more members get involved, the stronger the SIU will be. As for gaining even more shipboard jobs for the future, our union prides itself on providing the best-trained mariners in the world- and so we rely on each Seafarer to work safe, work hard and upgrade whenever possible. The best ammunition the SIU possesses when it comes to getting new jobs and keeping the ones we already have, is the reliable performance of Seafarers throughout the industry. The Paul Hall Center is the perfect tool to ensure that the SIU never runs out of that ammunition. Please take advantage of it. · I am proud of the SIU's accomplishments so far this year and, going back further~ throughout the 1990s. We have come a long way. With your continued support and good work, I know we're headed for even better things in the months and years ahead. Uolume 62, Number 7 July 2000 The SIU on line: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Glllf: Lakes and Inland Waters District; AFL-CIO; 5201 Au th Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 8990675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998 and at additional offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Deborah A. Hirtes; Associate Editor, Jim Guthrie; Art, Bill Brower, Administrative Support, Jeanne Textor. Copyright © 2000 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD All Rights Reserved. 2 Seafarers LOG Former MSC Commander Urges New Maritime Policy Adm. Perkins Cites Merchant Marine's Essential Role in U.S. National Defense Editors note: U.S. Navy Vice Admiral James B. Perkins, former head of the Military Sealift Command (MSC), stated last month that the nation must take immediate steps to ensure the survival and growth of the American Merchant Marine. Perkins released a paper titled, "Game, Set, Match: The U.S. Merchant Marine and National Defense." In it, he emphasizes the U.S. Merchant Marines crucial role in national security. He also urges continued support for the Maritime Security Program and cargo preference laws, plus various tax incentives, among other steps. Perkins retired in February 1999 after a two-year stint as commander of MSC. Here is his report from last month. The first Independence Day of the new millennium is a good time to remember how much this country's freedom depends on the U.S. Merchant Marine. One major reason: In times of war or international crises, 95 percent of the weapons, supplies and equipment needed by our forces overseas are carried by ships-usually over thousands of miles of ocean. To accomplish this mission, the military uses privately owned commercial vessels, flying the United States flag, and the U.S. Merchant Marine to supplement its own transportation assets. And it's been this way for a long time. The history of the merchant marine in military service is characterized by high heroism and noble sacrifice. Merchant mariners have served in all of America's wars, enduring their finest, but most tragic hour during World War II with a per capita casualty rate second only to the Marines. There is very good reason why the U.S. Merchant Marine is called "the vital fourth arm of national defense." What if our Merchant Marine weren't there? The answer is more important than ever, and as former Commander of the Navy's Military Sealift Command, I saw it every day, up close, and personal: The U.S. Merchant Marine is absolutely vital to sustain U.S. troops overseas. Today, many merchant mariners are on duty crewing over 100 auxiliary vessels for the Navy, while others stand by for the day when they will be called forward to support military operations abroad. And they most assuredly will be. But the real question is: Will the U.S. commercial fleet and manpower be there in sufficient numbers when the call comes? My crystal ball is a bit cloudy. In recent years, no economic sector has ebbed so dramatically as the U.S. maritime industry. It wasn't always so. In 1945, twothirds of the world's merchant ships flew the U.S. flag. These vessels not only fulfilled crucial wartime missions, but dominated the sea-lanes of international commerce for decades afterward. Those days are over. Except in a few niche markets, the U.S.-flag Merchant Marine has been done U.S. Navy Vice Adm. James B. Perkins, who headed the Military Sealift Command for two years, says the nation cannot do without a strong U.S. Merchant Marine. in by the unlevel playing field of international competition. As a result, our merchant fleet is shrinking rapidly, down more than half since 1981 and facing extinction in international shipping trades. The oceangoing fleet now numbers only 203 ships with military utility-including 114 cargo ships, 86 tankers and one passenger vessel. Meanwhile, the great American economic powerhouse booms to the point where the world catches pneumonia if the U.S. sneezes. This country now generates an astounding 25-30 percent of all international commerce, but less than 3 percent arrives on or leaves our shores aboard U.S.flag ships. Continued on page 5 Another Take on FOC Cruise Ships: LA Times Bares 'Sweatshops at Sea' Runaway-flag cruise lines continue to take a pounding in the U.S. commercial press. The latest piece exposing the conditions on runaway-flag cruise vessels (also called flag-of-convenience or FOC ships) appeared May 30 in the Los Angeles Times and subsequently was reprinted in several affiliated newspapers, including The Tampa Tribune-Times. Written by Christopher Reynolds and Dan Weikel, the 2,500-word article explores some of the difficult and often unsafe conditions faced by crews on FOC cruise ships-such as those operated by Miami-based Carnival Cruise Lines and Royal Caribbean. The authors cited crews who have sued for millions of dollars in back wages; described questionable medical practices including one scenario in which a crew member lost a hand; and recalled the tragic tale of 31 mariners who died in 1998 when their vessel was ordered to sea "despite an approaching hurricane." They also interviewed crew members who asserted that many of them "plunge into debt" to secure jobs on the vessels. This often involves not only the legitimate job-related expenses, but also illegal payments to recruiters who otherwise may block an individual's employment. Additionally, Reynolds and Weikel pointed out that many of the crews "are recruited from some of the world's poorest nations," and they face "a wage scale that often begins at less than $2 an hour." A minister interviewed for the story described runaway-flag passenger ships as "sweatshops at sea" and "ocean-going maquiladoras." Several anonymous cruise ship workers said they do not complain because they're afraid they will be fired. One said he suffered severe burns because he didn't understand orders given to him in English. Along those lines, the.·writers point out that the language barrier potentially places passengers in harm's way. "Because companies recruit in many countries, plaintiffs' lawyers and U.S. transportation investigators question whether crew members can communicate with crewmates and passengers, especially in emergencies," they noted. Those concerns have been borne out more than once in recent years, beginning with the much-publicized Ecstasy fire in 1998. In fact, that accident touched off an unprecedented flurry of media coverage about runaway-flag shipping that has included a 60 Minutes report, at least two front-page stories in The New York Times and numerous other press accounts. Runaway-flag ships (passenger and cargo vessels alike) are registered in a nation other than the one of ownership. Very often, they carry Third World, multinational crews-some of dubious qualifications. By using the runaway-flag scam, shipowners can avoid paying taxes and hide from labor and environmental laws. Please be advised that SIU headquarters and SIU hiring halls will be closed on · · · Monday, August 21, 2000 for the ob~rvanee of Paul Hell's birthday (unless ,. an ema1gency.arises): Normal business·hot;;rs will resume the following worl<da~ · an July 20DD �Seafarers Crew MSC's Newest RO/RO USNS Charlton Strengthens Prepositioning Fleet U.S. sealift capacity increased with the recent delivery of the SIUcrewed USNS Charlton in San Diego. The U.S. Military Sealift Command's newest prepositioning ship has been delivered, and with it comes new jobs for the SIU. Seafarers are sailing aboard the USNS Charlton, a 950-foot roll-on/roll-off (RO/RO) vessel that is scheduled to receive its first assignment early this month. Bosun T.C. Oneyear said on June 21 that the crew is anxious to begin its next task. "The ship seems to be very soun~ but right now we have no indication where it's going," he noted. "But no matter what, we '11 be ready." AB Laurentis Colbert said, "It's a huge ship and it's brand new. Overall, everything has been fine so far." Constructed at San Diego's NASSCO shipyard, the Charlton is one of 14 new builds scheduled as part of a government-mandated initiative to improve America's sealift capability. Six converted vessels round out that fleet, known as the strategic sealift program. The next new ship due out is the USNS Watkins, probably in October. It also will be crewed by SIU members. Seafarers composing the initial crew of the Charlton include Bosun Oneyear, ABs Colbert, Johnny Birdwell, Nathaniel Carr, Peri Drew, Michael Mayo and Ferdinand Viniegra, OSs Stephen Gallegos, Greg Baker and Isaac Diaz, Electrician Timothy Pillsworth, QMEDs Alan Nelson and Steven Campbell, OMUs Jeffrey Bukey, Gualberto Salaria and Sergio Ayala, GUDE Ellis Clayborn, Chief Steward Christopher Hale, • • Length: 950 feet Beam: 106 feet • Draft: 34 feet • Displacement: 62)644 long tons • • Speed: 24 knots Cargo space: 390,000 square feet Source: Military Sealift. Command Chief Cook Claudia Kammeyer, SAs Tawnia Stucker and George Gauggel, and Storekeeper Kevin Wortman. The Charlton is operated by Maersk Line Limited of Norfolk, Va. and is named in memory of U.S. Army Sergeant Cornelius H. Charlton, a posthumous recipient of the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions during battle in Korea in 1952. New Hall Opens in Baltimore Fallowing nominal delays in construction last month, the SIU's new hall in Baltimore was scheduled to open July 1, after this edition of the Seafarers LOG went to press. It is located at 2315 Essex Street. .. It's going to be the most beautiful hall in the SIU. I love it," stated Chief Steward Jose Luaces shortly after seeing the near-finished product. "It's close to the waterfront and it's in a good neighborhood. It's going to have everything we need. Every member should be proud of it." QMED Teddy Wallace and Oiler Loring Callwood also welcomed the move from the old facility on East Baltimore Street, where the hall had been located since November 1954. "The SIU couldn't have picked a better location for the new hall," observed Wallace. "] know the area well and J'm very happy with the change." Callwood noted there is a bus stop directly in front of the hall and said the close access will benefit area members like him by providing transportation options. "I'm happy about that and I'm looking forward to the move," he said. The Essex Street facility is a former art studio that has been completely refurbished inside and substantially modified outside. It is located in Canton near Fell's Point, considered an attractively burgeoning area. The Washington Post, in a major story about Canton in its real estate section of June 10, described the area as "Baltimore's hottest neighborhood these days, the city's own example of gentrification in these times of good housing markets across the country." In its heyday, the expansive hall on East Baltimore Street was considered among the best of its kind. Before that building opened, the SIU's Baltimore hall was located on North Gay Street. Columbia Queen Sails; Patriot Launches Dec. 9 The new SJU-crewed Columbia Queen riverboat made its inaugural voyage last month following a June 3 christening in Portland, Ore. Owned by The Delta Queen Steamboat Co., a New Orleansbased subsidiary of American Classic Voyages, the vessel is 218 feet long and can carry up to 161 passengers. It is scheduled to offer cruises in the Pacific Northwest. Also last month, the first hull for American Classic Voyages' new fleet of coastal passenger The Columbia Queen debuted last month in Portland, Ore. It will offer cruises in the Pacific Northwest (right). July2000 How To Get There The new Baltimore hall is roughly a five-minute drive from the old one on East Baltimore Street. Seafarers going to the new hall from East Baltimore Street can turn right on Patterson Park Avenue, then left on Eastern Avenue, right on Montford and right on Essex. If going to the new hall from the inner harbor, take Pratt Street, turn right on S. Broadway, left on Eastern Avenue, right on S. Chester Street, slightly left on Boston Street, left on Leakin Street and right on Essex. The new hall: 2315 Essex Street Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 ships was successfully launched in Jacksonville, Fla. The Cape May Light is on target to begin sailing in spring 2001. Additionally, United States Lines recently announced that the deep sea cruise ship MS Patriot will debut Dec. 9 in the Hawaiian Formerly Holland Islands. America Line's Nieuw Amsterdam, the Patriot 1,212 passengers. This issue of the Seafarers LOG went to press more than a week before the Baltimore hall's scheduled July 1 opening. The two photos above, showing parts of the exterior and interior, were taken in midJune while refurbishment of the Essex Street facility was ongoing. Photos of the finished product will be printed in next month's LOG. QMED Teddy Wallace (left) and Oiler Loring Callwood (right) both say the new hall is a positive move for the SIU. Seafarers LOB 3 �Indy Crew to the Rescue Seafare rs' Swift Reactions Save Lives SIU Philadelphia Port Agent Joe Soresi (left) discusses the new contract with Captain Melvin Braddy. Express Marine Crews Approve New Contract SIU members who sail aboard Express Marine tugboats and barges have approved a new three-year contract that includes numerous gains. Approved in early May, the agreement is retroactive to March 16, 2000. It calls for wage increases in each year of the pact and also features a one-time bonus of $1,000 per member. Other highlights include: • Prescription benefits for dependents. • 100-percent coverage of outpatient care for dependents. • Increased optical benefits. • A doubling of the death benefit. • Work-rule improvements. • A pension-credit increase. Serving on the negotiating committee were SIU Philadelphia Port Agent Joe Soresi, Captain James Dixon, Mate Riley Johnson Jr. and AB/Cook Hilton Foster. Seafarers ratified the contract via a mail-in secret ballot. The votes were counted May 2 on the tug Russell B. Murray by Captain Miles Ireland, Mate Guy Pruitt Sr. and AB/Cook Jesse Gardner. Express Marine is based in Pennsauken, N.J. near Camden. The company operates five tugs and barges that move coal along the East Coast. They are the Guardian, Russell B. Murray, Baltimore, Consort and Escort. SIU crew members aboard the SS Independence rescued several people recently in two separate occurrences while underway in the Hawaiian Islands. The actions of Seafarers in both events prevented potential loss of life. In the first incident, SIU Waiter George Dezafra performed the Heimlich Maneuver on Kaye Spargur. Spargur, a passenger on the Independence from Tucson, Ariz., was having dinner in the vessel's dinning room May 15. Her otherwise delightful meal was ruined when food lodged in her throat and cut off her air supply. Luckily for her, Dezafra was close by and hastened to her rescue. The Pearle City, Hawaii native had learned the emergency-response procedure during a shipboard training session earlier this year. Rick Redmond, an instructor at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., conducted Dezafra's class (and provided the photos accompanying this story). Independence Head Waiter Christyn Nawrot, an SIU member who calls Michigan home, comforted the choking victim once Dezafra bad ensured her air passages were clear. The second episode occurred during the evening of June 5 some five miles south of Oahu. At approximately 10:30 p.m., the vigilant eyes of AB Jessie Bongolan and 3rd Officer Kawika Lucas caught glimpses of what they deemed an emergency situation. By interpreting light signals and flares, they ascertained that a sailboat they saw had no means of power or other communications. What concerned the duo more, however, was the fact that the vessel was pitching and rolling, and continually drifting farther away from the islands. They advised the Independences captain of the situation and ensured notification of the Coast Guard. The Independence then maneuvered within close proximity of the vessel and stood by until the Coast Guard arrived. No lives were lost. The Independence is operated by American Hawaii Cruises. (Editors Note: The foregoing are just two examples of situations encountered by SIU members in the performance of their daily duties. Should you or any SIU member you know have similar experiences, please notify the staffofthe Seafarers LOG at (301) 899-0675; by mail at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746; or by email at jbiscardo@worldweb.net) Head Waiter Christyn Nawrot (left) and Waiter George Dezafra (right) join Perry and Kaye Spargur in the dining room of the Independence. The Spargurs, a couple from Tucson, Ariz., were the center of attention recently aboard the vessel when Kaye became ill after having food lodge in her airways. Both waiters, members of the SIU, assisted the victim in her recovery. Training Aboard the Independence-- Above: Pictured aboard the Russell B. Murray are (from left} AB/Cook Jesse Gardner, Captain Miles Ireland, SIU Port Agent Joe Soresi and Mate Guy Pruitt Sr. The three boatmen counted the secret ballots which confirmed ratification of a new three-year contract. Crew members aboard the Independence recently underwent onboard emergency squad firefighting training. Completing the exercise were (left to right) Engine Storekeeper Jonathan Barraca , OS Awadh Abdulla and AB Dave Horton. Left: Mate Guy Pruitt Sr. (left) and AB/Cook Jesse Gardner count the ballots. Steward Maiello Memorialized On May 12, the cremated remains of Chief Steward Robert James Maiello were committed at sea, approximately 50 nautical miles south of Cape Hatteras, N.C. The ceremony took place aboard the Cape Johnson, pictured at right. Brother Maiello passed away Dec. 22, 1999. He was 53 and had been an active SIU member for 10 years. 4 Seafarers LOG July 2000 �Merger Discussed in New York In separate meetings May 9 in Brooklyn, N.Y., members of the SIU (below) and the NMU (left) discussed the merger of the two unions. SIU President Michael Sacco (center) addressed both gatherings. He is joined by NMU President Rene Lioeanjie (right) and NMU VP Charlie Stewart (left). By overwhelming majorities and in separate votes lasting from Dec. 1, 1999 through Jan. 31, 2000, Seafarers and NMU members approved a referendum to proceed with merging the two unions. Next, SIU members will vote during the NovemberDecember SIU general election whether to approve needed constitutional changes. After that, another vote will take place for SIU members to approve or reject many of the specific terms of the merger. Adm. Perkins States U.S. Needs Merchant Marine Continued from page 2 At the same time, the U.S. Navy has also shrunk dramatically. Since the end of the Cold War, the active duty fleet has been cut almost in half, and is now just over 300 ships- the lowest number since the early 1930s. Current (inadequate) shipbuilding budgets are drawing the fleet down further. This will, of course, make things tougher for the remaining ships and sailors wM provide vital U .S. forwru-d presence around the world . With operating tempo at an unprecedented peacetime high, the Navy faces very difficult recruiting and retention challenges. Still, the Navy must be there when the country calls, and is adapting to the quiet revolution taking place in the way we support America's men and women in uniform overseas. Military logistics strategy is changing from "just in case" to "just in time"-an approach dependent upon rapid, reliable delivery of essential supplies. Massive warehouses are giving way to a transportation-based system constantly on the move through state-of-the-art private sector ports and other transit facilities which speed military supplies from factory to foxhole. The mountains of stock on-hand are gone. The Armed Services now purchase and deploy supplies nearly simultaneously with force movement, synchronized to support maximum momentum for the troops. In other words, essential materiel is flowing through the pipeline to the right place, at the right time, and in the right amount. Continued success depends on the U.S.-flag commercial fleet, both to carry cargo and petroleum, and to provide crews for ships held in reserve status. While the new logistics strategy is both more efficient and necessary, there is less margin for error. With that in mind, the next president and Congress must adopt maritime policies which ensure a U.S.-flag fleet fully capable of providing crucial com- July2000 mercial shipping assets. Without such action, maintaining smaller inventories and moving more supplies via merchant ships exposes military distribution channels to critical shortfallswhich could cost lives. "We simply can't do without ships under the American flag, built in American shipyards, and manned by American crews as a vital part of our national defense" To avoid such an unacceptable possibility, a comprehensive program must be developed to ensure survival and encourage growth of the U.S. Merchant Marine. The economic benefits and enhanced defense capabilities far outweigh incidental and non-recurring costs. I recommend a balance of government promotional programs and private sector competitiveness initiatives that will help level the maritime playing field. As it is, U.S.-flag vessels must compete against foreign stateowned ships, subsidized shippers and shipyards, and the industrial cartels of America's strongest economic competitors. At home, our Merchant Marine operates under the most demanding regulatory regime in the world-which costs more, but assures safety-while foreign shipping interests are subject to minimal regulation, enforcement and taxes. We need a blend of tax incentives, regulatory relief, capital modernization and increased competitiveness, while maintaining the support provided by traditional maritime programs and laws. The most important include: • sustained funding for the Maritime Security Program (MSP). Launched in 1996, MSP underwrites a partnership between the federal government [and ship] operators in which U.S.-flag, U.S. citizen-crewed ships, equipment, terminals and management services are available to the Department of Defense during national emergencies. With 47 vessels currently enrolled, the program is authorized until 2005 and deserves strong support thereafter. • strict compliance with existing cargo preference laws which require that certain U.S. government-impelled cargoes be shipped on U.S.-flag vessels . Preference cargoes are the single most important incentive for American operators in the international trades to remain under the U.S. flag, providing a vital base of guaranteed cargo to offset foreign-flag advantages. Without these cargoes, virtually every U.S.-flag vessel in the international markets would be forced either out of business or out of U.S. registry, [which is] obviously unacceptable; and • a range of corporate tax incentives to grow the fleet and narrow the cost disparity between doing business under the U.S. flag and that of other nations. Like most enterprises, international shipping is an industry where capital pursues the greatest return for the least expense, with a maximum degree of freedom. It must become attractive to investors once more. In this brave new world of just-in-time logistics, we cannot function militarily without a robust marine transportation capability, and it must be grounded on a thriving U.S. Merchant Marine. A solid partnership with the commercial U.S.-flag fleet is not just the best way, it is the only way to get the job done and answer the bell when the next crisis arises- as it will. We simply can't do without ships under the American flag, built in American shipyards, and manned by American crews as a vital part of our national defense arsenal. They need our helir-and quickly. IMO Revising SOLAS Chapter Group Formed to Enhance Passenger-Ship Safety The year 2002 already stands out in the maritime industry because it is a compliance date for the amended STCW convention. Now, another revised treaty is targeted for implementation that year. During a recent meeting of its Maritime Safety Committee in London, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) began updating Chapter V of the International Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Convention. IMO aims to consider "the complete revised draft text" of Chapter V this December and then apply the final version beginning in July 2002. Chapter V concerns shipboard navigational equipment and systems. The proposed revisions include mandates for voyage data recorders ("black boxes"), automatic ship identification systems and ARPA, among others. "Most of the deep sea fleet will easily meet the new requirements, but it may impact heavily on the offshore supply industry," noted Bill Eglinton, director of vocational education at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training, who attended the IM 0 meeting May 15-26. During the same session, IMO Secretary-General William O'Neil called for "global consideration of safety issues pertaining to passenger ships, with particular emphasis on large cruise ships." The safety committee formed a working group that is scheduled to convene later this year, when it will address passenger vessel construction and equipment; crisis and crowd management; crew and passenger training; personnel evacuation; and potential risks large passenger vessels may face in the next few years. O 'Neil said that while the structural integrity of recently built large cruise ships isn't in doubt, it is questionable whether or not maritime treaties including SOLAS and STCW "duly address all the safety aspects of their operation- in particular, in emergency situations.•• SIU Present at Ratings Task Force Meeting The SIU took part in a meeting of the International Transport Workers' Federation's (ITF's) ratings task' force May 23-24 in Auckland, New Zealand. The agenda included examination of a detailed report concerning the worldwide supply of "suitably trained" merchant mariners. Above, SIU Executive VP John Fay (center), who chairs the ITF's Seafarers' Section, hears a breakdown of the report. Below (from left), Fay and SIU SecretaryTreasurer David Heindel, a guest at the task force session, are pictured with Dave Morgan, national president of the New Zealand Seafarers' Union. Seafarers LOG 5 �STCW in Plain English Vocational Education Director Tackles Segments of Amended '95 Convention Editors note: Bill Eglinton, together in 1978, but the U.S. did director of vocational education not sign onto it until 1991. I at the Paul Hall Center and a won't bore you with the details of regular participant in interna- why we waited so long, but in tional forums pertaining to STCW 1992 we started letting everyone and other regulations impacting know that we were now on board the maritime industry, wrote the with this convention, the requirefollowing article. This is the first ments of which we easily met. in an occasional series intended However, that 1978 convento keep Seafarers updated on the tion was under revision, and we roles governing their trade. stayed tuned for further news Most of the U-8. maritime because who knew what might be industry is familiar with our in store for us. Oh boy, what an nation's rules and regulations understatement! stemming from the U.S. Coast The heart of the 1995 revised Guard which impact our daily STCW Convention puts its lives- anything from pollution emphasis on the training and prevention, to getting our AB or assessment of mariner practical QMED endorsement, to our per- skills (proficiencies). In short, sonal lives ashore (driving, med- taking a multiple-choice examination to become an electrician, ical issues, etc.). But, where did the newest AB, Third Mate/Engineer, won't international treaties and conven- cut it anymore. You must demonstrate that you can do your job. tions come from? Hey, isn't this what we have SIU members most certainly have heard of the STCW Con- been saying for years? Don't ask vention by now. The Seafarers me a bunch of theoretical multiLOG must have published 50 ple-choice questions, give me related articles or more over the that piece of equipment and I'll past several years, but I want to show you how it works! Now~ whom does it affect and put it in everyday terms-language that hopefully will give when does it take place? First, the you both a sense of understanding STCW Convention applies to all mariners working aboard seagoand a sense of urgency. The United Nations has an ing merchant vessels, whether on entity that deals with maritime domestic or international voyissues, the International Maritime ages. Inland and Great Lakes vesOrganization (IMO), which i~ sels are not under the STCW headquartered in London. Mari- Convention. So, if you sail time nations that belong to the aboard near-coastal or deep sea IMO (about 133) agree to fotlow ships, listen up! To better undervarious international agreements, stand when these changes kick in, called treaties or conventions. you should be aware of three Over the year~, the IMO ha.s pro- important dates. February 1, 1997: Various conventions duced several including the Safety of Life a.t requirements of the amended Sea Convention (SOLAS), the 1995 STCW Convention entered Marine Pollution Convention into force, namely: Basic Safety Training (BST); special training (MARPOL) and others. Almost all of these conven- for certain types of ships (tankers tions deal with equipment, con- and RO/RO passenger ships); and struction or operational proce- familiarization instruction when dures. Only one IMO convention joining a new ship. This marks deals with people- the Standards the beginning of what is called of Training, Certification and the transitional period, which Watchkeeping (STCW) Con- means we have five years to put in place all the new requirements vention. This convention was put -that is until Feb. 1, 2002. August 1, 1998: If you started your seagoing career (sailing) before this date, you have until Feb. l, 2002 to comply with the revised 1995 STCW Convention. However, if you started sailing or began maritime training after this date, you must be in full compliance with STCW now. February 1, 2002: The implementation period ends and all seafarers must meet all the requirements of the revised 1995 STCW Convention. The SIU and the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education saw these new changes coming. In fact, we got involved by sending people to the IMO meetings as part of the U.S. delegations. Immediately we wrote articles in the LOG so the membership could know what was taking place, and practically every month the LOG updated the developments occurring in our industry. So, with that history lesson out of the way, what do YOU have to do? Unlicensed Seafarers must concern themselves with two things: having taken a Coast Guard-approved Basic Safety Training (BST) course or being trained and assessed aboard ship with entries made into your Training Record Book (TRB) and if you are a watchstanding deck or engine department person, you need to have a 1995 STCW certificate. If you do not have Ba.sic Safety Training or the 199 5 STCW certificate, if required, by February 1, 2002, YOU CANNOT SAIL ABOARD DEEP SEA OR NEAR-COASTAL SHIPS! The Paul Hall Center at Piney Point, Md. has been offering the BST classes for some time now. We have many classes scheduled through the end of this year, and next year we will run these classes continuously. So, get scheduled for this course! Here's another incentive to take the BST course as soon as Construction Continues On Simulator Complex GMDSS Component to Augment Training Construction on the simulator complex addition at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., began in mid-April. The facility's exterior has been completed . Construction crews will soon move to the inside to begin finishing the structure's interior. 6 Seafarers LOG U.S. Coast Guard Regional Exam Centers (Updated as of May 2000) U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Office Regional Examination Center Bldg. 14, Rm. 109, Coast Guard Isl. Alameda, CA 94501-5100 Phone: (510) 437-3092 U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Office Regional Examination Center 510 L Street, Suite 100 Anchorage, AK 99501-1946 Phone: (907) 271-6736 U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Office Regional Examination Center 200 Jefferson Ave., Suite 1302 Memphis, TN 38103 Phone: (901) 544-3297 U.S. Coast Guard Regional Examination Center Claude Pepper Federal Building 51 SW 1st Ave, 6th Floor Miami, FL 33130-1608 Phone: (305) 536-6548/6874 U.S. Coast Guard Regional Examination Center U.S. Custom House 40 South Gay Street Baltimore, MD 21202-4022 Phone: (410) 962-5132 U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Office Regional Examination Center 9820 Lake Forest Blvd, Suite P New Orleans, LA 70127-3077 Phone: (504) 589-6183 U. S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Office Regional Examination Center 455 Commercial Street Boston, MA 02109-1045 Phone: (617) 223-3040 U.S. Coast Guard Marine Inspection Office Regional Examination Center Battery Park Building New York, NY 10004-8545 Phone: (212) 668-7492 U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Office Regional Examination Center 196 Tradd Street Charleston, SC 29401-1899 Phone: (843) 724-7693 U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Office Regional Examination Center 6767 North Basin Avenue Portland, OR 97217-3992 Phone: (503) 240-9346 U. S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Office Regional Examination Center 433 Ala Moana Blvd. Honolulu, HI 96813-4909 Phone: (808) 522-8264 U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Office Regional Examination Center 1519 Alaskan Way South Seattle. WA 98134-1192 Phone: (206) 217-6115 U.S. Coast Guard Regional Examination Center 8876 Gulf Freeway, Suite 200 Houston, TX 77017-6595 Phone: (713) 948-3350 U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Office Regional Examination Center 1222 Spruce Street, Suite 8.104E St. Louis, MO 63103-2835 Phone: (314) 539-3091 U.S. coast Guard Regional Examination Center 2760 Sherwood Lane. Suite 2A Juneau, AK 99801-8545 Phone: (907) 463-2458 U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Ofc Regional Examination center 165 N. Pico Avenue Long Beach. CA 90802 Phone: (562) 980-4485 U.S. Coast Guard Regional Examination Center Federal Building, Room 501 234 Summit Street Toledo, OH 43604-1590 Phone: (419) 259-6395 Members should not expect same-day service for document renewals or STCW certificates. Please call the REC in advance with your request. possible. If you hold an endorsement for lifeboatman that was issued before August 1, 1998 and you try to renew your MMD before Feb. 1, 2002. then the only way you can keep that lifeboat endorsement when renewing is by providing proof of complying with the Basic Safety requirements of STCW. If you sail as AB, Boatswain's Mate, FOWT or QMED watchstander, you must have a 1995 STCW certificate by Feb. 1, 2002. To get this certificate, go to any U.S. Coast Guard Regional The infrastructure for a new state-ofthe-art simulator complex continues to take shape at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. In addition to the existing Lindsey Williams Building, which has been refurbished, the aggregate structure will feature a five-classroom addition. Construction on the addition began about eight weeks ago, according to J.C. Wiegman, assistant director of vocational education at the center. The building's exterior has been completed, and construction crews will soon move to the inside to begin finishing the structure's interior. "Once completed, the addition will contain five classrooms," Wiegman said. "Three of the rooms will be for general purpose use, a fourth for multi-functional applications and the fifth for our crane simulator." The Global Marine Distress Sequencing System simulator (GMDSS) is one of the many training tools that will be housed in the complex (articles were published on the shiphandling and engine room simulators in the May and June editions of the Seafarers LOG, respectively). It will be utilized by Seafarers who seek General Operator Certificates (GOC) or Restricted Examination Center (REC) with the following things: your merchant mariner's document (MMD); Training Record Book (TRB); BST course certificate, and one (1) passport photo. There is no charge for the 1995 STCW certificate. You can also get your certificate through the mail by sending notarized copies of your MMD and BST certificate and the photo to your nearest Coast Guard REC (see listing above of all Regional Examination Centers). Don't wait till the last minute on _this: the clock is ticking! Operator Certificates (ROC). Fully compliant with IMO resolutions and the latest STCW code requirements, the simulator can also be used as a component of the mariner's training and examination for the First Class or Second Class Radio Electronics Certificate. The system will have the capability to accommodate two instructors and 10 students simultaneously in a multi-functional classroom. It also will have the capacity to accurately imitate communication between ships, and among ships and co-stations using terrestrial satellite communications systems. Both types of communication can be accomplished with a high degree of realism. Additionally, unlicensed apprentices can be familiarized with the correct operation of GMDSS equipment for distress and general communication. "We will be training able bodied seamen, the limited license people and the licensed people who need GMDSS," said Russell Levin, an instructor at the center. "We also have quite a few people within the SIU who already have licenses and who will be training on this equipment." Continued on page 11 July2000 �'Vote of ·Thanks' Buoyed by big gains in a new five-year contract covering fast sealift ships, SIU members last month expressed strong satisfaction with the agreement. During three separate shipboard meetings June 8 in Baltimore with SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez, SIU crews on the USNS Wright, Cape Washington and Cape May enthusiastically offered votes of thanks for the union's work in securing major improvements in the fast sealift contract. That agreement covers eight vessels which also are known as SL7s. They are the USNS Algol, USNS Altair, USNS Antares, USNS Bellatrix, USNS Capella, USNS Denebola, USNS Pollux and USNS Regulus. As reported last month, the contract keeps the jobs on the eight ships with the SIU. Highlights include substantial wage increases both in full operating status and reduced operating status; Seafarers Welfare and Pension Plans benefits at their top levels; and inclusion of the Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan at 5 percent of base wages. SIU-contracted American Overseas Marine (AMSEA) won the pact with the U.S. Military Sealift Command to operate the ships. The new contract "is well-deserved. It's great news/' said Bosun John Toomey aboard the Cape May. On the Wright, Bosun Thomas Moore described the contractual gains as "incredible. This is a big step forward." Several Seafarers stAted that the new agreement is part1cularly satisfying to the numerous members who have spent considerable time working aboard the fast sealift ships. Telle~ reminded them that the union "always has said the hardest thing is to get that first contract, and once we we 're in, things will improve. It doesn't happen overnight, but this contract proves our point." Also last month, Seafarers were cautiously optimistic about the recent contract awards by the U.S. Maritime Administration for operation of 74 Ready Reserve Force (RRF) vessels. Although several companies protested the awards- resulting in a stopgap extension of the existing contract- the SIU secured substantial wage increases and benefit gains aboard the 45 RRF ships awarded to its contracted operators. The union strongly anticipates that when the challenged bids are resolved (tentatively expected by late September), the SIU will end up with a very similar number of ships and an equal or better contract compared to the one used in the original award. 1------ Pictured aboard the USNS Wright are (from left) Bosun Thomas Moore. GUDE Mark Canada, SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez, (sitting) Chief Steward Richard Mata, SIU Baltimore Port Agent Dennis Metz and QMED/Electrician James Weismore. The USNS Denebola is one of eight fast sealift ships covered by the new five-year contract. Pictured on the vessel after reviewing contract highlights are (seated, from left) SA John Weber, Chief Cook Dante Black, Chief Steward Gary Lackey, Bosun Willie Reynolds, AB Donald Gearhart, (standing) Wiper Carlos Perez, AB Ben Shupp, Electrician Ronald Kitlas, Wiper Enrique Nunez and OS C. Salim. Chief Steward Michelle Hopper (left) and QMED Taylor Clear (right) Besides the new contract, Seafarers on the Cape Washington also discussed the expanding U.S.-flag passenger fleet, the Jones Act and other issues. Pictured from the left are Bosun Rick James, Electrician Steve Kafka, QMED Taylor Clear, SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez, Chief Steward Michelle Hopper and SIU Baltimore Port Agent Dennis Metz. Above: Seafarers meet aboard the Cape May. Left: Pictured from the left are Baltimore Port Agent Dennis Metz, (rear) AB Billy Ray Hanbury, First Engineer William Camacho, Chief Engineer James Wingate, Second Engineer Jim Van Pelt, Bosun John Toomey, SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez and Steward/Baker John Reid. The officers all are SIU hawsepipers. July2DOO Seafarers LOG 7 �r------.-.----- ------- -~- - - -- - National Maritime Day Nation Honors Merchant Mariners SIU Participates in Several Ceremonies Americans across the nation paid tribute last month to the bravery and sacrifices of the thousands of U.S. merchant mariners who so honorably have served our country, especially those who gave their lives during armed conflict. The occasion was National Maritime Day-an annual observance dating back to 1933 that acknowledges this often forgotten group's contributions. The SIU participated in several ceremonies, including three in Washington, D.C. on May 25 and two West Coast observances earlier that week. The events in and near the nation's capital were conducted by, respectively, the U.S. Maritime Administration (MarAd), the Port of Washington Propeller Club and the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC). MarAd Memorial MarAd's event in Washington, called the Merchant Marine Memorial Service 2000, took plact: at the U.S. Navy Memorial. In his operting remarks, Maritime Administrator Clyde J. Hart dubbed the gathering as ..a day set aside ti'.'.) hDnor the brave American civilia.ns a.nd merchant mariners who gave their lives to protect the freedoms we cherish. "It i5 al5o a day for rejoicing~" Hart continued, "rejoicing not only for their courage and self· tessness. but for their exuberance and innovation." Noting that th~ event's purpose was to focus on the contributions of seamen, principally those who made the ultimate sacrifice during World War II, Hart said, "Their passing is reason for sorrow, their presence reason for joy. We honor them with praise for their maritime skills honed by tough physical work in the seas' unforgiving environment." Keynote speaker Rodney Slater called the nation's merchant fleet "the United States' first Navy." Recounting their contributions during the Revolutionary War, the Secretary of Transportation said, "The U.S. merchant marine, which defeated the British navy to gain America's independence, has served our country- and served it well-in every war since 177 5. There is no more devoted community of professionals than those who serve the nation's marine transportation system." Former U.S. Rep. Helen Bentley presents remarks in behalf of Rep. Herb Bateman. Both are strong supporters of the U.S. merchant fleet. B Seafarers LOS After noting that more than 6,000 merchant mariners lost their lives "for the cause of freedom during World War II," Slater reflected on the admiration President Franklin D. Roosevelt possessed for the men who composed the U.S. fleet. He quoted the late commander-in-chief as having stated: "(Mariners) have written one of its most brilliant chapters. They have delivered the goods when and where needed in every theater of operations and across every ocean in the biggest, the most difficult and dangerous job ever undertaken. As time goes on, there will be greater public understanding of our merchant's fleet record during this war (World War II)." He further illustrated the vital importance of the maritime industry today to America, noting that it annually accounts for some threefourths of a trillion dollars of America's gross national product "Our domestic fleet is one of our most productive and costeffective modes of transportation," Slater said, ••moving 24 percent of the nation's cargo at less than 2 percent of America's total freight cost. U.S. commercial ports handle 95 percent of the nation's international trade." He concluded, "Despite the challenges, the future is bright" SIU President Michel Sacco associated the plight of merchant mariners during World War II to that of front line soldier. "The seafarers of World War II were attacked from every angle," Sacco explained. "They were bombed from enemy airplanes, fired upon by enemy ships, torpedoed by enemy submarines. Many did not survive. They died in blazing explosions, in icy waters, in lifeboats that drifted into oblivion. They burned and drowned and starved. "But there has never been any quit in the American merchant marine," the SIU president asserted. "That's why leaders of that era, from Roosevelt to Eisenhower on down, emphatically stated that the merchant marine made all the difference m wmning the war." Representing the Seafarers at the annual wreath-laying ceremony aboard the Jeremiah O'Brien in San Francisco are retired SIU VP West Coast George McCartney (right) and SIU Representative Chester Wheeler (second from right). Left and below: Guests observe the presentation of colors at last month's Maritime Day ceremony conducted in Washington, D.C. by the U.S. Maritime Administration. Sacco said that white ceremonies such as the memorial service are important, there is another way we as Americans can pay tribute to the thousands who gave their lives during World War II as well as those who served during other conflicts. "The best way we can honor them and confinn that they did not die in vain is to keep the American flag flying on the high seas, .. Sacco said. Sacco reminded those in attendance (including Seafarers from the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md.) that America depends on the sealift provided by a strong merchant marine whenever involved in conflict. "I wholeheartedly believe that the young men and women now entering the industry can look forward to a bright future and a National Maritime Memorial Day Proclamation May 22, 2000 Americans have always looked to the sea as a source of prosperity and security. Bounded by two oceans and the Gulf of Mexico, with the Great Lakes, the ~int Lawrence Seaway, scores of harbors, ports, and Inlets, and thousands of miles of inland river shorelines, our Nation has been blessed with an unparalleled means of moving passengers and freight, protecting our freedom, and linking our citizens with the world. Today, 95 percent of our imports and exports are moved by water - more than one billion metric tons of cargo - and our waterways currently handle 140 million passengers a year. Our domestic fleet ls one of our most productive and cost-effective modes of transportation, moving 24 percent of the Nation's cargo at less than 2 percent of America's total freight cost. The men and women of the U.S. Merchant Marine and the thousands of other workers in our Nation's maritime industry have made Immeasurable contributions to our economic strength, standard of living, and leadership in the global marketplace. The U.S. Merchant Marine plays an equally important role in maintaining our national security. In times of con· flict or crisis, the Armed Forces rely upon the Merchant Marine's sealift capability to transport critically needed equipment and supplies. Time and again, American mariners have demonstrated their willingness and ablllty to meet ohen daunting challenges. From World War II to Korea to Vietnam, from Desert Storm to the Balkans and in numerous incidents in between, the U.S. Merchant Marine has responded with courage, patriotism, and a steadfast devotion to duty. The 21st century wlll hold new challenges for our maritime industry, including an anticipated doubling of cargo and jUllenger traffic In the next cwo decades. If we are to meet those challenges, we must maintain a robust U.S.flag fleet, crewed by American mariners. Last September, the Secretary of Transportation presented to the Congress a blueprint for modernizing our Marine Transportation System - the wate1Ways, ports, railways, and roads that move people and goods to, from, and on the water. We must build more and better ships, modernize our shipyards, create d@@per ports for today's ever larger containerships and ocean liners, and maintain a skilled maritime workforce. We must also ensure that local, State, and Federal agencies, the U.S. military, the maritime industry, shippers, labor unions, environmental groups, and other concerned organlzatlonJ work in partnership to carry out this blueprint. As we celebrate National Maritime Day this year, we also mark the 50th anniversary of the U.S. Maritime Administration. Throughout the past five decades, the dedicated men and women of this agency have worked to improve the competitiveness of our maritime Industry in world markets and to strengthen our ability to respond swiftly and effectively in time1 of crisis. On behalf of a grateful Nation, I salute these outstanding public servants for their commitment to the U.S. Merchant Marine and to the shipbuilding, repair services, ports, and intennodal water and land transportation systems they need to function efficiently. In recognition of the Importance of the U.S. Merchant Marine to our Nation's prosperity and security, the Congress, by a joint resolution approved Hay 20, 1933, has designated May 22 of each year as ~atlonal Maritime Day·" and has authorized and requested the President to Issue annually a proclamation calling for its appropriate observance. Now, therefore, I, William J. Clinton, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 22, 2000, as National Maritime Day. I urge all Americans to observe this day with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities and by displaying the flag of the United States in their homes and in their communities. I also request that all merchant ships sailing under the American flag dress ship on that day. In witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-second day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-fourth. William J. Clinton lifetime career in the U.S. merchant marine," he concluded. Two other speakers were featured at the MarAd ceremony. Raymond Ebeling, president and chairman, American RollOn/Roll-Off Carriers, urged support for the Jones Act and the Maritime Security Program. He also called for ..a new comprehensive and aggressive maritime policy." Ebeling said that the beginning point of that new policy must be an agreement by all key stakeholders on the future role of the U.S. merchant marine and of U.S. flag carriers in terms of support of national defense policy. Edward Kelly, vice president, American Maritime Officers, who had just returned from the meeting of the International Maritime Organization in London, reflected on his trip and shared his impressions on how the world views our maritime industry. "At the meetings, the United States is still recognized as a global leader in almost everything," he said. "Included are maritime safety, quality and standards. However we do not measure up in the number of ships we have or in the number of mariners at sea, and certainly not in the number of ships we have under construction." Kelly said that the IMO and the world look to the United States for leadership, and it is essential that we present a stronger maritime trade commitment to them. "In order to live up to our calling," Kelly suggested, "we must have a national maritime policy that promotes the U.S.-flag merchant marine adequate to meet out national and economic security needs." He concluded his remarks by suggesting that "a most fitting memorial for those who have given their lives would be a merchant marine fleet of over 500 ships, a maritime program and more ships capable of functioning as a Navy auxiliary in times of national emergency. In this man- Continued on next page July2000 �Vice Presidential Salute Continued from previous page ~~·~- ner, we would honor those who have gone before us." and supported by the Gulfo] Mexico; AmenCa. ·ts :literally encircled by waters t1w.t reqµ~re us to rnair,itai~ our ~m- , petitive edge. The U.S. Merchant Marine, a fleet that is U.S. built, U.S~ owned, and U.S# crewed, is helping to ensure that success in the 21st century. · A strong America requires a strong merchant marine. I am proud of our administration's record in promoting the development and maintenance of a modem, efficient Backing from Bateman Congressman Herbert H. Bateman (R-Va.), chairman of the Special Oversight Panel on the Merchant Marine of the House Armed Services Committee, was scheduled to deliver the keynote address at the Propeller Club's annual Maritime Day luncheon. The congressman, however, was unable to attend due to a death in his family. Helen Delich Bentley, former member of Congress from Maryland and former chairman of the Federal Maritime Commission, read his prepared speech at the U.S. Navy Yard. In part, Rep. Bateman's remarks were as follows: "We in the Congress are committed to providing the necessary resources and support for the maritime community so that you can continue to perform the outstanding work that has proven so beneficial to our nation. To that end, we share a set of common goals: we must have a strong maritime industry, including a viable and economically competitive U.S.-flag fleet; a strong shipbuilding industrial base; and an economically viable nationwide infrastructure of serviceable SIU President Michael Sacco discusses the MarAd ceremony with students from the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. harbors on the Great Lakes, inland waterways and seacoasts of the United States .... "The maritime industry, the Congress and the administration must continue to plead our case with the American people. An informed public will allow us to provide the necessary funding to preserve maritime power as the underpinning of our national security .... "I would be remiss if I did not mention several other pillars of our maritime security. The Jones Act, the Passenger Vessel Services Act, and the America's cargo preference laws are keeping our merchant marine afloat. Ships would not be under construction in the U.S. today if it were not for these laws. And ships would not be flying the United States flag for employing American citizen mariners if it were not for these laws. "We must all vigorously enforce the letter and spirit of these statues while bringing new ideas to the table to expand the U.S. fleet by stimulating growth in each pillar of our merchant marine." MSC Ceremony "Today, National Maritime Day, we take time to remember and celebrate the heroic feats of the men and women who have served this nation as merchant mariners . Established in 1933, this special day recognizes the service and sacrifice of those who have served ashore and afloat, going in harm's way when necessary." So stated Adm. Donald Pillingt vice chief of naval operations, during his keynote address at the MSC ceremony at the Washington Navy Yard. A wreath-laying ceremony commemorating the American merchant mariners lost to hostile action followed the admiral's address. The event, which attracted merchant fleet, capable of helping our expanding world trade. and meeting the needs of the military in times of conflict, or national emergency. The Jones Act is thefoundation of our American.maritime·ind.tlstry a,nd an essen- . ··tial· part of· the fabric . or our . n,atjO.tt':s . . gcon.q@ic, . an~,;. national security. I am committed to ensutin{f'f°he pres·< more than 300 participants and spectators, was hosted by Vice Adm. Gordon S. Holder, commander of MSC. Posting the colors and providing music were members of the U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard and the U.S. Navy Band, respectively. Also on hand were the master and crew of the ocean-going tug USNS Mohawk who represented MSC ships and America's merchant mariners around the world. Seafarers from the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., were also in attendance. Admiral Pilling noted that although the Washington Navy Yard was a fitting place to acknowledge the mammoth contributions of America's men;hant mariners to our nation's very existence, the yard's history isn't as long as that registered by the merchant mariners. "While the yard contains 200 years of history, that number falls 25 years short of the service given by these gallant men and women," the admiral said. "Their history is full of courageous deeds and selfless sacrifice." After tracing their record from the Revolutionary War to the present, Admiral Pilling commented on the historically close relationship merchant seamen have always shared with their uniformed comrades. "It is vital that the partnership between the U.S. merchant marine and the U.S. Navy remains strong, especially in these days of 'rightsizing' and shrinking budgets," Admiral Pilling offered. "At the same time, the modem global market requires a powerful maritime force to protect our interests and prevent hostilities. Our maritime forces must be able to prevail in conflict. "As we move into a new millennium, I have complete faith in the men and women of our merchant marine," he continued. "I know they will be there, whenever the nation calls, a crucial part of our maritime force." Admiral Pilling concluded his remarks with a statement of gratitude to all merchant mariners who paid the ultimate sacrifice for this nation. "I extend a heartfelt thanks and the appreciation of the nation to the men and women of America's merchant marine, for your heroism, your sacrifices, your undaunted service." July2000 SIU President Michael Sacco Seafarers LOS 9 �Maersk Sealand Opens New Houston Terminal New York's 30-Year Lease Approved Maersk Sealand has expanded its operations in Houston with the recent opening of a 71-acre terminal. The Terminal Six facility, ceremonially opened by the company and the port of Houston May 17, includes four cranes. a dozen receiving/delivering lanes, six scales plus an additional 16 acres being developed. It features 2000-foot berths and dockside rail. A number of SIU members and officials attended the kickoff at the Barbours Cut Container Terminal. Two weeks later, Maersk Sealand welcomed news from the northeast that the governors of New York and New Jersey finally cleared the way for implementa- tion of a 30-year lease between the port and the company. New Jersey's Christie Whitman and New York's George Pataki ended a 17-month stalemate that had delayed the shipping line's expansion at Port Elizabeth, N.J. According to press reports, the governors had been at odds regarding which state benefits more from its Port Authority revenues. They approved the lease after agreeing to earmark $250 million for New York transportation projects, allow privatization of the World Trade Center and study a possible increase in fares for the commuter rail linking the two states. Attending the ceremonial opening at the Barbours Cut facility are (from left) Recertified Steward Fernando Urias, AB Travis Corgey, Bosun John Cain, SIU Safety Director Kenneth Moore, Bosun's Mate Gilbert Rodriguez, SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, SIU Asst. VP Jim McGee and Electrician Randy Clark. Allied Tug Falcon Awaits New Charter Seafarers met with SIU officials aboard the Allied Towing tug Falcon (below) recently in the port of Norfolk, Va. The vessel was in the shipyard getting prepared for a new charter. In addition to distributing copies of the most recent Seafarers LOG and other union forms, officials also discussed the new contract, pensions and the proposed merger of the NMU into the SIU. Chief Cook Donald Lee Jones The new terminal already spans 71 acres and will expand by another 16 currently being developed. USNS Soderman Ties Up In Norfolk Captain R. C. Morris and Port Captain Andy Higbee Chief Engineer Hugh L Gibbs Jr. and Utility Man Richard E. Hamilton. Mate Thomas B. Mercer and Port Engineer SIU officials recently greeted the crew of the USNS Soderman as it tied up in the Port of Norfolk, Va. Officials passed out the latest edition of the Seafarers LOG as well as other SIU forms to crew members. Pictured above (from left) are Chief Steward Ron Jones, SA Herman Stith and Chief Cook Thomas Johnson. Pictured below (from left) are AB Tim Kacer, SIU Representative Pat Vandergrift, Bosun Jeff Saxon and OS Paul Hennessey. Wiggins to Seafarers LOG July2000 �Front-Gate Facelift Almost Finished Dredging With the Manhattan Island Two NATCO dredges-the Dodge Island and the Manhattan Island-currently are working in San Juan Bay, P.R. on a nearly year-long project to deepen the shipping channel. At left is the dredging process in operation and (below) the Manhattan Island enters San Juan bay for its first week of work. The front gate at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is being refurbished. It is scheduled for completion this month. The center is located in Piney Point, Md. Hart Goes to New Department; Graykowsld Fiiis MarAd Post Simulator Complex Under Construction Continued from page 6 Levin said the center's original GMDSS system was radiooperator Morse Code-based, or ship-to-ship. However, things have changed tremendously where communications are concerned, he added. With the advent of satellite communications and the ability of satellites to detect signals, communications developers decided that rather than retaining a ship-to-ship-based system, a better approach would be to go ship-to-shore. "They decided on this approach because the shore folks could manage communication input much better by using a rescue coordinating center," Levin offered. "As a result, the International Maritime Organization (IMO), an IMO subcommittee, and other working groups in various countries developed the GMDSS. They also developed equipment requirements, operating procedures and examinations." Levin said GMDSS training in the United States, and in most other countries today, is standardized. Signatory nations must comply with Standards of Training Certification and Watcbkeeping (STCW) laws. These prerequisites, the same that exist for other countries, presently are satisfied in the U.S. through a 70-hour course. One requirement in that course is the demonstrated ability (for assessment) of actually operating the equipment. The instructor concluded that the GMDSS simulators should help students at the Paul Hall Center learn communications systems quicker and hone their ability to interact with them. When completed, the simulator complex addition will contain five classrooms. Three of the rooms will be for general purpose use, a fourth for multi-functional applications and the fifth for a crane simulator. July2000 The U.S. Department of Transportation recently announced that Maritime Administrator Clyde Hart will serve as the acting deputy administrator of the new Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). During Hart's leave of absence from MarAd, Deputy Administrator John Graykowski will be its acting administrator. The FMCSA was established Jan. 1. Its mission is to improve roadway safety by preventing commercial motor vehicle-related injuries and fatalities. Graykowski previously served as acting head of MarAd from 1997 to 1998. Port Waives Rent For Lane Victory Los Angeles harbor commissioners last month approved a five-year rent-free agreement with the group operating the historic vessel SS Lane Victory. The lease is expected to save an estimated $270,000 for the U.S. Merchant Marine Veterans of World War II, the volunteer association in charge of the ship. The Lane Victory-which served in World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War- has been berthed in Los Angeles for the past 11 years. It is a floating memorial but remains fully operational, offering a half-dozen or so one-day cruises to Catalina during the summer. Maintenance and operation of the vessel costs an estimated $200,000 even without any rent, according to a report in the Los Angeles Times. ITF Dellvers For Crews On Runaway-Flag Ships The International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) recently reported that in 1999 it recovered more than $23 million in back pay owed to crews on 551 runaway-flag and other substandard ships. The ITF is composed of 570 affiliate unionsincluding the SIU-in more than 130 countries. Those unions represent more than five million members. In addition to securing back wages for the crews, the ITF through its 100-plus inspectors last year arrested numerous unsafe ships and ensured that proper repairs were made. With St. Louis AMMV Chapter SIU President Michael Sacco (fourth from right) and Missouri Gov. Mel Carnahan (fifth from right) greet members of the Samuel Parker Chapter of the American Merchant Marine Veterans during this year's St. Louis Port Council dinner. The event took place April 8. Pictured from left to right are Donald Adams, SIU St. Louis Port Agent Becky Sleeper, Edward Dierkes, George Ward, Donald Witte, Mike Congardi, Carnahan, Sacco, Michael Buckley, John Ludwig and Jack Grothe. Seafarers LOG 11 �With th At the llall In and Right: Port Agent Anthony McQuay conducts a membership meeting at the Jacksonville hall with the help of VP Dean Corgey (left) and Patrolman Bryan Powell. Catching up on union news during a monthly membership meeting are (from left) OMU Gary Doyen, OMU Patrick McPherson, Chief Cook Jack Hart, Steward/Baker Floyd Bishop and OMU Milton Israel Jr. During a recent union meeting at the Jacksonvil Chief Cook Rob Seim, QEE Hardin Chancey Payne review the Seafarers LOG and discuss t trends in the maritime industry. Recertified Bosun David Campbell addresses the membership at a recent union meeting. Brother Campbell stressed the importance of upgrading at the Paul Hall Center and the need to bring new recruits into the union. (Campbell completed the bosun recertification course at the school in May.) Port Agent Anthony McQuay presides over the voting booths while Recertified Bosun William "Scotty" Byrne receives his ballot. Brother Byrne cast the first vote at the Jacksonville hall in the SIU-NMU proposed merger. Left: Full book members raise their hands to be counted at the Jacksonville membership meeting. 12 Seafarers LOG July2000 �,Memben: ~()UDdthe ri\'llle liall Recertified Steward Milton Yournett reads about new and upcoming SIU job opportunities while aboard the Atlantic. The Jacksonville hall has the largest jurisdictional area as well as the largest coastal area of any of the SIU ports-spanning the region from the North Carolina border to Key West, Fla. to Panama City. Needless to say, shipping is very good in Jacksonville1 making many job calls quite competi· tive and action at the counter fast and furious. Serving the membership throughout the region are Port Agent Anthony McQuay along with Patrolmen Bryan Powell (who provided the photos on these two pages) and Harmando Salazar. They meet the ships, tugs and dredges that hit port any· where In their jurlsdlaion and also help the members with any business they need to take care of in the hall. Deckhand Derek Dragon unpacks and mixes paint for maintenance work at the docks of Crescent Towing and Salvage in Savannah, Ga. SIU Patrolman Bryan Powell (center) meets with two unlicensed apprentices-Ryan Smith {left) and Randolph Cash-aboard the Atlantic, a U.S. Ship Management Co. vessel. Since December, the port of Jacksonville has taken delivery of four new contrainer cranes (like the one at left), for a total of 14. The new cranes help the port keep pace with the growing container trade and are part of a $150 million investment in terminal improvements over the past three years. Two members of the dock crew at Crowley are OSs Mario Morante and Jason Powell. Also at Crowley. Port Agent Anthony McQuay (left) stops to chat with AB Gilberto Chamorro. any of the SIU-contracted ships, tugs and dredges come through or are stationed in the port of Jacksonville. The above vessels are just four of a larger number serviced by port officials ecently. From the left are the El Mo"o (Sea Star}; the dredge Dodge Island on the job in Georgetown, S.C.; the PFC William B. Baugh offloading at Blount Island Marine Terminal; and the tug enera/ Oglethorpe of Crescent Towing & Salvage in Savannah, Ga. July2000 Seafarers LOS 13 . J �A VOYAGETOINDIA-1940 Last April, the Seafarers LOG published part of Pensioner James M. Smith's journal of his trip to India in 1940 as an ordinary seaman aboard the SS Steel Age. The vessel had steamed past the Rock of Gibraltar, through the Suez Canal and called on the ports of Alexandria, Egypt and Jidda, Saudi Arabia. This second segment continues in Jidda. This evening, Bud, Bill and I went ashore ($5 for round-trip in launch) and were escorted around the city by an Arabian government official who could speak fairly good English. Jidda has no electric lights, using gas as its means of illumination. There are no paved streets and no sidewalks. The streets are hardpacked dirt, even in the "shopping district." There is an abundance of goats, donkeys (which are painted all colors of the rainbow), dirty dogs, cats and camels. The Arabs, however, are most kindly and not at all aggressive. I much prefer them to my late Egyptian fiends, er, friends. My guide and interpreter was well dressed in the native garb of flowing silken robes, leather sandals and a blue silk sash. His headdress was the customary turban with a one-inch diameter black cord wrapped twice around. It is the badge of authority for government officials. We walked through the dark streets flanked by buildings that were ornate but centuries old _ There was a distinctly oriental odor that I could Mt define, and I saw no women except two or three shrouded black creatures that somehow didn't resemble in any way the female of the species. From a minaret came the wail of a muezzin: plaintive, lonesome and searchingly thin, calling the faithful to evening prayer. The Moslems pray five times a day, and the muezzins, or priests, have the "good fortune" to be blinded while still young babies "so that they may see no evil." We went through the east gate in the walled city and were on the road to Mecca for about 100 yards. There was a camel caravan camped alongside the road with the camels tethered nearby. Being an old farm boy from the midwest, I couldn't resist trying to make friends with one of the animals. When I went to pat him (her?) on the nose, the beast made a swipe at me with huge yellow teeth, and I fell over backward, much to the merriment of the bedouins, who were rolling on the ground with laughter. Returning to the center of the town, the government chap invited us to his house for tea. More dark alleys. On the floor in the entrance hall lay about a dozen ragged pilgrims, one of whom had a dangerous looking dagger. I stepped over them all very carefully. Up five short flights of stairs and into a well-furnished room with a platform bed built around two sides. There were about two dozen pillows of varying and beautiful design and a 14 Seafarers LOG by J. Melford Smith thick rug on the floor that would harbor. Had a drink with a couple Somewhere east of Suez cost a fortune in the States. British soldiers, then the three of Where the best is like the The windows were of wood us went to the cinema. worst The movie was in an ancient Where there ain 't no ten comand pointed at the top. On the wall was a picture of King Farouk amphitheater open to the starry mandments And a man can raise a thirst and his Egyptian queen. There night sky. I asked one of my comwas a small table of teak or panions about not having a roof. mahogany on which were small He said, "What for? It hasn't Saturday, March 23glasses, ash trays that were never rained here for 105 years!" In Underway at dawn yesterday for meant for use and similar articles Aden, I used five kinds of money Karachi, India. The Arabs in of beautiful but useless design. -American, English, Arabian, Rastanura stole everything that wasn't bolted to the deck. They The tea was thick, very sweet Egyptian and Indian. Wednesday, March 13- even stole the flag halyard! Today and very good. We chatted about Arabia and Egypt and T. E. Underway at 1700 for Rastanura the weather is warm with calm Lawrence before leaving to visit in the Persian Gulf. At sunset we seas as we cross the Gulf of the Americans' residence. were pushing our bow into the Oman. I am drawing 100 rupees, There are seven Americans East Indian Ocean, a flat lazy sea which I hope will last until here working for Standard Oil of turned to blue and gold by the set- Calcutta. Sunday, March 24--Easter California. We were welcomed ting sun. In the east, the first of with open arms (and scotch and the evening stars was twinkling in Sunday. Fine weather and calm sodas). We blue seas. There were the first is a full moon Americans to these nights, making it very visit them, and they were genbeautiful on the uinely glad to midwatch. While off watch, if I'm see us. Everyone got slightly not working with tipsy, and we the deck gang under superviarrived at the dock at midsion of the bonight in a Ford sun, I lie on deck touring sedan and read. At prein high humor sent am reading "History of the and noisy song. Saturday, United States" March 9by Emerson Fite. Woke up this ,.........."":-Am surprised at how much I still morning with a hangover. and -~~11".a• have to learn my mouth felt about American like the Russian ~....-:o~-------------~~:...__.~:::::J history. Army had been marching through a deep blue sky. Tuesday, Macch 26-Arrivcd it in their stocking feet _Too many Thursday, March 14--Was in Karachi, which is at the mouth scotch and sodas, no doubt. really warm on deck today. of the Indus River. Went ashore in Blistering hot today. Underway Didn't get up 'til noon. This is the afternoon. Found the place really splendid cruising compared very interesting and the prices for Aden at 1600. Sunday, March 10--Got up to my two years as a Marine on lDw. Underway for Bombay on at noon. Have been reading the USS Houston. There has been Wednesday. "Beau Geste" by P.C. Wren. a ship in sight all day with guns Friday, March 29- We which I finished after getting off mounted aft and no flag. We arrived in Bombay about noon. Went to a movie in the evening. watch. Very good story. Played ~hanged course just in case. "quoits" this afternoon. It's like Friday, March l~Fish on Saw "Balalaika," then had dinner horseshoes but with eight-inch the menu today. Nothing of inter- at the Taj Mahal Hotel-"The rings made of rope. The sea is est to write about. 1380 miles to Gateway to India." smooth as glass and it's hotter our next port of call. Weather than hell. We pass a ship every very hot-am getting a good tan. Bombay Nights two or three hours. ETA at Aden Tuesday, March 19-For the Englishmen and ladies in is Tuesday morning. past three days we have been evening clothes, beggars everyMonday, March. 11-The cruising steadily northeast at 10 where crying "Bakshish, Sahib," weather is very hot but we have a knots through the Indian Ocean. gharreys (horse-drawn carriages) strong wind and a choppy sea. Today we entered the Persian and rickshaws, Indian girl prostiThis wind is called a "khamsin," Gulf from the Gulf of Oman. tutes, some not more than chilwhich means "50" in Arabic, Both countries are in sight. On dren, Anglo-Indians called because it blows 50 days a year. the port side, the high, desolate "Chichi's," and some of the most Passed two islands near the and rugged mountains of the beautiful architecture in the entrance to the Red Sea. We stand Arabian Peninsula; to starboard, world. The locals wear class watches only since it's too hot to the low rolling coastal plain of marks on their foreheads and in work on deck. Persia (Iran). We will be arriving their noses. Colorful saris on the in Rastanura Thursday morning. women. And people, people GuH of Aden This evening there is a yellow everywhere. Tuesday, March 12-Entered moon lying low over the East The weather was bot and the the Gulf of Aden this morning. Indian Sea, reminding me of nights beautiful. Sitting on the Raised land at 1400 and tied up to more romantic moments. Just one veranda with my British friends buoys in Aden harbor at 1600. year since Palm Beach. Ah, and a lovely Chichi girl named Went ashore after dinner. There romance! Perhaps things will Terry. Thought of "The Romance isn't much of interest here work out better in the future. of the East" Can't remember the although Aden is the fueling port Read "Half a Loaf' by Grace author: for all ships going to and from the A. Lewis, a tenderly romantic The lilt of liquid Malay tunes Far East. This is a British military novel of the trials and tribulations Azure tropic skies post where duty should be avoid- of a young author and his wife. The warmth of sunlight on ed if possible. It is incredibly barThursday, March 21lagoons ren, consisting of huge rugged- Arrived at Rastanura this momLaughter in dark eyes. looking mountains of volcanic ing. A most desolate place with From distant lands these magrock and, incidentally, one of the nothing to signify its existence ics come hottest places on earth, with tem- but a few oil tanks. Flat desert, no Where love and fragrance peratures running to 130 degrees. trees. The British pilot who meet There are a few Allied mer- brought the ship in said, "When The lute and zithers gentle chant ships in the harbor, all the wind isn't blowing like hell strum armed. While ashore, I walked from the north, it's blowing like Is stilled by desert heat. around the English settlement. hell from the south." It is so hot From many a visioned then down through the native and dry we are thirsty all the unknown land quarter and back to the Crescent, time. I wonder if Kipling was in a A mystic world afar which is a tree-lined street run- situation like this in northern Mongolia, Tibet, Samarkand ning along the shoreline of the India when he wrote: And fabled 'Zanzibar! On Sunday I went to the race track with my British friends, dressed in my new khaki shorts and pith helmet. Won a whole bunch of rupees but didn't realize how much until I returned to the hotel, emptied all my pockets and the ones I had stuffed in my shirt. Almost $500 ! The most money I have ever had! On Monday I stopped at the bank and changed it to American dollars before returning to the ship and had Capt. Jones put it in the ship's safe. We left Bombay this morning at dawn. As we made our way across the harbor through the heavy traffic, the sun rose out of the ocean to touch the rounded, pointed domes of the Taj Mahal Hotel and slowly flood the city with light, chasing the early morning mist before it. And so farewell to this great city of the East, where east is east and west is also east. We are now bound for Columbo, Ceylon with an ETA for Thursday. There is a rumor going around that we will go to Singapore from Calcutta and back to the States via Honolulu. Around the world cruise! Columbo, Ceylon Friday, April S-Arrived in Columbo early Wednesday evening. We moored the ship to a buoy in the polluted harbor. My watch partner, Bill Marks, had bought a tailored white sharkskin suit in Bombay and was wearing it for the first time. There were three bum.boats tied up at the foot of the gangway. Bill went tripping merrily down the gangway. He jumped into the first boat, which tipped dangerously. Off balance, he jumped into the second boat with the same result. The third boat was a complete miss, and poor Bill wound up in the oily harbor water with his white sharkskin suit A comical performance but a real loss for Bill. I went ashore in a bumboat at a cost of one-half rupee. Columbo is a singularly beautiful town and has a fine European-style business district, elegant English tea rooms and the Grand Oriental hotel. The city is clean, and the native housing districts are a mile or more from the main shopping area. The native Ceylonese are not so ragged as elsewhere in the East. Transportation is by rickshaw or trams and also fast motor buses. The dock where I landed is a very modem one with a moneychanging place at the entrance. Opposite the dock is the Grand Oriental, so I stopped in. There was dancing in the ballroom with some rather bored-looking British colonials dressed in evening clothes and their very, very snobbish women. The atmosphere was a bit dull so I left. Perhaps Kipling had it right when he wrote about some girls back home in merry old England: Beefy face and grubby hand Law, what do they understand? I've a sweeter, neater maiden In a cleaner, greener land On the road to Mandalay. To·be continued in a future issue of the Seafare-rs LOG. . July 2000 �Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea MAY 16 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C TOTAL SHIPPED AU Groups Class A Class B Class C · Baltimore Norfolk Trip Reliefs **REGISTERED ON BEACH AU Groups Class A Class B Class C Tuesday: September 5* DECK DEPARTMENT Port New York : Philadelphia JUNE 15, 2000 29 7 .. 6 21 IO 4 5 3 4 2 1 9 11 7 12 5 12 24 10 17 9 12 13 12 2 0 11 11 8 9 7 6 s 3 .} 6 4 11 17 4 5 7 2 1 254 2 143 87 6 Mobile New Orleans s 23 25 3 0 6 1 l I 0 0 8 · o ..... 0 2 0 26 4 4 120 22 18 32 59 . : :·:::.·: ..43 10 26 11 39 18 23 3 43 11 108 420 3 8 2 184 . 20 12 4 10 3 0 6 17 5 10 7 2 5 4 2 . 5 8 7 7 3 ··.29 3 6 ·7 5 10 13 ••••••••••••••• .Friday: August 11, September S Baltimore .......-.o.....Tuursday: August 10, September 7 Duluth .......• + •••••••••••• Honolulu .•. n ••• ~~; Wednesday; August 16, September 13 ...... Friday: AriguSt 18,. Septembet lS 2 1 71 4 0 2 4 5 2 2 0 0 3 3 9 . . '13 0 4 1 7 8 12 0 3 1 6 12 2 5 7 2 4 1 1 32 6 10 10 11 4 35 3 4 0 0 12 38 42 8 I Personals FRIENDS OF JAMES E. HILL James E. Hill would like to hear from shipmates who served with him aboard the Penn Vanguard or the Keva Ideal. His address is 410 East Oak Ave., Apt. 7, Tampa, FL 33602. 6 Crusader Pays Off in New York 0 5 0 112 2 58 0 259 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 20 .. ,. . 16'' 0 0 0 2 0 10 0 1 10 0 0 0 21 38 0 .. 0 77 43 .2 .3. :·:. l4 17 16 4 5 38 43 .... 2 . Totals All Departments 8 7 18 u 3 8 6 3 ll 18 Algonac 9 6 5 7 19 5 10 3 2 . *change created by Labor Day holiday 2 15 2 2 These photos were snapped aboard the Crusader (CSX) during a recent stop in New York. Above (from left) Electrician Kevin Cooper and AB John Walsh enjoy a late dinner. Below (left) Bosun Roberto Diaz meets with SIU New York Safety Director Jack Sheehan, and (right) Steward Joe Emidy finishes up his galley duties for the evening . 19 3 21 0 0 0 0 2 41 199 171 25 109 126 0 85 290 290 608 493 337 434 356 258 224 970 655 504 0 0 *"Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **"Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. July2000 Seafarers LOG 15 �Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes MAY 16 - JUNE 15, 2000 CL - Company/Lakes **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP DECK DEPARTMENT Port Algonac Port 0 . Algonac 0 A~gonac NP-Non Priority TOTAL smPPED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP Port L-Lakes 0 17 4 0 ENGINE DEPARTMENT ·: 0 .:7~.:. . ·: ·:· . °() . 0 : .: .:!:,,,.::. ::s·.·.;:x·}:x•:r:.f Port Algonae Totals All Depts 0 53 48 0 32 18 0 19 *"Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **"Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. 21 Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters MAY 16 - JUNE 15, 2000 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Totals 0 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C 1 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 0 0 11 7 2 7 12 0 Totals All Depts 4 2 *"Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **"Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. 5 31 PIC-FROM-THE-PAST PfilLAl>ELPIDA .. 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19'148' {215). 336-3818 . . · P,INB.Y llO~T eo. Bmc 1s. Piriey Point. MD ...'. . :.:· ....: {'.!PD t)94-00l~ 16 Seafarers LOS . . 20674 This photo was sent to the Seafarers LOG by Pensioner Arthur Longuet of Carson City, Nev. The picture was snapped in the summer of 1947 aboard the Governor Graves, a Waterman Steamship Corp. vessel, which was en route to France. Longuet is in the second row, fourth from right (marked with an "X"). He sent this photo to the LOG. hoping someone might recognize himself. Brother Longuet, now 72, joined the SIU in 1945 in his native New York. He sailed in the deck department and retired in 1991. If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she sould like to share with the LOG readership, it should be sent to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. July2000 �Welcome Ashore 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 waterways 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. recertified bosun who upgraded his skills several times at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., is among the six Seafarers announcing their retirements this month. Brother Walter W. LeClair has some 30 years of service with the SIU in addition to his tenure with the U.S. Army. In addition to Brother LeClair, each of the five other retirees sailed in the deep sea division. Three of the retirees were members of the steward department, two shipped in the engine department and one sailed in the deck department. On this page, the Seafarers LOG presents brief biographical accounts of the retiring Seafarers. A DEEP SEA PEDRO A. ALICEA, 66, joined the SIU in 1977 in the port of New York and first sailed aboard the Westchesteroperated Charle,ston. A native of Puerto Rico, Brother Alicea worked in the steward department. He last sailed this year aboard the Producer, operated by CSX Lines. Brother Alicea resides in Ponce, P.R. PAULT. BABBIN, 62, hails from Jacksonville, Fla. A native of Boston, Brother Babbin joined the SIU in 1972 in the port of Seattle. He worked as a member of the Steamship Lines, Inc. Brother Rosich last sailed in 1999 aboard the Cape Gibson, operated by Patriot. He currently resides in San Bruno, Calif. engine department, first sailing aboard the Transyork, a Trans Western Associates vessel. The Jacksonville resident last sailed this year aboard the NPR Inc.operated Mayaguez. CLIFFORD A MELROSE, 75, began his career with the SIU in 1974 in the port of Seattle. A member of the steward department, Brother Melrose 's first ship was the Sea-Land Galloway. The Deadwood, S.D. native last sailed in 1984 aboard the Weschester-operated Arcon. Brother Melrose currently resides in Rapid City, S.D. FRANCISCO M. ROSICH, 59, joined the MC&S in 1972 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Rosich is a native of Peuto Rico. His first ship was the Santa Mariana, operated by Delta YUSEF SALAHI, 71, hails from Astoria, N. Y. Brother Salahi joined the SIU in 1972 in the port of San Francisco. A native of Yemen, his first ship was the Noon Day, a Waterman Steamship Corp. vessel. He was a member of the engine department, last sailing this year aboard the Green Island, also operated by Waterman. Brother Salahi calls Lackawanna, N. Y. home. WALTERW. Le CLAIR, 64, joined the SIU in 1960 in the port of New York. A native of New Hampshire, Brother LeClair was a member of the deck department. He first sailed aboard an Interocean Ugland-Management Corp.vessel. An honorably discharged veteran, he served in the U.S. Army from 1958 to 1960. Brother LeClair upgraded his skills several times at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School in Piney Point, Md. and completed the bosun recertification program there in 1974. The Chatham, Mass. resident last sailed in 1976 aboard the Anchorage, operated by Sea-Land Services. Mayaguez Incident Recalled In Television Shaw, Letter The 1975 ordeal of the SS Mayaguez, one of the most famous SIUcrewed ships ever, recently was recalled in a one-hour feature on the Discovery Channel. "Seized at Sea" aired May 14. The show focused mainly on rescue efforts by the U.S. Marine Corps. Navy and Air Force that followed the Mayaguez capture by Cambodian rebels (the Khmer Rouge) off that country's coast. It featured recently declassified film footage of the mission and included interviews with President Gerald F Drd, Mayagui!z crew members and military personnel. Additionally, Charles G. Raymond, president of CSX Lines (formerly Sea-Land, which operated the Mayaguez), sent a letter to the U.S. Ambassador in Cambodia concerning the 25-year anniversary of the incident and a related ceremony. The letter is reprinted here: s The Honorable Kent Wiedemann Ambassador Embassy of the United States of America 27 EO Street 240 Phnom Penh Cambodia Re: Ceremony Commemorating the 25th anniversary of the Mayaguez incident l!~~-J~~~~··' Dear Ambassador Wiedemann: ·,;.itJ~!fng ·ai heati(fuaitil-$;J~i.,g4ent Paul Hall -~~~~!r··ia~;::tnt=~=an ..pdj~i:·.(i.q-i:·;~ij~i;::;. . =a~\~ " · ·: .Pf . ·. POint':· ~d·....;.,. . at . . ney . " ·~• ...•. ·:;_:.~9. ~tain yo~ng' l;nei(·.··y fJQi.:. entf'Y#-vid. JOb.s . . . . cation,, training ~nd... THJS MONTH JN SJU HISTORY :::0~· . uu __..minated ra~ ~loo ·: flionth at a diplomat• ..·i.(:.(Onf~rtPC.e. ..CQn.- . , : . :aucte<I J~ . ~dii.d6~·:;\. : :-: : ·. ;:ships;"'; ,D ts<Wlll . .be·:1n·. . . · . ..... wJth the ·adop&n·of : : '. :~a4.1ij;«;~!f.' ·YP8r~~i~$:. .!rainia,~· ~· en~bl~· . :: i.:i:.: .>~;·:,:•.; ~·; ~~~~r:. ~f. $lgnifkant:· ~eviiio11s. .ai~~d ~· . ·. . <~~~?lm~(t~q~™g .:wot!dfil<~~ameri:w ·:qualifY· f0r promotions <. . ,. :·: . .·Improving shipboard safet)t. · ·. ~ft!!i';;$~@fit•:<f ·training.....:· ;.;f~~j;,;;·'.~.jfk!·•••• ! ; ···••;\;cj:J;.;·y; ;_;;/· ;'.•·;• J;::i{:~; ~e~wa:~~~ ~.:U':n· L~#!~~~;·o.µ.·"the. $1\.P~J>rand .>stol!:·: ~~'°arters. buildlnr".in ·new. siX· . .. . that the safety'.:.of seamen was the primari. camp Springs, consideration .in the updating of the .:.: M4~/~/~~tf.~g::. c,Omi>t.e.tio'-1· · The buildfitr.ls ... lntematk>nal. Con\fei1don of the Standards of ·Training#' Certification and Watchkeeping ·':W.~J~~@1:. .Q~C. All of.Jhe ~erior wo~k (STCW),. a 17-year-old pact that has t 13 :. J\~· tiien.:completed; "and·interior·work is signatory countries whose fleets represent tld~~·'-~:aJ(.!1Jg· rapidly. nearly 95 percent of the world's merchant'i:;Xi!i;:5~J14irir ·should be ready for occupation ~Ip tonnage.. · IObted just' minutes by car from downtown July2DOO Twenty-five years ago this morning, the United States Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps launched a military rescue effort against the forces of the Cambodian Khmer Rouge. Their sole mission was to free the forty officers and crew members of the U.S.-flag merchant vessel Mayaguez. The ship, operated by our company, Sea-Land Service, had been seized by a Cambodian gunboat four days earlier while on a routine commercial voyage from Hong Kong to Thailand . The crew was taken forcibly from the ship and held in an unknown location. This action represented a direct attack by the Khmer Rouge on the sovereign territory of the United States of America and the illegal detention of its citizens . Tragically, forty-one American servicemen lost their lives during the successful completion of the mission . As a result of the courage and sacrifice of the members of the rescue team, the Mayaguez's crew was released by their captors, reunited with their ship and returned safely to their voyage. The statement made by the United States on May 15, 1975 was heard loud and clear around the world. U.S.-flag merchant ships and American seamen will be protected on the high seas with the same vigor and determination as our borders and citizens would be defended at home. The brave men who died during this mission left a legacy which has and will continue to instill pride in the men and women who choose to go to sea on our ships. The American merchant marine will always be grateful. Mr. Ambassador, please pass on our thanks and lasting gratitude to the members of the United States' armed forces attending your ceremony today for their service to our country and for the ultimate sacrifice of their comrades twenty-five years ago. They gave their lives to protect not just the men of the Mayaguez, but the American merchant marine and its crews wherever they sail. Sincerely, Charles G. Raymond President Seafarers LOB ., 7 �DEEP SEA BLEWETT DAVIS ~~= Pensioner Blewett Davis, 76, passed away April 13. Born in Texas, he began his SIU career in 1965 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. His first ship was the Sreel Flyer. Brother Davis worked in the deck department. Prior to retiring in October 1988, he sailed aboard the Overseas Juneau. The Abernathy, Texas resident was a veteran of World War II, having served in the U.S. Coast Guard from 1942 to 1945. JEROME J. FAHEY Jerome J. Fahey, 58, died November 10, 1999. A native of New York, he first sailed with the Seafarers in 1986 aboard the USNS Assurance, operated by Sea Mobility, Inc. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded his skills at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md. From 1958 to 1962, he served in the U.S. Navy. Brother Fahey last sailed in 1997 aboard the Cpl. Louis J Hauge Jr., operated by Maersk Line. He was a resident of Ingleside, Texas. NORMAN L. FERGUSON Pensioner N6rman L Fergu~(')t1, 82, passed away February 27. Brother Ferguson joined the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) in 1943. Born in Mississippi, he sailed as a chief steward and began receiving his pens.Qn in May 1973. H., made his home in Suison City, Calif passed away April 9. He began his career with the MC&S in 1942 aboard the Oliver Wendell Holmes. Born in Idaho, he worked as a chief steward, last sailing aboard the President Roosevelt, an American President Lines vessel. Brother Johnston was a ·resident of Manzanita, Ore. and retired in May 1983 . DAVID KNIGHT Pensioner David Knight, 89, died April 6. Brother Knight joined the Seafarers in 1941 in the port of New Orleans. The Louisiana native sailed in the steward department and started receiving his pension in October 1972. He made his home in Jacksonville Beach, Fla. JOSEPH J. KUNDRAT Pensioner Joseph J. Kundrat, 84, passed away March 22. Born in Pennsylvania, be began his career in 1944. Brother ~~;;;;.;;;.;;;.;;;..;;;;;;;;;;.:;;.:.;;;;;i Kundrat worked in the steward department and upgraded his skills at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School, where he graduated from the steward recertification program in 1980. Prior to retiring in December 1982, he sailed as a chief steward aboard the Osprey. Westminster, Md. was his home. sru KANE K. LEETEG Pensioner Kane PETER GONSALVES Pensioner Peter Gonsalves, 68, died April 9. He started his ~areer with th~ MC&S in 1961 aboard the Sierra, an Oceanic Steamship Co. vessel. The Hawaii native worked in the steward department and upgraded his skills at the SIU's training school in Piney Point, Md., where he graduated from the steward recertification program in 1986. Prior to retiring in June 1994, he sailed as a chief steward aboard the Manulani, a Matson Navigation Co. vessel. Brother Gonsalves was a resident of Honolulu. ALEXANDER N. GONZALES Pensioner Alexander N. Gonzales, 85, passed away April 8. Born in the Philippine Islands, he joined the MC&S, sailing as a member of the steward department. A resident of Daly City, Calif., he started receiving his pension in July 1974. JOHN L. HUBBARD Pensioner John L. Hubbard, 80, died March 31 . A rtative of . Canada, he .Jr joined the Sea·'% farers in 1949 in the port of New York. During his career, he sailed in the engine department and was active in union organizing drives. Prior to retiring in June 1982, he worked aboard the Baltimore, operated by Sea-Land Service. Linwood, Mass. was his home. ROBERT W. JOHNSTON Pensioner Robert W. Johnston, 87, 18 Seafarers LOG L.J. MAY Pensioner L.J. May, 72, died February 27. He started his career with the MC&S in 1945, sailing aboard the Matsonia, a Matson Navigation Co. vessel. Brother May worked in the steward department and began receiving his pension in February 1969. He was a resident of San Jose, Calif. WILLIAM NEAL Pensioner William Neal, 83, died March 17. After a 20year career in the U.S. Navy, he joined the SIU in 1960 in the port of --"-"-' Norfolk, Va. His first ship was the Andrew Jackson, a Waterman Steamship Corp. vessel. Born in Kentucky, he worked in the steward department and upgraded his skills at the SIU 's training center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Neal last sailed aboard the Santa Lucia, operated by Delta Steamship Lines and began receiving his pension in September 1983. He made his home in Chesapeake, Va. SAMUEL PAPPAS Pensioner Samuel Pappas, 72, passed away recently. Born in Illinois, he started his career with the Seafarers in 194 7 in the pon of Mobile, Ala. Brother Pappas worked in the deck K. Leeteg, 67, department, last sailing aboard a died February 22. Brother Leeteg joined the Seafarers in Waterman Steamship Corp. vessel. A resident of New Orleans, he stan@d r@c@iving his pension in June 1993. From 1954 to 1956, he served in the U.S. Army. 1952. A native of Washington, he worked in the deck department and upgraded his skills at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School. He last sailed aboard the Overseas Joyce and began receiving his pension in July 1997. Tacoma, Wash. was his home. CHARLES F. LONG · to 1945, he served in the U.S. Navy. Mobile, Ala. was his home. Pensioner Charles F. Long, 87, passed away February 7. A native of Montana, he joined the SIU in 1962. Brother Long worked in the steward department. Prior to retiring in October 1977, he sailed aboard the Sea-Land Producer. He made his home in Okeechobee, Fla. ~-· MORTIMER T. MORRIS Pensioner Mortimer T. Morris, 72, passed away March 30. A native of Alabama, he began his career with the Seafarers in 1948. He sailed in the engine department and frequently upgraded at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School. During his career, he was active in union organizing drives. Prior to retiring in June 1988, Brother Morris worked aboard the Aurora, operated by Westchester Marine. From 1944 ANGEL PEDROSA Pensioner Angel Pedrosa, 77, died March 20. A native of Puerto Rico, he began his SIU career in 1948 in the port of New Orleans. He sailed as a member of the steward department. Prior to retiring in June 1984, he worked aboard the Ponce, a Puerto Rico Marine Management, Inc. vessel. Brother Pedrosa lived in Orlando, Fla. He was a veteran of World War II, having served in the U.S. Army from 1939 to 1942. JUAN RIOS Pensioner Juan Rios, 86, passed away March 23 . A charter mem~ ber of the Seafarers, he joined the union in 1939 in the port of Philadelphia. A native of Puerto Rico, he worked in the engine department and was active in union affairs and organizing drives. Brother Rios last sailed aboard a Sea-Land Service vessel and started receiving his pension in May 1980. He was a resident of San Juan, P.R. JAMES L. SANDERS Pensioner James L. Sanders, 70, died April 12. Brother Sanders started his career with the SIU in 1968 in the port of New York, sailing aboard the Overseas Joyce. Born in Kentucky, he worked in the deck department and upgraded his skills at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School, where he graduated from the bosun recertification program in 1982. His last ship was the Samuel L. Cobb. A resident of Camden, NJ., he retired in May 1991. EDWARD J. SMITH Pensioner Edward J. Smith, 89, passed away March 14. He joined the MC&S, sailing as a member of the steward department. Brother Smith resided in Weymouth, Mass. and started receiving his pension in October 1973. TERRELL J. STAFFORD Pensioner Terrell J. Stafford, 87, died April 6. A native of Louisiana, he began sailing with the Seafarers in 194 7 from the port of Galveston, Texas. Brother Stafford worked in the engine department, last sailing aboard the Jefferson Davis , a Waterman Steam.ship Corp. vessel. A resident of Lecompte, La., he retired in September 1978. During World War II, he served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1945. STEVE SZANTO Pensioner Steve Szanto, 73, passed away March 5. Brother Szanto joined the in 1944 in the port of New York. Born in West Virginia, he sailed in the deck departn1ent and began receiving his pension in August 1980. Virginia Beach, Va. was his home. sru RALPH G. TURNER Pensi<mer Ralph G. Turner, 71, died recently. Born in Nebraska, he graduated from theMC&S training School in 1966 and joined that union in the port of San Francisco. Brother Turner worked in the steward department, last sailing aboard an American President Lines vessel. He made his home in Oakland, Calif. and retired in May 1982. DAVID W. VELANDRA Pensioner David W. Velandra, 70, passed away March 25. He joined the Seafarers in 1966 in the port of Baltimore. His first ship was the Losmar, a Calmar Steamship Corp. vessel. A native of Michigan, he worked in the steward department and upgraded his skills at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School, where he graduated from the steward recertification program in 1984. Prior to retiring in January 1993, Brother Velandra sailed aboard the Liberty Star. From 1946 to 1949, he served in the U.S. Army. He resided in Las Vegas. ALAN F. WEESE Alan F. Weese, 53, died March 18. Brother Weese started his career with the SIU in 1969 in the port of Seattle. A native of California, he sailed as an electrician and upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. His first and last vessels were operated by Sea-Land Service. From 1963 to 1967, he served in the U.S. Navy. Puyallup, Wash. was his home. GILBERT T. WOLFE ! Pensioner · Gilbert T. Wolfe, 70, passed away March 16. A native of Maryland, he :.. began his career with the Seafarers in 1943 in the port of Baltimore. Brother Wolfe sailed in the deck department and began receiving his pension in July 1984. Towson, Md. was his home. SAUL F. ZAMBRANO Pensioner Saul F. Zambrano, 87, died recent.. ly. Born in · · Ecuador, he started his career with the SIU in 1969, sailing aboard the Beatrice Victory. The deck department member upgraded his skills at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School. Prior to retiring in September 1980, Brother Zambrano worked aboard the Arecibo, a Puerto Rico Marine Management, Inc. vessel. He made his home in Manta Manabi, Ecuador. ROBERT E. ZIMMERMAN Pensioner RobertE. , Zimmerman, 87, passed away March 19. He joined the Seafarers in 1953 in the port of San Francisco. A native of Indiana, Brother Zimmerman worked in the engine department, last sailing aboard the SeaLand Portland. He was a resident of Bremen, Ind. and started receiving his pension in October 1980. INLAND GEORGE T. LEMAIRE Pensioner George T. Lemaire, 61, passed away March 4. Born in Pennsylvania, he began his career in 1956 in the port of with the Baltimore, sailing aboard a Baker Whiteley Co. vessel. Boatman Lemaire worked in the deck department and attended an education conference at the SIU's training school in Piney Point, Md. He last sailed aboard a McAllister Towing Co. vessel and began receiving his pension in July 1993. He was a resident of Edgewood, Md . sru JOSEPH S. SIMONE Pensioner Joseph S. Simone, 74, died March 14. · He started his career with the Seafarers in 1965 in the port of Philadelphia, Continued on page 20 July2000 �~~, DiEfllllll~lr~ ·,iiffh11,St1afaretS LOG attemji~{tiijrliJI '$Jnifnt digasts ol anlOR shlpboanl !Jii "' minute8·a&/J0$8ibl~...'{!nt~~~tlt1h; ;becausa ttl $/Ja" ..\\ft)/. ,. .,.,. ····p1Jmltatto11f.' · $iiiii11;wlllbe'omltted. "" · .,.,,. . . I · ,.. · , .; "10,ffsbi,,, minutes 11rs1:are 'le;;sweit by the union'S contract department. ffi!Ji11se Issues requifing afhlntjlJn or resolution are addressed by the union 1 +lff;~;;ttpon receipt o~t/Jeshlps minutes. The minutes gre then forwarded >;@~/!!: . . . . :.: . :.:: t'1.the.S.eafarers LOG tor publication. . . ·.· . . '" . ... .. ·:-·.. :: ·, ·;';', --~·' " .' ,, "·. SAM HOUSTON (Waterman Steamship Corp.). March 26Chairman Mark S. Downey, Secretary Roderick K. Bright, Educational Director Michael L. Mefferd, Deck Delegate Gregory Hickman, Engine Delegate Prentiss R. Smith, Steward Delegate Ovidio Crespo. Chairman expressed thanks from captain for putting out engine room fire in Charleston before shoreside help arrived. Job well done. Treasurer announced $450 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Deck delegate requested clarification on pay for daymen standing watch. Suggestion made to form credit union. Vote of thanks given to steward department for good job. AMBROSE CHANNEL (IUM), April 2-Chairman Mario M. Romero, Secretary Elena R. Curley, Educational Din;ctor Stephen R. Treece, Deck Delegate R@jlinnld A. Watkins, Engine Deltgate Jerome • Dooms, Steward Delegate Jimmy White Jr. Recently recertified bosun Romero s.aid h~ is aboard ship to help solve problems in all three depanments. but crew should first talce complaints to department delega.te. Education diri:ctor encouraged Seafarers to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. for better wages and job securicy. Sug2estion made for crew to donate money for purchase of videotapes. Crew members requested ship address for receipt of mail and LOGs. Thanks given to steward department for job well done. ATC OHIO (ATC), April 23Chairman Timothy D. Koebel, Secretary Gregory G. Keene, Educational Director Larry F. Phillips, Deck Delegate Jess F. Chalker, Steward Delegate Tommy E. Belvin. Chairman spoke about new direct deposit option in place and said he would inform crew members when ATC course to be offered at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Clarification received from headquarters regarding weekend shift work. Suggestion made for contracts department to negotiate with ATC to return to option of receiving cash for transportation after successful completion of work tour. Next ports: Valdez, Alaska and Ferndale, Wash. EL YUNQUE (IUM), April 28Chairman Ronald Mena, Secretary Francis E. Ostendarp Jr., Deck Delegate Blair C. Baker, Engine Delegate Jimmie R. Graydon. Chairman announced payoff in Puerto Rico at 1O a.m. Educational director advised crew members to upgrade at Paul Hall Center whenever possible. No beefs or disputed OT reported . Seafarers informed of dock change in Jacksonville. Next port: San Juan, P.R. HM/ DEFENDER (IUM), April 9--Chairman Juan Castillo, Secretary Steven R. Wagner, Educational Director Charles J. Brockhaus, Deck Delegate Robert July2000 C. Hoppenworth, Engine Delegate Roderick Frazier, Steward Delegate Isabel Sabio. Payoff set for Corpus Christi, Texas. Ship to load gasoline for Perth Amboy, N.J. and then return on Citgo charter to Florida. Secretary reminded crew members leaving ship to get clean linen for reliefs. Educational director stressed importance of upgrading skills at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Communications received stating company headquarters moving to old Kirby/Sabine location in Port Arthur, Texas. New dryer requested for crew laundry as well as stationary bike in exercise room (or access to officers' exercise room). Microwave in crew mess also needed. Suggestion made for contracts department to look into being able to call for relief after 90 days instead of 120 and receiving vacation after completing 60-da.y relief job. Insurance cards requested. Vote of thanks given to steward department. HM/ DYNACHEM (IUM). April L9-Chnirman Robert J. Coleman, Secretary Ronald Tarantino, Engine Delegate Victor Quloto. Chairman went over old business, noting receipt of new washer dryer and TV, thllllk to Capt. Jose Leonard. He announced payoff May l in Lake Charles, La. and reminded crew members to check expiration date on z-cards and other documents before it's too late. Secretary advised everyone to check pay vouchers and see captain or delegate as soon as possible for changes. Treasurer welcomes donations of all amounts for movie, satellite and gym equipment funds. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made for contracts department to look into raising vacation pay and including extra incentives in next contract. Also requested cost of living increases for pensioners and coverage for prescription drugs for dependents. Everyone asked to help keep lounge and crew laundry clean and separate plastic items from regular trash. After Lake Charles, ship heading to Port Everglades, Fla. INNOVATOR (U.S. Ship Mgmt.), April 16-Chairman John E. Stout, Secretary Louis Nicoud, Educational Director Tesfaye Gebregziabher, Deck Delegate Klaus E. Tammler, Engine Delegate Gregorio A. Blanco, Steward Delegate Andy N. Campollo. Chainnan announced ship going into yard in Korea in June for about three weeks. He thanked everyone for keeping ship clean and separating garbage. Educa.tion.al director urged crew members to take advantage of educational and upgrading opportunities available at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer stated $709 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made for contracts department to look into reducing time needed for vacation from 120 days to 90 days. Steward department given vote of thanks for job well done. Next ports: Long Beach, Calif.; Panama Canal; Manzanillo, P.R.; and Freeport, Bahamas. INTEGRITY (U.S. Ship Mgmt.), April 9-Chairman Felix A. -· Santiago, Secretary Stephanie L. Sizemore, Educational Director Dennis R. Baker, Deck Delegate Clay Brown, Engine Delegate· Michael C. McNally, Steward Delegate John Padilla. Chairman thanked crew for working together and maintaining ship's lounge. Educational director advised everyone to check expiration dates on documents. Renewals can take several days to weeks. Treasurer announced $40 in movie fund. Three movies purchased last trip; all contributions welcomed. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions made for contracts department to raise maintenance and cure rates and furnish prescription coverage for dependents. Vote of thanks given to steward department for delicious baked goods and menu variety. Suggestion made for company to supply refrigerators to all crew members. Request made for LOG to publish addresses of senators and congressmen on Capitol Hill (see page 20~ June issue). Next ports: Boston, Mass. and Elizabeth, N.J. KODIAK (CSX Lines), April 9Chainnan Garry D. Walker, Secretary Michael F. Meany. Payoff scheduled April 11 upon arrival in Tacoma, Wash. Day off for all hands April 12; check with boarding patrolman. Old business taken care of. including heat in rooms and condition of linen locker. Treasurer announced $4,300 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Letter of thanks received from company regarding securing of 7,000-gallon propane tank that broke loose in a storm. Special meals (lobster and t-bone steak) provided by company a.s thank you for avoiding disaster with no injuries. Vote of thanks given to bosun's wife, Letty Jo Walker1 for dona.ting homemade jams and jellies to crew. Thanks also given to chief steward and his department for job very well done. LIBERTY WAVE (Liberty Maritime), April 23-Chairman Ronald Charles, Secretary Frederick L. Washington Sr., Educational Director Jeffery T. Field, Engine Delegate Carl L. Turner. Bosun announced payoff in New Orleans April 25. Vessel will then return to Haifa, Israel. Secretary asked crew members to clean rooms and reefer boxes and turn in keys before leaving ship. Educational director suggested everyone take advantage of upgrading opportunities at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Clarification needed on DEU's cleaning of lounge and laundry areas. MAERSK CALIFORNIA (Maersk), April 16-Chairman James T. Martin, Secretary William P. McGee, Educational Director James T. McParland, Deck Delegate Dirk W. Adams, Steward Delegate Ivan R. Salis. Chairman noted. AB James Rose taken ill April 15 in Panama Canal. Will be gone at least until ship arrives in Charleston, S.C. April 19. Treasurer Jeffrey A. Lagana announced $728 in ship's fund. Two new vacuum cleaners purchased in Peru. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made for contracts department to look into reducing seatime needed for pension. Another suggestion made to have one person to a room when upgrading at Piney Point. Sincere thanks given to steward department for job well done and to deck department for wire change on crane. MAERSK COLORADO (Maersk), April 16-Chairman Mohamed S. Ahmed, Secretary Ray A. Garcia, Deck Delegate David J. Joseph, Engine Delegate Ray Avie Jr., Steward Delegate Allan D. Bright. Chairman reported payoff April 20 in Long Beach, Calif. Coast Guard inspection to take place at that time. He noted safe voyage with good crew and read schedule of courses available at Paul Hall Center. Relief steward I 1 dental program and prescription coverage for dependents. New toaster needed in crew messhall as well as first-aid kits. Vote of thanks given to steward department for great job. Next port: Portland, Ore. OVERSEAS VIVIAN (OSG Ship Mgmt.), April 9--Chairman Daniel W. Seagle, Secretary Pablo P. Lopez, Educational Director Murray W. Roberson. Everything going well, according to chairman. Stopover in South America While at anchor in the port of Guayaquil, Ecuador recently, crew members aboard the Maersk Tennessee wait at the bow for bunkers to be loaded . From the left are Chief Mate Kurt Breitfeller, Bosun Jerry Borucki. ABM John Wagner and Second Mate Deborah Hennen. The vessel is on a San Antonio, Texas to Guayaquil to Long Beach, Calif. run. stated regular steward to return in Long Beach. This was his first time on Maersk ship and he enjoyed trip. He reminded crew members to check seamen's documents and STCW for expiration and suggested upgrading skills at Paul Hall Center. Educ~tional director advised crew to think and practice safety at all times. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made for refrigerators for crew rooms. Vote of thanks given to steward department, especially Chief Cook Bright. MAERSK TEXAS (Maersk), April 16-Chairman John M. Zepeda, Secretary Donna M. DeCesare, Educational Director Edward C. Mancke, Steward Delegate Clancy T. Hennigan. Chairman noted repair of ice machine, but part still on order for washer. Ship will dock on arrival in Long Beach, Calif. April 10. Everything running smoothly. Secretary thanked his department members, especially Chief Cook Hennigan, for excellent job. Educational director urged all to upgrade at Piney Point and to be aware of z-card expiration (every five years). No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made for contracts department to reinstate time off on freighters. Request information as to Money Purchase Pension Plan. OVERSEAS HARRIETTE (OSG Ship Mgmt.), April 9-Chairman Gary L. Dates, Secretary Mark A. Flores, Deck Delegate Joseph Carrillo, Engine Delegate Michael Gay, Steward Delegate Marco Guity. Chairman thanked everyone for job well done. Separate pay vouchers to be issued for Saturday and OT work due to lack of cash on board ship. Secretary noted trip to North Korea very educational. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions made for contracts department to look into being able to leave ship after six months and receive transportation and unemployment. Also suggested upgraded Payoff scheduled in New Orleans after clearing immigration and customs. Galley gang to have cookout/barbecue every Sunday. Secretary suggested crew members upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center and get necessary endorsements for higher jobs. Better ratings mean more money. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks given to chief cook and his crew for job well done. PRODUCER (CSX Lines), April 11-Chairman William J. Card, Secretary David A. Cuningham, Educational Director Alan A. Rogers II, Deck Delegate William D. Brinson Jr., Engine Delegate Terry J. Mouton, Steward Delegate Cecilio E. Suarez. Chairman stated payoff to take place in Elizabeth, NJ. April 14. Vessel stores to be delivered at that time. Chairman also noted captain put out revised schedule of vessel's arrival on West Coast but is subject to change. He reminded crew members to check STCWs and zcards for expiration dates. Educational director urged everyone to upgrade at Piney Point. He will check class offerings for those getting off and wanting to attend courses there. Treasurer stated $750 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun read several articles from LOG and reminded everyone to keep updated on new information about union and maritime industry. Recommendations made for contracts department to look into increasing pension due to rising cost of living, and lowering seatime and age requirement for pension. Bosun thanked steward department for great food and keeping areas clean. Chief steward commented to bosun and deck gang about great new paint job on aft house. New mattresses to be ordered for everyone by end of month. Entire crew thanked Messman Suarez for keeping messhalls spotlessly clean and well stocked. Next ports: Elizabeth; San Juan, P.R.; Jacksonville, Fla. Seafarers LOG 19 �SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR SIU PACIFIC DISTRICT PENSION PLAN This is a summary of the annual report for SID Pacific District Pension Plan, 94-6061923 for the fiscal year ended July 31, 1999. The annual report has been filed with the Internal Revenue Service, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Basic Financial Statement Benefits under the plan are provided by the plan. Plan expenses were $13,560,893. These expenses included $892,001 in administrative expenses and $12,668,892 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 4,560 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all these persons had yet earned the right to receive benefits. The value of the plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $147,907,172 as of July 31, 1999, compared to $156,888, l 93 as of July 31, 1998. During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $8,981,021. This decrease includes unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets, which is the difference between the value of the plan's assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year or the cost of assets acquired during the year. The plan had a total income of $4,579,872, including employer contributions of $29,212, and earnings from investments of $4,549,539, and other income of $1,121. Minimum Funding Standards An actuary's statement shows that enough money was contributed to the plan to keep it funded in accordance with the minimum funding standards of ERISA. Your Rights to Additional Information - You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: 1. an accountant's report; 2. assets held for investment; 3. transactions in excess of 5 percent of plan assets; and 4. actuarial information regarding the funding of the plan. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of the administrator of the SID Pacific District Pension Plan, 522 Harrison Street, San Francisco, CA 94105-3104. The charge to cover copying costs will be $2.50 for the full annual report, or $0.25 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan, 522 Harrison Street, San Francisco, CA 94105-3104 and the U.S. Dept. of Labor (DOL) in Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the DOL should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, N-5507, Pension and Welfare Benefit Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20210. Thailand in Seattle Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership's money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the 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 recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. 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. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District 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 disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. 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 headquarters. SIDPPING RIGHTS. A member's shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively 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 employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals 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 Steward department members on the APL Thailand recently met with SIU Tacoma Safety Director Jamie Overby aboard the vessel in Seattle. They discussed the latest union news including the proposed merger of the NMU into the SIU. Pictured from left to right are ACU Tim Ellis, Chief Cook Enrique Garrido and Chief Steward Cynthia Caster. FRANCIS X. THOMAS ltiJ!~I Dep~rtures· . .· ·:co~tbi~~d ftom p~ge i a sailing aboard the P.F. Martin, a McAllister Towing Co. vessel. Boatman Simone worked in the deck departmertt and upgraded his skills at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School. The Pennsylvania native last sailed as a pilot aboard a Curtis Bay Towing Co. vessel. A resident of Dover, Tenn., he retired in August 1988. During World War II, he served in the U.S. Coast Guard from 1943 to 1946. HERBERT I. SWARTZ Pensioner Herbert I. Swartz, 71, passed away January 25. A native of New Jersey, he joined the SIU irt 1972 in the port of Philadelphia. He worked in the deck department and upgraded his skills at the Sill's training center in Piney Point, Md. Prior to retiring in March 1990, Brother Swartz sailed aboard an Interstate Oil Transport Co. vessel. During World War II, he served in the U.S. Marine Corps. from 1942 to 1947. He was a resident of Clifton, Heights, Pa. 20 Seafarers LOG Pensioner Francis X. Thomas, 72, died February 18. After 22 years in the U.S. Navy, he began his Seafarers career in 1967 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Boatman Thomas sailed as a captain and attended an education conference at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School. The Pennsylvania native last worked aboard an Atlantic Towing Co. vessel and began receiving his pension in October 1989. Portsmouth, Va. was his home. ROBERT A. WATSON Pensioner Rohen A. Watson, 70, passed away February 25. Born in Pennsylvania, he joined the SIU in 1969 in the port of Philadelphia. Boatman Watson sailed primarily aboard Interstate Oil Transport Co. vessels as a member of the deck department. A resident of Philadelphia, he started receiving his pension in February 1992. PAULG. WEST Paul G. West, 58, died February 3. A native of Virginia, he joined the Seafarers in 1979. Boatman West worked in the deck department and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. A resident of Chesapeake, Va., he sailed primarily aboard Allied Towing Co. vessels. GREAT LAKES RAYMONDE. SALMI Pensioner Raymond E. Salmi, 79, died March 28. The Ohio native joined the Seafarers in 1961 in the port of Cleveland. Brother Salmi worked in the deck department, sailing primarily aboard Great Lakes Towing Co. vessels. A resident of Parma, Ohio, he began receiving his pension in June 1982. He was a veteran of World War II, having served in the U.S. Army from 1941to1945. Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers 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 filing for overtime (On 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 SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful 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 responsibility for Seafarers 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. CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect 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 Michael 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. July2000 �With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: Documents proving 120 days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back, front page of you_.r union book indicating your department and seniority, and qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. All FOWT. AB and QMED anlicants must submit a U.S. Coast Guard fee of $280 with their allJllication. The payment should be made with a money order only. oavable to UPGRADING APPLICATION LMSS. Telephone END DATE BEGIN DATE COURSE Date of Birth _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Deep Sea Member If the following D Lakes Member D Inland Waters Member D information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed Social Security#_________ Book# _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Seniority _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Department - - - - - - - - U.S. Citizen: Yes D No [J Home Port Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ LAST V E S S E L : - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Rating: _ _ __ Date On: Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? [J Yes D No If yes, ~lass#-----------------------­ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? D Yes D No If yes, course(s) taken --~--------~-~------- Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? D Yes D No Firefighting: D Yes D No CPR: D Yes D No Primary language spoken - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - July2000 - - - - - - - - -- - Date Off: SIGNATURE _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ DATE NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only ifyou present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATION TO: Paul HaU 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 students, who are otherwise qualified, of 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. Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Graduating Classes Able Seaman Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 601 - Unlicensed apprentices in class 601 graduating from the water survival course are (from left, kneeling) Nathaniel Miller, Malik Hunt, Bryan Hill, Ole Olesen, David Provost, Kenneth Green, (second row) Deshawn Stephenson, Patrick McAlpin, Stiles Anderson, Gilberto Figueroa Jr., William Yurick, Joshua Ellerbee, Jerramy McNeil and Bryan Mccallum Jr. SIU members successfully completing the AB curriculum May 26 are (in alphabetical order) Adel Alameri, Robert Arneel, Benjamin Barnes, Ronald Burris Jr., Jimmie Casey, Deronja Clark, Antony Cruzvergara, Carey Hatch, David Heindel Jr., Ausberto Laspinas, Lito Mariano, Brian McLamon, Royal Mobley, Nestor Montoya Jr., Lawrence Richardson Jr., Russell Roberts and Ziting Xu. Their instructor, Bernabe Pelingon, is in the back row, fifth from left. Liillittd L -CtDH - Graduate5 of the 6-week limitecJ licen$e ¢:0urs~ ar~ (in alphaMtieal l'.lrder) Billy Barletto, Robert Boudreaux, Shane Boudreaux, William Bruce, Michael Cascio, Victor DiGiorgio, Troy Gros. Gregory Jarvis. s~ott Morton and Blaine Tompson. This course includes inland and international rules of the road, piloting in coastal waters, weather observations and forecasting, among other topics. Tanker Familiarization/Assistant Cargo (DL) - Earning their graduation certificates for completion of the tanker familiarization/assistant cargo (DL) course May 19 are (from left, kneeling) Michael McErlean, Benny Perez, Carlos Castillo, Dorothy Carter, Kameron Kamaunu, Elpidio Toyco, (second row) Guy Todd II, Brian Guiry, Gregorio Abalos Jr., Karl Roy Jr. Angel Perez, Crista Arnold, James Reily, Thomas Powe, Cuthbert Forbes, (third row) Chris Todd, Tyrone Brown, Christopher Cummings, Lawrence Rose, Clinton Gillins, Timothy Kotsis, Shauntay Shavies, Sherrod Frazier, Steven Ruiz, William Harris, Kyle Bailey, Michael Repko, Bernard Baker, Eric Bridges and Charles James. Their instructor, Jim Shaffer, is at far left. Unlicensed Apprentice Graduation - After all the hard work and studying, unlicensed apprentices completing their third and final phase of study are (in no particular order) Dwayne Brock, Roderick French, Phillip Hartline, Richard Huffman, L.G. Johnson, Charles Joswiak, Travis Kirchhofer, Steven Pollard, Chad Reynolds and Joseph Rutter. 22 Seafarers LOB Upgraders Water Survival - SIU members graduating from the water survival class April 28 are (from left, kneeling) Radfan Alkamlani. Joseph Ashworth, Bernabe Pelingon (instructor), Ziting Xu, Ausberto Laspinas, (second row) Michael Joel, Faustino Onato, Alberto lnsong, Jimmie Casey, Joel Rosete, Lito Mariano, Carey Hatch, Russell Roberts, Bakr Elbana, (third row) Benjamin Barnes, Gregory Baker, Gerry Querubin, Michael Repko, Royal Mobley and Scott Brady. July2000 �Paul Hall Center Graduating Classes FOWT - Earning their FOWT endorsements May 12 (and giving the thumbs-up sign) are (in alphabetical order) Mohamed Ahmed, John Alicea, Charles Billips, Daniel Borden, Michael Bragdon, Louis Champa Jr., Christopher Corpuz, Byron Harris, Thomas Hawkins, Orlando Herrera, Michael Jarvi, Robert Kane, Cornell Knox, Paul Kucan II, Louis Nickerson, Rocky Olds, Ramon Sanchez, Joseph Schrack, Al Seay, Edgar Shrode, Dana Thomas, Jason Tracey, Donald Tye, Jevon Vontoure and David Watkins. Their instructor (not pictured) was Mark Jones. ,) Steward Department Skills Guvernment Vessels - With instructor Greg Thompson (standing, fourth from right) are students who completed the government vessels \;Ourse April 14. ln\;luded in the group are Corinthis Thomas, Dulip Sookhiram, Michael Davis, Clinton Gillins, Joao Cordeiro. John Kolodziej, Gerry Querubin, Bakr Elbana, Adeeb Saleh, Joel Rosete, Luis Lopez and Jacob Scott. Learning specific culinary skills which will prepare them to sail as a chief cook are (left) Chef/Instructor John Dobson with Simone Solomon, (above) Dana Washington and Chris Amlgable, and (below) Breon Lucas and Jonathan Gibson. CPR/First Aid - Instructor Jennifer Langford (kneeling, left) joins graduates of the CPR/first aid course, including Dorothy Carter, Jioia deLeon, Heather Frizzelle, Romeo Rivera. Faustino Onato. Wendelyn Sugui, (second row) Bill Churney, J.D. Berger, Greg Baker, Tom Woerner, Kameron Kamaunu, Scott Brady and Derrick Sullivan. Advanced Galley Operations Able Seaman - Instructor Larry Malone (standing, right) works closely with AB students in the April 28 graduating class. They include Efrain Collazo, Alvin Clark, Nathaniel Salter, Bernard Beof, Cornelio Villaflor, Dionisio Baldevia and Clifton Doon is. July2000 Ready to cook aboard any ship following completion of the advanced galley operations course are (from left, front row) Gregory Blaylock, Elida Miguel, Joel Ramos, Jack Savin, Dulip Sookhiram, Vincente Molina, (second row) Instructor Ed White, Gerry Querubin, Radfan Alkamlani, Bianca Bennett, Robert Dillinger and John Leahey. Seafarers LOB 23 �SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT SIU Pacific District Pension Plan -page20 Seafarers Welcome MSC Commander Admiral Holder Visits SIU-Crewed Gopher Stat.e SIU members aboard the prepositioning ship Gopher State recently welcomed a trio of special visitors, led by U.S. Navy Vice Admiral Gordon S. Holder, commander, Military Sealift Command (MSC). Holder toured the ship in Guam. He was accompanied by Rear Admiral Tom Fellin, base commander of U.S. Navy Forces Marianas in Guam; and Captain Philip Briscoe, commander of MSC's Maritime Prepositioning Ship Squadron (MPSRON) Three. The Gopher State is a crane ship owned by the U.S. Maritime Administration and operated by Interocean Ugland Management. It is one of eight ships currently serving in MPSRON Three. The others are the 1st Lt. Jack Lummus, Sgt. William R. Button, 1st Lt. Baldomero Lopez, Pfc. Dewayne T. Williams. SP5 Eric G. Gibson, Ltc. Calvin P. Titus and the SS Petersburg. "The squadron's mission is to provide swift and effective sea transportation of vital equipment and supplies to a designated area of operations," notes MSC. The vessels "can leave port and sail literally anywhere in the world and bring combat support and equipment the U.S. Marines and Army need to accomplish their missions .... Since its inception, the squadron has operated in support of operations Desert Storm in the Persian Gulf and Restore Hope in Somalia, as well as other numerous exercises and operations from California to Korea." AB Jonathan Davis OS Rodolfo Zena, OS Louis Anderson Left: OS Dionce Bright Bosun Nathaniel Leary '% AB Ronald Makowiecki Left: Seafarers also welcomed aboard Rear Admiral Tom Fellin, base commander of U.S. Navy Forces Marianas in Guam (fourth from left); and Captain Philip Briscoe, commander of MSC's Maritime Prepositioning Ship Squadron Three (third from left). Pictured from left to right are Chief Steward Herbert Davis (rear), AB Philip Perry, Capt. Briscoe, Radm. Fellin, AB James McCarthy, Gopher State Capt. Tim McGeein, OS Dionce Bright, AB Jonathan Davis and AB Jesus Olbes. Admiral Gordon s. Holder, MSC commander (fifth from left), recently was welcomed aboard the Gopher State in Guam. Pictured on the ship (from left) are A6 Roncild Makowiecki, AB Jonathan Davis, SA Adele George, OS Louis Anderson, Adm. Holder, AB Jesus Olbes, Bosun Nathaniel Leary, AB Charles Corley, AB Philip Perry and OS Dionce Bright. "· Keeping their fellow crew members well fed are (from left) Chief Steward Herbert Davis, SA Adele George, SA Jeffrey Mitchell, Chief Cook Wayne Webb and SA Anthony Grant. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2000-2009 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXII-LXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present, Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource July 2000 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES FORMER MSC COMMANDER URGES NEW MARITIME POLICY ADM. PERKINS CITES MERCHANT MARINE’S ESSENTIAL ROLE IN U.S. NATIONAL DEFENSE ANOTHER TAKE ON FOC CRUISE SHIPS: LA TIMES BARES ‘SWEATSHOPS AT SEA’ SEAFARERS CREW MSC’S NEWEST RO/RO USNS CHARLTON STRENGTHENS PREPOSITIONING FLEET NEW HALL OPENS IN BALTIMORE COLUMBIA QUEEN SAILS; PATRIOT LAUNCHES DEC. 9 INDY CREW TO THE RESCUE SEAFARERS’ SWIFT REACTIONS SAVE LIVES EXPRESS MARINE CREWS APPROVE NEW CONTRACT IMO REVISING SOLAS CHAPTER STCW IN PLAIN ENGLISH VOCATIONAL EDUCATION DIRECTOR TACKLES SEGMENTS OF AMENDED ’95 CONVENTION CONSTRUCTION CONTINUES ON SIMULATOR COMPLEX ‘VOTE OF THANKS’ CREWS COMMEND CONTRACT IMPROVEMENTS NATION HONORS MERCHANT MARINERS MAERSK SEALAND OPENS NEW HOUSTON TERMINAL NEW YORK’S 30-YEAR LEASE APPROVED WITH THE MEMBERS IN AND AROUND THE JACKSON HALL A VOYAGE TO INDIA-1940 BY J. MELFORD SMITH SEAFARERS WELCOME MSC COMMANDER ADMIRAL HOLDER VISITS SIU-CREWED GOPHER STATE Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 07/01/2000 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 62, No. 7 2000 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/eaaaf02244adb9fdf8c63afb3a39d67c.pdf 42d848fd2e1132c60e10427c8c3bb4eb PDF Text Text Sealarers Vote on Standard Agreements _ Pane 3 Volume 63, Number 7 July 2001 NEW Z·DRIVE CHRISTENED Space Cleared for New Dorm Union and school officials on June 7 symbolically broke ground for a new 96-room hotel annex at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md. The annex will contain single-occupancy dormitory rooms for upgraders. To make room for the new facility, the school's old administration building (unused for some time) was demolished. Page 12 SIU members (from left) Shane Brulte, Robert Jordan and Derek Ponamsky, members of the negotiating committee, sign a new threeyear agreement. Page 3 �President's Report .June Swoon? Not Herel Most people see June as the beginning of summer, a time of vacations and a period to slow down. Not the Seafarers. Let's look at the record. Three years ago in June, SIU members started working aboard the first of several "Harbor-Class" tugs operated by Crowley in the port of Long Beach. Two Junes ago, the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School was graduating it fir t upgrader from the newly opened facility. Last year, members in Baltimore began u ing Michael Sacco their new hall, one of several we have moved to or renovated. So, how do we keep this streak going? The first week of June was a prime example. At the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, the signs of progress were everywhere. First, we held the initial membership meeting following the official merger of the National Maritime Union into the SIU's Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District. It was an emotional moment, something to savor after all the hard work that went into it. The SIU is stronger today than we were before the merger. We are the nation's largest maritime union. Because of incredible support from the membership, and because of the confidence you've shown in your officials, things are only going to get better. A few days later, we dedicated the new simulator annex at Piney Point in honor of Bob McMillen, co-chairman and chief executive officer of Saltchuk Resources, Inc., the parent company of Totem Ocean Trailer Express, Inc. (TOTE). Bob McMillen represent everything good about U.S. maritime companies, as do Saltchuk and TOTE. He is a true leader and a friend to the SIU. Bob believes in the men and women of the U.S. Merchant Marine. He has shown that faith in many ways-most recently, with the construction of new RO/ROs for the Jones Act trade. Take a few minutes to read about the dedication, on page 6, and you'll appreciate why Bob's name now appears on the building. As for the simulator complex itself, it is living up to high expectations. Seafarers are benefiting from deck and engine room courses that utilize the world's finest training equipment. If you've experienced-or even seen-the simulator, you know that's not an exaggeration. As soon as the dedication ended, we ceremonially broke ground for the new hotel annex-the future site of a 96-room dormitory that is being designed for students to have their own single-occupancy rooms. I can't recall a more positive reaction from Seafarers than what I've seen and heard in re ponse to this new facility. No question, it's going to be a tremendous lift for the student and the entire school. It will encourage more efficient studying and learning, which in tum benefits our industry as a whole. Across campus, there was another symbol of the SIU' progress. Thi one came in the form of the Delta Mariner, the new "rocket ship" designed to transport space equipment from Alabama to Cape Canaveral and the We t Coast. The Delta Mariner represents new shipboard jobs for Seafarers, and it isn't the only recent example. During the past several weeks, a newly converted ammunition carrier sailed from Norfolk, Va. with an SIU crew. On the West Coast, construction began on the first of two new commercial containerships that will be crewed by Seafarers. Al o out west, SIU boatmen crewed a brand new, tate-of-the-art Z-drive tugboat. Finally, near the end of the month, Seafarers throughout the country were presented with new standard freightship and tanker agreements which contain wage increases and improved benefits, along with other gains that the membership wants. This kind of progress doesn't happen by accident. It takes an informed, active and supportive membership. It takes dedicated union officials who are committed to providing the be t possible representation. And, in this era when mariner training and certification is more important than ever, it takes a school like the Paul Hall Center that delivers top-flight instructors, first-class facilities and unsurpassed tools like the simulator and our fire fighting and safety school. I've often said that the SIU is more like a family than a union. We are also a team-a winning team. With your ongoing support, our winning streak will continue. Volume 63, Number 7 July 2001 The SIU on line: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675 . Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998 and at additional offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing ~SAWo~Eo Editor/Production, Deborah A. Hirtes; Associate Editor, Jim " ··~~~~;~·u: 1095 Guthrie; Art, Bill Brower, Administrative Support, Jeanne 0 Textor. Copyright© 2001 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD All Rights Reserved. 2 Seafarers LOG Executive Board Fulfills Merger-Related Mandate The SIU executive board on June 4 appointed two vice presidents at large, carrying out a constitutional amendment approved by the membership. Former National Maritime Union (NMU) officials Rene Lioeanjie and Charles Stewart were appointed SIU vice presidents at large, following the merger of the NMU into the SIU's Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District. Creation of the two at-large slots in the merged union was approved by the SIU and NMU memberships during voting which took place late last year and earlier this year. Lioeanjie formerly served as NMU pre ident, while Stewart served as vice president. As reported in the June issue of the Seafarers LOG, SIU and NMU members in May okayed the details of the merger agreement between the two unions. Overall, members approved the agreement by a nearly unanimous tally. In so doing, they culminated nearly a half-century of on-again, off-again efforts to merge the two The SIU executive board meets June 4 in Piney Point, Md. organizations. The May votes were the last in a series of balloting that began in December 1999. That sequence started with SIU and NMU members voting by secret ballot to proceed with merging; continued in late 2000 with Seafarers approving two constitutional amendments related to the merger (with the results affirmed by the SIU's rank-and-file tallying committee, whose report in turn was approved in March 2001 at SIU hall throughout the country); and concluded at the May membership meetings of the re pective unions, where the merger agreement was presented and voted upon. During last month's membership meeting in Piney Point, Md., SIU President Michael Saccoformally addressing members of the merged union for the first time-encouraged Seafarers to appreciate both the history of the SIU and NMU along with the new opportunities they will tackle together. ''This has been a long time corning, and there were times when it seemed like a merger would never happen," Sacco said to the membership. "Enjoy this moment-because of what it means to our organization and our industry, because of all the hard work that went into it." The June membership meeting in Piney Point, Md. proved emotional and uplifting, as members and officials of the newly merged union convened for the first time. American Classic Voyages Salutes Union Members With Cruise Discounts Program Applies to Patriot, Independence SIU-contracted American Classic Voyages recently announced good news for union members who are planning a cruise. As a "thank you" to all union members, the company is offering pecial rates under a program known as "Proud to Sail American-Proud to Sail Union." Through subsidiarie , American Clas ic Voyages operates the SIU-crewed Independence and the Patriot on weekly cruises around the Hawaiian Islands. Those ship are the nation's only U.S.-flag, American-crewed deep sea cruise ves els. For years, union members at ea and ashore have played a vital role in the company's success. In fact, American Classic is building two new U.S.-flag cruise ships at the unionized Litton/Ingalls Shipyard in Pa cagoula, Miss. Now, the company is offering vacation aboard the Independence and Patriot to union members at discounted rates. The cabins will be the best available at the time of reservation for all 200 l excursions, excluding suites. The discount rates are $559 per person (double occupancy) aboard the Independence and $709 per per on (double occupancy) on the Patriot. (These rates do not include airfare. Also, taxes and port charges are extra.) As noted in the announcement for the di count program, these American-flag cruise ve sels offer an alternative to those sailing out of South Florida and California that fly a foreign flag and employ foreign crews. Reservations for the Independence can be made by calling 1-800-765-7000 or at www. For the cruisehawaii.com. Patriot, call 1-877-330-6600 or visit www.united tateslines.com. Reservations must be booked by Sept. 30. American Classic Voyages al o operates the SIU-crewed vessels of the Delta Queen Steamboat Company and the Delta Queen Coastal Voyages. July2001 �New Standard Contracts Due for Vote Five-year Agreements Include Innovative Gains In an effort to protect and ensure the continued job security of the SIU membership, the contracts department has negotiated new standard freightship and tanker agreement that will be effective from June 16, 2001 through June 15, 2006, pending ratification. At the time the Seafarers LOG was going to pres , special meetings were being scheduled in each port as well as aboard Seafarers-contracted ships to vote on the contracts. In negotiating the new five-year pacts, the union carefully reviewed recommendations made by Seafarers in minutes of shipboard union meetings, in minutes of monthly membership meetings at the various halls, in communications to the contracts department and in sessions with Seafarers attending upgrading classes at the Paul Hall Center. In fact, SIU Vice Pre ident Contracts Augie Tellez notes that the new agreements include improvements in the areas most often cited by Seafarers. This includes prescription coverage for dependents at the ame level as a member; collecting vacation pay sooner, plu an extra day's vacation; gains in the pension plan; and wage increa es (3 percent in each year of the contract, for ba e wages and overtime). The previous contracts achieved major gains, including expanded medical coverage for dependents. The propo ed new contracts go a step further. Beginning with the first year of the pacts, members will receive coverage by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan in accordance with the premier plan level "G." In addition to the pre cription coverage for dependents, this includes: • an increase of the optical benefit to $200 (including provisions for eyeglas e and contacts), • an increase in the graduated death benefit for members to $50,000 (maximum), and • coverage for organ and tissue transplant surgery up to a maximum of $150,000. In other gain tipulated by the new contracts, when SIU members are required to pass a physical examination by the company, the co t of transportation to their desig- Bisso Crews Ratify Pact Seafarers who sail aboard the tugboats of New Orleans-ha ed E.N. Bisso Co. said they wanted better and more affordable medical coverage. They got it, in a big way. Bisso boatmen overwhelmingly ratified a new three-year contract, effective July 1, that calls for Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan coverage at the highest level for the members and their dependents. The agreement also includes wage increases and new work rules desired by the members. Seventy-five SIU members are employed by Bisso. Of the boatmen casting ballots in the contract vote (approximately 70 percent), 99 percent voted in favor of the agreement. Serving on the union negotiating committee were SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, New Orleans Port Agent Steve Judd, Patrolman Chris Westbrook and delegates Shane Brulte, Robert Jordan and Derek Ponamsky. Under their old health plan, members at Bisso had to pay for coverage, plus pay yearly deductibles for themselves and their dependents. In many cases, they also had to pay for 20 percent of their medical bills. They had no dental or optical benefits. With the SIU plan stipulated in the new contract, there is no cost to the members to maintain coverage for them elve and their families; the plan covers 100 percent of all reasonable and cu tomary charges; and the deductible are $50 per family member, compared to $300 per individual under the company plan. This coverage includes prescriptions, hospital stays, physicians' fees for inpatient and outpatient care, diagnostic testing, prenatal and fo11ow-up care, well-baby care and more. Members also gained dental and optical benefits for themselves and their dependents. The sentiment among Seafarers serving on the bargaining committee is that the contract itself is excellent, but the gains also transcend their monetary value, representing unprecedented progress at Bisso. "I'm atisfied, but not for the most obvious reason," stated Ponamsky. "Where we came from (since voting for union representation in 1994) to where we are now is light years. That's how this has to be viewed. "Our second contract (ratified three years ago) had some jumps in pay that put us at a good, com- petitive level locally. This new contract, getting full health coverage, plus some other contract language, provides great satisfaction," he continued. "The jumps we've made, that's what' really impressive about it." Bisso boatmen voted to join nated facility will be reimbursable. Compensation for loss of clothing will be increased from $300 to $500, and whenever a mariner is required to obtain hi or her own working gear, including safety shoes, those items will be fully reimbursed by the employer. Additionally, the company agree that unlicensed personnel serving aboard the vessel shall be provided access to sending and receiving e-mail, if available. Monetary gains have been included in each of the five years as well as an increase in the daily contribution to the Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan. Meanwhile, the revamp of the Seafarer Pension Plan benefits will allow members, after 3,000 days, to use vacationbenefit days toward pension eligi- bility, and also use their earned vacation-benefit dollar amount to increase their wage-related pension benefit (by boosting the annual earning on which the pension is based). Under the tentative agreements, certain shipping rules have been amended, including one that requires all Seafarers to possess a valid STCW endorsement, effective Feb. 1, 2002, as well a a training record book (TRB) in order to register. Members also must pass the English competency exam required by the U.S. Coast Guard. More details of the new agreement and the ratification votes will be published in the next issue of the Seafarers LOG. the SIU despite a campaign waged by the company not to do so. Since then, through their union contracts, they have achieved their first-ever retirement plan, wage increa es, improved work rules and substantially increased medical benefits. "I think we've made a lot of progress, and give the company credit for doing business with us," Ponamsky added. "Manage- ment is realizing the union isn't the enemy. What we' re doing with the SIU is making ourselves a better work force." Jordan said the SIU "has bent over backwards to help us out and keep us moving forward. Since we voted for the union, we got a retirement plan, we got the (better) health insurance, we got Continued on page 9 West Coast Boatmen Welcome New Tug Left: The new tug's wheelhouse is built of aluminum. Right: This view from inside the wheelhouse shows some of the hightech equipment on the Wyne ma Spirit. Among those attending the christening are (from left) Mate/Deckhand Wade Edwards and Brusco Tug and Barge Senior VP Henry Brusco; Engineer Willy Brown and Deckhand Casanova Langi; and Brusco CEO Bo Brusco. The SIU negotiating committee consisted of (from left) Delegates Shane Brulte and Robert Jordan, VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, Port Agent Steve Judd, Patrolman Chris Westbrook and Delegate Derek Pon am sky. Please be advised that SIU headquarters and all -,, SJU hiring halls will be closed Monda~ August 20, 2001 for the observance of Paul Hairs birthday (unless an emergency arises). Normal business hours will resume the following workday. July2001 SIU boatmen on the We t Coast welcomed new job opportunities May 18 with the christening of the Z-drive tug lifynema Spirit, operated by Brusco Tug and Barge of Port Hueneme, Calif. The new boat, 78 feet long and 30 feet wide, is a tractor tug with 3,600 hp and 100,000 pounds of bollard pull. It has a light running speed of 13 knots. According to the company, the Wynema Spirit is "the most powerful tug of its size in the United States." Built by Diversified Marine, Inc. of Portland, Ore., the boat is named after a 19th Century American settlement. In announcing the christening, the company said the lifynema Spirit's state-of-the-art design and equipment are "the result of extended research, performance studie and recommendations as well as a wi h Ii t of the mo t important performance charac- tenstics for a tug working within the Port of Hueneme. The result is a strong tractor tug with extensive push/pull strength. She is short and light with quick, almost cat-like movement.... Because tugs at the port also meet vessels and deliver the pilot, the lifynema Spirit also had to be suitable for work outside the calm of the inner harbor." Brusco also touted the boat's fire fighting gear, which includes a forward mounted Darley fire ump capable of shooting 1,800 gallons per minute. The tug al o can discharge more than 300 gallons of fireretardant foam in six minutes. Much of the tug's construction took place in an usual etting: aboard a floating barge in Oregon's Columbia River. When nearly complete, the boat was tran ported to a floating drydock in Portland. Bru co Tug and Barge operate 28 tugs along the West Coast. Seafarers LOG 3 �Solitude Crew Saved by Performance Construction Starts The SIU-crewed Performance just happened to be in the right place at the appropriate time May 7-in the general vicinity of some 150 nautical miles northnorthwest of Bermuda. So was the Solitude, a privately owned catamaran which was in distress. The Solitude, captained and owned and by Robert M. Unnold of Stamford, Conn., had lost steering and had been demasted, courtesy of 30-plus knot winds. Unnold and his crew of six were at the mercy of the sea, which he recalls was "cresting at 25 or more feet with froth blowing off the wave tops." After calling the U.S. Coast Guard Search and Rescue Unit and Bermuda Harbor Radio with a handheld satellite phone, only to discover that help was very distant, Unnold turned to a handheld VHF radio. He hoped to reach any vessel in the area. Shortly after he sent out his distress signal, a reply came back from the SIU-crewed vessel. "How good it was to hear 'Vessel in distress, this is the Performance,'" Unnold said in a letter to U.S. Ship Management, Inc., the Performance '.s operator. Shortly thereafter, the Performance arrived on the On TOTE RO/RO Crew members aboard the Solitude are ready to toss a line to the SIUcrewed Performance, which answered the catamaran's distress signal. scene. The captain maneuvered his vessel into position on the first attempt and successfully rescued Unnold and his crew from the still surging foredeck of the Solitude without injury. SIU crew members aboard the Performance at the time of the rescue were: Bosun Jimmie Scheck, AB Sherman Hudson, AB Archie Slater, AB Bennie Spencer, AB Dimitrios Papandreou, AB Thomas Banks, QMED Ernest Gibson, QMED Gregorio Blanco, GUDE Ali Mohsin, Chief Steward Richard Woroby, Chief Cook Joel Molinos and Steward Assistant Felix Dickerson. According to Unnold, the rescue went very quickly. "A total of 92 minutes elapsed from our distress call to 'all hands on deck,'" he said. Following the rescue, the Performance proceeded to Charleston, S.C., its next port of call. "During the trip, the ship's company [and crew] afforded us every hospitality, making what was a difficult situation much easier," Unnold said. "On behalf of my crew and myself, a heartfelt thanks for the caring and skilled master and crew aboard Performance." Construction began June 4 at San Diego's National Steel and Shipbuilding Company (NASSCO) on the first of two roll-on, roll-off (RO/RO) ships for SIU-contracted Totem Ocean Trailer Express , Inc. (TOTE). The vessels- the first U.S.built commercial dry cargo ships in 10 years-are being constructed for TOTE's Tacoma-to-Anchorage service. Ship deliveries are scheduled for October 2002 and April 2003. The new ships, designated the Orea Class, will be 839 feet long and have a beam of 118 feet. They each will carry 600 cargo trailers and 200 autos. Powered by twin propulsion plants (each having its own propeller and rudder system), the vessels are designed to travel at up to 24 knots. Robert Magee, TOTE President and CEO, noted, "TOTE has been the recipient of two environmental awards for the design of the Orea Class vessels. In July 2000, the States/British Columbia Oil Spill Task Force awarded its Legacy Award 2000 to TOTE in honor of its commitment to the environment and vessel safety by designing and building new cargo vessels with state-of-the-art oil spill prevention and marine safety features." The governors of Alaska, Washington, Oregon, and California and the Premier of British Columbia created the Oil Spill Task Force Legacy Award in 1989 as a means to recognize and support implementation of model spill prevention, preparedness, and response programs. As previously reported in the Seafarers LOG, TOTE last year received the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner's Pollution Prevention Award. "The award noted that Totem Ocean Trailer Express had commissioned ships that carry fuel in double-walled tanks, use a diesel-electric propulsion system, and feature a number of other attributes that go beyond what is required by law to protect Alaska's air and water," said Magee. Notice Crew members from the Performance prepare the crippled catamaran for towing. Performance crew members Chief Mate Paul Coar, left, and Bosun Jimmie Scheck reel in a rope that was used to secure the disabled Solitude for its tow into the port of Charleston, S.C. Due to a recent court decision in Maryland involving the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, unions now are required to include a summary of the Labor-Management Reporting and Disclosure Act in their union publications, on web sites and as part of the information provided to new members. The SIU as always will fully comply with this decision. Therefore, the required summary of this law will appear periodically in the Seafarers LOG; is posted on the SIU web site (www.seafarers.org, in the About The SIU section); and will be given to new members. The summary is published on page 20 of this issue of the LOG. Indomitable Rescues 149 from Foundering Boat Thanks largely to the efforts of Seafarers who crew the USNS Indomitable, 149 citizens of Ecuador today are secure from the perils of the sea and back in their homeland. The Ecuadorians were rescued during the early morning hours of March 30 from the Fortuna, a 60foot boat whose engines had stopped five days into a voyage that began 20 days earlier from Manta, Ecuador. Despite the rescue, others may have been lost at the same time. The Indomitable, in fact, had been searching for another vessel reportedly in distress, the Joselito, when it came upon the Fortuna. U.S.Coast Guard (USCG) District 11 in Alameda, Calif. received an initial report for a ship in distress and made calls on emergency frequencies to ascertain the vessel's name, position and nature of the emergency, but received no response. A call was then placed to USCG representatives in Ecuador, where a statement was released naming the Joselito as the vessel in distress. Further, the report stated that the Joselito had been adrift 14 days in the vicinity of Isla del Coco off the western coast of Columbia. After tasking a P-3 Orion surveillance aircraft to try and locate the Joselito, the USGC directed the Indomitable to join the search and to proceed to the vessel's estimated position. The Indomitable was designated the command ship for the search and rescue mission along with her sister ship, the SIU- The USNS Indomitable was designated as the command ship for the search and rescue mission. 4 Seafarers LOG crewed USNS Stalwart, and the surveillance aircraft assisting. The P-3 aircrew soon spotted a vessel matching the Joselito's description. It was adrift with four people visible, but the name was not discernible from the air. The Indomitable left its initial search area and set course for the position of the newly cited vessel. Meanwhile, the Stalwart continued to search its assigned area and then swept the area which the Indomitable had just vacated. By now, fuel had become a concern for the P-3 crew, so they returned to their base in Belize for refueling. Before departing the area, however, the crew advised the Indomitable of the crippled vessel's latest position. The Indomitable arrived at the vessel's location during the late evening hours of March 29, some nine hours after receiving the new coordinates. Once the Indomitable was in position, crew members shined a spotlight on the hull of the distressed vessel to read the name. To their astonishment, the name Fortuna-not Joselito-was painted on the ves el' bow and stem, along with the homeport of Guayaquil, Ecuador. The Indomitable reported to the USCG Di trict 11 what the crew had seen and advi ed they would wait until daylight to relay further information. With the arrival of daylight, the picture became clearer. At least 130 people could now be seen aboard the Fortuna. The Stalwart now departed its search area and set course for the Indomitable to render assistance. The Indomitable moved in on the distressed vessel and tried without success to reach it via radio. After getting closer and finally into shouting distance, Engine Utility Manuel Hernandez came to the Indomitable s deck to act as interpreter. It was learned that the passengers, all 149 of them including eight females and three teenage boys, had been without food and water for three days. It was also discovered that the vessel was en route to Guatemala from Ecuador. Their intended destination wa the United State via Guatemala and Mexico. After peaking further to the stranded passengers aboard the Fortuna, Hernandez learned that the vessel's captain and crew had departed in a mall boat two day prior and had not returned. Becau e of the nature of the information gathered, the Navy frigate USS Halyburton wa called to assist. Armed with a legal detachment from the USCG on board, it departed Panama and headed to the scene. Meanwhile, crew members from the Indomitable made numerous trips to the Fortuna with food and water. The rescue boat was crewed by Chief Mate Matt Haybell, Bosun Robert Taylor, Chief Steward James Sivells and U.S. Marine Cpl. Brett Masek, who also served as interpreter. Other SIU crew members aboard the Indomitable during the rescue included: ABs Adeeb M. Saleh, Ziting Xu and James L. Hornby, OSs William Howell and Clyde Q. Wynne, MDR Martha E. Bye, Engine Utility Geoffrey W. Bagley, Chief Cook Lyvell Hall and SA Vincent Knight. The Stalwart arrived later that day and provided additional relief for the stranded passengers. Both MSC vessels continued their humanitarian runs to and from the Fortuna throughout the initial day and into the next morning. The USS Halyburton arrived on the scene during the morning of April 2 and took the lead on the rescue. With all 149 passengers securely loaded aboard its flight deck, the vessel headed for Esmeralda , Ecuador with the Fortuna in tow. The Halyburton tied up in Ecuador two days later, but the destiny of the Joselito, its passengers and crew remains a mystery. July2001 �New Jobs, New U.S.-Flag Tankers Among Benefits of Opening ANWR SIU Members Urged to Mobilize in Grassroots Effort Thousands of new jobs within the U.S . maritime industry would be created if legislation opening the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR) clears Congress. Members of both the Senate and House of Representatives are considering the proposal contamed within President Bush's energy plan , which wa released in May. Job opportunities would be available to Seafarers to crew the new U.S.-flag tankers that would be built to move the oil. The SIU endorsed the proposal to open ANWR during a March press conference on Capitol Hill. SIU President Michael Sacco, along with the presidents of several other unions, spoke in favor of opening the refuge to drilling. "By opening ANWR, the United States can increase domestic oil production, reduce our reliance on foreign sources of oil and create hundreds of thou- sands of new jobs for American workers," noted Sacco, who additionally is president of the 8-rnillion member Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO. "ANWR will be explored and drilled by American workers; the oil transported through U.S .-built pipeline ; refined and di tributed by domestic facilities ; and its byproducts used by U.S. energy producers and U.S. con umer . Many o1 our brothers and sisters in maritime labor will crew the environmentally safe, doublehulled, U.S.-flagged tankers that will carry the oil from Alaska," Sacco added. Coalition Formed The SIU has joined with more than a dozen trade unions as well as a wide variety of businesses in a coalition to promote the exploration and drilling of ANWR called JobPower. The group estimates approximately 700,000 domestic jobs could be generated by opening the northern Alaska region. In its energy policy, the White Hou e seeks to allow exploration and drilling in a small portioneq ui valent to the size of a modern international airport-of the 19 mi 11 ion acre refuge. "We are proposing to open only a mall fraction - 8 percent of ANWR for oil and gas exploration," tated the Bush administration document. "Between 6 and 16 billion barrels of oil exist in ANWR. The expected output of oil would equal 30 years of oil imports from Saudi Arabia and almost 60 years of Iraqi oil imports." What Can Be Done Seafarers, retirees and their families are urged to contact their members of Congress to let the elected officials know how opening ANWR would affect them. Letters, emails and phone calls to congressional offices will let sen- ators and representatives know how important opening ANWR is to the people in their states. Additional oil that would be pumped from Alaska would call for new tankers in the U.S.-flag fleet. The new vessels would generate new jobs for Seafarers. This, in tum, would make sure the needed manpower would be trained and available in case the U.S. merchant fleet is required in a time of national emergency. These tankers would be built in domestic yards, providing ne\\ jobs for shipbuilders and their suppliers. This, also, would have the effect of insuring a strong U.S. shipbuilding base if needed in time of war. SIU halls will have postcard~ available at the counter that members can sign and mail to their elected officials. These cards will make the basic point that opening ANWR would be good for the country's economic and national security. SAMPLE LETTER (or email) The Honorable ----~­ U.S. Senate (or U.S. House of Representatives) Washington, DC 20510 (or 20515) (Email addresses of members of Congress are available on the SIU website, www.seafarers.org, in the Legislation section.) Dear Sen. or (or Rep.) _ __ _ I am urging your support for legislation that would open the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge to oil exploration and drilling. I believe this is important to all Americans because it will provide new good-paying jobs here at home as well as help our country become more energy independent. I am an American merchant mariner and a voter. I know that opening ANWR will further revitalize the U.S.-flag commercial fleet. New and safe double-hulled tankers would be built to move the oil, creating jobs in our shipyards and aboard these vessels. This will help strengthen our nation's security by making sure we have trained personnel in our yards and on our ships in case of a war or emergency. I hope you will consider supporting such legislation when it comes before you. Thank you for your time and I look forward to hearing from you. Sincerely, Thousands Rally For 'Charleston 5' Seafarers Show ILA Support Seafarers were among the thousands of union members and community and religious activists who joined together in South Carolina June 9 to demonstrate support for five Longshoremen who face long jail terms in what observers say are trumped-up charges. The 'Charleston 5,' members of ILA locals 1422 and 1771 in Charleston , are charged with felony rioting stemming from what witnesses say was a policeinitiated disturbance as union members gathered on the city's docks to peacefully protest the use of nonunion stevedores in January 2000. While the dispute developed over job issues, state and local union officials say the harsh reaction by law enforcement and state officials was motivated by a desire to discourage workers in the state from exercising their rights on the job. South Carolina, a so-called right-to-work state, entices corporate investment by touting its anti-union climate and ville, Fla. Port Agent Tony McQuay, SIU Representative Harmando "Sal" Salazar and McQuay's sons, Vincent and Travis. "We send a message to all union-busters in Charleston who are trying to bankrupt the longshore workers and send five of them to jail. Our message is this: We know what you' re up to and you're not going to get away with it," said AFL-CIO Executive Vice President Linda ChavezThompson at the rally. In October 1999, the shipping firm Nordana Lines ended its 23year relationship with the ILA locals and began using nonunion workers to offload and load its ships in Charleston. Local 1422 President Ken Riley says the ILA President John Bowers AFL-CIO Exec. VP Linda Chavez-Thompson UMWA President Cecil Roberts July 2001 the lowest rate of unionization in the nation. The rally was conducted on the grounds of the state capitol and featured charismatic and powerful speeches by union, civil rights and religious officials from all over the South as well as from other parts of the country and the globe. SIU members in attendance included Wayne Wilson, Roy Frett, Michael Amador, Larry Richardson, Robert Lee, George Vorise, Harry Mays, Lydell Grant, Unity Bostick, Jack Jackson, Grigoriy Kireev, Regina Ewing and Buddy Barber, along with SIU Jackson- Thousands of union members, including Seafarers, and other supporters of the Charleston 5 demonstrate June 9 in South Carolina. unions responded with peaceful pickets that slightly delayed two Nordana ships from completing their work. On Jan. 20, when Nordana's Skodsborg docked, 600 state and local police officers in riot gear were on hand to respond to any worker protests. Some police were in armored personnel vehicles, others on horseback. Police helicopters were in the air and police patrol boats on the water. "You would think there was going to be a terrorist attack on the state of South Carolina," Riley says. To avoid any confrontation, union members stayed at their hall while the police officers congregated around the freight terminal about 150 yards away. Later that evening ays Riley, the workers decided to march to the terminal to exercise their right to picket. That' when police initiated the clash by pushing the picket back, Riley notes. When the police pu hed the picketers back, Riley and the other officers from the local ere- ated a buffer between the police and the pickets. At that point, one of the cops ran out of formation and clubbed Riley in the head. A fight ensued, according to a report by the Campaign for Workers' Rights in South Carolina. Eight workers were arrested on misdemeanor charges . However, South Carolina Attorney General Charlie Condon stepped in and charged the eight with felony rioting. Charleston Magistrate James Gosnell Jr. dismissed those charges due to lack of evidence, according to a report in Charleston's The Post and Courier. Condon then persuaded a grand jury to issue felony indictments of the Charleston 5. Since their indictment, the five have been under house arrest, unable to leave from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. His goal , Condon told the paper, was "jail, jail and more jail." A strong union movement in South Carolina would damage Continued on page 7 Seafarers LOG 5 �'All in This Together' Simulator Building Named for McMillen The latest structural addition to the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training & Education officially was dedicated June 7. The building that houses the school's world-class simulator was dubbed the Bob McMillen Simulator Annex during an on-site ceremony overseen by SIU President Mike Sacco. The complex's 65-year-old namesake is co-chairman and chief executive officer of Saltchuk Resources, Inc., the parent company of Totem Ocean Trailer Express, Inc. (TOTE). McMillen was president and chief executive officer of TOTE from 1977 to 1993. A graduate of Denison University in Granville, Ohio, he is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force and has more than 35 years' experience in transportation service. Guest speakers included Robert P. Magee, president and CEO of TOTE; Michael D. Garvey, cochairman/chief executive officer, Saltchuk Resources and Chuck Knox, former National Football League coach. In addition to the honoree, guest speakers and members of their respective families, the dedication was attended by more than 100 Seafarers, SIU officials and school personnel. President Sacco offered remarks about the school, its mission and some of its accomplishments. He noted that the Paul Hall Center is recognized as a model of labormanagement cooperation throughout the maritime industry. "This school is a perfect example of what can be accomplished when we work together," he said. "It is a great place for young men and women to begin their careers as merchant mariners." Sacco pointed out that the school also is designed for continued vocational training, so students can return and advance all the way from the entry ratings to officers, if they want to. "And we offer academic support, too," Sacco continued. "Students can earn a GED here at Piney Point. They can receive college credits for many of our vocational classes, and there's even a college Robert B. McMillen addresses the audience during the June 7 dedication ceremony at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in which the school's new simulator complex was named in his honor. program where students can earn an associate' s degree." Examining how far the school has advanced since it opened in 1967, Sacco said that the institution's progress has been unbelievable. In the early days, the school had very modest facilities and lifeboat was the only class offered, he recalled. "Today we offer more than three-dozen Coast Guard-approved courses. We've built classroom and hands-on training facilities throughout the campus. We train thousands of students each year. "In 1999, we opened a new campus for a fire fighting and safety school that truly is world-class," Sacco continued. "We teach fire fighting, damage control, confined space safety and water survival at that facility, which is built specifically to simulate shipboard conditions." Turning his attention to the building being dedicated, Sacco offered, "The new simulator building features absolutely state-of-theart simulators for shiphandling, engine room operations, crane operations, liquid cargo transfer and GMDSS. I'm proud of this school, and proud of the people who make it possible." Despite the school's accomplishments to date, Sacco sees many challenges ahead. He plans, however, to meet them aggressively. "Don't think for a minute that we're going to rest on our success," he said. "The reason the Paul Hall Center is so dynamic, and the reason it's so valuable to our students and contracted companies, is that this school never stops moving forward. We understand that the maritime industry constantly change . We understand that there are tougher and tougher training requirements on the men and women who crew SIU ship . We understand that SIU-contracted In addition to the honoree, guest speakers and their respective family members, the June 7 Bob McMillen Simulator Annex dedication ceremony was attended by more than 100 people from the SIU's local and national communities. 6 Seafarers LOG companies have a huge investment in their vessels and equipment. That's why we provide the world's best-trained mariners, and we'll continue that mission for as long as there is a U.S.-flag Merchant Marine." Magee lauded McMillen for his perspective and leadership abilities. He pointed out that TOTE has prospered despite the many challenges facing American-flag companies. "Bob has the right perspective, and thank God that he has taken a lot of us along with him." McMillen's lasting legacy to the transportation industry will be the reinvestment that he has helped promote, according to Magee. "You can't reinvest in this business unless you have been successful," he aid, "and Bob taught all of us in the Saltchuk and TOTE family how to be successful in this business." Garvey said he and his company were proud and honored that the SIU was recognizing McMillen in such a fashion. He praised McMillen for his accomplishments in the labor relations arena. "Over the years Bob has set the standard and is the model for good labor relations in our company," Garvey said. He attributed McMillen' s terrific track record to two qualities: respect and trustworthiness. "Bob McMillen always demonstrated respect for the men and women who work in our company and respect for the people who represent them in labor," Magee said. "He always attempted to understand their point [of view] because he recognized that we are all in this together. "Bob has always been a man of his word," Garvey continued. "As we all know, labor relations can get kind of dicey at times and so a premium is paid on people who are known to keep their word. Bob comes by these graces very natural and he deals with everybody that way, not just those in labor relations. And that's what made him a close friend of a colleague and mine for almost 20 years." Concerning the SIU, the school and the naming of a facility in McMillen's honor, Garvey said, "It's an incredible statement for this union to name a building after a businessman. It speaks volumes about the leadership of this union. It also says, in a very dramatic way, that we are all in this thing together." Knox said that he has known McMillen for more than 15 years. Recalling the days when he coached in the NFL, Knox said, "Bob McMillen came to every one of our games. He sat with my wife. They both waited patiently for me after the game-win or lose-and we'd go back to the house, eat some pizza and drink some wine." Laughing, Knox added, "Bob could critique the game for me. When we ran inside, we should have been going outside, when we threw the ball, we should have been running it and if we didn't go for it on fourth down, then would should have gone for it." Turning erious, Knox described McMillen as "the most charitable human being that I have ever been around. He's involved in more charitie with more people in the city of Seattle than anybody." Focusing on McMillen as a businessman, Knox discussed his impre sions of Saltchuk Resource . "I have been impressed with the direction that company has taken Michael D. Garvey, co-chairman/CEO, Saltchuk Resources, Inc., labeled Robert B. McMillen a model for good labor relations. Robert P. Magee, president and CEO of Totem Ocean Trailer Express, Inc., praised McMillen for his leadership. with Mike Garvey, Stan Barer and Bob Magee. I can te11 you this, there's no company in the Pacific Northwest that's held in higher esteem or admired more than Saltchuk Resources. They are a people organization, they respond to the needs of the community, they hire good people and they keep their word." "When think of Bob McMillen, I think of partnership, friendship, trust, working together and building together," Sacco said during his introduction of the event's honoree. Describing McMillen a someone who worked his way up and one who understands the transportation industry, Sacco said, "He's always been a straight shooter; he tells you like it is. I could go on and on about Bob, but I'll sum it up by saying Bob McMillen is the type of person that gives me great hope for the future of the U.S. Merchant Marine." After sharing that he's approaching his 66'h birthday, McMillen offered, "In those 66 years, I can't think of any event that mean more to me than what's happening today. From the bottom of my heart, I want you to know how much I appreciate it and thank you o much." Recalling the early day when he came aboard at TOTE a its third president, McMillen said, "It was a struggling young company barely two years old. Since than time, I have developed and had a wonderful clo e relationship with the SIU. "I still admire what you and the Seafarers have accompli hed here at this school at Piney Point. It come a a great source of pride and gratitude that you would consider my name to be associated with this great new addition," he said. Speaking of the facility being named in his honor, McMillen said, "The state-of-the-art simulator will add further value to this already impressive institution by improving on the quality of the Seafarers you are turning out and greatly shortening the training and experience process. Using this technology to constantly update and expand the types of situations an individual can experience, you will be saving our industry millions of dollars in time and improved quality of service. "From the perspective of a shipowner who is spending hundreds of millions of dollars on new ships and tugs, you're helping to protect and add value to our investment in the U.S.-flag merchant marine," he continued. "Our most important asset is our people. This facility will improve your already best-in-the-world sailors. It will improve the safety of navigation and keep our Saltchuk companies efficient in our difficult business." In addition to the foregoing benefits, the presence of the new simulator facility will accomplish another significant objective, according to Magee. "This new facility will also demonstrate to our constituents in Washington, D.C. that we all are willing to reinvest in the Jones Act." McMillen concluded, "With a partnership like we have, the future looks great and the sky is the limit." With that, McMillen's son unveiled the signage on the simulator building that bears his father's name. A ribbon cutting ceremony followed and the Bob McMillen Simulator Annex took its place on the school's rapidly changing campus. July 2001 �Converted and Renamed, Carter Will Join MSC1s Prepositioning Fleet Allene G. Carter, daughter-in-law of Staff Sgt. Edward A. Carter, Jr., addresses the audience during the renaming ceremony. The U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) during ceremonies June 12 at the Norfolk (Va.) Shipbuilding and Drydock Corp. renamed the SID-crewed OOCL Innovation to the SSG Edward A. Carter, Jr., in memory of the World War II Medal of Honor recipient. As previously reported, the vessel was one of two which have been moved from the Maritime Security Program (MSP) to MSC's fleet. (The SID-crewed Lt. Col. John U.D. Page, the Carter 's sister ship, was the other.) Both Bosun T.C. Oneyear, left, was among the Seafarers from the Carter who attended the renaming ceremony. He is joined by Norfolk SIU Representative George Kenny. underwent conversion at the shipyard from commercial containerships to self- ustaining ammunition transporters. Meanwhile, two other ships (previously foreignflag) are switching to the Stars and Stripes and emolling the MSP, resulting in a net gain of two ships for the SID. Allene G. Carter, daughter-inlaw of the individual for whom the ve sel wa named, was the ship's sponsor. She broke the ceremonial bottle of champagne on the vessel's hull, officially naming it. Sandy Carter, Allene's daughter, served as maid of honor; and Karen Carter, Sgt. Carter's other daughter-in-law, assisted Allene as matron of honor. Sgt. Carter's sons, Edward A. Carter ill and William Carter, were also in attendance as was Corey Carter, Sgt. Carter's grandson. Army Brig. Gen. Donald D. Parker, commanding general, Deployment Support Command, served as the event's principle speaker. Also addressing the gathering were MSC Commander Vice Adm. Gordon S. Holder; John F. Reinhart, CEO, Maersk Line Limited; and Alexander J. Krekick, president, Norfolk Shipbuilding & Drydock Corp., Seal arers Show Support for ILA Members Continued from page 5 one of the state's major corporate draws, says Donna Dewitt, South Carolina AFL-CIO president. "The last thing state officials want to see is workers standing up to corporations, organizing and winning. That means better wages and standards of living for workers, but it's sort of hard to sell to a company looking for a low-wage, docile workforce," she says. "The police, under the apparent leadership of the attorney general, are clamping down on the workers' rights to peacefully protest. If they don't have that right, then effectively workers don't have any kind of rights to organize, no matter what's on the books," she adds. Riley notes that the largely African American Local 1422 i an example that workers who face real discrimination and a difficult time finding good jobs can unionize and organize for a better life-an example anti-union forces and state officials would just as soon crush, he says. He and Dewitt also say the locals' involvement in the community and politics are other reasons that some of the tate's politicians have targeted the Charleston unions. "Our problems began when we started getting involved in state politics. We wanted to start trying to put people in positions to change what's going on in South Carolina," Riley says. "Here you have a minority local union that's strong and very involved in the political roots of its community. They're using the longshore unions as an example because they are strong leaders and the state doesn't want others to see them that way," Dewitt says. "This is not a union fight. This is a fight for all of us," State Sen. McKinley Washington Jr. (D) told a crowd of 400 community and religious activists at a rally for the workers shortly after the incident. Many of the thousands of activists who joined the march and rally on the state capitol in Columbia June 9 are members of the Charleston 5 defense committees formed by local unions and communities in more than a dozen port cities along the Atlantic seaboard and the Gulf and West coasts. Dewitt sent a call out to the AFL-CIO's state federations to take the lead in encouraging the forming committees and asking central labor councils to adopt resolutions of support. She says her office has received more than 1,000 phone calls and e-mails from people and groups seeking ways to help the workers. "I've been really amazed by how people are coming together to fight this kind of injustice." Editor '.s note: Portions of this article are reprinted from the AFL-CIO. SIU crew members from the Carter observe the ceremony. Pictured from left are QE1 Donald Hastings, Steward James Kidd, Steward Assistant Tony Rios and Chief Cook Gilbert Louis. and chief operation officer, U.S. Marine Repair. Sgt. Page, an Army infantryman, posthumously was awarded the Medal of Honor for his action on March 23, 1945 near Speyer, Germany. The tank on which he was riding received bazooka and small arms fire from the vicinity of a large warehouse to its left front. Sgt. Carter and his squad took cover behind an intervening road bank. He volunteered to lead a three-man patrol to the warehouse where the original bazooka fire originated. From there, they were to ascertain the location and strength of the opposing position and advance approximately 150 yards across an open field. As the patrol left the covered position, one of its members instantly was killed by intense enemy small arm fire. Sgt. Carter ordered the remaining two patrol members back to the covered position to cover him while he proceeded with the mission. Enemy fire killed one of the remaining two as they retreated to the covered position. Meanwhile, an enemy machine gun wounded Sgt. Carter three times in the left arm as he continued to advance. He received another wound in his left leg that knocked him off his feet as he proceeded toward his objective. As he took wound tablets and drank from his canteen, the enemy shot it from his left hand, the bullet going through his hand. Disregarding his wounds, he continued his advance until he was within 30 yards of his objective. Now under extremely intense fire, Sgt. Carter took cover behind a bank and remained there for about two hours. Eight enemy riflemen approached Sgt. Carter, apparently to take him prisoner. He killed six of them and captured the other two. Sgt. Carter refused to be evacuated until he had given full information about what he had seen and learned from the captured soldiers. These two enemy soldiers later gave valuable information which greatly facilitated the advance on Speyer. As a result of his heroic actions, Sgt Carter was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross. Almost a half-century later, in 1997, he was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor. The SSG Edward A. Carter, Jr. will preposition Army ammunition at sea, adding greatly to the U.S. military's combat readiness. The 949.8-foot vessel has four cranes on deck that enable the ship to on-load and off-load ammunition without the use of shoreside cranes. This feature gives the Carter the critical flexibility to off-load in undeveloped or underdeveloped port facilities. The Carter and Page wi11 carry all of the Army's containerized prepositioned ammunition. Each can carry a total of 2,500, 20-foot containers. The vessel will operate from the Diego Garcia area in the Indian Ocean and will join a fleet of more than 36 afloat prepositioning ships worldwide under MSC. Maersk operates about two dozen SIU-crewed vessels for MSC and in the Maritime Security Program. Its Seafarers-crewed fleet includes containerships, rollon/roll off prepositioning vessels and T-AGOS ships. The SSG Edward A Carter, Jr. is tied up at the Norfolk Shipbuilding & Drydock Corporation for the ceremony. Rep. Moakley Dies at 74 Among those representing the SIU at the rally are (from left) Wayne Wilson, Buddy Barber, SIU Jacksonville, Fla. Port Agent Tony McQuay, his sons Travis and Vincent, Roy Frett, Tony Elliott, Dennis Elliott, SIU Patrolman Harmando "Sal" Salazar and Regina Ewing . July2001 U.S . Rep. Joe Moakley (DMass.), a strong supporter of the U.S.-flag maritime indu try, passed away May 28 after battling leukemia. He was 74. Rep. Moakley in 1996 helped secure passage of the Maritime Security Program. A year later, he cosponsored a House re olution backing the Jones Act. A native of South Bo ton, Mass., Rep. Moakley served in the U.S. Navy from 1943-46. He graduated from Suffolk Uni- versity Law School in 1956. He first was elected to Congre s in 1972 and was reelected to each succeeding Congre . He chaired the House Rules Committee from 1989-94. Nearly 5,000 people attended his memorial service, including President George W. Bush, Former President Bill Clinton, U.S . Senators Ted Kennedy and John Kerry, and former Vice President Al Gore. U.S. Rep. Joe Moakley Seafarers LOG 7 �Seafarers Observe Maritime Day SIU St. Louis Port Agent Becky Sleeper presents remarks written by SIU President Michael Sacco for the service held at Soldiers' Memorial to honor the accomplishments and sacrifices of the United States Merchant Marine. Maritime Day was observed across the country in late May. Three separate events were held May 22 in Washington, D.C. (see June 2001 LOG). Additionally, in St. Louis, SIU Port Agent Becky Sleeper read remarks written by SIU President Michael Sacco at a May 22 program hosted by the S.S. Samuel Parker Chapter of the American Merchant Marine- and Navy Armed Guard Veterans. In San Pedro, Calif., the SIU participated in a May 19 memorial service at the American Merchant Marine Veterans Memorial. Also on May 19, the Jeremiah O'Brien set out on its annual Memorial Day cruise in Honoring American merchant mariners at the Veterans Memorial in San Pedro, Calif. are (from left) SIU Dispatcher Jesse Solis, Wilmington Port Agent John Cox, DEU Debra Johnson, Storekeeper Terry Malone, NMU Port Agent Ike Williams and EU Javier Montoya (Crowley Marine Services). San Francisco harbor. The Jeremiah O'Brien is one of the last remaining Liberty ships from WWII and has been lov- ingly restored and maintained by a proud crew and a group of dedicated volunteers. SIU-Crewed Tug Helps Deepen NY/NJ Channel A project to deepen major shipping channels in the port of New York and New Jersey is under way, and members of the Seafarers International Union are assisting. The SIU-crewed American Champion, an American Marine Corp. tug based on the West Coast, has been put into service to help dredging operations in the Kill Van Kull channel. This waterway-between Staten Island, N.Y. and Bayonne, N.J-links Upper New York Bay to Newark Bay and serves major marine and petroleum terminals. Deepening the Kill Van Kull channel to 45 feet is critical to the port's operations since modem ships require water depths beyond what currently exist. Dredging the waterway will enable deepdraft vessels to safely navigate the channels leading to the port and also will significantly increase the port's ability to attract more cargo, thereby helping ensure that New York/New Jersey remains an East Coast hub for shipping. The American Champion's work involves taking the sludge dredge out to the site for collection of the material and then to the dumping area. The tug is expected to remain on the job for two or three years. In a moving ceremony in San Francisco harbor that was accompanied by an honor guard, SIU Government Services Rep Chester Wheeler laid a wreath on behalf of the Seafarers International Union to those seafarers who gave their lives in service to their country. Chattanooga Remembers WWII Merchant Mariners Clockwise, from top left, the American Champion at the pier, Deckhand Gary Cardillo, Captain Garry Matthews and Captain Daniel Camara. Catching up on the latest news in the LOG are (from left) American Champion deckhands Eric Grove, Gary Cardillo and Danilo Vukotic. B Seafarers LOS The courage and dedication of World War II merchant mariners was remembered Tuesday, May 22-National Maritime Day-when a monument was dedicated in the Circle of Honor at Chattanooga (Tenn.) National Cemetery. As an honor guard performed a 21-gun salute, it was a time to reflect not only on those seafarers who gave their lives to help deliver armies and military equipment into enemy territories, but also on that overlooked group of mariners who returned from their difficult ervice to resume civilian life, only to be refused veteran status. It was not until nearly forty years later-in 1988-that merchant mariners finally received government recognition as veterans. During World War II alone, 733 American vessels were sunk, and an estimated 7,000 merchant seamen and officers were lost as a result of enemy action and war-related causes. Ju t as it was not easy for the surviving WWII merchant mariners, so was it a trial to erect the new monument. A May 23, 2001 article in the Chattanooga Times Free Press notes that members of the Tri-State Chapter of the American Merchant Marine Veterans paid a subcontractor $500 to begin work on the stone memorial, but he took the money and disappeared. When this was brought to the attention of Amanda Ingle, who, with her parents and sister, operates Ringgold Monument Co., they decided to give them the monument. "They've [the veteran mariners] done a lot for the country, for us and for our freedom," she aid. An editorial in an electronic supplement to the Chattanooga Times Free Press notes that this newly dedicated monument honors those who died and also "reminds us, a it should, of the courage and dedication of the intrepid eafarer who till live among us, and who helped win a righteous war LEST WE FORGET long ago." July2001 �Allison Devastates Houston Tropical Storm Causes More Floods in Northeast Tropical Storm Allison caused more than $4 billion in damages last month in Houston, then continued through the Northeast, triggering floods and heavy rains as far north as New England. At least 43 deaths are attributed to the storm, which first made landfall in Texas on June 6. The SIU hall at 1221 Pierce Street in Houston sustained significant damage and was closed on Saturday, June 9. The first floor of the three-story building-containing a garage and lobby-was flooded with a foot of water, and the elevator remained inoperable as this issue of the Seafarers LOG went to press. The union's other Houston hall, the former NMU offices at 8329 Lawndale Street, was not damaged. At least four Seafarers-crewed hips reportedly were impacted by Allison, which dumped nearly three feet of water in and around Houston. The Mt. Washington broke loose and hit both the Equality State and the Cape Texas. All three vessels were in reduced operating status (ROS). The engine room on the Sealand Motivator was flooded. Damage estimates were not available at press time. There were no reports of fatalities or serious injuries among Seafarers and their families, but property damage for many of those individuals in the Houston area was inevitable. By mid-June, more than 44,000 Texans had applied for as istance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the vast majority from Harris County. According to press reports, FEMA was inspecting approximately 3,600 homes per day. The SIU hall on Pierce Street sustained flood damage on the first floor, rendering the elevator inoperable (inset). In all, 28 Texas counties were declared disaster areas, which made them eligible for federal aid. The U.S. Coast Guard, utilizing small boats and aircraft, rescued 194 people in the Houston area June 9-10. The agency reported "several minor releases of pollution into the Houston Ship Channel, [but] no significant releases or discharges in or around the ship channel due to the heavy flooding." Allison is being described as by far the most expensive disaster in Houston. For now, the damage estimates include homes, commercial buildings and business inventory, but not vehicles nor the contents of homes, medical, government and arts buildings, the Houston Chronicle reported. New Bisso Contract Ratified Continued from page 3 AP Photo Eric Gay Onlookers stand on an overpass where flood waters have covered Interstate 10 in Houston. Not Pushy, Just Assertive Seafarers crew many vessels in service for the U.S. Military Sealift Command, including the surveillance ship USNS Assertive (above). Pictured aboard the 224-foot vessel are (below left, from left) Chief Cook Marjorie Harris and Chief Steward L. Keane, and (right) Bosun Clifford Blackmon, SIU Wilmington, Calif. Port Agent John Cox and AB William Jacobs. some new contract language .... We don't want to break the company, we just want to share and be treated fairly. We've progressed, and it's getting better." Brulte described the new contract as "a huge stepping stone. Our progress has been unbelievable, and the health insurance boosted morale with a lot of the guys here." He further stated that union representation "is good in the fact that it gives us the ability to have a voice with the company. It has definitely increased the respect we get. They're more willing to listen to your point of view." Corgey pointed out that the atmosphere during negotiations (which took place beginning April 26 and ending May 26) was more productive than in the past. "Slowly but surely, we're building a better working relationship with Bisso." He also praised the boatmen for their "unwavering solidarity and support from beginning to end. The members did a great job providing input about what they wanted in a new contract, and the entire committee worked hard to get it done." Like the other committee members, Judd noted that "the main push from the fleet entering negotiations was that they wanted better medical coverage and more affordable coverage. They got the top plan available." He also credited Brulte, Jordan and Ponamsky for their work on the committee. "Everybody in the fleet has the grit and character needed to be a delegate, but they couldn't have chosen better individuals. All three were very capable and precise in describing what the members needed and why they needed it." Bisso operates a fleet of 16 boats, primarily working in shipdocking operations from the mouth of the Mississippi River to Baton Rouge, La. They also perform some offshore work. G\ .A. / ·"1- Among those approving the contract were (top photo, from left) Robert Jordan, Jimmy Gervais, Buddy Foreman , Shane Brulte, Alex Blessman, Chad Bordelon and Matt Wilson, and (below) Brulte, Rodney Kimble, Randy Mayeaux, Yancey Mayfield, Marvin Langston, Pate Maguire and Jordan. July 2001 Seafarers LOG 9 �At Work in the Port of Houston The galley gang aboard the HM/ Defender includes (from left) GSU Nelson Bernardez, Steward Juan B. Gonzalez and Chief Cook Isabel Sabio. SIU patrolmen Kenneth Moore (left) and Frank Cottongin assist members while behind the counter in the Houston hall. Left: Mariano Norales takes a standby job to help load stores aboard the Sea/and Florida. Shoregang members Fernando Urias (left) and Gilbert Rodriguez safely go about their work. Right: Adalberto Guity leaves the hall after the last job call at 4 p.m. Aboard The Deacon are (from left) Captain Jeff Lock, SIU Rep Frank Cottongin, Asst. Engineer Ted Sliter and AB Michael Jackson. AB Ralph Moore was aboard the Sea/and Florida, a U.S. Ship Management vessel, when it pulled into the port of Houston. SIU VP Dean Corgey addresses the membership at the monthly meeting. Completing some paperwork for Houston shoregang member Fernando Urias (right) are SIU Assistant VP Jim McGee (left) and Patrolman Kenneth Moore. Recertified Bosun John Cain attends the membership meeting at the Houston hall. Retired SIU member John Clark helps out behind the counter after the union meeting. Houston shoregang member Robert Zepeda helps load stores. Below: Working aboard the tug Gretchen are (from left) QMT Quincy Parker Ill, 1st Mate Gene Tuttle, AB Raymond McGuire and AEA Michael Lynch . Above: SIU members participate in the monthly membership meeting held in the Houston hall. Left: QMED James Beatty (left) gets assistance in completing his retirement papers from Secretary Janice Hunicke and Patrolman Kenneth Moore. 10 Seafarers LOG Ju/y2001 �Births, weddings, reunions : .. These are some of the events we all look forward to and like to share with our fellow Seafarers. If you have a family-related photo you would like to be included in the next family photo page, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 207 46. Photos will be returned, if so requested. If e-mailing digital images, please send them to dhirtes@seafarers.org. The higher the resolution, the better. July2001 Seafarers LOS 11 �Ground Cleared For Hotel Annex Union and school officials on June 7 symbolically broke ground for a new 96-room hotel annex at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point. Md. Construction of the new facility, projected to be completed sometime next year, should commence in the near future. "At this point, we have already done the primary leg work necessary to get the project going," stated Don Nolan, vice president of the Paul Hall Center. "We still have to finalize and submit our architectural and engineering drawings for approval. Once they are submitted, the approval process could take a month or longer." The annex will contain single-occupancy dormitory rooms for upgraders-a popular prospect among Seafarers throughout the country. To make room for the new facility on the Southern Maryland campus, the school's old administration building (unused for some time) was demolished May 31. In addition to a contractor and members of the local fire department, personnel from the school assisted in the demolition project, Nolan said. The school's main hotel currently has 250 dual-occupancy rooms. With all of the debris gone, heavy machinery moved in to grade the soil in preparation for construction. Several trees had to be cut and removed from the construction site. '89 Piney Point Grads Reunite A contractor takes down a section of the school's old administration building to make room for the new hotel annex. For three members of trainee class No. 439, Alaska Tanker Co.'s Marine Columbia recently was the setting for an informal reunion. Chief Steward John Huyett (right), Third Mate Durin Chappe (left} and Second Engineer Victor Mull graduated together in July 1989 from the entry-level training program at the Paul Hall Center, located in Piney Point, Md. Huyett pointed out that the trio not only ended up sailing on the same ship, but also "covered all three departments." 12 Seafarers LOG After the old administration building had been leveled, crews removed the debris. Local firemen used the occasion to hone some of their skills as they deliberately set fire to portions of the fallen structure, then extinguished them. July 2001 �one at left show how the M~l!n~('~_.wv~riable ballast design ttto ,satl wtth an 8-foot draft-enough b'.t?tox~nq , tpe to enable this recent stop in Piney Point, Md. • 'g .. ~~ Destination: Piney Point O ~~~:c~h;tr~~~~st 'Rocket Ship' Delta Mariner Docks at School ships docked last month at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md. The Delta Mariner, designed to transport rocket boosters and other space hardware, spent three weeks at the southern Maryland facility. Students and other guests toured the distinctive vessel, which entered service last year. "It's a fantastic ship," said Bosun David Dinnes, one of numerous crew members from the Delta Mariner who recently completed the STCW Basic Safety Training (BST) class at Piney Point. "Great crew, great officers and a very different kind of vessel. I had always worked deep sea on the regular tankers and freighters, but this one's unique." A 1977 graduate of the trainee program at the Paul Hall Center, Dinnes said the Delta Mariner was scheduled to sail late last month to Pensacola, Fla., then on to Decatur, Ala. to pick up a rocket booster. The ship most recently transported a booster to Cape Canaveral, Fla. Operated by Gulf Caribe, the 312-foot vessel was constructed at Halter Marine in Gulfport, Miss. Its variable ballast design allow it to operate on rivers (with an 8-foot draft) as well as oceans (12 feet). The Delta Mariner 's main mission is hauling Boeing' Delta IV flight hardware stowed on a custom securing system. Besides the boosters, the ship can transport upper-stage rocket motors, satellites and more. When fully loaded, the vessel carries what is believed to be the world's most expensive cargo. Usually, the ship travels between Decatur, Cape Canaveral and Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. SIU members sailing aboard the vessel during the voyage to Piney Point included Dinnes, Henning Jensen, Stephen Powell, Jamie Hall, Gregory Crew members aboard the Delta Mariner welcome SIU President Michael Sacco (center), SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez (fourth from left) and SIU Mobile, Ala. Port Agent Ed Kelly (second from right) during a June 7 tour. Company officials recently presented SIU President Michael Sacco (left) with a large model of the Delta Mariner. Wilson, Joseph Kadak, William ewell, Domingo Gordian Jr. , lvin Dinkins, Herbert Scypes, Arthur Quinney, Darryl Coale, Clarence Scott, Kevin Shinn, Kevin Samuels, Lonnie Gamble Jr. and Americus Bell Jr. SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE SIU PACIFIC DISTRICT PENSION PLAll Crowley Tug Ready for Sea Trials This is a summary of the annual report for SIU Pacific District Pension Plan, 94-6061923 for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2000. The annual report has been filed with the U.S. Department of Labor, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (BRISA). Basic financial Statement Benefits under the plan are provided by the plan. Plan expenses were $14,427,974. These expenses included $1,077,005 in administrative expenses and $13,350,969 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 4,4 76 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year, a1Lbougb not all these persons had yet earned the right to receive benefits. The value of the plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $144,055,342 as of July 31, 2000, compared to $147,907,172 as of July 31, 1999. During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $3,851,830. This decrease includes unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets that is the difference between the value of the plan's assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year or the cost of assets acquired during the year. The plan had a total income of $10,576,144, including employer contributions of $88,130, and earnings from investments of $10,480,347, and other income of $7,667. Deck Utility Steve L. Phelps (at right) stands aboard the newly refurbished Crowley tug Patriarch. Above, he secures the tow wire for sea trials. CONTRIBUTE TC> July 2001 Minimum Funding Standards An actuary's statement shows that enough money was contributed to the plan to keep it funded in accordance with the minimum funding standards of BRISA. SPAI:?_ Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: 1. an accountant's report; 2. financial information and information on payments to service providers; 3. assets held for investment; 4. transactions in excess of 5 percent of plan assets; and 5. actuarial information regarding the funding of the plan. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of SIU Pacific District Pension Plan, who is the administrator, at 1422 Market Street, San Francisco, CA 94102. The charge to cover copying costs will be $2.50 for the full annual report, or $0.25 per page for any part thereof. You al o have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a tatement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying note , or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan admini trator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because the e portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to ex.amine the annual report at the main office of the plan, 1422 Market Street. San Francisco, CA 94102 and the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) in Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the DOL upon payment of copying co ts. Requests to the DOL should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, Room N5638, Pension and Welfare Benefit Admini tration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20210. Seafarers LOG 13 - �What's in It for Me? Let1s face it. The work in our industry is getting more complicated all the time. Just think about all the new things we ve seen happen in the last few years ... 1 • • • new Coast Guard regulations, including STCW requirements bigger and more sophisticated ships, boats, tugs and barges new examinations for licenses If you're going to have job security, you've got to keep up with the industry! That's what the Paul Hall Center is for-to give those of us working in the deck, engine and steward departments the skills needed to get ahead in our jobs and earn more money. he Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md., is the largest training facility for unlicensed deep • er a 1n an wa erways boatmen in the United States. Its program includes: Unlicensed Apprentice Program. This curriculum pro· vides young men and women who have no maritime experience with the basic skills they will need to serve aboard U.S-flag ships or tugs and towboats. It builds manpower for our industry and helps young people enjoy the benefits of union membership. 1 Upgrading. The Paul Hall Center has courses for every single unlicensed rating in our industry, plus a course of study for those pursuing a license. The instructors at the school work with 2 each mariner as an individual, so every student learns what he or she needs to know to get ahead. Upgrading at the Paul Hall Center is an efficient way for a Seafarer to get a better job, earn more money and have job security. Academic Education. It can be really difficult to pass a Coast Guard exam if you have trouble with reading or mathematics. The academic program at the Paul Hall Center helps SIU members learn these skills. You can even earn a high school diploma or an associate of applied science degree. 3 Education is one way your union helps all Seafarers get a bigger piece of the pie-better jobs, more security, better pay. To find out which courses currently are scheduled at the Paul Hall Center, turn to page 21. 14 Seafarers LOB July2001 �Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea MAY 16 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Algonac Baltimore 0 1 8 2 Guam 2 2 4 1 8 14 21 6 Totals Port Algonac Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals 12 31 33 14 22 28 12 14 2 l 0 6 5 29 5 7 9 9 6 18 5 4 6 2 31 26 7 13 265 142 12 96 0 6 0 1 4 3 1 0 0 6 7 7 0 3 Totals 5 3 13 l 13 10 135 7 3 11 10 116 0 1 2 6 l 8 5 53 0 5 0 2 3 20 2 4 1 2 0 0 6 4 0 10 9 20 5 8 21 4 7 6 2 1 5 0 3 2 26 28 172 0 0 0 0 0 7 0 1 9 0 0 1 0 1 3 42 40 2 1 2 Algonac Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco 2 8 6 26 2 0 0 2 7 9 1 St. Louis 0 Tacoma Wilmington 8 5 Totals All Departments 0 0 3 0 2 3 6 86 4 24 12 12 2 7 3 16 1 16 2 26 7 21 2 191 115 0 0 I 1 4 8 4 4 Mobile .................... Wednesday: August 15, September 12 0 8 0 5 New Bedford ..........Tuesday: August 21, September 18 8 9 l New Orleans ........... Tuesday: August 14, September 11 New York ................ Tuesday: August 7, September 4 4 3 1 6 15 3 3 8 3 9 8 5 45 61 24 35 45 17 11 7 3 6 10 2 2 420 7 6 5 2 11 43 4 3 9 18 31 7 19 22 20 4 6 4 8 4 10 20 37 18 5 9 4 7 1 2 3 9 17 1 19 5 7 6 16 1 0 1 2 7 14 2 3 5 2 3 2 25 2 19 10 4 13 3 9 191 121 68 85 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 2 43 1 7 6 12 9 6 9 9 5 4 1 8 8 5 0 0 0 2 5 0 0 7 0 8 2 6 26 9 21 5 9 4 8 8 5 0 9 31 14 28 19 27 16 15 15 6 3 7 1 12 4 2 7 4 2 1 5 7 1 9 5 3 6 4 3 2 0 2 1 7 4 2 5 4 2 0 0 5 3 2 2 4 5 5 91 72 30 49 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 5 8 8 8 0 16 2 5 4 9 4 4 10 10 6 2 2 3 21 4 0 1 0 5 2 7 7 3 0 12 3 4 6 13 74 4 0 16 18 33 7 18 31 11 0 0 18 18 128 0 12 10 37 4 37 9 68 260 0 1 7 8 20 12 0 2 0 18 5 9 0 0 0 3 1 4 6 2 1 3 41 4 33 0 1 0 12 7 33 0 7 8 7 11 13 7 0 4 10 3 6 8 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 5 14 6 ll 2 7 20 11 47 174 227 29 13 6 118 619 474 416 439 348 12 0 16 2 3 7 2 1 121 0 0 3 10 0 14 9 71 228 202 954 8 3 0 11 5 0 0 0 0 Duluth ..................... Wednesday: August 15, September 12 Honolulu., ............... Friday: August 17, September 14 Houston ..................Monday: August 13, September 10 Houston .................. Friday: August 17, September 14 (Lawndale Street) Jack on ville ............ Thursday: August 9, September 6 12 Norfolk ................... Thursday: August 9, September 6 Philadelphia ............Wednesday: August 8. September 5 Port Everglades .......Thursday: August 16, September 13 San Francisco ......... Thursday: August 16, September 13 San Juan ... ............... Thursday: August 9, September 6 St. Louis ................. Friday: August 17, September 14 0 2 4 1 7 59 0 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 1 l 0 3 0 0 2 l 0 0 6 203 3 0 Boston ..................... Friday: August 10, September 7 2 11 6 0 1 8 7 15 2 16 13 0 0 0 1 0 l Baltimore ................ Thursday: August 9, September 6 Jersey City .............. Wednesday: August 22, September 19 3 0 4 11 2 3 3 Algonac ..................Friday: August 10, September 7 11 17 0 *"Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **"Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers regi tered at the port. July2001 (*change created by Labor Day holiday) 0 6 Piney Point ............. Monday: August 6 Tuesday: September 4* 0 2 2 5 Port Totals **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 5 1 3 2 24 16 14 2 12 6 14 12 0 23 2 18 24 7 12 9 9 5 9 14 15 4 0 2 3 22 13 6 2 6 29 16 18 0 2 Port Algonac Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jackson ville Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Trip Reliefs DECK DEPARTMENT Port Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington JUNE 15, 2001 August &September 2001 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters 0 0 7 2 6 5 8 7 9 0 6 0 0 0 0 50 2 6 l 3 3 7 0 1 0 6 2 3 10 72 2 4 l 51 20 23 11 1l 48 14 2 20 2 Savannah ................ Friday: August 10, September? Tacoma ............... ... .Friday: August 24, September 21 Wilmington ...............Tuesday: August 21 * Monday: September 17 (*change created by Paul Hall birthday holiday) Each pan's meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals 5 2 RUBEN SALAZAR 83 Please get in touch with Craig Holdredge at (805) 595-7266. 4 3 2 214 11 34 4 9 42 17 4 16 20 4 9 3 32 19 35 19 284 428 706 700 3 :Ji- WANTED: Victims of shanghais in Baltimore from the 1920s through the 1950s. Author Rafael Alvarez is writing a history of the Baltimore waterfront and would like information from anyone who was shanghaied, knew of the practice or knows someone (living or dead) who was. Please contact the author at (410) 327-5254, or write him at 627 South Macon Street, Baltimore, MD 21222. You may also e-mail him at book@alvareefi,ction.com. Alvarez also is interested in talking with anyone who helped organize the maritime unions in Baltimore during the 1930s. NOTICE TO ALL SEAFARERS: If you plan to continue sailing after Feb. 1, 2002, NOW is the time to meet the requirements of the amended STCW convention. Apply to the Paul Hall Center to complete all the U. S. Coast Guard-approved courses required for your STCW compliance. Seafarers LOG 15 - �1 1 Dispatchers' Report for Great Lakes Seafarers International Union Directory ~ l l l MAY 16 - JUNE 15, 2001 Michael Sacco, President CL - John Fay, Execucive Vice PresidenJ David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer t Company/Lakes *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP Augustin Tellez, Vice President Contracts Jack Caffey, Vice PresidenJ Atlantic Coast L-Lakes NP - Non Priority TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class CL Class L Class NP Tom Orzechowski, Vice President lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Vice President Gulf Coast Nicholas J. Marrone, Vice President West Coast Kennett Mangram, Vice President Government Services Rene Lioeanjie, Vice President at large .. . Charles Stewart, Vice President at .large HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac Port Algonac 0 14 14 0 11 4 0 4 4 0 12 33 DECK DEPARTMENT 0 6 5 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 8 1 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 4 4 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 3 10 0 8 9 0 3 3 0 2 3 0 9 23 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ALTON 325 Market St., Suite B, Alton, lL 62002 (618) 462-3456 Totals All Depts 41 0 55 0 21 20 0 22 *"Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **"Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. 38 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #IC, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 Dispatchers' Report for Inland Waters MAY 16 - JUNE 15, 2001 BOSTON *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C 520 Dorchester Ave., Boston, MA 02127 (617) 269-7877 DULUTH 705 Medical Arts Building, Duluth, MN 55802 (218) 722-4110 GUAM -'> 125 Sunny Plaza, Suite 301-E Tun Jesus Crisostomo St., Tamuning, Guam 96911 (671) 647-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845~5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 8329 Lawndale St., Houston, TX 77012 (713) 928~3381 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St., Jacksonville, FL 32206 • (904) 353-0987 JERSEY CITY 99 MontgQmety St., Jersey City, NJ 07302 (201) 435-9424 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin lsland Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 . (334) 478-0016 . NEW BEDFORD 48 Uni<m St., New Bedford, MA 02740 Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes, Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes, Inland Waters West Coast Totals Region Atlantic Coast Gulf Coast Lakes, Inland Waters West Coast Totals 0 0 2 0 3 5 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 2 0 1 3 0 0 0 5 6 0 0 o;. 0 3 TOTAL SIDPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 2 2 0 0 0 0 2 3 5 5 4 5 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 0 0 l 0 0 0 0 ' 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 2 5 5 19 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 ·o< 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 18 . ·.. () 0 0 1 1 (508) 997-5404 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 PIDLADELPIDA 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 FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St, San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division: (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 161-2 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST.LOUIS 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 SAVANNAH 2220 Bull St. , Savannah, GA 31041 (912) 238-4958 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 Wll.MINGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (3 IO) 549-4000 16 Seafarers LOG 2 5 4 5 9 5 6 3 Totals All Depts *"Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **"Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. 20 PIG-FROM-THE-PAST This photo was sent to the Seafarers LOG by AB Gerald A. Foley of Valley Lee, Md. It was taken Feb. 18, 1947 aboard a Liberty ship in Buenos Aires, Argentina Foley's father, 2nd Cook/Baker Walter Foley, is in the center. If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with the LOG readership, it should be sent to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. July2001 �Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard U.S.-fiag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways 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. n inland captain is among the 11 Seafarers announcing their retirements this month. Robert E. Brush navigated the inland waterways as a captain for nearly 40 years. Along the way, he upgraded his Seafaring skills at the SIU's training school in Piney Point, Md. Six of the retirees sailed in the deep sea division. Two plied the Great Lakes while the remaining three, including Brush, navigated the inland waterways. Six of the retirees worked in the deck department, two shipped in the engine department and three sailed in the steward department. On this page, the Seafarers LOG presents brief biographical accounts of the retiring Seafarers. A DEEP SEA JOSEPH E. CHAD ZAK, 71, began his career with the Seafarers in L951. Brother Chadzak first ~ sailed aboard \ Sinclair Oil Corp. 's Bull Finch. The deck department member last shipped aboard the Overseas Traveler. operated by Ocean Clipper Inc. Brother Chadzak call Philadelphia home. JUAN DAVOCOL, 77, tarted his SIU career in 1988 in Honolulu. Prior to becoming a Seafarer, Brother Davocol served in the U.S. Navy. Born in the Philippines, he first sailed aboard the USNS Assertive, operated by Sea Mobility, Inc. The steward department member last worked aboard Maer k Line, Inc.' USNS Invincible. Brother Davocol re ides in Aiea, Hawaii. TOMAS P. DELROSARIO, 59, began his SIU career in 1976, joining in Honolulu. Brother ~~~~~~ DelRosario first shipped aboard a States Steamship Co. vessel. A native of the Philippmes, he sailed as a member of the steward department. Brother DelRosario upgraded his skills at the SIU's training school in Piney Point, Md. in 1980 and 1998. He last worked aboard the SS Independence, operated by American Hawaii Cruises. Brother DelRosario make in home in Honolulu. PAULM. HONEYCUTT, 54, tarted hi career with the SJ in 1968 in the port of New York. A native of West Virginia. Brother Honeycutt first sailed aboard Waterman Steamship Corp. 's Hastings. He shipped as a member of the engine department. Brother Honeycutt upgraded his skills at the SIU's training school in Piney Kudos to the Ewa Steward Department Point, Md. in 1975, 1995 and L997. He last sailed aboard the !TB Baltimore, operated by Sheridan Transportation Co. Brother Honeycutt makes his home in Dunbar, W. Va. GEORGE KOULOURIS, 66, was born in Greece. He began his career with the Seafarers in L990, joining in Puerto Rico. The steward department member first shipped aboard American Oversea Marine Corp. s Cape Carthage. He upgraded his skills at the SIU's training school in 1991 and l 994. Brother Koulouris last shipped aboard the Sea-Land Producer. He resides in Old San Juan, P.R. MICHAEL PELL, 45, hails from Louisiana. He tarted his SIU career in 1971, joining in the port of New Orlean . A member of the deck department, he first shipped aboard a Hudson Waterways Corp. •vessel. Brother Pell upgraded his kill in 1977 and 1999 at the SIU' training chool in Piney Point, Md. He la t worked aboard PR Inc., Guavama. Brother Pell make, hi hom-e in Picayune, Mi s. GREAT LAKES MOHSIN A. HARHARA, 58, joined the Seafarers in 1976 in the port of New York. "Born in Arabia, Brother Harhara started out in the deep sea division, first sailing aboard the Hudson, operated by Cove Shipping Inc. He later transferred to Great Lakes vessels. The engine department member upgraded his skills at the SIU's training school in Piney Point, Md. in 1990. Brother Harhara last worked aboard American Steamship Co. ·s American Mariner. He lives in Niles, lll. I~~~~ CARLL. LINTS, 58 , joined the Seafarers in 1971 in Frankfort, Mich. Born in Minnesota, he ~----~ first sailed on the J.S. Young, an American Steamship Co. vessel. Brother Lints shipped as a member of the deck department. He last sailed aboard the H. Lee White, another American Steamship Co. vessel. Brother Lints lives in Elberta, Mich. INLAND ROBERTE. BRUH 56, started his SIU career in 1961, joining in the port of Norfolk, Va. Before becom- Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG 1948 The Seafarers International Union rocked the maritime industry this week with the dramatic announcement that the union hiring hall will be retained in its contracts with member companies of the Atlantic and Gulf Ship Operators Association. Agreement between the union and the association, representing nine major companies, came after almost three weeks of negotiations during which the SIU committee firmly refused to discuss any other issue until its demands for retention of the hiring hall had been recognized. With the central issue settled to the union's satisfaction, discussions on other contractual issues are now in progress. mg a Seafarer, he served in the U.S. Marine Corps. Boatman Brush first shipped aboard a Capital Transportation Corp. vessel. A member of the deck department, he sailed as a captam. Boatman Brush upgraded his skills at the SIU's traming school in Piney Point, Md. He last worked aboard a McAllister Towing of Virginia vessel. Boatman Brush makes his home in Newport News, Va. FREDDY E. HAMILTON, 62, hails from Georgia. He joined the SIU in 1983 in the port of Jacksonville, Fla. Boatman Hamilton first shipped aboard a Dixie Carriers vessel. A member of the deck department, he last worked aboard a Crowley Towing & Transportation vessel in Jacksonville. Boatman Hamilton lives in Floral City. Fla. DESMOND K. ROBERTSON, 61, started his SIU career in 1970. A native of Guyana, Boatman Roberton first sailed aboard a vessel operated by the Brooklyn Eastern Dist. Terminal Railroad. He shipped in the deck department, last working aboard a New York Dock Railway Co. vessel. Boatman Robertson lives in Brooklyn, N.Y. regular July membership meetings, after members voted on it at special meetings held in all ports in June. The approval both times was overwhelming. The new agreements provide for acrossthe-board wage increases in each of the three years of the contract. They also call for substantial increases in vacation, pension and welfare benefits. TJ-JJS MOJ"ITJ-J JJ"I SIU J-JJSTORY Captain J.W. Bert, master aboard the SS Ewa, sent the LOG this photo of the ship's "great steward department." From the left are BR Dave West, Chief Cook Philip Lau and Assistant Cook Frank Crim. The SS Ewa is a Matson Navigation Co. vessel. Ju/y200t 1975 The SIU membership continues to overwhelmingly approve the new tanker and freightship contracts which were negotiated last month with all SIU-contracted operators. The new three-year agreements were submitted again for ratification at all 1991 Members of the SIU Government Services Division are assisting the military in its efforts to clean up 18 inches of ash coating most of the Subic Bay Naval Base following the eruption of Mount Pinatubo in the Philippines. MSCPAC Seafarers, who crew the Pacific fleet vessels of the Military Sealift Command, also have pulled duty in evacuation efforts conducted in June and July. The volcano, located approximately 18 miles northeast of the military complex, continues to spout lava and ash more than a month after its initial eruption June 9. Crew members have discovered a major problem with the volcano's debris is its tendency to turn into a concrete-like substance when mixed with water. Seafarers LOG 17 �Rnal Departures DEEP SEA HERMAN BALZI r---=-....,,,.,,,""""'----. Pensioner Herman Balzi, 89, passed away March 6. Born in Switzerland, he joined the Marine Cooks and Stewards (MC&S) and sailed as a member of the steward department. Brother Balzi started receiving his pension in 1978. He resided in Navato, Calif. ANNE BLIZZARD Pensioner Anne Blizzard, 84, died March 22. Born in Louisiana, Sister Blizzard joined the SIU in 1947 in New Orleans. She first shipped aboard the Del Sol, operated by Mississippi Shipping Co. Inc. A member of the steward department, she last worked aboard a Delta Steamship Lines vessel. Sister Blizzard began receiving her pension in 1968. She resided in Metaire, La. JOHN DAWSON Brother John Dawson, 34, died Jan. 29. Born in Massachusetts, he started his SIU career in 1991 in the port of Piney Point, Md. The deck department member first sailed aboard the USNS lt)iman. He last shipped aboard Interocean Ugland Management Corp. 's Brenton Reef Brother Dawson was a resident of Concord, N.H. THOMAS FAULKNER first sailed aboard a Sprogue Steamship Company vessel. The steward department member last shipped aboard a Waterman Steamship Corp. vessel. He began receiving his pension in 1983. Brother Fraone called Kenner, La. home. Mobile, Ala. The Alabama native first shipped aboard the Volusia. He sailed in the engine department, last working aboard Waterman Steamship Corp.'s A. Middleton. Brother Murphy began receiving his pension in 1981. He resided in Mobile. EDGAR FREIMANIS FRANCISCO PEREZ Pensioner Edgar Friemanis, 77, died March 10. Born in Europe, Brother Freimanis started his SIU career in 1943. He joined in the port of New York and fir t sailed aboard Emerson Steamship Co. 's Catherine. Brother Freimanis sailed in the deck department. He last worked aboard a Michigan Tankers Inc. vessel. Brother Freimanis started receiving his pension in 1977. Slidell, La. was his home. Brother Francisco Perez, 44 died April 30. He started his SIU career in 197 5, joining in the port of Piney Point, Md. The '---'--=~-"""--........__~ New York native first sailed aboard the SeaLand Anchorage. A member of the deck department, he last shipped on Tyco' Global Link. Brother Perez lived in Bronx, N.Y. .----.........,.....---~ WILLIE GRANT Brother Willie Grant, 58, passed away Dec. 9, 2000. He started his career with the Seafarers in 1965 in New York. Brother Grant first sailed aboard the R.D. Conrad, operated by Maritime Operations Inc. The steward department member was born in Florida. He last sailed on the SeaLand Achiever. Brother Grant was a resident of Jack onville, Fla. PAUL GROSLOUIS Pensioner Paul Groslouis, 83, died March 17. Born in Canada, Brother Groslouis started his career with the MC&S. The steward department member started receiving his pension in 1972. He resided in Citrus Heights, Calif. Pensioner Thomas Faulkner, 78, passed away April 28. Brother Faulkner began his SIU career in 1943 in Boston. Before becoming a Seafarer, Brother Faulkner served in the U.S. Army from 1944 to 1946. The Massachusetts native first sailed on the Robin Kettering, operated by Sinclair Oil Corp. A member of the deck department, he last shipped aboard the Sea-Land Seattle. Brother Faulkner started receiving his pension in 1980. Plymouth, Mass. was his home. ALIT IBRAHIM SEBASTIAN FOTI Pensioner Bobby Messerall, 79 died March 19. A native of Pennsylvania, he started his SIU career in 1944 in the port of New York. Before joining the SIU, Brother Messerall served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1943. He first sailed aboard Alcoa Steamship Co.'s Alcoa Planter. The engine department member last shipped on U.S. Steel Corp.'s Columbia. Brother Messerall began receiving his pension in 1976. He called Reno, Nev. home. Pensioner Sebastian Foti, 83,died Feb. 20. Brother Foti began his career with the SIU in 1941, joining in Gloucester, Mass. He first ._____ __:::.___ _~ sailed aboard an AH Bull Steamship Co. vessel. The Massachusetts native shipped as a member of the deck department. He last sailed aboard the Worth, operated by Worth Oil. Brother Foti began receiving his pension in 1976. He was a resident of Las Vegas, Nev. FRANCESCO FRAONE Pensioner Francesco Fraone, 72, passed away Jan. 26. Brother Fraone started his career with the SIU in 1946 in the port of Baltimore. He 18 Seafarers LOG Pensioner Alit Ibrahim, 79, passed away Feb. 20. Brother Ibrahim started his SIU career in 1959 in New York. Born in Yugoslavia, he first sailed on an lnterocean Management Corp. vessel. The steward department member last shipped aboard the R. Semmes, operated by SeaLand Service, Inc. Brother Ibrahim started receiving his pension in 1976. Albany, N.Y. was his home. BOBBY MESSERALL WALTER MURPHY .---=.......::::------. Pensioner Walter Murphy, 85, passed away Jan. 1. Brother Murphy tarted his career with the SIU in 1972 in the port of MARK STEVENSON Brother Mark Stevenson, 32, died March 28. He began his SIU career in 1986, joining in New York. Brother Stevenson first sailed aboard the PFC William Baugh, operated by Maersk Line, Ltd. Born in Elizabeth, N.J., the steward department member last sailed on Osprey-Acomarit Ship Management's Lt. Col. Calvin P. Titus. Brother Stevenson was a resident of Linden, N.J. HAROLD STRAUSS Pensioner Harold Strauss, 76, passed away March 20. Brother Strauss started his SIU career in 1952 in New York. Prior to joining the SIU, the New York native served in the U.S. Navy from 1943 to 1946. He first sailed aboard a Waterman Steamship Corp. vessel. The steward department member started receiving his pension in 1990. He called Reno, Nev. home. INLAND VINCENTE BARCO Pensioner Vincente Barco, 62, died March 12. Boatman Barco started his SIU career in 1978 in the port of New Orleans. Born '-----'"'---~-----"----' in Cuba, the deck department member last sailed on a Sheridan Transportation Co. vessel. He began receiving his pension in 1993. Boatman Barco lived in Dover, Fla. ARTHUR CAMPBELL Pensioner Arthur Campbell, 89 passed away March 14. Boatman Campbell joined the SIU in 1963 in Port """""~~--'Arthur, Texas. Born in Louisiana, he first sailed aboard a Sabine Towing Company vessel. Boatman Campbell worked in the steward department, last sailing aboard a H vide Marine vessel. He began receiving his pension in 1977. Boatman Campbell resided in Durango, Col. JOHN DAVIS Pensioner John Davis, 81, died Jan. 1. He started his SIU career in 1960 in New York. Before joining the Seafarers, Boatman Davis served in the U.S. Navy from 1943 to 1945. Born in Jersey City, N.J., Boatman Davis first sailed aboard a vessel operated by the marine division of the Pennsylvania Railroad Co. He shipped as a member of the deck department. He began receiving his pension in 1981. Boatman Davis lived in Chandler, Ariz. GEORGE THOMPSON ltill•~ii:""I Pensioner George Thompson, 70, died Jan. 1. Born in Pennsylvania, he started his SIU career in 1971 in New York. Before becoming a Seafarer, he served with the U.S. Navy from 1947 to 1951. Brother Thompson first sailed on U.S. Steel Corp.'s Columbia. The engine department member last shipped aboard the Cape Farewell. Brother Thompson started receiving his pension in 1995. Philadelphia was his home. DAVID VanHORN Pensioner David VanHorn, 73, passed away May 7. He started his career with the Seafarers in 1953 in San Francisco. c......c:n_=....' Before joining the SIU, he served in the U.S. Army from 1946 to 1949. He first sailed on Ore Steam hip Corp.'s Marore. The engine department member last shipped aboard the Cape May, operated by OMI Ship Management, Inc. He started receiving his pen ion in 1989. Brother Van Hom lived in Jack onville, Fla. Towing Co. vessel. He started receiving his pension in 1989. Boatman Moore lived in Oyster, Va. LAWRENCE HOLT Pensioner Lawrence Holt, 77, passed away Feb. 17. Born in Alabama, he started his career with the SIU in 1944 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Boatman Holt shipped in the steward department and began receiving his pension in 1966. He lived in Mobile. RICHARD KESTLER Pensioner Richard Kestler, 67, died Nov. 16, 2000. Boatman Kestler joined the SIU in 1965 in the port of Baltimore. Before becoming a Seafarer, he served in the U.S . Army from 1954 to 1956. The Maryland native first sailed aboard a Tangier Marine Transportation Co. vessel. A member of the deck department, he last shipped aboard a vessel operated by McAllister Towing of Baltimore. Boatman Ke tler started receiving his pension in 1995. He lived in Berkley Springs, W. Va. CHARLES MOORE Pensioner Charle Moore, 76, pa ed away Dec. 27, 2000. Boatman Moore started his SIU career in 1972 in the port of Norfolk, Va. A captain, he shipped a a member of the deck department. Boatman Moore la t sailed aboard a Northeast AMZIPRINE Pensioner Arnzi Prine, 77, died Dec. 28, 2000. Boatman Prine began his career with the SIU in 1964 in St. Louis. Before joining the Seafarers, the Kentucky native served in the U.S. Army from 1943 to 1947. Boatman Prine shipped in the deck department, sailing primarily aboard American Commercial Barge Line vessels. Boatman Prine started receiving his pension in 1986. He lived in Metropolis, Ill. CLAUDE SANKEY Pensioner Claude Sankey, 68, passed away April 17. A captain, Boatman Sankey started his SIU career in 1982 in Algonac, Mich. ........=.........,""""'-"-----'--1 The Wisconsin native first sailed aboard a Tampa Tugs vessel. Boatman Sankey began receiving his pension in 1998. He called Caspain, Mich. home. HOWARD SEGREST Pensioner Howard Segrest, 51 passed away Feb. 27. He started his career with the Seafarers in 1971 in Port Arthur, Tex. Prior to joining the SIU, the Arizona native served in the U.S. Army from 1967 to 1970. He sailed as a member of the engine department. Boatman Segrest sailed primarily aboard Hvide Marine vessels. He began receiving his pension in 1995. Vector, Texas was his home. ..:;,_...i___J GEORGE WOTHERS Pensioner George Wothers, 77, died March 22. The Marcus Hook, Pa. native joined the SIU in 1961 in Philadelphia. .____ __...;,.._ __..Before becoming a Seafarer, he served in the U.S. Navy from 1941 to 1945. A member of the engine department, he last shipped aboard a Taylor Marine Towing Co. vessel. Boatman Wothers started receiving his pension in 1987. He resided in Aston, Pa. GREAT LAKES STANLEY FOLTA Pensioner Stanley Folta, 74, passed away April 13. Brother Folta started his SIU career in 1957 in the port of Detroit. Before becoming a Seafarer, the Utica, N.Y. native served in the U.S. Navy from 1945 to 1946. He first sailed aboard the Cantigny, operated by Interocean Continued on page 20 July 2001 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union's contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships' minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG tor publication. GUAYAMA (NPR-Navieras), April 15-Chairman Raymond F. Gorju, Secretary Gina G. Lightfoot, Educational Director Eddie E. Johnson, Deck Delegate Paul J. Latorre, Engine Delegate Samuel Garrett, Steward Delegate Jerry S. Gant. Chairman announced payoff April 17 in Jacksonville. He spoke about bankruptcy proceedings by Navieras-NPR's parent company but noted company still paying benefits for union members. Also talked about upcoming vote on SIU-NMU merger. Educational director encouraged everyone to upgrade at Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., especially to take required STCW courses. Treasurer noted $223 in ship's fund. Some disputed OT reported in engine department. Suggestion made regarding seatime and term limits for union officials in next election. Bosun gave vote of thanks to steward department for excellent food and clean ship and to crew members for helping keep ship tidy. Next port: San Juan, P.R. GUS DARNELL (OSI), April 8Chairman Patrick B. Rankin, Secretary Robert L. Easley, Deck Delegate Randolph D. Cash, Engine Delegate Paul Pagano, Steward Delegate Simone J. Solomon. Chairman reviewed e ·dent's report from LOG and enuraged crew members to support president's recommendations. Secretary talked about separating plastic items from regular garbage. Educational director reminded members to check availability of STCW courses and send in application as soon as possible. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendation made for contracts department to look into reducing time needed for pension benefits. HAWAII (CSX Lines), April 1Chairman Billy G. Hill, Secretary Nick Andrews, Educational Director Tracy J. Hill, Deck Delegate James R. Blitch Jr., Engine Delegate Anthony Rosa, Steward Delegate Jose Santiago. Chairman announced payoff April 6 in Jacksonville. He thanked all departments for working safely. Educational director reminded crew members about need for STCW compliance by Feb. 1, 2002. Treasurer noted $45 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion given for contracts department to look into reducing seatime needed for vacation and increasing pension benefits. Next port: San Juan, P.R. H. LEE WHITE (American Steamship Co.), April 8Chairman William H. Mulcahy, Secretary Harley 0. Thies, Educational Director Norman P. Guild, Deck Delegate Ronald L. Vandercook, Engine Delegate Ali Elmadari. Chairman noted all benefits applications are aboard and available for crew. He talked about clinic cards and possible impact of STCW regulations on Great Lakes members. Educational director stressed importance of upgrading skills at Piney Point. Treasurer requested clarification on funding of satellite TV. Deck July2001 delegate reported winches fixed but water pre sure in rooms still low. Clarification on everal issues requested by engine and teward department . Request made for improved vacation, pension and medical benefits. Bosun reported ship in good shape and members in good spirits. Next port: Detroit. HUMACAO (NPR-Navieras), April 22-Chairman Robert T., Grubbs, Secretary Ekow Doffoh, Educational Director Angel S. Hernandez, Deck Delegate Dwayne Gordon, Engine Delegate Kenneth A. Adamczak, Steward Delegate David Camacho. Chairman announced payoff in San Juan, P.R. following meeting. Educational director reminded crew of need to comply with amended STCW convention by Feb. 1, 2002. Treasurer stated $200 in ship's fund. Some disputed OT reported by engine delegate. Crew members asked to rewind movies when through. Suggestions made to lower required seatime needed for retirement and reduce time needed for vacation check. Request also made for information on new contract. Capt. Rigg ordered new lounge furniture for crew lounge to be delivered in Philadelphia. Next port: San Juan. INDEPENDENCE (American Hawaii ruises), pri 4Chairman Renato C. Govico, Secretary Jennifer Smith, Deck Delegate Erik W. Leibold. Chairman noted job well done during shipyard period. He encouraged crew members to attend STCW classes at Paul Hall Center. Secretary stated health plan ID cards being mailed in early April. Clarification requested on payment of flights to and from ship. Suggestion made to improve dental benefits. Discussion held on retirement and pension plans. Crew agreed merger of SIU and NMU will benefit all members. INTEGRITY (U.S. Ship Mgmt.), April 15-Chairman Domingo Leon Jr., Secretary Stephanie L. Sizemore, Educational Director Dennis R. Baker. Bosun thanked all departments for working well together. Secretary noted new toasters ordered for crew mess. Everyone advised to register at Piney Point for STCW training. Classes are filling up quickly with fast-approaching Feb. 1, 2001 deadline. Educational director shared information booklet about STCW from U.S. Coast Guard explaining why all crew members need the training in order to sail. Disputed OT in deck and steward departments due to delayed sailing. Suggestion made to increase pension benefits in next contract and have prescription coverage for dependents. Also recommended that crew members be paid transportation to place of residence. New washer requested for crew laundry. Vote of thanks given to steward department for outstanding menus and food. Next port : Elizabeth, N.J.; Charleston, S.C.; Houston; Freeport, Bahamas. KODIAK (CSX Lines), April 22Chairman Garry D. Walker, Secretary Steven M. Dickson, Educational Director Alfonso D. Bombita Jr., Engine Delegate Gebar H. Ogbe, Steward Delegate Pat Conlon. Chairman stated letter sent to contracts department regarding new contract negotiations and request to be paid off on arrival in Tacoma after every trip. He reminded crew that ship's committee members are elected and other members may vote to replace anyone on the committee. He also asked that bilingual crew members speak English in public spaces. Everyone given vote of thanks by chairman for keeping ves el clean and safe. Educational director stated upgrading skills and STCW requirements at Paul Hall Center is highly recommended. Engine delegate reported beef and some di puted OT in his department. Request made for company to look into cable TV hookup at Tacoma port facility, like in Dutch Harbor. Steward department thanked for great food and service. LIBERTY SEA (Liberty Maritime Corp.), April 15-Chairman Harold L. Sebring, Secretary James Tucker, Educational Director Samuel M. Addo, Engine Delegate Bryan T. Field, Steward Terry N. White. Everything going well, according to chairman. Secretary thanked crew members for keeping plastic items separate from other refuse and reminded everyone to tum in dirty linen when leaving ship. Educational director stressed importance of making sure all shipping documents, including STCW, are up to date. Upgrading opportunities are available at Paul Hall Center and classes fill up quickly. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made for new VCR, and ship's radio and TV antenna need repair. Vote of thanks given to teward department for job well done. Next port: ew Orlean . LT. COL. CAL VIN P. TITUS (Osprey Ship Mgmt.), April 1Chairman • R an, ecretary Kevin P. Deegan, Educational Director Richard D. Hannon. Chairman reported long, safe voyage from Guam to North Carolina. Secretary noted crew worked well together; no major problems. Those crew members wishing further training were given information on classes at Paul Hall Center by educational director. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Company purchased new furniture for lounge and mess deck. Ship also got new washing machine and several movies. Thanks given to steward department for excellent meals and barbecues. Thanks also given to deck and engine departments for assisting steward department. Next port: Wilmington, N.C. MAERSK TENNESSEE (Maersk Lines), April 22-Chairman James J. Keevan, Secretary Dwight E. Wuerth, Educational Director David W. King, Deck Delegate J.C. Wagner. Chairman stated bosun and one <layman getting off in Balboa, Panama, where payoff will take place. Educational director suggested everyone upgrade at Piney Point as soon as possible to avoid rush to beat Feb. 1, 2002 deadline for STCW compliance. Treasurer announced $449 in ship's fund. Some disputed OT reported in engine department. Reque t made for water filters in primary drinking areas such as water fountains and in galley. After payoff in Panama, ship heading to Colombia, Peru and Chile. NAVIGATOR (CSX Lines), April 15-Chairman William E. Lough, Secretary Richard A. Riley, Educational Director Daniel F. Dean, Steward Delegate Susano Cortez. Chairman read president's report from LOG. Discussion ensued. Chairman also reminded crew members to check expiration dates on shipping documents and renew, if necessary. Secretary said that with money raised aboard ship, crew purchased fresh fish in Guam and had money left over for 10 new movies. A letter has been drafted from ship's committee to get new furniture in crew lounge. Educational director reminded crew that Paul Hall Center is open all year long. Everyone should upgrade when they can, especially for STCW courses. Some beefs contract. Treasurer announced $194 in cookout fund and $305 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun told members all communications received are discussed and posted for anyone to read. He said vessel waiting for confirmation about SIU unlicensed apprentice. Crew praised President Mike Sacco and his staff for a job well done in helping revitalize the U.S. merchant marine. Vote of Celebrating on the ITB Groton Sharing a moment of laughter aboard the /TB Groton are (from left) Bosun Sid "Big Daddy" Wallace, AB Joshua "Shaft" Mensah and Pumpman Pete Santiago. Mensah is enjoying his freshly made "chicken hot cakes," complete with birthday candle! reported in engine department. Discus ion held about family and medical leave policy; copies distributed. Also discussed false positive drug test results. Steward department and Ali Naser recognized for job well done. Next ports: Tacoma, Wash.; Oakland, Calif.; Honolulu; Guam. NEW YORK (ATC), April 14Chairman J. Carlos Loureiro, Secretary Nancy S. Heyden, Educational Director Edward H. Self, Deck Delegate Raymond Johnson, Engine Delegate Victor L. ermudez. hairman announced payoff at anchor in San Francisco April 16. Reliefs will arrive Monday or Tuesday; stores will be loaded Tuesday. Vessel expected to lay up May 10 for indefinite period at anchor in Far East. Bosun reminded deck and engine department members to upgrade STCW certificates by Feb. 1, 2002 and all crew will need STCW basic safety to ship out by that date. Suggestion made that STCW basic safety training course be given at union halls as well as Piney Point to help eliminate last minute rush at Paul Hall Center. Another proposal was for members in San Diego and Houston areas possibly to attend courses in those cities. Secretary noted requested mattresses would not arrive this trip due to layup. Educational director stated no set date yet to start ATC safety training, which will probably be conducted aboard ship. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendation to contracts department to look into decreasing time required to file for vacation pay. PACIFIC (CSX Lines), April 1Chairman Lothar G. Reck, Secretary Robert P. Mosley, Educational Director Keith L. Jordan Sr., Engine Delegate Rhonda Koski. Bosun talked about merger of SIU and NMU and about wage increases aboard military hip . He reminded crew members of importance of contributing to SPAD and advised them to read LOG to keep abreast of union news. He announced payoff April 6 in Tacoma, Wash. and suggested that everyone be on time for customs and immigration. Secretary stressed need to get STCW before deadline date of Feb. 1, 2002. Educational director spoke about upgrading skills at Piney Point and knowing the union thanks given to steward department for good meals and to deck department for job well done. Next ports: Oakland, Calif.; Hawaii; Guam, Hong Kong; Taiwan. PATRIOT (U.S. Ship Mgmt.), April I-Chairman Paul L. Lucky, Secretary Pablo C. Alvarez. Chairman announced payoff in Lake Charles, La. Secretary advised crew to send applications for STCW courses as soon as possible. Treasurer noted $300 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made for improved ventilation in engine room. Steward department given vote of thanks. SEALAND ACHIEVER (U.S. Ship Mgmt.), April 15-Chairman Michael Duggan, Secretary Kenneth A. Hagan, Deck Delegate Michael Charnesky, Engine Delegate Gregory T. Johns, Steward Delegate Robert T. Seim. Chairman announced payoff April 23 in Houston. He noted new gym area for crew and advised everyone to enroll in STCW classes before Feb. 1, 2002 deadline. Chairman requested daily news synopsis from captain. This is because Armed Forces Radio has been discontinued and has deprived vessels and seamen on foreign voyages of any source of news, sports, etc., for weeks at a time. He thanked Houston and Jacksonville patrolmen for union updates, schooling information and settlement of grievances. Educational director stressed need to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. He also emphasized importance of contributing to SPAD and how every donation makes a difference. Treasurer stated $12 in ship's movie fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Communications received from contracts department regarding dayworkers standing gangway watch. Next port: Charleston, S.C. SEALAND PRIDE (U.S. Ship Mgmt.), April 15-Chairman Jessie L. Thomas Jr., Secretary Alphonse L. Holland. Bosun reported on need for STCW by Feb. 1, 2002. Secretary noted vessel to pay off after shipboard meeting with patrolman. Educational director suggested everyone attend upgrading classes at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Clarification requested on status of pension under new contract. Seafarers LOG 19 �Final Departures Aboard the Gibson in Guam Continued from page 18 Management. A member of the engine department, Brother Folta last shipped on the American Steamship Co. 's Charles E. Wilson. He began receiving his pension in 1992. Brother Folta lived in Schuyler, N .Y. PERCY JOHNSON Pensioner Percy John on 84, died Jan. 3. Brother Johnson began hi SIU career in 1960 in Detriot Born in Ellison Bay, Wi:.. he hipped as a member of the engine department He worked primarily aboard Reiss Steamship Co. ve el , including the Clemens A . Reiss. Brother Johnson began receiving his pen ion in 1970. He resided in Sister Bay, Wis. BERT KAISER This photo was snapped when SIU Representative Bryan Powell (left) visited the SP5 Eric G. Gibson in Guam at the end of April. With him aboard the Osprey Ship Management, Inc. vessel are (from left) Guam unlicensed apprentices Rodney Dupree, Joshua Rosario and Brian Rosario, and Guam Port Agent Matthew Holley. U.S. Army from 1945 to 1948 and from 1951 to 1955. Born in Pennsylvania, Brother Lawrence first sailed aboard an American Steamship Co . vessel. The engine department member last shipped -...llllllll......___......... aboard the Nicolet. Brother Lawrence began receiving his pension in 1989. He lived in Escanaba, Mich. RALPH MARKER Pensioner Ralph Marker, 80 died Nov. 16. 2000. Born in Michigan, Brother Marker started his SIU career in 1963, joining in Toledo, Ohio. Prior to becoming a Seafarer, he served in the U.S. Army from 194 I to 1945. Brother Marker shipped a~ a member of the engine department. Erie Sand Steamship's Lakewood wa:. among the ves el on which he sailed. Brother Marker, who retired in 1985, lived in his native Michigan. ALLEN RENWICK Pensioner Allen Renwick, 76, passed away Jan 2. Pensioner Richard Laurenty, 68, passed away April 16. He started his SIU career in 1961. Before joining the Seafarers, Brother Laurenty served in the U.S. Navy from 1951 to 1955. A member of the deck department, the Cleveland native sailed primarily aboard Great Lakes Towing Co. ves els. Brother Laurenty started receiving hi pension in 1994. He was a re ident of Painesville, Ohio. WILLIS LAWRENCE AB Rob Thompson (left) mixes paint while Bosun Mike Sinclair rigs up a spray gun to give the vessel's cargo hatches a new coat of paint. . Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lake~ and Inland Water District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership's money and union finances . The constitution require~ a detailed audit by certified public accountants 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 finding~ and recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic. Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU are administered in accordance with the provisions of various trust fund agreement . All these agreement specify that the trustees in charge of these fund1. shall equally consist of union and management representatives and their alternates. All expenditure and disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds . SIIlPPING RIGHTS. A member's shipping right1. and seniority are protected exclusively by contracts between the union and the employers. Members should get to know their shipping rights. Copie of these contract!. are posted and available in all union halls. If members believe there have been violations of their shipping or seniorit) rights as contained in the contracts between the union and the employers, they should notif) the Seafarer Appeal Board b) 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 writmg direct!) to the union or to the 20 Seafarers LOG Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing 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 SEAFARERS WG . The Seafarers LOG tradi tionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also ha refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful to the union or its collective membership. Thi1> established policy has been reaffirmed by membership action at the September 1960 meetings in all constitutional ports. The responsibility for Seafarers LOG policy is vested in an editorial board which consists of the executive board of the union. The executive board may delegate, from among its rank . 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 i 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, thi should immediately be reported to union headquarter . CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS. Copies of the SI Constitution are available in all union halls. All members should obtain copie of thi constitution o a to familiarize them elves with its contents. Any time a member feel Pensioner Willis Lawrence, 73, passed away March 17. Brother Lawrence started his SIU career in 1960, joining in the port of Detroit. Prior to becoming a Seafarer, he served in the 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 headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal right in employment and as member of the SIU. These rights are clearly et forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contract which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she i1. denied the equal rights to which he or he is entitled, the member should notify union headquarter MEMBER RIGHTS/LMRDA. The Labor-Management Reporting and Disclo ure Act (LMRDA) guarantee certain rights to union members and imposes certain responsibilities on union officers. The Office of Labor-Management Standards (OLMS) enforces many LMRDA provisions while other provisions. such as the bill of rights. may only be enforced by union member through private suit in Federal court. Union Member Rights Bill of Rights: Union members have equal rights to participate in union activities: freedom of speech and assembly; a voice in setting rate1. of dues, fees and asse ment ; protection of the right to sue; and afeguards against improper discipline. Copies of Collective Bargaining Agreements: Union members and nonunion employee have the right to receive or inspect copie of collective bargaining agreements. Reports: Unions are required to file an initial information report (Form LM-1), copie of con titution and bylaws, and an annual financial report (Fonn LM-2/3/4) with OLMS. Union mu t make the report available to member and permit member to examine upporting records for just cause. The reports are public information and copies are available from OLMS. Officer Elections: Union member have the right to nominate candidates for office; run for office: ca t a secret ballot; and prote t the conduct of an election. Officer Removal: Local union member have the right to an adequate procedure for He started his SIU career in 1961 in Detroit. Born in Canada, he first sailed on an American Steamship Co. vessel. The engine department member last shipped :;.__-- aboard the Richard J. Reiss, operated by Erie Sand Steamship. Brother Renwick started receiving his pension in 1989. He resided in Tampa. Fla. JOHN STAN Pensioner John Stan, 73, passed away Nov. 21, 2000. Brother Stan started his SIU career in 1973, joining in Detroit. Before becoming a e arer, he served in the U.S . a from 1946 to 1950. The Ohio native first sailed L!....;i~.c=~=-L__J aboard the Peter Reiss, an American Steam hip Co. vessel. Brother Stan shipped as a member of the deck department. He last sailed on the Henry Steinbrenner. Brother Stan started receiving his pension in 1992. He was a resident of Martins Ferry, Ohio. the removal of an elected officer guilty of serious misconduct. Trusteeships: Unions may on!) be placed in trusteeship by a parent body for the reasons specified in the LMRDA. Prohibition Against Violence: No one may use or threaten to use force or violence to interfere with a union member in the exercise of LMRDA rights. Union Officer Responsibilities Financial Safeguards: Union officers have a duty to manage the funds and property of the union solely for the benefit of the union and its member in accordance with the union's constitution and bylaws. Union officers or employees who embezzle or steal union funds or other assets commit a Federal crime punishable by a fine and/or imprisonment. Bonding: Union officers or employees who handle union funds or property must be bonded to provide protection against losses if their union has property and annual financial receipts which exceed $5,000. Labor Organization Reports: Union officers must file an initial information report (Fonn LM-1) and annual financial reports (Fonns LM-2/3/4) with OLMS; and retain the records necessary to verify the reports for at least five year1.. Officer Reports: Union officers and employees must file reports concerning any loans and benefits received from, or certain financial interests in. employer who e employees their unions represent and bu ine ses that deal with their unions. Officer Elections: Union ~ must hold elections of officers of local union~ by secret ballot at least every three year ; conduct regular election in accordance with their constitution and bylaw1. and preserve all records for one year; mai l a notice of election to every member at lea t 15 days prior to the election; comply with a candidate' reque t to di tribute campaign material ; not use union funds or re ource to promote any candidate (nor may employer funds or re ource be used); permit candidate to have election observer ; and allow candidates to in pect the union ' memberhip list once within 30 day prior t( the election. Restrictions on Holding Office: A peron convicted of certain crime ma" not serve as a union officer, employee or -other representative of a union for up to 13 years. Loans: A union may not have outstanding loans to any one officer or employee that in total exceed $2,000 at any time. Fines: A union may not pay the fine of any officer or employee convicted of any willful violation of the LMRDA. (Note: The above is only a summary of the LMRDA. Full text of the Act, which comprises Sections 401-531 of Title 29 of the United States Code, may be found in many public libraries, or by writing the U.S. Deparlment of Labor; Office of LaborManagement Standards, 200 Constitution Ave., Nw, Room N-5616, Washington, DC 20210, or on the internet at www.dol.gov.) SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION - SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objecTh and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political . social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution i made b) reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notif) the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for inve tigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should upport SPAD to protect 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 infonnation, the member should immediately notify SIU President Michael 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. July 2001 �SEAFARERS PAUL HALL CENTER UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE The following is the schedule for classes for the months of July through October 2001 at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. All programs are geared to improve the job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and-in times of conflict-the nation's security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course's start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. QMED - Any Rating August 25 November 16 Welding July 21 September 15 October 13 August 10 Octobers November2 Steward Upgrading Courses Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations modules start every week beginning Jannary 8. Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward classes start every other week beginning Jannary 6. Recertification Bosun Recertification September 8 October 8 Steward Recertification July7 August 6 Deck Upgrading Courses Safety Specialty Courses Course Arrival Date Date of Completion Able Seaman (including simulator steering assessments) July 28 August25 September 22 October 20 August 24 September 21 October 19 November 16 Lifeboatman/Water Survival July 14 August 11 Septembers October6 July 28 August25 September 22 October 20 Radar (simulator) August 11 September 8 October6 August24 September 21 October19 Radar (one-day renewal) July 6 July 27 August24 September 21 October19 Automatic Radar Plotting Aids* (ARPA) (simulator) (*must have radar unlimited) GMDS (simulator) idge Resource Management Course Arrival Date Date of Completion Advanced Fire Fighting - First Aid August 11 August25 Government Vessels July7 July 21 August 4 August 18 September 1 September 15 September 29 October 13 October 27 July 27 August 10 August 24 September7 September 21 October S October 19 November2 November16 STCW Medical Care Provider August 11 September 22 October 20 August 18 September 29 October27 Basic Fire Fighting/STCW July 7 July 21 July 28 August 4 Septembers September 15 September 22 September 29 October 20 October 27 July 14 July 27 August 3 August 11 September 1 September 14 September 21 September 28 October6 October26 November3 July 21 August 4 August 18 September 15 October 13 October 28 August 4 August 14 September l September 29 October 27 November 10 August 11 October6 August 18 October 13 Basic Safety July 5 July 26 July 3 July 23 Radar (three-day renewal,) Date of Completion Start Date Course August 25 July7 August 25 September 22 October 20 July 13 August 31 September 28 October 26 Jul)' 7 August 4 eptember 1 September 29 ctobe July 21 August 18 eptember 15 October 13 ovem July 14 September 1 September 29 October 27 July 20 September 7 October 5 November2 Tanker Familiarization/ Assistant Cargo (DL)* *must hav~ basic re hJin Tankerman (PIC) Barge* (*must have basic fire fighJillg) Engine Upgrading Courses Academic Department Courses Course Arrival Date Date of Completion Fireman/Watertender & Oiler July 14 September 8 August 24 October 19 General education and college courses are available as needed. In addition, basic vocational support program courses are offered throughout the year, one week prior to the AB, QMED, FOWf. Third Mate, Tanker Assistant and Water Survival courses. An introduction to computers course will be self-study. -·-~-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty UPGRADING APPLICATION ( 120) days seatimefor the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date Name _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Address _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, and qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. All FOWT, AB and QMED ap;plicants must submit a U.S. Coast Guard fee of $280 with their agplication. The payment should be made with a money order only. payable to LMSS. COURSE Telephone _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Deep Sea Member D Lakes Member BEGIN DATE END DATE Date of Birth _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ D Inland Waters Member 0 If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security#__________ Book# _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Seniority _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Department _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ U.S. Citizen: Yes D No D Home Port Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ LAST VESSEL: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Rating: _ _ __ Date On: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Date Off: Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? D Yes D No If yes, c l a s s # - - - - - - -- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? D Yes D No If yes, course(s) taken _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ __ _ _ __ _ _ _ _ __ Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? 0 Yes 0 No Firefighting: Primary language spoken July2001 0 Yes 0 No CPR: 0 Yes 0 No 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. RETURN COMPLETED APPUCATION 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 Seaman hip at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a private, non-profit, equal opportunity institution and admits students, who are otherwise qualified, of any race, nationality or sex. The school complies with applicable laws with regard to admission, acce or treatment of tudents in its programs or activitie . 7101 Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes m Phase Unlicensed Apprentices - These unlicensed apprentices are in the third phase of their training and completed the tanker assistant cargo class June 8 under the instruction of Jim Shaffer (right). Included in the class roster are (in no particular order) Justin Armstrong, Jeff Edwards, David Johnson, Bryan Wells, Robert Benson, Reginald Johnson Jr. , Darrick Johnson, Anjwar Brooks, Jessie Castor IV, Robert Rester, Jesse Hale, Steve Bentley, Chris Marquez, Grady Mason and Adrian Moore. Able Seaman - June 29 was graduation day for upgrading Seafarers in the AB class. They are (in alphabetical order) Jose Baltazar, Joseph Brosher, Jim Browne, Arnulfo Calderon , Janan Driggers, Joshua Ellerbee, Ray Hebert, James Heiney, Melvin Hill, Keith Jasmine, Michael Jejenich, Sandra Naylor, David Parks, Jose Sanchez, Ruben Siclot and Charles VanDeventer. ARPA- Completing the course work June 13 for their ARPA endorsements are NATCO (in no particular order) John Meyers, Ben Johnson , Howard Hawrey, Robert LaPointe and Ricky Mcclenton. Their instructor was Mike Smith (far left). Basic Fire Fighting/STCW - Upgrading Seafarers attending the June 11-15 basic fire fighting/STCW course are (in no specific order) Thomas Strother, Gerardo Frederick, Junior Guity, Manuel Lata, Mark Hayes, Harold Kinney Jr., Andre Carriere, Raymond Maddock, Albert Austin Jr. , Mostafa Loumrhari , Anibal Matos, Earl Kendrick, Richard Barnhart, David Knuth, Darrin Eastridge, Richard Houghton, Quinton Herrera, Juan Boissett, David Loison and Thomas Gay. Their instructor, Kathy Battles, is at right. Computer Lab Class The students assigned to the computer lab the week of June 4-8 receive certificates for completing a variety of courses at different levels (including computer basics, Windows 95, Excel 97, Powerpoint 97 and Access 97), depending on their abilities and interests. From the left are Joie Flesher, Instructor Rick Prucha, Shawn Williams, Mario Ordonez, Lon Oliver and Andrew Hayden. Lifeboatman/Water Survival - Graduating June 29 from the lifeboatman/water survival course are (in no particular order) William Newell, Greg Wilson, John Bergstrom , Adalberto Colon, Jeffrey Levie, Louis Santiago, Michael Kaye, Reynaldo Lacoyo, Junior Guity, Ashby Furlough, Juan Boissert, Charles Bayim, Earl Kendrick, Edwin Fuller, Gugenio Lopez, Timothy Perry, George Santiago, Jerome Smith, Wilfredo Rodriguez, Rodney Wilson, Corrie Stockton, Mariano Gutiuerrez and Geoffrey Bell. Their instructor was Bernabe Pelingon. Any student who has registered for a class and finds-for whatever reason-that he or she cannot attend, please inform the admissions department so that another student may take that place. 22 Seafarers LOG July2001 �,. Paul Hall Center Classes Oct. 9-0ct. 13, 2000-Deren Atienza, Quirino Bangloy, Johnny Dahilig, Sigfred Erickson, John Ferreira, Jimmy Kincaid, Alan Larson, Oscar Luis, Patrick Miyoski, Anwar Muthana, Crispulo Orosco, Loreto Orosco, Dwayne Paishon, Eric Quayle, Alejandro Quirolgcio, Eric Silvia and Ponato Tabag. Oct. 14-0ct. 18, 2000-Jose Ayon-Ayon, Edgardo Bitlon, Roger Casido, Edgardo Deguzman, Wayne Dimmer, Romel Gante, Bobby Harris, Sean Hayes, Hamilton Kaopua, Barney Lagunero, Judy Martinez, lreneo Padilla, Miguel Palisoc, Constantine Udarbe, Mark Villa and Gerardo Villanueva Basic Safety Training Classes Held in Hawaii Oct. 19-0ct. 23, 2000-Edward Ah San, Jaime Austria, Editho Barraca, Edgardo Basye, Jose Bautista Jr., Emmanuel Bayani, Mark Cabasag, Roland Cabasag, Milagros Clark, Noel Comacho, Justo Flores, Artemia Gandeza, Federico Giray, Abdul Hasan, Hazza Hussein, Kiash Kattil, James Leavy, Falefatu Maluina, Romeo Manansala, Arthur Medeiros, Gregory Rice, Salah Saleh, Deserie Westergard. Jan. 29-Feb. 2, 2001-Michael Bautista, Jonas Bocaya, oel Bocaya, John Dacuag, Danny Minor, Guadalupe Pastor, Alan Raffinan, a , · Mario Siclot, George Tidwell , Dwigh Tolentino, Augus us Udan , Leopoldo Viernes, Jimmy Whiting , Delvin Wilson, John Zimmerman and Prescilo Zuniga. Feb. 5-Feb. 9, 2001-Julio Alvarez, Cassandra Burdett, Ludivico Castillo, Rholand Daan, Dominico Dacua, Keith Foster, Roman Genetiano, Joseph Hemmingway, Leonardo ldos, Getollo Medallo, Shan-Kwen Moon, Guadalupe Pastor, Jaime Racpan, Abdulaziz Saleh, Henry Sondie, Mohamed Wasel and Mariano Ylaya. Feb. 26-March 2, 2001-Latoya Barner, Jeffrey Cerezo, Elmer Clemente, Edijanto Effendi, Vicente Escala, Fadel Hasan, Romarico Hinyon, Lanui Kekuewa, Jack Kem, Barry Madriaga, Hussein Mohamed, Modesto Ordonez, Rene Rater, Joseph Rodrigues, Kenneth Smith, Michael Stribling, Wan-Ting Su and Henry Wright Jr. Ju/y20D1 Feb. 12-Feb. 16, 2001- Ricky Arroyo, Andre Bernard, Brenda Black,-Sylvia Canzoneri, Theodore Cheong, Edward Cromaz, Hilario David, Elmore Hill, Gerhard Jakits, loannis Kazantsis, Flavia Manning, Cornelio Nazareno, Genevieve Oliva, Matas Reventes, David Robbins, Fale Timoteo, Clayton Yeung and Lambert Yuen. Feb. 18-Feb. 23, 2001-Evelyn Blumberg, Paul Burnett, Scott Cooper, Generoso Corpus, Bernardino Eda, Jerico Elgarico Jr., Erlinda Fabia, Christy Fernando, Gregorio Gandeza, Larry Genetiano, Robert Johnson, Aldanette Kalama, Gary Keapproth, Enno Kok, La'Shay Parilla, Mila Lansangan, Jason Masse, Victor Mendez, Antonio Miana, Carolyn Milstead, Mohamed Noor, Joseph Perez, Cory Robinson, Mike Stanton, William Staton, Ronel Sugui, Thomas Farrell, Bobby Javier and Teodoro Pascual. March 4-March 9, 2001-Derek Aguon, Michael Apparra, Alfonso Benda, Apolonio Cruz, Cesar Dela Cruz, Dana Duarte, Edgardo Ines, Mario Luis, David Makua, Leonida Pelegrino, eoffrey Potter, Randolf Rabago, Julanne Robertson, Mario Santos, Dazsha Sausa, Lawrence Silva, Joselito Torre and Julius Udan. Seafarers LOG 23 . �SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT SIB Pacific District Pension Plan -page13 Working and Lean1ing on the Atlantic Unlicensed Apprentices Get On-the-Job Training A 42-day run to the Mediterranean and back was plenty of time for the crew aboard the Atlantic to do their jobs as well as "show the ropes" to two newcomers-unlicensed apprentices Michael McClendon and Daniel Thompson. With Paul Domes as recertified bosun for the voyage, the U.S. Ship Management Co. vessel made stops in Spain, Malta and Italy before returning to New York; Charleston, S.C.; Freeport, Bahamas; and a payoff in Houston. It was a good learning experience for the two unlicensed apprentices, who are in the second phase of the training program at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. During their 12 weeks aboard ship, they will serve in each of the different departments and maintain a journal of their activities before returning to the schoo] for additional training. Every new person entering the maritime industry needs certain basic skills and knowledge before embarking on more specific career training. The unlicensed apprentice program at the Paul Hall Center provides that and more. Holding up the Atlantic's sailing board in Algeciras, Spain are (from left) AB Douglas Hodges, 2"d Mate Douglas Nemeth and AB Lee A. DuBany. With help and advice from his shipmates, unlicensed apprentice Daniel Thompson learns the correct way to get things done. Counter-clockwise from top, he receives some tips on letting go of the tugboat line in Freeport, line handling techniques while tying up the ship, and keeping the crew areas clean. Unlicensed apprentice Michael McClendon gets some hands-on training aboard the Atlantic, his first ship. Clockwise, from top, he cleans oil out of buckets from the bilges in the lower engine room, sougees the walls and pipes in the main engine room, and tries out the bosun's chair for some painting on the side of the vessel. Left: AB Lydella Grant (left) and DEU John Cooper stand by for docking in Malta. Cooper sent the LOG the photos appearing on this page. Preparing to dock in Algeciras, Spain are (from left) AB Douglas Hodges, 3rd Mate Robert Crawford and unlicensed apprentices Daniel Thompson and Michael Mcclendon. Right: AB Carl Sanders, who ships from the port of Jacksonville, uses the bosun's chair to help paint the side of the vessel. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2000-2009 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXII-LXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present, Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource July 2001 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES EXECUTIVE BOARD FULFULLS MERGER-RELATED MANDATE AMERICAN CLASSIC VOYAGES SALUTES UNION MEMBERS WITH CRUISE DISCOUNTS NEW STANDARD CONTRACTS DUE FOR VOTE BISSO CREWS RATIFY PACT WEST COAST BOATMEN WLCOME NEW TUG SOLITUDE CREW SAVED BY PERFORMANCE CONSTRUCTION STARTS ON TOTE RO/RO INDOMITABLE RESCUES 149 FROM FOUNDERING BOAT NEW JOBS, NEW U.S.-FLAG TANKERS AMONG BENEFITS OF OPENING ANWR THOUSANDS RALLY FOR ‘CHARLESTON 5’ SIMULATOR NAMED FOR MCMILLEN CONVERTED AND RENAMED, CARTER WILL JOIN MSC’S PREPOSITIONING FLEET REP. MOAKLEY DIES AT 74 SEAFARERS OBSERVE MARITIME DAY SIU-CREWED TUG HELPS DEEPEN NY/NJ CHANNEL CHATTANOOGA REMEMBERS WWII MERCHANT MARINES ALLISON DEVASTATES HOUSTON GROUND CLEARED FOR HOTEL ANNEX WORKING AND LEARNING ON THE ATLANTIC Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 07/01/2001 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 63, No. 7 2001 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/3547314a906942bcf6596efddca8fc11.pdf 03d2a1204a3d759d6fa0e8dbc8e2fb06 PDF Text Text Volume 64, Number 7 July 2002 Congress Exa ·nes Dangers f FOCs To • National Sec r Panel Hears Worrisome Testimony Sea Reliance Joins SIU Fleet SIU Sec.-Treasurer David Heindel addresses the Special Oversight Panel on the Merchant Marine - part of the U.S. House Armed Services Committee - during a June 13 hearing that focused on flags of convenience (FOCs) and how they threaten America's security. Page 3. SIU Ships Assisi 'Enduring Freedom' Page& Barge Accident Renews Debate Page& Matson Orders Two Vessels Pagel Seafarers and SIU officials were among those celebrating the recent christening in New Orleans of the new tug Sea Reliance and its accompanying double-hulled barge 550-1. Together, the tug and the 550-1 form an articulated tug-barge (ATB) tank vessel unit that transports clean oil products. Among those at the christening were SIU Pres. Michael Sacco (sixth from left), who was a featured speaker; SIU Sec.-Treasurer David Heindel (fourth from left); SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez (third from right); and SIU New Orleans Port Agent Steve Judd (second from right). Page 3. Ro/Ro To Reflag U.S. Rear Adm. David Brewer (right), Commander of the U.S. Military Sealift Command, and SIU VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi weren't the only ones smiling June 14 when MSC took operational control of the former U.S. Navy ship Arctic in Earle, N.J. The 753-foot vessel signifies many new jobs for members of the union's Government Services Division. Page 4. As the Log went to press, SIU-contracted American Roll-On Roll-Off Carrier (ARC) was poised to announce the addition of a fifth U.S.-flag RO/RO to its fleet. This involves a foreign-flag vessel that will reflag under the Stars and Stripes as the company begins a new service between the U.S. East and Gulf coasts and the Eastern Mediterranean and Black Sea this November. The reflagged vessel closely will resemble the one pictured here, according to the company. ARC noted that all five of its American-flag RO/ROs ''will be fully committed to the U.S. government's readiness program." �President's Report A Break In the Clouds Late in the year 2000, many of us stood in a downpour on Capitol Hill warning of the problems raining on our country because of runaway-flag shipping. Last month, the runoff from that protest finally drained into a Congressional hearing room. Because of these actions as well as many more involving the SIU and other maritime unions - and the war on terrorism - the light of publicity is finally shining through the dark clouds that have veiled the ugly truth behind flag-of-convenience shipping. On June 13, the Merchant Marine Panel of the Michael Sacco House Armed Services Committee held a hearing about flags of convenience and the risks they pose to United States national security. The hearing has generated interest far beyond the Capitol. It has gained attention in many parts of the U.S. and overseas, with news reports appearing almost daily from mid-June when the hearing took place. U.S. Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-Calif.) did an outstanding job in chairing the hearing. Anyone who supports a strong U.S.-flag fleetfor that matter, anyone who's concerned about national security should join me in thanking the congressman for his firm, fair and intelligent handling of the proceedings, which took nearly a full day. Credit also goes to U.S. Rep. Gene Taylor (D-Miss.) and the other panel members in attendance for drawing out significant answers from the people who submitted testimony. U.S. Rep. Frank Wolf (D-Va.), the first to testify, immediately set the tone with his convincing accounts of atrocities committed in Liberia - a nation whose cruel dictator benefits from FOC shipping. Later, SIU Secretary-Treasurer Dave Heindel, on behalf of our union and the International Transport Workers' Federation, provided insightful facts about runaway flags and strong recommendations on how to reduce their threat to America's security. Others who testified also delivered valuable information. Overall, the hearing potentially served as a vital first step toward consistently revealing true ownership throughout the shipping industry. In the meantime, the SIU and the ITF continue to urge Congress to pass a bill permitting the U.S. Coast Guard to deny entry to any foreign-flag ship that fails to accurately provide the identity of its beneficial owner. Given the constant threats being made against the U.S., it seems that's the very least that must be done. House Passes Port Security Bill; Conference Committee Appointed The U.S. House of Representatives on June 4 approved legislation that would establish a comprehensive national system to increase security at U.S. ports and waterways. Passed via voice vote, the Maritime Transportation Antiterrorism Act of 2002 contains provisions on automatic identification systems, transportation security cards (smart cards), and antiterrorism plans. The legislation is similar to a bill approved last December by the Senate. A House-Senate conference committee has been appointed to work out the differences. U.S. Rep. Don Young CR-Alaska), chairman of the House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee, introduced the legislation on behalf of the group's bipartisan leadership, including Reps. James Oberstar (D-Minn.), ranking Democrat on the Transportation Committee; Frank LoBiondo (RN.J.), chairman, Coast Guard & Maritime Transportation Subcommittee; and Corrine Brown (D-Fla.), ranking Democrat, Coast Guard Subcommittee. "Port security is an essential piece of an effective homeland security program," said Rep. Young. "This bill establishes a comprehensive national antiterrorism system to reduce the vulnerability of our ports and waterways to a terrorist attack. This is one of the most important pieces of legislation the House considers this year." "Passage of this bill by the House sends a clear message to everyone that we are taking strong steps to protect America's ports and waterways from terrorism and that Congress is committed to this mission," said Rep. LoBiondo. "I hope that we can see the provisions of this bill become law very soon because of the tremendous importance of the maritime transportation system to our economy and our nation." Under key sections of the legislation, the Coast Guard will have statutory authority to require that advance notices of vessels' arrival be electronically submitted at least 96 hours prior to arrival. It will have broad authority to deny entry of a vessel for non-compliance with laws relating to marine safety, security, or environmental protection. Additionally, transportation security cards would be required for individuals to enter an area of a vessel or facility designated as secure in an applicable antiterrorism plan. The secretary of transportation would be charged with issuing transportation security cards to individuals unless they pose a terrorism security risk. For U.S. citizens, this largely means denial of such a card if the person has been convicted of a felony that could be a terrorism security risk. For non-U.S. citizens, this means persons who would be denied admission to the United States under the Immigration and Nationality Act or otherwise pose a terrorism security risk. The secretary also would be charged with assessing the antiterrorism measures at major foreign ports with respect to such things as screening of containerized and other cargo, access restrictions, vessel security, certification of compliance with security measures, and security management. For foreign ports found to not maintain effective antiterrorism measures, the secretary would be authorized to prescribe conditions for entry into the U.S. of vessels arriving from the port or carrying cargo originating from or transshipped from that port. In another port security development, the International Maritime Organization's (IMO) Maritime Safety Committee is continuing its preparatory work for the diplomatic conference on maritime security that is to be conducted at IMO in December. Among the myriad items on the agenda designed to address maritime security, the most far-reaching is a proposed International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code which would be implemented through SOLAS. Coast Guard Strength Speaking of the Coast Guard, the agency already has taken a lot of important actions to improve security aboard the vessels entering and operating in the U.S. and in the ports themselves. As I've said before, it's a gigantic job and it necessarily will take time to fully implement the safeguards. The Coast Guard's efforts to date are commendable. When faced with such a large task, you obviously need the right tools. And the agency last month took a giant step in the right direction with the announcement of a milestone contract worth more than $11 billion for a fleet of new vessels and aircraft, along with improved "command and control" systems. The ships and planes and other high-tech equipment will help the Coast Guard fulfill its homeland security duties. The contract's value reflects the magnitude of those responsibilities, and the SIU as always - in our role as part of the nation's fourth arm of defense - will do our part to assist the Coast Guard in this most critical mission. SIU Job Opportunities Just as our union is committed to helping the United States meet its sealift and security requirements, we never stop working to obtain good shipboard jobs for the membership. On that front, there is plenty of good news, as reported throughout this issue of the LOG. After a tumultuous period that followed September 11, the Delta Queen boats are under contract. Seafarers are sailing aboard Intrepid's new Sea Reliance, and more of those ATBs are on the way. A new TOTE ship is due in October, and construction has begun on a second vessel. Matson has ordered two new vessels under construction at Philadelphia's Kvaerner Shipyard. The Government Services Division is crewing up a former Navy ship for the Military Sealift Command. And American Roll-On Roll-Off Carrier late last month planned to announce the addition of a fifth U.S.-flag RO/RO to its fleet. Our future is bright. With the continued strong support of the membership, we will never stop working to ensure that it stays that way. Volume 64, Number 7 Former ATC 'Riding Gang' Workers Upgrade to AB Five mariners from Anchorage, Alaska who started their shipboard careers as "riding gang" workers aboard Alaska Tanker Company (ATC) vessels have earned their respective endorsements as ABs. Seafarers Jerry Maya, Allan Oyao, Fernando Oyao, Deocadio Romney and Rafael Concepcion recently completed the AB course at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. They were congratulated May 31 as the company hosted a luncheon in Anchorage that also was attended by U.S. Rep. Don Young (R-Alaska) and representatives of the Alaska Department of Labor and the SIU. Harold Holten, a Seafarers representative based in An- chorage, noted that Rep. Young "has been very active with the riding crews and with the unlicensed apprentice program based at Piney Point. He also was instrumental in getting an SIU office opened in Anchorage." Bill Cole, ATC's director of labor relations, noted that the riding gangs in part signify "a nearly five-year-old effort to train Alaskans for employment aboard U.S. commercial vessels. We are delighted to have Alaskans as seagoing employees of ATC and are proud to further Congressman Young's vision of expanding local hire opportunities for Alaskans aboard U.S.-flag vessels. This is a true public/private/labor partnership that continues to achieve and surpass its July 2002 The SIU on line: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 20790-9998 and at additional offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Deborah A. Hirtes; Associate Editor, Jim Guthrie; Art, Bill Brower; Administrative Support, Jeanne Textor. Copyright © 2002 Seafarers International Union, AGLfWD All Rights Reserved. 2 Seafarers LOS Alaska Tanker Company (ATC) recognized five former riding-gang members who upgraded to ABs. Pictured at the May 31 luncheon in Anchorage, Alaska are (from left) ABs Jerry Maya and Fernando Oyao, U.S. Rep. Don Young (R-Alaska), ABs Deocadio Romney and Allan Oyao, SIU Rep Harold Holten and ATC Labor Relations Director Bill Cole. (Not pictured is AB Rafael Concepcion.) goals of providing quality maritime jobs for Alaskans." Created to satisfy the need for ongoing maintenance at sea, a riding gang provides routine upkeep and repairs of vessels to reduce time in dry dock. At the Paul Hall Center, the aforementioned mariners passed U.S. Coast Guard exams in lifeboat and water survival safety, marine fire fighting, first aid, oil spill response and other key subjects. Holten added, "We are particularly pleased with the cooperation received from the Coast Guard and the Alaska State Department of Labor in assuring these folks had the opportunity to pursue their training and career goals." Awards Presented To ATC Vessel, Other SIU Ships Alaska Tanker Company's BT Alaska was one of several SIUcrewed vessels honored last month by the Chamber of Shipping of America. The chamber presented its annual ship safety achievement awards June 6 in New Orleans. Awards are given for "outstanding feats of safety," such as rescues and long-term operations without any injuries. The BT Alaska has gone almost three years without a single lost-time injury. Also honored were (among others) the Consumer of CSX Lines, the tug Liberty/Maritrans 3 00 of Mari trans Operating Partners, the Performance of U.S. Ship 'Management, and the Chesapeake City of Keystone Shipping Co. July2002 �Congress Weighs FOG Threat The Special Oversight Panel on the Merchant Marine - part of the U.S. House Armed Services Committee - conducted a hearing June 13 that focused on flags of convenience (FOCs) and how they threaten America's security. The panel also received detailed, disturbing evidence that the Liberian ship registry, which is based in Virginia, has funneled money for the illegal purchase and/or transportation of arms, among other violations of United Nations sanctions. U.S. Rep. Duncan Hunter (RCalif.) chaired the five-hour session, which drew a standing-room crowd for much of the proceedings. Testifying were (in order) U.S. Rep. Frank Wolf (R-Va.); U.S. Coast Guard Rear Adm. Paul Pluta; U.S. Maritime Administrator Capt. SIU Sec.-Treasurer David Heindel (left) tells the Merchant Marine Panel of the House Armed Services Committee that America should "refuse entry to U.S. ports to any foreign-flag vessel that does not provide transparency and/or full identity of the vessel's beneficial owner." The hearing took place June 13 in Washington, D.C. U.S. Rep. Duncan Hunter (RCalif.) said of certain FOC registries, "It is apparent that we have virtually no idea who owns or controls a number of these ships." Vines, former member of the U.N. panel of experts on Liberia, representing the New York-based Human Rights Watch; and the head of the Liberian registry, Yoram Cohen. As the hearing began, Hunter stated, "From my view of certain registries, it is apparent that we have virtually no idea who owns, or who controls a number of these ships. It is also clear to me that we likewise lack a clear understanding of who is manning these ves- The barge, which has a capacity of 155,000 barrels, is 500 feet long and 74 feet wide. It was constructed at Halter's Bienville yard in Pearlington, Miss. The 550-1 features an enhanced cargo system and a fully redundant ballast system, among other safety attributes. Tony Naccarato, for Intrepid, described the ATB as "completely state-of-the-art. This is an excellent addition and we look forward to many years of safe operations." William Schubert; David Heindel, SIU secretary-treasurer and second vice chairman of the International Transport Workers' Federation's (ITF's) Seafarers' Section; Peter Morris, chairman, International Commission on Shipping; Alex Seafarers Welcome New Tug and Barge SIU members are sailing aboard the new tug Sea Reliance and its accompanying doublehulled barge 550-1, operated by Intrepid Ship Management. Together, the Sea Reliance and the 550-1 form an articulated tugbarge (ATB) tank vessel unit that transports clean oil products. The hinged connection system between the units "allows mo ement in one axi or plane in the critical area of fore and aft pitch," Intrepid noted. SIU President Michael Sacco was a featured speaker during the ATB 's christening April 25 in New Orleans. "The tug Sea Reliance and the barge that goes with it both represent exactly the kind of progress we work for. Today we celebrate an allAmerican ATB-built in an American yard, crewed by American mariners, and owned by Americans," he stated. "This is another important step in strengthening all phases of the merchant marine," Sacco continued. "In order to best serve the national and economic security interests of the United States, our country deserves nothing less than a strong, viable U.S. fleet. That goes for all segments of the industry-from the deep sea and coast-wise trades, to the inland and Great Lakes fleets, to the passenger ships and of course our shipyards. All of those components are vital, especially in these uncertain times. That's why we never should take a ceremony like this one for granted." The 9,280-horsepower tug is 127 feet long and 42 feet wide. Built at Halter Marine's Moss Point (Miss.) yard, the Sea Reliance meets all Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) and American Bureau of Shipping criteria. It has a foam-capable fire monitor; twin fuel efficient, reduced emission electronic diesel engines; a noise reduction package and other upgrades to increase crew comfort. The communication and navigation equipment is among the most technologically advanced in the industry. Keel Laid for Second TOTE Ship ) SIU Pres. Michael Sacco (left photo) describes the Sea Reliance and the barge 550-1 (above) as "an all-American ATS-built in an American yard, crewed by America n mariners, and owned by Americans." sels - or even whether the documents they hold are valid - or even whether they have the required training." Although the inquiry mainly examined FOCs and their implications on U.S. national security, Hunter and Rep. Gene Taylor (DMiss.) spent nearly 90 minutes conducting a question-and-answer session with Rear Adm. Pluta and Capt. Schubert. Some of the questions pertained to FOCs, but many others concerned present-day efforts by the Coast Guard to ensure - to the extent possible security in American ports. Earlier, Rep. Wolf(R-Va.) gave a compelling presentation that spotlighted Charles Taylor and the atrocities committed in Liberia. Poster-size photos of Liberian children and adults with hackedoff limbs (part of that nation's reign of terror) were posted before the panel. Wolf urged the U.S. to do whatever is necessary to cause Taylor to lose his control of Liberia. He noted that Taylor's relationship with international arms dealers and terrorist networks threatens the U.S. The last panel consisted of Heindel, Morris, Vines and Cohen. Heindel urged Congress "on a unilateral basis to enact legislation authorizing the U.S. Coast Guard to refuse entry to U.S. ports to any foreign-flag vessel that does not provide transparency and/or full identity of the vessel's beneficial owner." Morris covered many topics including port state control, mariner certification and shipboard living conditions. He urged the U.S. to push for "complete transparency, complete account- Continued on p age 9 One of the new 712-foot Matson containerships is shown in this artist's rendition. The first vessel is scheduled for delivery to Matson in late 2003. The second is scheduled for 2004. Matson Orders 2 Containerships from Kvaerner San Diego's NASSCO Shipyard on June 6 hosted a keel-laying ceremony for the North Star, the second of two Orea-class rollon/roll-off vessels being built for SIU-contracted Totem Ocean Trailer Express (TOTE). The new ships will be 839 feet long, have a beam of 118 feet and carry 600 cargo trailers along with 200 autos. They're being built for TOTE's Tacoma-to-Anchorage service. The first ship, the Midnight Sun, is scheduled for delivery this fall. The North Star (depicted in the illustration above) is due in spring 2003. Please be advised that SIU headquarters and all SIU hiring halls will be closed Monday, August 19, k 2002 for the observance of Paul Hall's birthday f.)~t j,;(iJ/1/ess an emergency arises). Normal business , , ~ hours will resume the following workday. .. ·,.,\, ;\: July2002 Seafarers-contracted Matson Navigation Company on May 29 signed a contract with Kvaemer Philadelphia Shipyard Inc. for the purchase of two new containerships. The diesel-powered vessels, with a capacity for 2,600 containers (20-foot equivalent units) each, will cost approximately $110 million per ship and will be deployed in the company's Hawaii service when construction is completed in late 2003 and in 2004, respectively. "This is an important commitment for all concerned, and I'm confident the unions of the SIUNA will continue living up to our end of the bargain by providing top-quality manpower for these new vessels," stated SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez. He added, "The construction of new vessels such as those ordered by Matson is a boon to America's national security, because it helps ensure the availability of U.S. crews and it also helps maintain our domestic shipbuilding capability." Matson President and CEO C. Bradley Mulholland said the new vessels "are similar in size and speed to Matson 's flagship MV R. J. Pfeiffer, the fastest and biggest containership currently operating in the U.S. domestic offshore trades. They will be equipped with a number of features specifically designed to meet Hawaii's current and projected market requirements, particularly bigger container sizes for both refrigerated and dry containers." In announcing the contract, Matson described the project as "part of an overall plan by Aker Kvaerner Yards, the Philadelphia Shipyard Development Corporation, the Delaware River Port Authority, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and the City of Philadelphia to rebuild the former Philadelphia Naval Yard as a world class commercial shipyard." The president of CEO of the Philadelphia yard, Ron McAlear, stated, "We are pleased to be working with Matson Navigation on its fleet renewal program and we are proud to have the historic name of Matson on the side of the first ships built at K vaerner Philadelphia Shipyard. This contract confirms Matson's confidence in Kvaerner's ability to build high quality ships. "The Kvaerner Philadelphia Shipyard was built to provide U.S. shipowners with robust ships at realistic prices for the dedicated trades of the U.S. Jones Act," he continued. Matson is a wholly owned subsidiary of Alexander & Baldwin, Inc. of Honolulu. Seafarers LOG 3 �Government Services Division Welcomes USNS Arctic Mariners who work in the union's Government Services Division are in line for increased employment opportunities, thanks to the recent transfer of a fast combat ship to the operational control of the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC). The USS Arctic on June 14 went from a military-crewed combatant ship to a civiliancrewed, noncombatant vessel during a ceremony in Earle, N.J. In addition to the transfer, the vessel was renamed USNS Arctic to designate her new status as part of the MSC. She will join more than 30 other civilian-crewed MSC ships that provide at-sea logistic support to the Navy fleet. Arctic now will be crewed by 176 civilian mariners and be piloted by a civilian master. Rounding out the crew will be some 60 Navy sailors-about half of who will perform communications support and supply coordination functions. The remaining sailors will be aboard the vessel to support helicopter operations. ''Today marks a change of operators for USS Arctic, but not a change of mission," said MSC Commander Rear Adm. David L. Brewer during remarks at the ceremony. "Military Sealift Command combat logistics ships continue to allow the U.S. Navy to arrive on station and remain as long as needed." In addition to Brewer, Rear Adm. Lindell G Rutherford, commander, Carrier Group Four, attended the ceremony. Both the Members of the union's Government Services Division are crewing the USNS Arctic for the U.S. Military Sealift Command. U. S. Deputy Secretary of Transportation Michael P. Jackson, joined by U. S. Coast Guard Commandant Thomas H. Collins, announced June 25 the award of a landmark contract valued at $11.04 billion for a fleet of new ships and aircraft, plus improved command and control systems, to meet the service's homeland security and other mission needs. In addition, the contract includes $5.91 billion for operating, maintenance, and sustainment costs for a value of $16.95 billion. The contract was awarded to Integrated Coast Guard Systems (ICGS), a joint venture established by Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman. Known as the Deepwater Program, the ICGS award is the largest ever for the U. S. Coast Guard. It calls for the delivery of the first ships and planes - and upgrades to some existing vessels - within the next five years. The contract may extend up to 30 years. Deepwater will involve the acquisition of up to 91 ships, 35 fixed-wing aircraft, 34 helicopters, 76 unmanned surveillance aircraft, and upgrade of 49 existing cutters and 93 helicopters, in addition to systems for communications, surveillance and command and control. ew Pact for Twin River Artie is the second fast combat support ship to transfer from USS to USNS status. Supply was the first to make the change, in July 2001. This class of ship provides fuel, ammunition and food to vessels under way. CIVMAR News Habitability Agreement For USNS Arctic Similar to USNS Supply Coast Guard Launches Multi-Billion Dollar Plan For New Fleet of Ships, Aircraft and More SIU boatmen employed by Pittsburgh-area Twin Rivers Towing have approved a new five-year contract. The agreement took effect April 1 and lasts through May 2007. The pact calls for increased wages, improved medical benefits and some work-rule changes which the members had sought. The most significant change is one that facilitates advancement for the SIU boatmen. Also, for the first time, Twin Rivers has signed on with the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, based in Piney Point, Md. The union represents approximately 50 deckhands and cooks who work aboard Twin Rivers towboats and barges. The company, based in Elizabeth, Pa., hauls coal along the Allegheny, Monongahela and Ohio rivers. Representing the union on the negotiating committee were Deckhands J erry Switch and Brian Glover, Cook Marta Vance and SIU VP Atlantic Coast Joseph outgoing commanding officer of Arctic, Navy Capt. Garry R. White, and its incoming civilian master, Capt. Ed Nanartowich, also participated in the ceremony, which was attended by numerous Seafarers and officials from the union. Prior to the CIVMAR crewing of the USS Arctic (now USNS Arctic), the union's Government Services Division negotiated a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Military Sealift Command (MSC) addressing habitability standards aboard the ship. The MOU is similar in many aspects to the agreement reached last year for the USNS Supply. All terms and conditions of the current collective bargaining agreement will remain in effect and MSC agrees to make every effort to address full habitability improvements within a reasonable timeframe. Until full habitability modifications are made aboard the USNS Arctic (which comply with prevailing maritime practices), MSC will pay habitability allowance at the rate of $30 to those mariners housed in the open berthing sections of the ship. The MOU provides that MSC take additional interim measures to ensure adequate living conditions aboard this vessel at all times. In addition, successful completion of a four-month tour will give an eligible C MAR the opportunity to request a preferential next-ship assignment. The union will continue to closely monitor the habitability conditions aboard the AOEclass vessels. In accordance with the agreement, we will ask the agency to meet at the end of every six-month period from the date of the transfer of the ship to MSC operation for the purpose of discussing ongoing habitability concerns. MSC, NOAA Members To Get July 1 Increase Federal mariners working for the Military Sealift Command (MSC) and the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) will receive the FY2002 federal pay increase of 4.8 percent applicable to base pay, overtime and penalty rates. In some cases, for certain ratings or types of ships, the increase will be capped at 4 percent. This is due to limitations imposed by 5 USC 5348. That section of the law provides that "the pay of officers and crews of vessels shall be fixed and adjusted from time to time as nearly as is consistent with the public interest in accordance with prevailing rates and practices in the maritime industry." The agencies have notified the union that it is expected that the increases will be r e t i payroll period, thereby avoiding long retroactive situations which have occurred in the past. Delta Queen Fleet Under Contract The SIU contingent for contract negotiations at Twin Rivers Towing consisted of (from left) VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi, Cook Marta Vance, Deckhand Jerry Switch and Deckhand Brian Glover. Soresi. Bargaining took place in March at the company's office in Elizabeth; voting occurred at the Twin Rivers pier in Elizabeth on May 25. The final tally was 37-11 in favor of the contract. Twin Rivers Labor Relations Manager Tony Mayer and General Manager Dean Orr negotiated for the company. Notice Unlicensed Apprentice Program For individuals interested in attending the unlicensed apprentice program at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, please note that there has been some misinformation, particularly via messages on the world wide web about the school's apprentice program. To qualify for the program applicants must be at least 18 years of age (or 17 years of age with parental consent). This requirement is necessary to comply with Coast Guard regulations. There is no upper age limit for individuals wishing to participate in the program. The program provides training for entry-level positions, and includes practical work on a vessel. The program is physically rigorous. Teamwork is stressed and apprentices live in open-berthing dormitories and take meals together. Applicants must be able to meet certain physical requirements, specified by United States Coast Guard regulations and maritime industry standards. If you are interested in attending the school, please call (301) 994-0010, ext. 5342, or visit www. seafarers.erg. 4 Seafarers LOG A contract is in place between the SIU and the new owners of the Delta Queen fleet, Delaware North Companies Inc. The agreement adds five years to the existing contract that was set to expire in 2003. It includes wage and benefit gains. The pact applies to the river cruise boats Delta Queen, Mississippi Queen (shown in two recent photos above) and American Queen. Delaware North purchased the well-known vessels May 4 at auction. July2002 �Ed Pulver, Veteran SIU Of I icial And Humanitarian, Dies at 78 The SIU on May 26 lost one had," stated SIU President of its icons, as Edward B. Pulver Michael Sacco. "He had so much passed away at Memorial Sloan- compassion for people. He went Kettering Cancer Center in New out of his way and devoted his York City, reportedly due to heart time to helping them achieve the American dream." failure. He was 78. "We've lost a great friend. Pulver's association with the union dates back more than 50 People loved him," said Willie years. He was a vice president of Zenga, retired vice president of the Seafarers International Union the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades ofNorth America since 1990, and Department. "We go back better he also headed the SIU's office in than 50 years together. He was one of the well-liked and very Jersey City, N.J. His activities were wide-rang- exceptional people." A New Jersey newspaper ing and repeatedly philanthropic. Pulver was the president and a described Pulver, who had been founding member of the Hudson hospitalized for about two weeks County (N .J.) Central Labor prior to his death, as "a towering Council, and served on the state figure in labor circles." A number of Pulver 's friends AFL-CIO executive board. He was extremely active in local said that he never recovered from charities and served for 16 years the trauma of losing a close as president of the Hudson acquaintance on September 11, County Society for the Pre- though he continued his work. vention of Cruelty to Animals. Pulver 's friend Ana Centeno He was a delegate to several worked as an accountant at the Democratic national conventions, World Trade Center and died in and he championed the local the terrorist attacks. Filipino and Hispanic communi'Loved the SIU' ties (though he wasn't of Filipino SIU Executive Vice President or Hispanic descent). John Fay said Pulver was "a Pulver, a native of Jersey City who lived in Bayonne, N.J. for strong union guy, and he was the past 35 years, began sailing in devoted to the SIU. He loved the the 1940s on railroad tugs in the SIU. He tried to help everybody, New York/New Jersey harbor. He and I never heard anyone say became active in the SIU when anything unkind about him." Bosun Tom Soresi has been a the fleet he helped organize elected to affiliate with the organiza- Seafarer for 41 years, and he knew Pulver nearly that long. tion's Inland Boatman's Union. "He was one of the greatest "He was always a powerful influleaders this organization ever ence on the politics and labor .,..........,.....,..---------------. organ i z at i o n s throughout New Jersey," Soresi recalled. "He was a pleasure to work with and he never refused helping anyone." Soresi added that Pulver "helped get NY Waterway off the ground." The SIUcontracted company, founded in 1986, boasts the largest ferry and excursion fleet in New York Harbor. SIU Vice President In 1982, Pulver (right) is congratulated by Contracts Augie TelCharles Marciante, president of the New lez first worked with Jersey state AFL-CIO, for receiving the Pulver on the Hudson Jewish National Fund's top award. County Central Labor Above: Pulver (left) attended a recent ceremony in New York for the christening of new passenger ferries for the SI Li-contracted NY Waterway fleet. With him are (from left) SIU President Michael Sacco; Joseph Soresi, vice president Atlantic Coast; and Don Nolan, vice president Paul Hall Center. Right: At a rally in Jersey City in late 1999, Pulver (second from left) demonstrated with Seafarers and other trade unionists. July2002 SUPPORTS LOC..Al ~ 24S- ~=.?-- SUPPORTS This undated photo, believed to be from the early 1960s, shows Pulver during his days as an official with the union's railroad marine division. Council and the New Jersey state AFL-CIO, when Tellez was a vice president of that organization. "I saw him in action, and I saw the respect and credibility that the labor movement got because of him," Tellez observed. SIU Vice President Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi worked with Pulver on matters pertaining to NY Waterway. "He was very well-respected, politically and within the labor movement," Soresi said. "I knew him more on the political circuit and personally than through the SIU. He was the greatest guy in the world and would do anything for you. Anybody who's been knighted, as Ed was, obviously has a lot going for him." SIU Headquarters Representative Carl Peth said Pulver's "way with people is what stands out. He cared about people and was able to talk to anybody on their level. As they used to say about (the late SIU President) Paul Hall, he could talk to the senator or the seaman." Pulver was a U.S. Army veteran who served in Germany during World War II. He raised money for Memorial SloanKettering and for children fighting cancer, as well as for local scholarship funds and other charitable causes. While he appropriately was known for his compassion and energy, Pulver also had an unusual trademark of sorts. "He would never wear a tie," recalled Zenga. "He'd come out wearing a tuxedo but no tie." One of the very rare exceptions took place earlier this year in New Jersey, when Pulver introduced Sacco as an honoree at an event benefiting a local chapter of the Catholic Youth Organization. Pulver is survived by five daughters, two brothers, 10 grandchildren and seven greatgrandchildren. Unions Approve Strategy To Fund Political Action The AFL-CIO 's general board has approved a proposal to finance future political efforts by increasing the amount of money paid to th~ federation by its member umons. Under the plan, approved May 22 in New York during meetings of the federation's executive council, costs incurred for union member education, voter registration and mobilization around legislative and political issues all would be funded via an assessment paid by each union, based on its membership count, through 2005. The additional amount due will be four cents per month per member; it is up to each union to determine how it will cover the obligation. The assessments, scheduled to become effective this month, would generate more than $6 million per year based on the federation's membership of 13 million. In excess of $25 million would be generated over the life of the proposal. "What this money does essentially is allow working families to compete in a political process that they would otherwise be completely shut out of," explained Steve Rosenthal, AFL-CIO political director. "There is no other voice for workers in the legislative and political process." Over the last six years, the unions of the AFL-CIO have built an issues-based member mobilization program that is unparalleled in our nation, federation sources say. Members and their families have been educated and mobilized around the everyday issues that matter the most to them. Millions of union workers have been registered, thousands of union members have been elected to political office, and the overall vote of union household members has increased from 19 percent in 1992 to 26 percent in 2000-an upsurge of nearly 5 million voters. Federation sources point out that the foregoing gains have been achieved despite a growing cash gap between corporate and worker political contributions. In 1992, for example, big business outspent unions 9 to 1. By 2000, business political spending outpaced unions 15-1. In essence, this means that in a political arena where the playing field increasingly is being tilted toward big business and the very rich, working families have to work harder and smarter just to be heard. "The legislative process must not be a one-sided affair, with corporate interests calling all the shots," said AFL-CIO President John Sweeney in the aftermath of the general board's action. "This commitment by today's unions guarantees that working families will have a voice in politics." Houston Barge Co. Pleads Guilty To Pollution The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently reported that Western Towing Co. of Houston pleaded guilty on May 16 to violating the Clean Water Act. According to the EPA, Western Towing (a subsidiary of Kirby Corporation) used river water to pressure-wash the cargo compartments of barges used to transport steel products, grain, gravel, sand, fertilizer and gypsum. The company had authorization to discharge treated wastewater into the San Jacinto River-but it didn't perform the treatments. The EPA noted that "discharging untreated barge-cleaning wastewater into surface waters can harm fish and aquatic life and can make river waters unsuitable for recreational and drinking water usage." Western Towing faces a fine of up to $500,000. Not Quite Sealed With A Kiss, But 44-Day Hershey Strike Ends Union members at two Hershey Foods Corp. plants in Pennsylvania last month overwhelmingly approved a new four-year contract, ending a 44-day work stoppage that largely centered on the costs of health insurance and prescription drugs. The 2,700 employees-all members of Chocolate Workers Local 464, part of the Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers Union (BCTGM)-voted by a 9-to-l ratio in favor of the contract. The pact calls for workers to receive a $525 bonus and yearly pay raises of 46 cents an hour in the first year, 2.7 percent in the second year, 38 cents in year three, and 2.9 percent in year four. In exchange for keeping their insurance co-payments at 6 percent-rather than doubling them, as the company had wanted-the workers accepted lesser raises. Reportedly, they will receive (on average) $1.88 per hour in raises through four years, compared to $2.07 they would have gotten by accepting the costlier insurance payments. Currently, the average wage at the plant is approximately $18 an hour. The union also won the inclusion of more workers in the companyfinanced retiree health plan, and kept employee co-payments for generic drugs at zero. BCTGM International Vice President Bob Oakley, the union's lead negotiator, praised the members for their solidarity and also stated that they reached their goals. "We believe we accomplished what the people's marching orders were," he said. Union members started returning to work almost immediately after the contract ratification. Plans called for all of the workers to be back on the job by late last month. The strike was the first at Hershey Foods since 1980 and was the longest stoppage in the company's 108-year history. The two plants in Hershey, Pa., a town named for business pioneer and philanthropist Milton S. Hershey, account for slightly more than one-fourth of the company's candy production. Hershey brands include Hershey's Kisses chocolates, Almond Joy and Mounds candy bars, Jolly Rancher candy, Reese's peanut butter cups, York peppermint patties and many others. Seafarers LOS 5 �Deadly Barge Crash Renews Concerns A marine accident in late May involving a non-union barge and a bridge-which left 14 people dead in Webbers Falls, Okla.has refueled the debate regarding inland mariner fatigue and, to a lesser extent, documentation and the lack of it among mariners employed aboard inland tugs and tows. The barge (actually two barges joined together), being pushed by towboat pilot William Joe Dedmon, veered off course during the early morning hours of May 27. It struck a pier supporting the Interstate 40 Bridge on the Arkansas River, causing a 500foot section of the structure to Several vehicles collapse. plunged into the water and took 14 people to their deaths. Each year, more that 1,000 casualties occur in the inland tug and barge industry, many of them caused by human error. Dedmon apparently blacked out during the incident, according to news reports, causing the barge to drift outside the navigation channels and hit the bridge. A National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigation found that Dedmon had not slept sufficiently in the two days prior to the collision. Other medical tests revealed that the pilot suffered from heart problems. Mariner fatigue is a key issue confronting the inland industry. Another is documentation. While all American mariners employed in the deep-sea trades are required to be documented by the Cost Guard, many of the 30,000 people employed aboard inland tugs and barges are not. About 10 years ago, the SIU unveiled a study which showed that 58 percent of all marine accidents in the tug and barge industry are caused by human factors-inadequate crewing levels, substandard skills, poor training opportunities, fatigue and drug or alcohol use. A similar picture was painted later in the decade when the International Maritime Organization focused on the entire international maritime industry. The Coast Guard increased the 58 percent figure to the 85 percent mark in the wake of the Oklahoma incident. Contrasting conditions faced by mariners in the tug and barge industry with those encountered by the deep-sea U.S. Merchant Marine, the SIU found "civilian mariners with Cost Guard documents are less susceptible to injury and death than men and women working aboard tugs and tows who don't meet such standards." The issues raised by the Oklahoma incident are significant from many perspectives - marine and personal safety, environmental protection and national security. The U.S. has more than 25,000 miles of navigable waterways. Latest Technology Appears Promising For Cargo Security Groundbreaking technology to better secure cargo containers entering ports and border crossings throughout the United States successfully has been tested, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT). Conducted under the auspices the DOT's Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) program, the experiment involved the use of electronic seals CE-Seals), a radio frequency device that transmits shipment information as it passes reader devices and indicates if a container has been compromised. The E-Seal project is designed to track commercial inbound container shipments from their point of inspection at seaports, along trade corridors, to their point of clearance at U.S. land border crossings, a DOT new release said. Electronic door seals will enable regulatory agencies to determine whether a container has been tampered with at checkpoints and border crossings. Further, the technology can streamline border clearance activities and commercial vehicle enforcement and offer potential benefits to freight carriers including greater accuracy in manifest information, reduced paperwork, improved port and Customs clearances, and opportunities for shipment tracking. "This new technology will help to enhance the security of our nation's transportation system by enabling us to track cargo 6 Seafarers LOG shipments into the United States," DOT Secretary Norman Mineta said June 4 in announcing the successful results of the trials. "E-Seals are just one part of our department's security-focused program that applies both technology and human capital to safeguard America's transportation system." The secretary said the test represents his department's ongoing commitment to make certain that suitable security safeguards can be implemented for the transportation of people and goods, and especially for shipping containers during domestic and international movements. The E-Seals trial involved cargo containers loaded with inbound shipments of auto parts to a Canadian assembly plant. The E-Seals were affixed by Westwood Shipping to containers in Nagano, Japan, shipped through the port of Seattle, and cleared by U.S. and Canadian Customs at the international border crossing in Blaine, Wash. Among agencies and firms participating in the E-Seal project were the Customs Service, the Washington State Department of Transportation, the Washington State Trucking Association, and the ports of Seattle and Tacoma. In addition to Westwood Shipping, Seafarers-contracted Maersk-Sealand and American President Lines also participated in the operational test. AP Photo!The Daily Oklahoman, Nate Billings A 500-foot section of collapsed roadway, from the Interstate 40 Bridge near Webbers Falls, Okla. rests on one of the two barges that crashed into the structure May 27. Union Mourns Passing of Robert Jordan Longtime Mobile, Ala. port official Robert Jordan passed away May 23 while an inpatient at Providence Hospital in Mobile. He was 81 years old. Brother Jordan joined the Seafarers as a charter member in 1938 in his native Mobile. His book number was JOOO 1. A member of the engine department, Brother Jordan sailed in the deep sea division. While at sea, he worked as a fireman, oiler and watertender. Among the vessels on which he sailed early in his SIU career were the S.S. Lebore, Alcoa Cadet, Alcoa Master, and the Hastings. "I first met him in 1981 when I started working here," said SIU Mobile Port Agent Ed Kelly. "I can honestly say that he was one of the good guys here when I came aboard. Robert and my father sailed together back in the old days and I understand that he was quite a mariner. "I never heard anything said negative about him as a patrolman," Kelly continued. "All of the retirees that I have dealt with here at the hall held him in the highest esteem, I'm sure all the Brother Robert Jordan April 18, 1921 - May 23, 2002 retirees and the union as a whole will miss him a great deal." Pensioner Hubert Cain recalled the efficient manner in which Jordan went about his everyday business as a Seafarer. "He was an old-timer here," Cain, a Mobile resident, shared. "He worked with all the SIU's former presidents and knew them quite well. Robert was a real tough guy in a lot of ways, but you had to be that way back in the old days to deal with the seamen. Not many of them gave him any trouble." Cain added, "On the flip side, he was a real fair person, strictly SIU all the way. He'd go down to the ships and take care of everything the members needed. As far as I'm concerned, he was a great man for the SIU and I' 11 miss him a great deal." Tobe Dansley, another SIU retiree who frequents the Mobile hall, had similar memories of Jordan. "I first met him around 1959 and as I recall, he already was a patrolman. Robert was a man who would go to bat for you, especially if you had a beef. You could always count on him to come down to the ships and fight for you, to get your overtime if you had any coming, as well as take care of any other problems you had. "All of us around the all here will miss him," ans ey cone uded. "He was a fine, dedicated SIU man who always looked out for the members." Brother Jordan was buried May 25 at Mobile's Pine Crest Cemetery. He is survived by his wife, Mary of Mobile, Ala., and seven children. Brother Jordan had 26 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. DOT Plans New Ballast Water Regulations Vessels that operate in U.S. waters by the year 2004, in all probability, will face mandatory ballast water management regulations. A recent U.S Coast Guard report to Congress by Secretary of Transportation Norman Mineta concluded that existing ballast water management guidelines- which are voluntary-aren't as effective as they should be. Because of this inadequacy, the U.S. Department of Transportation, acting through the Coast Guard, plans to implement mandatory regulations by 2004, if not earlier. Published reports say the transportation secretary estimates that a proposed rulemaking for the transition from the current laissez-faire system to a compulsory program will be issued in late 2003, with the final completed package in place by the summer of 2004. The government's decision to implement a nationwide mandatory program greatly was influenced by the alarmingly low level of compliance to reporting requirements by vessel operators under the existing system. By language contained in the National Invasive Species Act of 1996, Mineta is required to submit a report to Congress that evaluates compliance with the voluntary guidelines that exist to prevent the introduction and spread of nonindigenous species in U.S. waters through ballast water operations. The transportation secretary's review of all pertinent data led him to conclude that the consistently low rate of vessel reporting makes it unfeasible to access compliance under voluntary guidelines. The move toward mandatory regulations enjoys broad-based support from a number of maritime agencies including the Transportation Institute, which in late May filed comments with the House Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation and Water Resources and the Environment. In short, the remarks reiterated the institute's position that the United States must develop a mandatory national ballast water management program. Such a program, it was pointed out, should integrate specific ballast water practices, including exchange as well as alternative technologies after they have been tested aboard ship and ultimately approved by the Coast Guard. The institute also urged that the national ballast water management program prohibit individual state initiatives that could impose negative influences on marine transportation and hinder the free movement of waterborne commerce. According to Mineta's report, the Coast Guard initially will develop regulations requiring all vessels equipped with ballast tanks entering U.S. waters from beyond the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), or vessels engaged in the U.S. domestic trades, to perform appropriate record keeping and reporting. The agency also will issue regulations requiring vessels equipped with ballast tanks that enter U.S. waters after operating beyond the EEZ to conduct active ballast water management. Among other steps, the Coast Guard also will enforce sanctions established in the National Invasive Species Act for failing to comply with the program's requirements, and continue efforts to establish a quantitative ballast water treatment performance standard; protocols for testing, verifying and reporting on ballast water treatment technologies; and a program to facilitate experimental shipboard installation and operation of promising ballast water treatment technologies. July2002 �Alaska Student Chris Eubanks Gets Paul Hall Center Grant SEA Link, Inc. recently announced that Ketchikan (Alaska) High School senior Chris Eubanks has been selected as the first recipient of The William A. Lund Memorial Scholarship to the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. "The $5,000 scholarship will cover travel costs and other personal expenses related to Chris' admission. to this natio~ally rec?gnized maritime training program that provides youth with the skills needed to work aboard U.S.-flag merchant vessels and guarantees each successful graduate a job in the private sector merchant marine," the company noted. Only individuals who qualify for Workforce Investment Act grants currently receive financial aid toward training at the Paul Hall Center. Though Eubanks is not eligible for state funds, The William A. Lund Memorial Scholarship will enable him to attend. "We work with a lot of kids, some of whom don't qualify for the WIA funding, and it is hard to turn them away," stated Ralph Mirsky, SEA Link executive director. "We are extremely grateful and delighted to be able to offer this opportunity." Eunice Severson of Ketchikan created the scholarship in memory of her son, William Lund, a merchant mariner. The Wi~liam A. Lund Memorial Scholarship will be awarded annually with SEA Link, lnc.-affiliated youth as the beneficiaries. Scholarships will be awarded only to students from the Ketchikan, Alaska area. Chris Eubanks, son of Bob and Lori Eubanks of Ward Cove, Ketchikan, maintained a 3.5 grade point average and played baseball for Ketchikan High School. "I almost passed up this opportunity because I knew I could not pay for the school," Chris said. He is expected to begin his studies this September. . SEA Link, Inc., in partnership with the Seafarers International Union, utilizes state grant funds to recruit qualified indivi~uals for training at the Paul Hall Center. The state grant to SEA Link,. I~c. helps cover the cost of transportation to the Maryland fac1hty, clothing, and pre-entry medical screening. There is no tuition, and additional program costs are funded by U.S.-flag shipping companies. Upon arrival at the training facility, Chris will undergo 12 weeks of seamanship training, 90 days of hands-on training aboard a US.flag merchant marine vessel, and five ad~ition~l w~e~s of cl~s~­ room and hands-on learning. After completmg his trammg, Chris is guaranteed assignment aboard a U.S.-flag vessel. a Innovator Rescues Family Adrift on Disabled Boat The SIU-crewed Innovator on May 20 came to the aid of a recreational boater, his wife and daughter and their pet on the high seas. Life's Dream, a privately owned sailboat, departed Honolulu May 3 for the West Coast. Initially, the vessel was destined for San Diego. Several days into the voyage, though, Harvey Owen (the boat's owner) changed course and headed to San Francisco. On May 17, the boat met with misfortune and consequently was left with a broken rudder and fouled propeller. Life's Dream was seriously distressed and adrift in a position 3 8 degrees north and 134 degrees west. The vessel remained in this condition for three days. Meanwhile, Owen sent out a call for help and did what he could to keep the other occupants in his boat calm. Those inhabitants included his wife, Krista Steele; their 11-year-old daughter, Fantaysia; and a kitten. Four hours after being informed of Life's Dream's dilemma, the Innovator arrived and quickly conducted safe, efficient rescue operations. Gulf Mariner Urges Senate To Probe Anti-Worker Cases In testimony before a U.S. Senate committee looking into the obstacles facing workers who want to form labor unions, Capt. Eric J. Vizier of Lafourche Parish, La. on June 20 asked Congress to investigate the collu- ain and Crew Aid Injured Seal arer f 'When fello~ crevl inate is injured, the speed with which care is rendered can often mean the difference between life and a severe or fatal injury. A recent incident aboard the Performance was a case in point, and the following note from the ship's crew members attest to the quick thinking and concern of those in charge. "Undocking in the port of Algeciras, Spain, one of our union brothers, Greg T. Johnson, was injured while casting a tug line off. "The second mate, Steve Roberto, quickly reported the accident to the bridge. Immediately, Captain J. Jackson asked the second mate to have someone guide Mr. Johnson to the bridge. When Mr. Johnson arrived, the captain and chief mate, Dana Ramsdell, performed a quick examination. "There was no doubt Mr. Johnson needed shoreside medical attention. In the meantime, I witnessed bridge team management and ship handling skills by Captain Jackson, the likes that I've never seen in my 3 1 years at sea. "The vessel was outbound in Algeciras channel. The captain was able to handle Algeciras traffic control, pilots, agents and the vessel manager on the radio and telephone while calmly guiding the vessel r Thanks to the superb efforts of the crew aboard the USSM vessel, all souls were secured. SIU members aboard the Innovator during the rescue were: Bosun Steve Kastel, ABs Maintenance Gheorghe Savencu and Ed Lusk, Watch ABs James Morgan, Incencio Roxas and Joe Salcido (who was at Innovators helm as she approached the distressed vessel), Electrician Chris Earhart, QMED Charles Kirksey, DEU Benny Cruz, SB Pepe Bayani, Chief Cook Mostafa Loumrhari, Stewart Utility Fernando Onativia and Unlicensed Apprentice Michael Fernandez. Bob Lamb of the MM&P captains the Innovator. He had high praise for members of his crew and congratulated them on a job well done during the rescue. The captain's accolades were echoed by SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez who, in a letter to the Innovators ship chairman, wrote, "We wish to commend the crew who participated in the rescue of the persons aboard the sailboat Life s Dream. Had it not been for the rescue efforts, the incident would have been a nightmare." out of the approach and into safe water, alt the while instructing officers and crew what they needed to do to get Mr. Johnson off the vessel safely. "The crew wishes to thank everyone involved, especially Captain Jackson, for his professionalism and consideration for Mr. Johnson's welfare." The note was signed by Bosun Jimmie L. Scheck, AB Charles B. Collins and the rest of the crew aboard the USSM vessel. Crew members aboard the Performance are proud of the way Captain Jackson rallied around their injured shipmate. sive anti-worker practices confronting maritime workers in the Gulf of Mexico's offshore oil sector. "Come to South Louisiana. Talk to the parties involved. Together, let's figure out a way that mariners in South Louisiana can win their rights-their rights to freedom of association and freedom of peech," Vizier told members of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee. Vizier's call came after detailing his harrowing experience with Guidry Brothers Towing Co. of Galliano, La. Vizier and other union supporters at the company were threatened, harassed and dismissed from their positions because of their pro-union activities, according to his testimony. Further, anti-worker boat owners throughout the Gulf of Mexico have engaged in a coordinated attack on the rights of mariners to form a union, he said. "Mariners in the Gulf of Mexico need a union to improve working conditions on the boats and to allow for a better quality of life at home," Vizier added. Anti-worker attacks from Guidry and others began in earnest when Vizier and other Reminder: STCW Basic Safety Training Is Renewable Via Sea Service As previously reported, the U.S. Coast Guard late last year confirmed a change in the way mariners may meet the requirements for renewing STCW Basic Safety Training (BST), a key component of the amended STCW convention . According to National Maritime Center Policy Letter No. 12-01, "A mariner who has met the requirements for initial competency in BST and who is actively serving on seagoing ships will be considered as having demonstrated continuing competence in BST provided he or she completes at least one year of sea service within the past five years. This five-year period is a running calendar in which credit for competency in BST extends for five years beyond the critical date at which the mariner has completed one year of sea service. "To determine the critical date," the letter continues, "review the mariner's sea service starting with the current date and go backward in time until one year of sea service is counted. The period of validity for continuing competence in BST is then five years from the date where the mariner has completed one year of sea service. For example, if on 1 October 2001, you count backward and determine the mariner completed one year of sea service on 1 June 2000, then the mariner is considered to be competent in the four elements of BST July2002 through 31 May 2005. "Using similar dates, if on 1 October 2001 a mariner completed one year of sea service on 1 June 1996, then the BST would have been valid until 31 May 2001. Because 31 May 2001 has passed (today's date in this example is 1 October 2001 ), the mariner has not retained competency in BST." The policy letter also notes that the "critical date" mentioned above will advance as a mariner continues serving on a seagoing vessel. Additionally, Coast Guard regional exam centers (RECs) may accept discharges or sea-service letters "prepared in accordance with current standards" as proof of sea service. If a mariner cannot prove one year of sea service within the past five years, then he or she must complete a U.S. Coast Guard approved or accepted course "approved for revalidation of BST," such as the STCW curriculum available at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md. Despite the fact that the policy letter is dated Oct. 31, 2001, its contents had been under legal review beyond that date. The agency in early December confirmed the policy change. Guidry Brothers employees began working with Offshore Mariners United (OMU), a union federation for maritime workers in the Gulf of Mexico offshore oil service industry. OMV- which is a federation of the unions American Maritime Officers (AMO), International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots (MM&P), Marine Engineers' Beneficial Association (MEBA), and Seafarers International Union (SIU)-is devoted to improving the working conditions of Gulf mariners through collective action in the workplace. Joining Vizier in Washington last month were Capt. Mark Cheramie, a former Guidry mariner, and Capt. Mike Cheramie (no relation), who serves with Trico Marine Services Inc. of Houma, La. The three mariners met with government officials for detailed discussions of anti-worker practices in the offshore service vessel industry. "One of the things I told the senators and staff was that Trico Marine is another company that is actively working against the right of mariners to form a union," Mike Cheramie said. "For two years, Trico mariners have been subjected to threats and intimidation from the company. The company has even fired two captains for supporting the OMU. We have had enough and we demand the right to make a choice for ourselves whether we want union representation. We believe it is our right to make a choice without having to put up with threats from Trico managers." All three mariners participated in a number of events organized as part of the AFL-CIO's Voice@Work month. OMU and its many supporters joined tens of thousands of workers around the country who are exposing employer interference with the freedom to choose a union and to celebrate the efforts of workers who organize despite the odds. Seafarers LOG 7 �- - - - -- -- - - - - - - - -- - - - -- - - - - Cornhusker State Returns to Virginia After Supporting 'Enduring Freedom' The U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) recently reported that the SIU-crewed Cornhusker State arrived May 1 at Newport News, Va. following six months deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. The Cornhusker State, a crane ship, was activated from the U.S. Ready Reserve Force (RRF) to support U.S. operations in Afghanistan. MSC reported that the vessel moved 595 20-foot "container equivalents" and 650 square feet of equipment while activated. The ship was on site to augment the ammunition stores already available in Diego Garcia aboard another SIU-crewed vessel, the prepositioning ship Maj. Bernard F Fisher. According to MSC, the Fisher off-loaded 373 ammunition containers in late October in Diego Garcia to support U.S . Air Force planes involved in Operation Enduring Freedom. Further, yet another Seafarerscrewed ship, the ammunition vessel AJC William H Pitsenbarger, joined the aforementioned ships in Diego Garcia on Feb. 15 with 655 ammunition containers and roughly 300 additional containers to replace the Fishers off-loaded ammunition. Finally, the Cornhusker State in early March assisted the SIUcrewed containership Maersk Alaska, whose cranes had been removed for an exercise. The Cornhusker State moved 139 ammunition containers to its decks from the Maersk Alaska, then loaded 78 containers of retrograde ammunition from shore depots in Diego Garcia to the Maersk Alaska. The RRF is a fleet of76 militarily useful ships maintained in reduced operating status by the U.S. Maritime Administration near potential load ports around the country. When activated, these civilian-crewed ships come under the operational control of MSC. The Cornhusker State was activated last November to transport and provide floating storage for ammunition to sustain the war effort. MSC, the ocean transportation provider for the U.S. Department of Defense, operates about 110 ships daily around the world. MSC ships preposition equipment and supplies near potential hot spots around the globe; provide at-sea logistics to support the Navy fleet; serve as seagoing platforms for special missions; and provide surge sealift of military equipment and supplies in wartime and peacetime. Cape Horn Crew Cites Commendable Work In Dreadful Conditions Editors note: This article and an accompanying photo were submitted by the crew of the Cape Horn. On March 30, 2002 at about 5:45 in the morning, the NMU crew members of the MIV Cape Horn were awakened by the ship's general alarm. It was reported that there was a fire in the engine room. Bosun Rafael "Ray" Aviles and Chief Officer Tim Bohan went down to assess the fire. The deck, engine and steward departments already were "on station" to perform their duties. The fire was put out with the ship's C02 system. Two of our crew members, Chief Mate Bohan and I st Asst. Engineer Phil Hellesto, went below to inspect the engine room, and they both succumbed to smoke inhalation. A distress call was broadcast. The Seafarers-crewed Matson ship SS Maui arrived within hours with her flag at half-mast to honor our fallen brothers. She stood by until the USNS Shasta (crewed by members of the union's government services division) came to our aid. The Shasta brought on board drinking water, fire fighting equipment and towing tools that the bosun had requested (since the Cape Horn wasn't equipped with such tools). The Shasta also Above: The USNS Shasta, pictured from the Cape Horn, assisted by providing towing tools and more. At right: Cape Hom crew members prepare to rendezvous with the USNS Shasta. B Seafarers LOG The Cornhusker State (top) supported America's war against terrorism. The prepositioning vessels Maj. Bernard F. Fisher (below left) and A 1C William H. Pitsenbarger also have been utilized. assisted with hooking up the tow. We want to thank Chief Steward Clark Williams for a job well done and also the chief engineer (Alan Currie) and his entire engine-room staff for their outstanding performance m fighting the fire. Thanks also to Bosun Aviles and the deck crew, with the help of USNS Shasta personnel, for rigging a safe tow and transferring the two fallen crew members to the Shasta. Most of all, a great thanks to our skipper for keeping everything under control from the very beginning. Unlicensed personnel aboard the Cape Horn when these incidents occurred were Bosun Aviles, ABs Robert Brown, Dewayne Lawrence, Carlos Cabezas, Randolph Blanchette and Luvertis Alford; GVAs Mohamed Ali and Jose Macadaan; Electrician Louis Santiago; Oilers Bernard Fanuncial, Eddie Harrison and Jesse Hankins; Wiper Avery Askew; Chief Steward Williams; Chief Cook Bonnie Agno; and Utilities Edison Inuman and James Donkor. Notice - NMU Plans The following information was submitted to the LOG by Silt Dennis, administrator of he MU Benefit Plans. NMU PENSION AND WELFARE PLAN During 2001 the Trustees approved several amendments to the Plan: 1. Qualified participants received a 2% increase in accrued pension benefits as of December 31, 2001. Coupled with two previous 2% increases and the 10% adjustment in 1997, the long-term pension benefits for the membership have improved signifi~n~y. 2. Future retrrees wiU benefif greatly by the amendment approved by the Trustees that eliminates the limitation on the number pension credits a seafarer may earn. Effective January 1, 2001, pension credits are not limited at all. NMU WELFARE PLAN There were six amendments to the NMU Welfare Plan in 2001. The first two were significant changes. The other four were more for administrative expediency: 1. Our disability program was redesigned to provide our disabled seafarers with an orderly transition to Social Security benefits. Since Social Security Disability Income is available after 6 months and Medicare after 24 months, we reduced the disability period from 60 months to 29 months and put the seafarer in a position to receive income and medical coverage for the full length of his or her disability. 2. Due to the ever-increasing costs of prescription medicines, it was necessary to increase the co-payment amount. This increase can be offset, somewhat, by accepting generic drugs. 3. The exclusion from coverage of the drug, Viagara, was continued through July 31, 2002. 4. Language in the regulations regarding ambulance facilities was ambiguous. This amendment simply clarifies the language. 5. At the suggestion of our auditors, the Trustees must now authorize all claims obligated or incurred outside the United States, its possessions, commonwealths or the Republic of Panama. 6. The Trustees have authorized the NMU Welfare Plan to pay all ISOV claims. NMU VACATlON PLAN The sole amendment to the NMU Vacation Plan in 2001 resulted from the merger with SIU. Trustees of both unions have approved a reciprocity amendment that enables seafarers to combine their NMU time with their SIU time to qualify for vacation benefits. This notice contains important benefits information for mariners covered under the NMU Pension, Welfare and Vacation Plans. If you encounter difficulties in understanding this notice, it can be explained to you in Spanish. This assistance can be provided in person at the Plans principal office, located 360 West 31st Street, Third Floor, New York, New York 1001 or can be obtained by contacting a Plans representative at any branch office. The branch office hours are 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. You may also write or call. Letters written in Spanish should be mailed to the Plans office in New York. Telephone calls requesting assistance in Spanish should be directed to the Plans office in New York whose telephone number is 1-212-337-4900 or by calling the tolf free number 1-888-424-4949. July2002 �FDCThreat Continued from page 3 ability" in ownership. He said it is realistic to set and enforce tough standards. Vines went into detail about Liberia's refusal to cooperate with various United Nations sanctions and inquiries. Speaking of FOCs, Vines said, "They offer a high level of corporate secrecy and are easy to obtain. Some flags appear to be particularly inviting for illicit arms trade networks." Following are some additional highlights of the testimony, in order of presentation. Full transcripts are available on the internet at http://www.house.gov/hasc/sch edules/2002 .html. 'ft Should Be Shut Down' Focusing on the atrocities committed in Liberia and the funding role of the Liberian International Ship & Corporate Registry (LISCR), Rep. Wolf stated, "It is critical that we are able to guarantee that the Liberian flag registry revenues are transparent and are going toward the needs [of] the people of Liberia, who have suffered so much. If we cannot guarantee this, it should be shut down." He submitted several reports for the official record, and declared that they "lead to one conclusion in the past the Liberian-flag registry has been implicated in contributing to the continued reign of Charles Taylor, the leader one of the most brutal, murderous and dangerous regimes in the world. In short, there is blood on the flag." Beyond the humanitarian concern, Rep. Wolf concluded, "the links between al Qaeda and other international terrorist activity and Charles Taylor put this entire matter U.S. Rep. Gene Taylor (D-Miss.) U.S. Rep. Frank Wolf (R-Va.) in a new light. We need a guarantee that Charles Taylor can no longer exploit this resource. A financial relationship no longer just supports a brutal African dictator causing misery for a far away people; it tacitly supports a terrorist organization dedicated to the destruction of the United States." maritime homeland security." He added, "The massive flow of people and goods across our maritime borders helps fuel our economy, but also serves as a potential conduit for terrorists and weapons of mass destruction. As an open society, our nation's harbor complexes are accessible to thousands of maritime workers and ships from all corners of the world. The challenge we face today is balancing the security and economic needs of our country. "This can only be done by filtering out potential terrorist activities from a massive steam of legitimate commerce. A key in meeting this challenge is better awareness of the cargo entering the country and the people who own, operate and service the thousands of vessels enter- 'Significant Challenge' The agency's assistant commandant for marine safety and environmental protection, Rear Adm. Pluta noted that "with more than 7,500 foreign-flag ships originating from 92 different flag States making approximately 51,000 port calls annually, the United States faces a significant challenge. There are two areas of concern - vessel safety and 'You Work For A Murderer' U.S. Rep. Duncan Hunter has a way of cutting straight to the heart of the matter. He repeatedly did so during last month's hearing on FOCs, but never more memorably than near the end of the lengthy inquiry. Speaking directly to Yoram Cohen, CEO of the Liberian ship registry, Hunter said, "You work for a guy (Liberia President Charles Taylor) who's a murderer." Hunter also said, in response to Cohen's assertions that the U.S. could depend on Liberian-flagged ships in times of crisis, "I'd think it's a sad day for the U.S. if we're depending on Liberia for our security." Defining an FOC David Cockroft, general secretary of the International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF), submitted testimony for last months hearing on flags of convenience, also known as runaway flags. He opened with an incisive profile of FOCs that is especially instructive for those just familiarizing themselves with this crucial issue. His remarks also are an effective refresher for those already acquainted with runaway flags. Portions of Cockrofts testimony follow: Under international law, every ship must sail under a flag of a state, and the ship carries the nationality of the flag it flies. A ship's flag provides the protection of a government while on the high seas. At the same time, flag states are responsible for exercising effective jurisdiction and control in administrative, technical and social matters over the ships flying their flag. They are responsible for ensuring safety, training and maritime pollution standards and minimum social conditions on board their ships and can raise revenue by imposing taxes on vessel owners. Traditionally, most flag states had strict nationality rules for both the shipowner and crew. However, since the Second World War, a number of countries began the practice of effectively renting out their country's flag to shipowners of any nationality, guaranteeing the absolute minimum of rules, regulations and taxes. These are called 'flags of convenience' (FOCs), also known as open registries. Today, approximately 30 countries effectively rent their country's flag to shipowners of any national- July2002 ity, guaranteeing secrecy and noninterference. These countries regard having a register as solely a method of earning revenue and have no interest in maritime transport other than the revenue that accrues from allowing foreign shipowners to fly their flag. They profit from their shipping register because they accept fees but do not effectively exercise control over the ships in their fleet or the companies owning these vessels. This is in stark contrast to the practice in major maritime nations and in other countries where the right to fly the national flag is subject to stringent conditions and involves far reaching obligations. In fact, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) has estimated that the cost advantages of using a flag-of-convenience vessel rather than a genuine national flag ship was up to one million dollars a year even if all international safety and social standards were scrupulously observed. In addition to lax company requirements and any meaningful regulation of the shipping or company operation, FOCs offer inexpensive registration, low or nonexistent taxation, and the freedom to employ cheap labor from any country. The FOC system enables some shipowners to secure an unfair competitive advantage over their competitors by the avoidance of taxation and social security requirements; by allowing the shipowner to determine the extent to which the requirements set out in applicable international instruments are complied with-including those related to fundamental human and trade union rights and to the safety of life at sea and the protection of the marine environment; reductions in manning levels to the point where it is impossible to undertake essential maintenance, and flexibility in the choice of the nationality of the crew; and, undercutting high standard traditional registers. Essentially, the FOC system provides a hiding place for shipowners to avoid the restrictions of international law, where states sell their sovereignty to those wishing to avoid flag state interference in safety, environmental or labor standards and the transparency of their corporate structure. A culture of secrecy and evasion and lack of transparency of ownership and control permeates the FOC system. Under the system, the registered owner of most ships is a 'shell company' set up for the sole purpose of owning that one ship. In turn, the registered owner is often owned by another company that may itself be registered in another country with very liberal company laws. The use of bearer shares, nominee directors and corporate directors within international business corporations creates a complex web which may stretch across a number of jurisdictions and makes tracing who is actually behind the operation almost impossible. This corporate structure that works well for shipowners, as well as for criminals and terrorists, allows the shipowner the ability to disappear from any accountability that may be attached to him through vessel ownership. If anything goes wrong, the company ceases to exist and no information is forthcoming .... Most FOCs do not require the provision of audited accounts, including some of the largest regis- U.S. Maritime Administrator Capt. William Schubert (left), U.S. Coast Guard Rear Adm. Paul J. Pluta ing the U.S. every year. The solution will require ready access to detailed and accurate information, and sharing that information more effectively among our federal agencies and with our domestic and international partners in both the private and public sectors. The dynamics of a global economy and the resultant demands on our transportation system will require a continued coordinated national and international effort." 'We Know Who Owns Our Ships' The maritime administrator discussed the threat posed by FOCs and emphasized the need to strengthen the U.S.-flag fleet. "Our heightened need for homeland security requires that we examine the potential impact of the lack of transparency within open registries, which could ultimately lead to a serious threat to our nation's safety and security .... A shipowner who registers his or her vessel in an open registry does not need to have any connection or link to the country sponsoring the registry. As a result, the flag of convenience regimes can inadvertently open the door for criminal and terrorist activity that would be impossible under the U.S.-flag registry or David Cockroft ITF General Secretary ters-for example, Panama, Liberia, Bahamas and Belize. A number do not reveal the names of shareholders or directors .... It is both easy and very inexpensive for an owner to hide behind a string of companies. Bearer shares are permitted in half of the countries concerned- for example, in Panama, Liberia, Bahamas, Belize and Honduras. This is certainly not a culture that promotes the spread of meaningful information concerning the shipping activities of any company or owner under the FOC system. Further, in almost all of the FOC registries, there exists a level of secrecy regarding shareholders that also makes it very difficult to trace an owner. Confidentiality is a provision in the law for many of these countries .... Fundamental to the FOC system is a total lack of transparency. In fact, this corporate structure underpins the FOC system and affects not only the viability of merchant shipping but has considerable negative implications for the wider civil society and order as it facilitates transnational criminal activities and terrorism. other reputable flag states with high standards like the United States." Capt. Schubert said that U.S. crews employed on U.S.-flag ships "provide the pool of seafarers needed for both commercial and government sealift fleets in times of national emergency or crisis." He continued, "The credible presence of a U.S.-flag fleet of vessels in larger numbers in international trade provides the U.S. government with the greatest influence in international bodies that create international standards of conduct with respect to shipping safety, as well as commerce .... Now more than ever, our presence as a flag state is critical to our national interests. If we lost all our U.S.-flag vessels to open registries tomorrow, our presence in the international maritime arena would be diminished to that of a port state only - at a tremendous cost to U.S. national security and economic interests. Schubert acknowledged that "encouraging shipowners to return to the U.S. flag is a daunting task, especially when compared to the economic advantages of open registries. However, the best way to protect our homeland and national security interests across the globe is a strong U.S.-flag fleet manned by U.S. citizen mariners. If we did not have the Jones Act , cargo preference, and the MSP and VISA programs, I can assure you it is unlikely that ships would remain under US.flag, and the U.S.-citizen mariner pool needed by the Department of Defense in times of national emergency or war would disappear. "Many maritime scholars, industry experts and some members of Congress have suggested a complete reexamination of the tax laws which govern merchant shipping in order to create more incentives for investment by shipowners to return to the U.S. flag. These and other options to increase the number of vessels under U.S. registry should be fully explored and given the highest consideration. "In today's environment, we should not compromise our security. In the United States we know who owns our ships, who operates them and who crews them. There is no better assurance to our nation's national security interests than a strong U.S.-flag Merchant Marine." FOC = Hiding Place Representing the SIU and the ITF (an international federation of 594 transport trade unions in 136 countries representing approximately 5 million transport workers), Heindel said the FOC system "provides a hiding place for shipowners to avoid the restrictions of international law, where states sell their sovereignty to those wishing to avoid flag state interference in safety, environmental or labor standards and the transparency of their corporate structure. "And herein lies one of the most serious deficiencies with the FOC system - the lack of transparency in corporate structure - that both the ITF and SIU view as a facilitator of Continued on page 14 Seafarers LOS 9 �Videos of Lost German Sub Help Re-Write WWil History When many Americans think of the role played by the U.S. Merchant Marine in World War II, they immediately conjure up an image of the D-Day invasion at Normandy Beach or the convoy of Allied ships, known as the Murmansk Run, which delivered supplies to Russian troops. Fewer remember the ships that were sunk by German Uboats off our own coast, many of them near the mouth of the Mississippi River. On July 30, 1942, one such vessel- the 375foot passenger freighter Robert E. Lee- was transporting war refugees from Europe as well as survivors from previous torpedo attacks. There were 406 persons aboard, including the crew, and 4 7 tons of cargo, when, only 45 miles to the mouth of the Mississippi River, the ship was fired upon and sunk by a 20-foot long torpedo from U-boat 166. Fortunately-and miraculously--only 25 people (10 crew members and 15 passengers) died aboard the Robert E. Lee. The 381 survivors were able to make it to rafts or lifeboats. The final resting place of the Robert E. Lee was previously known; the whereabouts of U-boat 166 after firing its torpedo, however, has remained a mystery. The U.S. government has claimed all along that a small U.S. Coast Guard twin-engine airplane sank the 252-foot sub in 120 feet of water two days after the Robert E. Lee went down, resulting in the loss of all 52 members of the submarine crew. And, in fact, the National Museum of Naval Aviation in Pensacola, Fla. has put that plane on display. But no trace of the U-boat has ever been found-until last spring. That's when, during pipeline surveys in the Gulf of Mexico by BP and Shell Oil Co., gray shapes appeared on the sonar screen just about a mile northeast of the Robert E. Lee. The two oil companies paid for additional exploration by an 18-foot long sophisticated, unmanned submarine, which confirmed that the cigar-shaped sonar image was, indeed, the wreckage of the U-166. The German sub, broken into two pieces, is lying in the silt under 5,000 feet of water. The video clearly shows the conning tower and massive damage consistent with a direct hit by a depth charge. s 10 Seafarers LOG Port of New Bedford Re-Writing History It is now believed that the Coast Guard plane actually dropped its load on the U-171 , an identical sub to the U-166. The U-171 eventually made its way back to Europe and was eventually destroyed later that year when it accidentally entered a minefield in the Bay of Biscay. "I think we can say with 98 percent certainty, the patrol plane did not attack the U-166. Instead it was the U-171 ," said Martin Morgan of the National D-Day Museum in New Orleans. Video provided during the pipeline survey by the remotely operated submarine proves that the U-166 was attacked by a U.S. attack cruiser, the Patrol Corvette 566, a 173-foot steel-hulled Navy patrol craft that had been commissioned in June 1942 and was half a mile away from the sinking Robert E. Lee. It tried to chase the German sub and succeeded in rolling several 300-pound depth charges off the stem. But there was no evidence or indication-no debris or oil slick-that the PC-566 had been successful in hitting the U-boat, so it circled back to pick up some of the survivors from the Robert E. Lee. The crew of the PC-566 believed they were right on top of the U-166 and wondered how they could have missed sinking it. Now, however, following the underwater surveys, it appears as if the PC-566 did, in fact, hit its mark. The U-166 was the only submarine sunk in the Gulf of Mexico during the war. BP and Shell Oil have decided to re-route their pipeline a mile to the west, as a result of the findings. The German government has declared the wreckage of the U-166 a war grave, and it is likely that whatever remains of its 52 crew members will not be disturbed. Jahn W. Brawn Cruises into the Past In the dark, early days of World War II, Allied merchant ships were being sunk far faster than they could be built. Soon, the vital sea lanes would be closed and the fate of Europe sealed. America's answer to this great challenge was the Liberty ship. In 18 emergency shipyards around the country, a huge fleet of more than 2, 700 identical freighters were built in record time between 1941 and 1945 to carry the cargo and troops needed to win the war. Of those 2, 700 vessels, two still remain: the Jeremiah 0 'Brien is displayed in near mint condition in San Francisco, and the John W. Brown home port is Baltimore. Project Liberty Ship is an allvolunteer, not-for-profit organization dedicated to the preservation of the John W. Brown as a living memorial and museum ship honoring the men and women who built the great American wartime merchant fleet and the merchant mariners and Naval Armed Guards who sailed them. The Brown was built in 1942 and had an active and distinguished war record. It made one voyage as a standard cargo-carrying Liberty ship and then became the first of 220 Liberty ships to see service as a limited capacity troopship, carrying almost 10,000 military personnel of the Allied powers as well as two shiploads of Axis prisoners. It served at AroundtJJe Anzio, was in Naples during numerous German bombing raids and made the D-Day invasion of Southern France in 1944. Numerous ships in the same convoy were sunk or damaged by Uboats or enemy aircraft, but the John W Brown survived unscathed. Today, it is the last surviving operational troopship of World War II. After the war, the Liberty ship carried cargo across the North Atlantic to help rebuild the shattered European nations and, in December 1946, was loaned by the Maritime Commission to the City of New York to serve as a floating high school, where it was lovingly cared for by thousands of students and by the many dedicated instructors who operated the nation's only nautical high school. The Brown s career as a schoolship ended in 1982 and, after unsuccessful attempts to berth the vessel in New York, it went on display in Baltimore. With the continued help of Project Liberty Ship, the John W. Brown is not only a museum ship and a great educational tool- it can still steam on its own power. Restored to steaming condition in 1991, the Brown made its first Chesapeake Bay cruise that September. Since that first Bay trip, more than 30,000 people have "cruised into history" aboard the historic World War II Liberty ship, which has made more than 40 passenger-carrying voyages, including visits this spring to sites of different WWII Liberty ship shipyards- Savannah, Brunswick and Jacksonville. It has steamed as far north as Halifax, Nova Scotia and in 2000, made a 31h-month voyage to the Great Lakes. A special troopship reenactment will take place on Veterans Day in Baltimore. Anyone interested in signing on with Project Liberty Ship or joining in the experience of cruising into history, may call (410) 661-1550 or visit their web site at www.liberty-ship.com. Following a payoff on the Energy Enterprise, SIU New Bedford Port Agent Henri Francois (second from left) meets with crew members. From the left are AB Alberto Lima, Francois, Cook Wilfredo Perez and Chief Steward Francisco Delgado. GVA Richard Molina Blackman takes the English proficiency test at the union hall in New Bedford. Bosun Jerry Che11e participates in a meeting aboard the Energy Enterprise when the vessel paid off in Bray on Point, Mass. Right: Nidia Pereira, the secretary at the New Bedford union hall, gives member Tony Curran the necessary paperwork for a visit to the clinic. Shark Attacks: Seafarer Urges SIU Members To Use Caution When Entering Ocean Waters There were 76 unprovoked shark attacks in the United States last year, nearly half of them in Florida, according to the International Shark Attack File (ISAF) at the Florida Museum of Natural History in Gainesville. But the Atlantic Coast of the U.S. is not the only area in which sharks have been injuring innocent bathers. Just within the past few months, shark attacks have been reported in Florida, Australia, the Bahamas, Turks and Caicos Islands, and Hawaii. SIU member Robert Cartmel of Honolulu sent the Seafarers LOG several recent articles from the Honolulu Star-Bulletin and the Honolulu Advertiser about a number of shark attacks off the Hawaiian islands, and he urged all Seafarers to watch for sharks at sea and to be particularly careful when entering the water. While the ISAF notes that the relative risk of a shark attack is very small, those risks can be further reduced by heeding the following advice: • Always stay in groups since sharks are more likely to attack a solitary individual. • Do not wander too far from shore-this isolates an individual and additionally places one far away from assistance. • Avoid being in the water during darkness or twilight hours when sharks are most active. • • • • • • • • Do not enter the water if bleeding from an open wound. Do not wear shiny jewelry because the reflected light resembles the sheen of fish scales. Avoid waters with known sewage and those being used by sport or commercial fishermen, especialy if there are signs of bait fishes or feeding activity. Sightings of porpoises do not indicate the absence of sharks-both often eat the same food. Use extra caution when waters are murky (although sharks will attack in crystal-clear water as well). Refrain from excess splashing and do not allow pets in the water because of their erratic movements. Exercise caution when occupying the area between sandbars or near steep dropoffsthese are prime hangouts for sharks. Do not enter the water if sharks are known to be present, and evacuate the water if sharks are seen. July2002 �ON THE GREAT LAKES Great Lakes Seafarers, including OS John Logan, OS Jesse Hernandes and OS Dean Parks, show their support for Operating Engineers Local 324 against Turn-Key, which, they claim, is not paying wages and fringe benefits as established in the Great Lakes region. Bill Mulcahy is the bosun aboard the H. Lee White. At Work With the SIU ABOARD THE CHESAPEAKE IN DIEGO GARCIA IN THE NORFOLK HALL In the comfortable Norfolk hall, Walter "Hooks" Pallard (left) and retired member Morris "Bo" Williams share their sailing experiences. Rafael Clarke AB Passing the time with fellow retirees are Hayward Lee, Freddie Williams, Mack Young , Melvin McCray and Edward Martin. Almarca Arriola Steward Assistant Below: Chatting Herman "Chubby" Hall, the maintenance manager in the Norfolk hall, are retired member Plummer Hendricks and Chief Cook Edward Wallace. Above : Chief Cook Kelvin ·Fisher waits for the next job call. Abdulrahman Al-Okaish AB Steven J. Kendrick AB July2002 Seafarers LOii 11 �When most SID-crewed ships pull into port for a they are met by a boarding patrolman, who can updat crew members on any important issues of the day an answer any contractual questions they may have. But the vessels are stationed in Guam (in the Pacific) and Garcia (in the Indian Ocean), that personal contact is difficult to achieve. The situation has been alleviated in Guam, followi 2000 opening of a hall there under the direction of P Agent Matthew Holley. Nevertheless, when Sill Vice President West Coast Nick Marrone wanted to experi firsthand the activites taking place on the island, he warmly welcomed by the membership. Marrone and Holley attended Maritime Day cere at the Seaman's Club and talked to crew members ab some of the ships about the importance of SPAD and continuation of a strong U.S.-flag fleet. Clockwise from top: The USNS Chesapeake, A 1C William H. Pitsenbarger, Cape Jacob and Sagamore are just four of the many vessels in Diego Garcia that were serviced by SIU Tacoma Port Agent Bryan Powell recently. Others, not pictured, are the USNS Dahl, USNS Charlton, USNS Watkins, USNS Gunnery Sgt. Fred W. Stockham, James Anderson, Lt. Col. John U.D. Page, Bernard F. Fisher, SSG Edward A. Carter, Jr., USNS Red Cloud, USNS Pomeroy, USNS Watson, William Baugh, Pvt. Franklin J. Phillips and American Cormorant. Maritime Day celebrations took place on Diego Garcia, complete with a specially decorated cake. Below, Chief Steward Jim Battista serves dinner aboard the USNS Watson. Wayne Wilson, chief steward on board the Cape Jacob, prepares lunch in the shipboard galley. 12 Seafarers LOB This is one of the many launches used by the U.S. Navy to provide transportation between the shore in Diego Garcia and the anchored ships. July2002 �ayoff, ~the when Diego more tig the rt :nee as onies ~ard the In the aftermath of the terrorist activites of September 11, port security also was a prime topic. Much of the same information was disseminated by SIU Tacoma Port Agent Bryan Powell when he visited many of the ships in the Diego Garcia area. He noted that there is a slow, steady buildup of equipment and supplies on the island since the U.S. began attacks in Afghanistan in the war on terrorism, and the expectations are that this isolated island will be one of the most crucial operations in that war with regard to air power, supplies and logistics for U.S. military activity in the Middle East region. The ships prepositioned in Guam and in Diego Garcia are on stand-by alert, ready to sail at a moment's notice to provide ammunition, stores, vehiSIU Vice President West Coast Nick Marrone (center) is cles and other material needed flanked by Chief Steward William Kane and Bosun by American military ground Robert M. Cando aboard the Sgt. William R. Button. forces in times of rapid deployment. SIU Vice President West Coast Nick Marrone talked with Seafarers aboard some of the ships that are stationed in Guam. Above, he meets with crew members on the Sgt. William R. Button, informing them of current activites within the maritime industry, as well as discussing the everyday life aboard a prepositioned vessel in Guam. A hearty "Hafa Adai" (welcome) was given to SIU Vice President West Coast Nick Marrone aboard the Lt. Col. Calvin P. Titus by (from left) deck department members Andy Guiterrez, Richard Hannon, Dan Bratta, Randy Travis, Tom Morgan and Kelly Doyle. Left Oiler Robert Stafford (left) and DEU Jesse Toves both drop by the SIU hall in Guam to register after getting off the SP5 Eric G Gibson. Crew members aboard the Enterprise include (from left) Bosun Robert Wilson, AB George Moxley and SA Nagi Saeed. Cook/Baker Gregory Williams adds some whipped cream to complete the dessert offering on the Sgt. William R. Button. The crew aboard the Pacifica was very happy to see SIU Vice President West Coast Nick Marrone (sixth from left) during his recent visit to the area. Ju/y2002 Frances C.T. Booker (left), secretary at the SIU hall in Guam, boards the Lt. Col. Calvin P. Titus to meet with Bosun Michael Sinclair and drop off some paperwork. AB Ondongee Pegram checks in for a job at the SIU hall in Guam with his three-year-old daughter, A'zhanea, in tow. Seafal'el'S LOS 13 �Runaway Flags Continued from page 9 • transnational criminal activities and terrorism. FOC vessels have been linked to the registration of hijacked ships, phantom ships, fraudulent mariner documentation, illegal unreported and unregulated fishing, illegal alien smuggling and, most recently to international terrorism." He said that the lack of transparency in the corporate structure of FOCs "is a threat to national and maritime security. One can also posture that the nautical prerogative of an American owner registering a vessel under a flag of convenience that ignores all legitimate safety, security, environmental and social concerns is similarly a threat to U.S. maritime and defense security." Heindel (along with others who testified) took issue with so-called effective control, the risky notion that foreign-flagged, U.S.-owned vessels readily will be available - and useful - to America in times of crisis. In addition to asserting that most of the vessels in that category wouldn't be militarily useful even if they were available, Heindel pointed out the "potential changes in attitudes of the FOC host countries and crews make availability and responsiveness questionable. We must remember that FOC vessels are crewed by a plethora of nationals Philippine, Chinese, Indian, Pakistani, Russian, Ukrainian and South Korean - as well as those from other foreign countries that could pose a threat to U.S. security. . .. The SIU advances that we must, as an international leader of the free world, have the means under our own flag, with our own American crews and under our own control to fulfill our commitments and supply our military programs." ial to Security The chairman of the International Commission on Shipping (ICONS) and a senior researcher for Human Rights Watch, Morris said that transparency in shipping is fundamental to security. "It is difficult to [envision] the establishment of any reliable system of ensuring the true identity of ship owners/controllers and mariners based on the present regime of offshore registers," he sated. "An essential first step in establishing a reliable and effective identification system should be an examination of each of the offshore registers to determine who are the ship owners and where are they domiciled .... "There is little doubt that the failure of the industry to move forward to a more transparent style of operation in common with other forms of transport has been a factor in the failure of governments to understand the needs of the industry. The secrecy surrounding the tasks of classification societies, inspection reports for insurers, charterers, flag state investigations, the incidence of work related illnesses and non-fatal injuries at sea all combine to cover up the evils of substandard shipping. Such information is readily available in shore-based industries as essential management tools." Morris said that "cutthroat, destructive competition in freight rates is the underlying cause of substandard shipping, crew exploitation and crew abuse. It has been facilitated by the ease with which substandard operators can avoid ship safety and crew competence requirements by shopping around among flag states, classification societies, insurers, manning agencies, ship operators and port state control authorities without being held to account." He also noted that while gathering information for an intemation- 14 Seafarers LOS ally acclaimed ICONS report, "We were appalled by the nature of some of the practices inflicted upon seafarers and their families. In the course of the commission's bearings, ICONS was told repeatedly of cases of cheating of seafarers, blacklisting of seafarers, abandonment of seafarers, manipulation of the remittance of family allotments, reduced contractual compensation entitlements linked to 'quit claims' and general releases, and placement fees for jobs. The worst features include delayed or non-payment of wages, denial of adequate food and accommodation, denial of medical treatment and rest time, physical and psychological abuses, sexual abuse and abandonment .... Many of the abuses have been known to the shipping industry, charterers and cargo owners for a long time. They are facilitated by the obsessive secrecy surrounding the industry that does not apply in other forms of transport." Transiting the Panama Canal Aboard the ITB Phi1adelphia Jose Ramirez is the pumpman on the /TB Philadelphia. Before heading for a payoff in Texas, the ITB Philadelphia had to sail through the Panama Canal-always an exciting trip for all crew members. These photos were snapped aboard the Sheridan Transportation Co. vessel during that voyage and while the crew took part in a routine shipboard fire drill. Avoiding Scrutiny In meticulous detail, Vines, also a senior researcher for Human Rights Watch, relayed the role of FOCs in illegal activities. "Many ships use such flags to save costs, but also because arms dealers and their networks involved in this trade want to avoid scrutiny," he said. "Some flags of convenience provide ideal cover for setting up front companies. The operators also exploit weak controls on Bosun John Nichols (left) and AB transport. They often file false Chris Meier are dressed for the drill. manifests and submit fraudulent documents while sailing improperly registered ships to ply their trade. "The most dramatic recent example of a flag-of-convenience ship being used for gunrunning was in January 2002 when the Tonganflagged general cargo ship the Karine A was seized in the Red Sea carrying 50 tons of arms and explosives, which Tsrael said was bound for Yasser Arafat's Palestinian Authority. Two months later another Tongan-flagged vessel, the Monica, was apprehended by the French navy while trying to transport 1,000 asylum seekers to Italy." Turning his attention to the Taking part in a fire and safety Liberian registry, Vines noted that drill are (from left) Chief Mate obtaining a Liberia flag "takes only Paul Schwartz, 3ra Mate Brian a couple of days and does not Belanger, 3rn Engineer Andrew require disclosure of share ownerAssistant Cook Mohamed Mosa Davis, AB Isaac Amissah and organizes the salad bar ingredients. ship or the names of the applicant AB Naptali Lopez. company's directors. There is no requirement for any annual reports or audits. Such a system is attractive for gunrunning, where the real owner of a particular ship is hard to identify and therefore difficult to hold accountable. "The trade, of course, depends on the ability of clients or their patrons to pay, whether in cash or precious gems or-as the Liberia panel found was the trend in Liberia-through direct bank transfers to arms traffickers from government accounts or those of private business interests allied to the government." Vines went on to explain how Liberia's weapons purchases from 1999 to 2001 were mainly financed by off-budget spending by the Liberian government, or payments made from revenue that bypassed the central bank and was therefore not accounted for in the budget. "In particular, income received from the U.S.-based Liberian International Shipping and Corporate Registry (LISCR) was used to pay for illegal arms shipments." Among other insightful accounts about Liberia, Vines noted that when a U.N. panel attempted to check the accounts of that nation's Bureau of Maritime Affairs in April 2002, "it was not able to do so. The panel was informed that a generator had broken down and that it would be From the left are AB Naptali Lopez, 3rn Mate Brian Belanger, GUDE Adrian Davis, Pumpman Jose Ramirez, repaired only after the panel had AB Isaac Amissah, DEU Roger Abramson, Bosun John Nichols, Chief Mate Paul Schwartz, T. Hopkins and left Liberia." Assistant Cook Mohamed Mosa. July2002 �Dispatchers' Report for Deep Sea MAY 16 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C TOTALSffiPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port Algonac Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Port 25 11 33 14 13 19 0 3 3 1 15 14 5 15 19 15 3 0 1 2 6 30 l 33 27 270 5 8 3 5 25 14 0 2 6 6 1 13 23 41 12 3 4 10 11 27 12 172 o Baltimore 4 ~uam o 0 3 0 Honolulu Houston Jacksonville 5 4 18 9 14 New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Port Algonac Baltimore 25 9 7 3 13 11 12 5 4 3 10 2 5 5 12 4 17 13 11 142 3 11 7 108 0 0 Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Pllerto Rico .San Francisco _~.!. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals 11 15 25 7 9 15 12 1 4 2 26 l 19 23 173 DECK DEPARTMENT 0 1 0 6 3 2 2 6 1 10 16 26 11 10 19 4 8 5 2 6 16 2 5 24 10 16 16 130 174 2 3 6 1 5 6 12 1 5 0 5 0 0 6 53 2 2 2 2 5 0 3 6 5 3 4 1 6 3 3 2 50 2 9 4 19 9 121 5 21 49 12 21 7 3 4 4 9 1 0 I 2 2 1 6 48 11 0 3 68 17 36 54 27 10 6 9 13 5 2 2 10 11 0 16 12 125 4 17 46 5 55 50 471 0 4 0 0 1 0 0 2 0 4 1 0 12 5 14 12 2 6 6 2 3 11 2 0 6 0 2 0 0 5 5 2 2 9 7 0 3 1 7 8 3 0 0 0 2 3 3 3 3 36 3 18 17 50 16 20 2 0 1 0 4 3 4 1 l 7 9 0 3 1 0 3 3 0 0 32 7 11 4 0 15 0 19 17 126 2 0 0 l 0 0 2 35 0 18 0 3 Boston ..................... Friday: August 9, September 6 Duluth ..................... Wednesday: August 14, September 11 43 33 3 7 9 17 2 Honolulu .................Friday: August 16, September 13 3 2 Houston .................. Monday: August 12, September 9 14 8 8 4 30 25 272 25 36 243 l . 2 13 27 12 14 7 3 16 . 24 .· 20 15 16 18 6 16 7 7 3 5 6 16 3 20 15 227 3 11 6 2 3 9 I 5 Baltimore ................ Thursday: August 8, September 5 20 40 0 0 18 Algonac .................. Friday: August 9, September 6 10 16 0 10 13 2 3 2 2 2 Jacksonville ............ Thursday: August 8, September 5 Jersey City .............. Wednesday: August 21, September 18 Mobile .................... Wednesday: August 14, September 11 0 0 I 6 0 14 10 67 :New Orleans ........... Tuesday: August 13, September 10 3 5 3 12 3 . New York................Tue8day: Augusf6, September 3 5 Norfolk ......·:.; ... , .. :\.:Thursday: August 8. September 5 Philadelphia.~ ...... ::.,,Weqnesday: San Francisco .........Thursday: August 15~. ~epte:rnt,Jer 12 4 San Juan .................. Thursday: August 8, September 5 1 6 4 10 21 17 181 8 101 1 0 3 2 0 0 0 18 6 0 8 24 3 4 8 14 34 9 12 26 0 0 10 7 3 20 14 5 5 4 38 1 34 2 5 1 7 1 41 10 277 76 ~~~~ 8 11 6 2 4 0 2 28 35 2 8 2 30 2 8 2 19 6 176 14 0 3 0 24 0 16 0 509 20 Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico 0 2 3 San Francisco 5 0 5 3 51 636 0 l 3 2 2 8 12 14 5 0 9 l 3 2 0 4 () 1 3 7 l 0 0 0 0 St. Louis ................. Friday: August 16, September 13 Savannah ................ Friday: August 9, September 6 Tacoma ................... Friday: August 23, September 20 Wilmington ...............Tuesday: August 20* Monday: September 16 *(change created by Paul Hall birthday holiday) Each port's meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals 9 7 SERGIO CASTELLANOS 1 2 Please contact your brother at (773) 728-8331 or write to him at 4830 North Hoyne Street, Chicago, IL 60640. 0 0 1 3 JOHN WILLIAMS Scott Heginbotham would like to get in touch with John Williams, who was last known to be sailing MSC. Please contact Scott at MIV MaerskArizona, c/o Maersk Lines, Ltd., 120 Corporate Blvd., Suite 400, Norfolk, VA 23502-4952. 53 ~~- 0 2 0 9 0 0 0 0 0 8 1 7 1 -~--- 14 8 3 1 4 64 46 42 6 27 4 15 4 21 0 30 27 387 784 5 9 188 0 4 2 0 17 86 3 79 0 27 0 11 85 400 411 311 169 246 1,060 867 0 2 3 5 2 3 10 1 4 0 0 0 *"Total Registered" means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **"Registered on Beach" means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. A1TENTION SEAFARERS: 63 20 5 36 7 27 2 32 15 338 22 --- 27 14 2 0 3 7 10 0 6 August 7, September 4 Port Ever~lades....t-~Th~rsday: August 15, September 12 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 0 Piney Point ............. Monday: August 5 Tuesday: September 3* *(change created by Labor Day holiday) 26 0 5 0 10 33 0 1 0 10 13 1 0 0 0 0 7 6 6 4 3 6 0 3 3 8 23 July2002 0 August & September 2002 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters New Bedford .......... Tuesday: August 20, September 17 0 5 0 0 l· Totals All Departments 2 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 0 3 0 1 0 10 5 8 6 7 2 5 5 84 69 24 54 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 2 5 l Tacoma Wilmington Totals 15 15 5 12 7 Port St:Louis Trip Reliefs ENGINE DEPARTMENT Algonac · Mobile . JUNE 15, 2002 cr;l(T'lltl/£ ra r11E SEAt=A~E~S POL.tTICAL.. ,ACTION OONAT\ON Seafarers LOG 15 �. 1V1'1U Monthly Shipping A Registration Report Sealann lntemational Union Directory MAY2002 Michael Sacco, President TOTAL REGISTERED J-0bn Fay, &ecutive Vice President AU Groups Group I Group II David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer TOTAL smPPED Group Ill Group I All Groups Group II REGISTERED ON BEACH Group Ill Augustin Tellez, Vice President Contracts ' Trip Reliefs All Groups Group I Group II Group ill Tom Orzechowski, Pice President Lakes and Inland Waters Dean Corgey, Yice President Gulf Coast Nicbolas J. Mar.rooe, Vice President West Coast Joseph T. Soresi, Vice President Atlantic Coast Kermett Mangram, :Vice President Government Services . Rene Lioeanjie, Vice President al Large .. Charles Stewart, Vice President at Large HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way. Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 Port Boston Houston Harvey, LA New York Norfolk San Pedro Savannah Tacoma Totals DECK DEPARTMENT 5 1 2 3 9 3 0 17 1 1 7 0 0 2 0 5 0 1 0 12 3 2 58 0 8 3 2 2 7 3 4 0 3 24 0 0 2 5 11 3 14 0 14 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 7 1 2 53 0 0 0 11 41 5 9 7 28 1 113 8 5 2 2 7 0 7 0 4 0 0 18 2 6 0 2 0 18 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794·4988 ALTON 325 Market St, Suite B, Alton, IL 62002 (618) 462-3456 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St, # 1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 BOSTON 520 Dorchester Ave., Boston, MA 02127 Port ENGINE DEPARTMENT Boston Houston 4 5 Harvey, LA 1 3 New York Norfolk San Pedro 2 6 0 GUAM P.O. Boi23121, Bariigada, Guanr 96921 125 Sunny Plaza~ Sui~ .3QJ;E. Tun Jesus Crisostomo St., Tamuning~ G-uanr 96911 (671) 647-1350 HONOLULU 6o6 Kalibi St.; Honolulu, HI 96819 (S-08) 845-5222 BOUSXON 122 I Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 . . JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St., Jacksonville, FL 32206 (9D4) 353-0987 JERSEY CITY 99 Montgomery St., Jersey City, NJ 07302 (201) 435-9424 Savannah Tacoma Totals l 0 5 3 28 5 0 ' Harvey, LA 2 6 0 • 1 ~~Pedro 5 0 f Qo Savannah Tacoma Totals 0 0 0 0 0 Norfolk Houston 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 FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St., San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division: (415) 861 -3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Saoturce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST.Wms 4581 Gravois Ave., St. Louis, MO 63116 (314) 752-6500 SAVANNAH 2220 Bull St., Savannah, GA 3140 l (912) 238-4958 TACOMA 3411 South Union Ave., Tacoma, WA 98409 (253) 272-7774 W1LM1NGTON 510 N. Broad Ave., Wilmington, CA 90744 (310) 549-4000 Seafarers LOG 21 0 0 0 0 0 3 3 22 0 1 4 24 3 0 10 0 11 1 22 0 8 14 0 2 76 35 0 0 18 0 1 2 5 • 6 4 4 0 0 12 o ' ' 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 ---·-<·•~·.-.....- 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 2 0 6 2 16 A··.4 _,..,,,t" 1 3 5 19 0 '.: J,,:,i,. ,:,,, 16 -1 2 0 1 5 0 50 15 9 2 12 5 1 23 10 41 0 0 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 2 2 2 2 3 0 3 Harvey, LA Totals All Departments 0 10 2 I Port NEW BEDFORD 48 Union St., New Bedford, MA 02740 (508) 997-5404 PHILADELPHIA 2604 S. 4 St., Philadelphia, PA 19148 {215) 336-3818 16 4 Boston 0 ·:o 2 New York 1 5 2 STEWARD DEPARTMENT Boston' Houston Savannah Tacoma Totals NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 7 0 3 0 6 Port MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Jsland Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 832-8767 0 0 0 0 ·~-~-~ New York Norfolk San Pedro NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 0 0 (617) 269-7877 DULUTH 324 W. Superior St., Suite 705, Duluth, MN 55802 (218) 722-4110 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 2 3 0 0 0 0 4 0 0 0 0 0 39 0 11 0 5 1 13 1 6 0 7 5 5 10 6 1 0 34 89 159 109 118 28 29 52 2 2 125 328 227 154 0 2 0 1 0 2 0 0 0 23 0 6 39 0 43 1 3 22 8 4 46 4 13 PIC-FROM-THE-PAST These photos were sent to the Seafarers LOG by Pensioner Biagio A. Caruso of Merced, Calif. The one on the far right was taken in June 1934 aboard the SS Orizaba, a Ward Line vessel. Caruso is standing at left. His best friend, Jackie McCoy, is in front. The other picture is of Caruso, taken one year ago on his 85th birthday. Caruso joined the union in San Francisco and sailed in the steward department. His first ship was the President Wilson. He retired in 1980. If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with the LOG readership, it should be sent to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 207 46. Photographs will be returned, if so requested . July2002 �Welcome Ashore Each month, the Seafarers LOG pays tribute to the SIU members who have devoted their working lives to sailing aboard US.-flag vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways 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. leven Seafarers are announcing their retirements this month. Seven of the retirees sailed in the deep sea division and four navigated the inland waterways. Two of the retirees worked in the deck department, four shipped in the engine department and six sailed in the steward department. On this page, the Seafarers LOG presents brief biographical accounts of the retiring Seafarers. E DEEP SEA ABDUL AZIZ, 65, started his SIU career in 1964, joining in the port of Baltimore. His first ship was the Transeastern, operated by Transeastern Shipping. Born in Arabia, he sailed in the steward department. Brother Aziz last worked aboard the Sea-Land Leader. Brooklyn, N .Y. is his home. JAMESR. BOYLE, 65 , hails from New York. Brother Boyle joined the Seafarers in 1979 in San Francisco. He first went to sea aboard the Santa Mariana, a Delta Steamship Lines vessel. The steward department member upgraded his skills at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md. in 1995. He last worked on the Cape Mohican. Brother Boyle lives in San Francisco. JIMMIE C. COOMBS, 62, started his SIU career in 1967 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Brother Coombs' initial voyage was aboard Bloomfield Steamship's Neva West. A native of West Virginia, he shipped in the engine depart- Editors Note: The following union brothers and sisters, all members of the NMU and participants in the NMU P ension Trust, went on pension since January. Their names appear alphabetically and according to the month in which their retirements became effective. February Charles Clark May Joseph Bell teems Wilson Holmes Jay¥Jchell George.Snay Joe LHuiett William D. Orr Ramon Ortiz Jam~s March Miguel Aponte . Simmons Berlin eyDavis Manual Deafonseca '.,:John Pena ~, "'' lffetsort '.P~llaman ·':;\Vtµie Porter Ruben Thomp Claude C. Turley ADClr&w Holmes Charles Jackson Curtis Johnson Bruce Keene Juan Martinez FrankPapez Francesco Pipitone Sheldon Privin April Donald J. Barenhorst Carl W. Bennett Jr. Sandra Dace Willie V. Fowler Donovan Hall Eugene M. Jones Lewis D. Smith John Trachin June Jose Adames Robert Brown Frank Chavez Ralph Coffey Leon Hayes Carl Jones John Kish Niels Ladefoged Goerge Lewis Jose Marroquin Pedro Miranda Merrion Severan Surendar Singh Gumercindo Suazo Miguel Tirando \--/ If anyone would like to share an article or photograph with the LOG readership, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way; Camp springs, MD 20746. July2002 ment. Brother Coombs upgraded his skills in 197 6 and 1981 in Piney Point, Md. and last worked on the Overseas Juneau. He resides in Ocala, Fla. GURU KHALSA, 64, joined the Seafarers in 1970 in the port of New York. Brother Khalsa first shipped aboard Interocean Management Corp.'s Ft. Hoskins. The engine . department member worked in the deep sea as well as inland divisions and was a frequent upgrader at the Seafarers training school. Brother Khalsa last worked aboard a Moran Towing vessel. Born in Colombia, he makes his home in Katy, Texas. SHAN KWEN MOON, 71, joined the Seafarers in 1989 in the port of Honolulu. Born in China, he worked primarily aboard American Hawaii Cruises vessels, including the SS Independence. The engine department member enhanced his skills at the Seafarers training school last year. Brother Moon is a resident of Honolulu. YUN GAO PERNG, 69, started his SIU career in 1989 in the port of Honolulu. The steward department member worked primarily on vessels operated by American Hawaii Cruises, the last being the SS Independence. Brother Perng upgraded his skills at the Seafarers Harry Lunde berg School of Seamanship last year. Born in China, he now calls Honolulu home. OLGA CONNIE VELASQUEZ, 69, began her career with the Seafarers in 1982 in San "'·'- Francisco. Her ~'\ initial voyage was aboard the Santa Maria, a Delta Steamship Lines vessel. Born in San Francisco, Sister Velasquez worked in the steward department. She upgraded her skills at the Seafarers training school in 1985. Her most recent voyage was on Matson Navigation's Matsonia. Sister Velasquez is a resident of Zephyr Cove, Nev. INLAND ANDREWM. CIDSHOLM, 46, was born in Miami. Boatman Chisholm joined the SIU in 1974 in the port of Piney Point, Md. He first shipped aboard a Hvide Marine vessel. Boatman Chisholm worked in both the engine and deck departments, last sailing on a vessel operated by Seabulk Tanker, Inc. He is a resident of Port Neches, Texas. JESSE B. GARDNER, 70, started his career with the Seafarers in 1978 in the port of Philadelphia. -""'"--------'Boatman Gardner shipped in the steward department and worked primarily aboard Express Marine, Inc. vessels. The U.S. Army veteran upgraded his skills at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship last year. He lives in his native New Bern, N.C . MICHAEL H.O'KANE, 65, began his SIU career in 1974 in the port of Philadelphia. He first worked for the SIU aboard a Mariner Towing vessel. Boatman 0 'Kane shipped in the deck department. He last sailed on a vessel operated by Interstate Oil Transport Co. Boatman 0 'Kane is a resident of Abington, Pa. BETTY JEAN REICHERT, 64, started her career with the SIU in 1987. The Missouri ~----~ native shipped in the steward department. Boatman Reichert worked primarily on vessels operated by Orgulf Transport Co. She makes her home in Paducah, Ky. Reprinted from past issues of tfle:'.Se«Jfar~rs · toG Committee at its last meeting on June 2 t by a subcommittee consisting of Theodore W. 1940 Kheel, New York City labor-management arbi· The constitution adopted in 1939 provided trator; Lane Kirkland, executive assistant to for the establishment of two separate districts: AFL-CIO President George Meany; and J. the Atlantic District and the Gulf District, with Paul St. Sure, president of the Pacific Maritime two separate headrr.===============================::::;;i Association. Copies of quarters, one in New the SIU statement York and one in New were sent to the Orie-ans, and two sep· Department of Interior as well as to arate bookkeeping and financial systems. The JJ~t the members of the membership of the I ' '.A appropriate House two districts, in a 30and Senate commitday referendum vote, voted overwhelmingly to amalgamate the two districts. The amalgamation resolution which was adopted provides 1990 that the headquarters of the Atlantic and Gulf President Bush's decision to move American District will be in Washington, D.C. until the military forces into the Middle East propelJed next election, and that all of the financial and large numbers of seaUft vessels into the area of bookkeeping work shall be done in that office. conflict. Crewed by members of the Seafarers International Union and other American 1965 unions, privately operated ships under conThe SIU sharply challenged assertions by inter· tract to the Military Sealift Command (MSC) national oil company spokesmen that an oil and vessels in the Ready Reserve Force (RRF) import quota for American-flag merchant ves- were deployed to take part in Operation sels would be discriminatory and would invite Desert Shield, the Department of Defense retaliation by foreign maritime nations. A pro- name for the Pentagon's response to the posal that 30 percent of all crude oil and Persian Gulf crisis. petroleum imported into this country be The president's action was provoked by Iraq's reserved for American-flag ships was presented invasion of Kuwait and the threat of further to the President's Maritime Advisory Iraqi aggression directed towards Saudi Arabia. THJS MONTH r., SJU HJSYiC) ay 1 Seafarers LOG 17 �.. final Depa~ures DEEP SEA RICARDO ALVAREZ Brother Ricardo Alvarez, 65, passed away April 18. He joined the Seafarers in 1992 and first shipped aboard the SS Independence, an American Hawaii Cruises vessel. Born in Honduras, Brother Alvarez worked in all three departments and last went to sea on the Global Mariner. He lived in Bronx, N.Y. ROBERT BELL Pensioner Robert Bell, 71, died April 10. Brother Bell "' began his SIU career in 1947 in the port of New York.A member of the deck department, he fust shipped on the Martin M McCarver, a Waterman Steamship Corp. vessel. The Alabama-born mariner last went to sea aboard the Major Stephen J Pless, another Waterman ship. Brother Bell began collecting his pension in 1986 and made his home in Cantonment, Fla. WALTER BROWN Pensioner Walter Brown, 82, passed away March 21. Brother Brown started his career with the Seafarers in 1947 in the port ofNewYork. His initial voyage was aboard Alcoa Steamship Co. 's Alcoa Runner. Born in Alabama, he worked in the steward department. Brother Brown last went to sea on the Del Viento, a Delta Steamship vessel. He started collecting his retirement stipend in 1982 and was a resident of Mobile, Ala. CHRIS CAMPOS Brother Chris Campos, 30, died May 1. He joined the SIU in 1993 in the port of Piney Point, Md. A native of Texas, he first went to sea aboard the USNS Bold, a U.S. Marine Management vessel. Brother Campos worked in the deck department and last sailed on the Industrial Challenger. He lived in his native state in the city of Wharton. WILSON E. DIRLAM Pensioner Robert Wilson Dirlam, 88, passed away May 9. He joined the Seafarers in 1951 in Detroit. Brother Dirlam's initial voyage was aboard Sinclair Oil Corp. 's Robin Gray. He sailed in both the deep sea and Great Lakes divisions. The Newark, N.J. native worked in the engine department and last sailed on the J T Hutchinson, an American Steamship vessel. Brother Dirlam began receiv ing his pension in 1979 and was a resident of Cherokee, Texas. AMERICO FARIA Pensioner Americo Faria, 78, died May 4. He joined the Seafarers in 18 Seafarers LOG 1959 in San Francisco. Brother Faria was a veteran of the U.S. Army, serving from 1944 to 1946. Born in New Bedford, Mass., Brother Faria shipped in the engine department. His last voyage was aboard the Sea-Land Trader. Brother Faria started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1993. He called Sacramento, Calif. home. [, AHMED HASSAN --=:::;::~;;::--1 Brother Ahmed Hassan, 65, passed away Feb. 13. He started his SIU career in 1980 in San Francisco. Brother Hassan first sailed on the Sea-Land Leader. Born in Yemen, he worked in all three departments and last shipped aboard the Maui, a Matson Navigation Co. vessel. Brother Hassan lived in Queens, N.Y. HELEN V. MARTIN Pensioner Helen V. Martin, 77, died April 24. Born in Rhode Island, Sister Martin started her career with the Marine Cooks and Stewards (MC&S) in 1957 in San Francisco. Her maiden voyage was aboard the SS Monterey. The steward department member also had)llany voyages aboard the SS Mariposa. Sister Martin spearheaded various events for "petticoat sailors" and members of other seniors' groups in her area after retiring. She was honored as the "Star of Lake County" (Calif.) and "Senior of the Year for 2001" in recognition of her dedicated service to seniors. Sister Martin began receiving compensation for her retirement in 1980. She lived in Clearlake Oaks, Calif. ANTONIO QUINTANA .-----=-:------, Pensioner Antonio Quintana, 67, passed away April 1. Brother Quintana began his career with the Seafarers in 1977 in the port 1t12=""-"-~"""""-'"'-" of New York. His first sea voyage was aboard the Overseas Joyce. Born in Las Marias, P.R., he worked in all three departments. Brother Quintana last went to sea on the Ambassador, a Crowley American Transport, Inc. vessel. He began receiving his pension in 2001 and resided in Kissimmee, Fla. ARTHUR SCOTT LUTHER DAVIDSON Pensioner Arthur Scott, 86, passed away March 14. Brother Scott started his career with the MC&S in 1979 in San Francisco. Born in Texas, he worked in the steward department. Brother Scott started receiving retirement compensation in 1979 and made his home in Sunnyvale, Calif. Pensioner Luther Davidson, 81, passed away Feb. 17. Boatman Davidson began his SIU career in 1979 in the port of Norfolk, Va. The deck department member was a veteran of the U.S. Army. As a Seafarer, the North Carolina native worked primarily aboard vessels operated by Michigan Tankers. Boatman Davidson began drawing retirement stipends in 1987 and was a resident of Chesapeake, Va. HEINZ SEEL .-----==---..., Pensioner Heinz Seel, 89, died March 16. Born in Germany, Brother Seel started his SIU career in 1962 in San Francisco. The deck department member worked primarily aboard vessels operated by Delta Steamship Lines, including the Santa Magdalena. Brother Seel started receiving retirement stipends in 1981 and was a resident of Petaluma, Calif. JOHN SILVA Pensioner John Silva, 77, passed away Dec. 25. Brother Silva joined the Seafarers in 1959 in the port of New York. Born in Massachusetts, he served in the U.S. Navy from 1942 to 1954. He first sailed for the SIU aboard the Pacific Wave. The steward department member last worked on the Sea-Land Portland. Brother Silva started receiving his pension in 1991. He made his home in Lake Stevens, Wash. CHARLES SMITH Pensioner Charles Smith, 92, died March 11. Brother Smith started his career with the MC&S in San Francisco. The Mississippi native shipped in the steward department. He started collecting compensation for his retirement in 1975. Brother Smith was a resident of Los Angeles. Pensioner Clayton Thompson, 84, passed away Jan. 13. Brother Thompson joined the Seafarers in 1951 in the port of New Orleans. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army and first sailed for the SIU aboard the Alcoa Patriot, an Alcoa Steamship Co. vessel. The Kentucky native shipped in the deck department as a bosun and last sailed on the Sea-Land Producer. Brother Thompson started receiving his pension in 1987 and called Avondale, La. home. INLAND RICARDO RODRIGUEZ HENRY CIESIELSKI Pensioner Ricardo Rodriguez, 72, died May 4. He started his SIU career in 1951 in the port of Houston. Brother Rodril--..::..::0..'---"'......__._....,______. guez first shipped on Terminal Steamship's Southern Counties. The Texas-born mariner worked in the deck department. Brother Rodriguez last went to sea aboard the Cape Washington, a Mt. Washington Tankers Corp. vessel. He started collecting compensation for his retirement in 1989 and lived in Galveston, Texas. Pensioner Henry Ciesielski, 77, died May 7. Born in Maryland, Boatman Ciesielski began his career with the Seafarers in 1954 in the port of Baltimore. A military veteran, he served in the U.S. Army from 1943 to 1946. He shipped in the deck department and spent time at the helms of vessels as a captain. Boatman Ciesielski started receiving his pension in 1985 and lived in Baltimore. ARCADIO RIVERA Boatman Arcadio Rivera, 54, passed away Jan. 12. He joined the Seafarers in 1992 in San Juan, P.R. Born in Arecibo, P.R., Boatman Rivera shipped in both the engine and deck departments and worked primarily aboard vessels operated by Crowley Towing & Transportation. He lived in his native commonwealth in the city of Bayamon. WILLIAMFIORDLANO Boatman William Fiordlano, 61, died Jan. 5. He joined the Seafarers in 1997 in the port of Philadelphia. The Redbank, N.J. native worked in the deck department and shipped as a captain. He first worked at the helm of a Turecamo Maritime vessel. Boatman Fiordlano last sailed on a vessel operated by McAllister Towing of Philadelphia. He made his home in Allentown, N.J. ROBERT SUMMERS Pensioner Robert Summers, 52, died Jan. 3. Boatman Summers began his SIU career in 1962. A member of the deck department, he last shipped aboard a Northern Towing Co. vessel. Boatman Summers began collecting compensation for his retirement in 2000. He was a resident of Marble Hill, Mo. ROBERT WATKINS CHARLES HERBERT Pensioner Charles Herbert, 73, died Jan. 19. The Maryland native served in the U.S. Army from 1950 to 1953. Boatman Herbert joined the Seafarers in 1972 in the port of Baltimore. He sailed with Maritrans for 2 1 years, primarily as a senior tugboat captain. He also sailed with Harbor Towing and Vane Brothers, both of Baltimore. Boatman Herbert began receiving his pension in 1990. He lived in Pasadena, Md. ALVIN HUNLEY CLAYTON THOMPSON He served in the U.S. Navy from 1934 to 1939. Born in Trinton, Fla., Boatman Peterson shipped in the engine department. He was a resident of Center Point, Texas and began receiving his retirement compensation in 1980. Pensioner Alvin Hunley, 101, passed away Jan 26. Boatman Hunley began his career with the Seafarers in 1961, joining in the port of Norfolk, Va. The deck department member was born in Virginia. He was last employed on a Pennsylvania Railroad Co. vessel. Boatman Hunley began drawing stipends for his retirement in 1965 and resided in Gloucester, Va. JAKE F. KELLEY Pensioner Jake F. Kelley, 75, passed away Feb. 16. Boatman Kelley joined the Seafarers in 1949 in the port ofNewYork. ..._......._."'-"""............ Born in Alabama, he sailed in the inland as well as deep sea divisions. The engine department member fust shipped aboard the Monarch of the Sea, a Waterman Steamship Corp. vessel. Boatman Kelley last worked aboard a G&H Towing vessel and started receiving retirement stipends in 1992. He lived in Mobile, Ala. BERYL PETERSON Pensioner Beryl Peterson, 86, died Jan 21. Boatman Peterson started his career with the Seafarers in 1958 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Pensioner Robert Watkins, 52, passed away April 6. Boatman Watkins started his career with the Seafarers in 1971 in the port of Norfolk, Va. The Wilmington, N.C.born mariner worked primarily aboard vessels operated by Cape Fear Towing Co. A member of the deck department, he shipped as a captain. Boatman Watkins started receiving his pension in 1993. He called Leland, N.C. home. ALFRED WILLIA •• S •, .Ju 4> Brother Alfred Williams, 63, died Jan 27. Boatman Williams started his SIU career in 1970 in the port of New York. His first sea voyage was aboard the Inger, a Reynolds Metal Co. vessel. The Texas native worked in the steward department. He last sailed on the Sealift Atlantic. Boatman Williams was a resident of Houston. GREAT LAKES LESTER GREENFELDT Pensioner Lester Greenfeldt, 83, passed away May 6. Brother Greenfeldt joined the Seafarers in 1960 in Detroit. A military veteran, he served in the U .S. Coast Guard from 1939 to 1945. Born in Wisconsin, his initial voyage under the SIU colors was on an American Steamship Co. vessel. A deck department member, he shipped as a bosun. Brother Greenfeldt last sailed aboard the Adam E. Cornelius, another American Steamship vessel. He started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1983 and was a resident of Green Bay, Wis. LEONARD JASKOLSKI Pensioner Leonard Jaskolski, 80, died May 7. He started his SIU career in 1947 in Detroit. Brother Jaskolski served in the U.S . Coast Continued on page 20 July2002 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will he omitted. Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union's contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships' minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG tor publication. CHALLENGER (CSX Lines), April 5-Chairman Thomas J. Lynch, Secretary Brandon D. Maeda, Educational Director Clive A. Steward. Chairman announced payoff April 9 in Houston, Texas. He reminded crew members to keep STCW training and TRBs up to date and to upgrade at Piney Point for self betterment and increased income. Educational director noted SMPPP statements due out soon. He requested clarification on several rules, including whether time off counts toward rotary schedule. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next ports: New Orleans; Houston; San Juan, P.R. ENDURANCE (Maersk Lines), April 14--Chairman John D. Kelley Jr., Secretary Tommy E. Belvin, Educational Director Nicholas A. Vieira, Deck Delegate Carlos Bonilla, Engine Delegate Chester G. Wheeler ID, Steward Delegate Enrique Garrido. Chairman stressed need for crew members to check that beneficiary cards are up to date and to leave rooms clean for next person. Educational director talked about importance of contributing to SPAD and of upgrading at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested vessel be equipped with satellite TV or radio system. Crew gave vote of thanks to stewde artm~nt ~Of gr~_a.tjob . • Steward department, in tum, thanked rest of crew for their help. --EXPLORER (USSM), April 28Chairman George B. Khan, Secretary Douglas J. Swets, Educational Director Jimmie M. Robles, Deck Delegate Harry Claar, Engine Delegate Fadez Mohamad, Steward Delegate Othello Dansley. Chairman and secretary thanked crew members for their hard work. Painting and waxing done by deck gang on inside of house looks great. Educational director reminded everyone of upgrading opportunities available at Piney Point. Treasurer announced $3,773 in ship's fund. Two phones and phone cards already purchased. Will get new TV in Long Beach, Calif. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department gave out "great shipmate" awards to crew (e.g., greatest GSU, cleanest room). Next port: Long Beach. FIDELIO (American "V" Ships), April 15-Chairman Albert Austin, Secretary Leola Johnson, Deck Delegate Philip D. Reynolds. Chairman talked about requirements for benefits and vacation. Secretary stated payoff to take place in next port, Baltimore, and reliefs to come aboard in Baltimore, Charleston and Brunswick. Educational director advised crew members to attend courses at Paul Hall Center and check expiration dates on shipping documents. Captain is in charge of ship's fund and is very fair about buying movies, stereo equipment, VCRs, etc. as needed. New stereo purchased for gym, and recommendations made for new weight bench and magazine subscriptions. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request made for copies of current contract and benefit plans. GUAYAMA (Puerto Rico Marine), April 24--Chairman Raymond F. July2002 Gorju, Secretary Gina G. Lightfoot, Educational Director Daniel P. Gibbons, Deck Delegate James R. Blitch, Engine Delegate Charles Dallas, Steward Delegate Michael A. Harris. Chairman announced new mattresses received and noted more on order. Payoff scheduled for April 26 in San Juan at which time everyone will find out more about sale of company. He thanked crew members for keeping messhall and lounge clean and thanked steward department for fine job. Secretary stated provisions aboard ship are plentiful. Educational director reminded crew of educational opportunities available at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions made that OT be converted to pension credits and that people working graveyard shift be paid more. Steward department given vote of thanks. Next ports: San Juan; Jacksonville. INNOVATOR (USSM), April 7Chairman Steve Kastel, Secretary Jose M. Bayani, Educational Director Chris Earhart, Deck Delegate Richard L. Volkart, Steward Delegate Mostafa Loumrhari. Chairman announced payoff April 10 upon arrival in Long Beach, Calif. He reminded crew members to use new washing machine for better clothes and older one dirty an__clgreasy ·terns. Secretary thanked bosun and his gang for painting job well done and electrician for installing new washer and dryer. Educational director stressed upgrading opportunities available at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. TV and VCR are working well. Steward department given vote of thanks for good food. LIBERTY GLORY (Liberty Maritime Corp.), April 14Chairman Juan M. Rivas, Secretary Kenneth Whitfield, Deck Delegate Christopher C. Chile.were, Engine Delegate Robert L. Stevenson, Steward Delegate Cirilo S. Centeno. Chairman thanked everyone for good trip to and from Africa. He read president's report from February LOG and reminded crew members about separating plastic items from regular trash. He announced payoff April 20 in Lake Charles, La. and requested everyone clean room for next person before leaving ship. Secretary thanked crew for helping keep ship clean. He asked that members read LOG and contract. He also advised unlicensed apprentices to work hard and learn as much as possible to show others that the SIU has the best seafarers. Educational director urged everyone to upgrade skills at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew members were informed about importance of contributing to SPAD for job security. Suggestion made for company to install water fountain on upper deck. Thanks given to steward department for job well done. MAERSK TENNESSEE (Maersk Lines), April 21-Chairman Reginald A. Watkins, Secretary Dwight E. Wuerth, Educational Director Peter G. Murtaugh, Deck Delegate John M. Walsh. Chairman reminded crew members to report all accidents immediately to department head or available officer in charge. Secretary asked, as a courtesy to galley gang, that those members going ashore in port not return to vessel at last minute looking for food. He thanked crew members for help in keeping inside of house clean and reminded them to return all movies to proper storage area when finished. Educational director noted that deadline has passed for STCW training compliance. He stressed importance of contributing to SPAD for future of our union jobs. Treasurer announced $600 in ship's fund. Suggestion made to use some of money to purchase 220 volt VCR rewinder. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next ports in Panama, Columbia, Peru and Chile. PACIFIC (CSX Lines), April 22Chainnan Benedict B. Born, Secretary Robert P. Mosley, Educational Director Keith L. Jordan Sr, Deck Delegate Rene Rafer, Engine Delegate Joseph I. Laguana, Steward Delegate Steven M. Sun. Bosun thanked crew for good trip and gave a vote of thanks to the steward department. He also reminded everyone of importance of donating to SPAD and how it benefits membership. He asked that all crew members getting off vessel leave rooms clean with fresh linen for next person and check in with patrolman Herman, Engine Delegate Gregory Carroll, Steward Delegate Al Maramba. Chairman announced ABs on ATC ships to get wage increase to <layman's pay. ATC is trying to make these positions more attractive. Bosun reminded all seamen to work together for a better ship and a stronger union, and he thanked all for great safety record. Any disputes should fust be taken up with department delegates or ship's chairman. Educational director advised everyone to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center and watch safety videos provided by ATC. No Maersk Arizona Returns from Middle East MARINE COLUMBIA (ATC), April 10---Chairman Gregory L. Hamilton, Secretary John F. Huyett, Educational Director Ronald Gordon, Deck Delegate Ramon T. Guimba, Engine Delegate Detricke R. Kelly, Steward Delegate Albert L. Sison. Chairman announced payoff April 11 at Cherry Point, Wash. Will call, when in phone range, to confirm patrolman from Tacoma hall. Treasurer stated $2,582.52 in unlicensed fund and $60 in TV fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. OVERSEAS BOSTON (ATC), April 10---Chairman Eric A. Berry, Secretary Gregory G. Keene, Deck Delegate Ivan Ingrahm, Engine Delegate Li Carter, Steward Delegate Randy Proctor. Chairman stated shipboard meetings should be held once a month. He said that anyone needing more heat or air (or other repairs) in their rooms should write a note and put in on chief engineer's door. Secretary advised crew members to upgrade skills at Piney Point. Anyone with a drug or alcohol problem should attend the ARC. Confidentiali wil~ assured. Educational director noted that crew members are responsible for keeping track of their hours worked as per watchstanding agreement. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew members advised that e-mail is public domain so any messages may be seen by many people. Question asked regarding when ship will have direct internet service. Deck department would like locker next to crew laundry converted to changing room. Request also made for shelves in slop locker for storage of gloves, safety glasses, hard hats, etc. Crew also suggested luggage locker and a 2 a.m. launch to and from shore for the 8 to 12 watch. Steward was asked to order more comforters for cold weather. AB Dennis Goodwin was thanked for starting collection for 3n1 mate who had a death in the family. Funds will help defray transportation costs. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. OVERSEAS NEW ORLEANS (OSG Ship Management), April 28-Chairman Thomas R. Temple, Secretary Jonathan White, Educational Director John E. Trent, Deck Delegate Juan H. Torres, Engine Delegate Peter E. Joseph, Steward Delegate Wilfred E. Lambey. Chairman announced vessel may be going into shipyard in June or July. He suggested crew members attend courses at Paul Hall Center and get STCW basic training if they have not already done so. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun reminded everyone to read LOG each month and find out what union and industry are doing. New washing machine received for crew laundry. Everyone asked to be considerate in passageways and when closing doors. Others may be trying to sleep. Steward department thanked for good job. Next port: Corpus Christi, Texas. SIU Vice President West Coast Nick Marrone (far right) meets with crew members on the Maersk Arizona following a shipboard meeting in the port of San Francisco. The Maerk Lines vessel recently returned from a voyage to Saudi Arabia. after leaving customs and immigration. Secretary advised everyone to upgrade at Paul Hall Center and take advantage of the many courses they have to offer. He also suggested crew members check that all shipping documents are up to date. Educational director stressed need to read monthly LOGs to keep abr ~ t of un · and industry news. Treasurer announced $322 in cookout fund and $346 in ship's fund. No beef or disputed OT reported. Members would like for company not to give Social Security numbers in each port to gangway security for fear of identify theft. Information requested on money purchase pension plan and address and phone numbers to use by those members who have not received their statements. Crew members gave vote of thanks to steward department for job well done. They, in tum, gave vote of thanks to bosun and his gang for their hard work. Next ports: Tacoma, Wash.; Oakland, Calif.; Hawaii; Guam. PETERSBURG (IUM), April 3Chairman James T. Martin, Secretary Wendy Fearing, Educational Director Jessie U. Ulibas. Chairman reminded crew members of STCW compliance deadline, which has passed. Secretary asked that everyone return dishes and silverware to messhall and advised them of proper attire to be worn in messhall. Educational director encouraged crew to continue to upgrade at Piney Point and keep all required shipping documents current. Treasurer announced $370 in ship's fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions made for union to increase dental plan coverage and raise pension payments. Bosun gave vote of thanks to steward department. Clarification requested on reimbursement by company for work shoes, and question raised as to what will happen to money in SPAD fund with passage of new fundraising reform laws, particularly those pertaining to soft money. Next port: Guam. PRINCE WILLIAM SOUND (ATC), April 28-Chairman J. Carlos Loureiro, Secretary Jeff Smith, Educational Director Tom Woerner, Deck Delegate Carl beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made for upgrade of ship's satellite system. Request made for CD burner for radio room computer. Thanks given to steward department for job well done. Next ports: Long Beach, Calif.; Valdez, Alaska. PRODUCER (CSX Lines), April 28-Chairman Joel A-Lechel,_ Secretary William J. Bunch, Educational Director Shawn L. Clark, Deck Delegate Lonnie R. Evans, Steward Delegate Chris Boronski. Chairman thanked everyone for helping clean up after shipyard. He stated that vessel will go on new East Coast run. He urged all vacationing crew members to register at hall within 48 hours in order to reclaim jobs. He also stressed importance of contributing to SPAD. Educational director reminded crew members sailing aboard tankers of need for tankerman assistant course on zcard and asked that headquarters clarify this point to all ports. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Repairs needed to tiles on mess deck. Clarification requested on why all ports are not constitutional ports. Next ports: Tacoma, Wash.; Long Beach, Calif. ; San Juan, P.R.; Jacksonville, Fla. ROBERT E. LEE (Waterman Steamship Corp.), April 7-Chairman Eugene T. Grantham, Secretary Miguel Pabon, Educational Director Reginald E. White, Deck Delegate Donald M. Hood, Engine Delegate Joseph Williams IV, Steward Delegate Jessie J. Burnett. Chairman reported one AB was hurt and caught flight home from Bombay, India. Secretary thanked crew members for good trip with great cooperation between all three departments. Educational director noted many opportunities available to Seafarers to improve themselves in their chosen profession, including upgrading courses at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer stated $608 in ship's fund. Everyone asked to clean room before getting off ship. Suggestion made for members to be able to retire at any age with 20 years' seatime and maintain some medical benefits if retiring at age 65 with 15 years' seatime. Seafarers LOG 19 - �Letters to the Editor - (Editor s note: the Seafarers LOG reserves the right to edit letters for grammar as well as space provisions without changing the writers intent. The LOG welcomes letters from members, pensioners, their families and shipmates and will publish them on a timely basis.) Pensioner's Wife Sends Note of Thanks My husband, James "Capt. Jim" Oliver (who joined the union in November 1945 and is now a pensioner), and I would like to thank the union for all the bonuses and the health care you have given us. You will never know how we appreciate it, now that we are old and need help the most. Again, our thanks to President Michael Sacco, the executive board, and all who are taking care of the pensioners. Also, a big hello to Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey and Janice Hunicke, who is always so helpful in the Houston office. I am proud to be the wife of a good SIU Seafarer for 4 7 years. Georgette Oliver Timpson, Texas ~ . Remembering the Good Life of a Seafarer This old man had a great life sailing on SIU ships during World War II and up to the year 1989. I joined the union in June 1943 and had the pleasure of dealing with a German sub in the Atlantic, of carrying troops into the Palau Island invasion, and transporting Army cargo into the invasion of Okinawa-as well as being on the first ship to go into Nagoya, Japan in 1945. We had 10,000 tons of beer which the occupation forces greatly appreciated. I sailed with Delta Lines, Isthmian, Robin and Waterman, plus a few tramp ships. The last few years, I worked aboard G&H tugs in Galveston, Houston and Corpus Christi. It has all been a wonderful adventure, and I wouldn't trade it for anything. I am proud and pleased that the SIU has done a fine job of teaching and upgrading its members. Life has been good, and every day is a wonderful day. May you all go with a following sea, a tail wind and blue skies. John Hanks Austin, Texas Editors note: The following letter was printed in the May 23, 2002 edition of the Clarion News and G.I. Bill benefits until 1988. Our Congress waited until most of us were dead. World War II was a declared war. The merchant marine was the only all-volunteer service of the war. Most of us accepted death over surrender. Our record: 866 ships lost to enemy action. By percentage, we lost more men than any other branch of the service. One out of every 25 was killed in action. We lost 100 ships on the Russian run. Also, 400 ships were lost along the eastern seaboard in 1942 while Americans watched from our shores. During the 1942 massacre, we slept with our clothes on and our eyes open. If the U.S. Merchant Marine had failed in the Battle of the Atlantic, our Congress would be speaking German right now. Law firms have determined we lost more than $80,000 each in G.I. benefits. The state of Pennsylvania paid a $500 bonus to veterans of World War II, but our merchant marine veterans are still waiting. Me too. Peter Salvo Clarion, Pa. Another Look At WWII I'm testing the free press of the Clarion News with my annual letter of Maritime Day, May 22, which very few Americas are aware of, which honors the U.S. Merchant Marine of World War II. During World War II, our government gagged the news media, claiming national security was at stake. We were denied veteran status Thanks for Years Of Happiness In going through some of my husband's papers, I found this picture taken at the Inland Boatmen's Conference in June 1984. My husband was so proud to have upgraded from deckhand to captain at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship. A chance for him to go back and be a part of such a wonderful conference was just overwhelming for him. He retired in 1992 following a massive heart attack. Also in 1992, the Coast Guard pulled his licence, and that was the end of a wonderful career. His respect and love for the union were with him until the day God took him home on Saturday, April 6, 2002. The Thursday before he passed away, he called me to his bed and told me he had to leave the dock at 2200. The hospice nurse pronounced him dead at 2200 on the 6th. Does that tell his SIU brothers what his last thoughts were of? Thank you so much for his years of happiness. Mrs. Robert W. Watkins Rocky Point, N.C. Capt. Robert Watkins and his wife, Kay, were active participants at the June 1984 Inland Boatmen's conference, held in Piney Point, Md. _~nal Departur~ _ Continued from page 18 Guard from 1942 to 1947. Born in Michigan, he worked in the deck department. Brother Jaskolski last sailed on the Adam E. Cornelius. He began receiving his retirement stipend in 1992 and made his home in Alpena, Mich. PIIlLLIP E.WILLIAMS Pensioner Phillip E. Williams, 80, passed away April 11. He joined the Seafarers in 1962 in Detroit. A veteran of the U.S. Navy, Brother Williams worked primarily aboard vessels operated by Arnold Transit Co. The Michigan-born mariner worked in all three departments and started collecting compensation for his retirement in 1987. Brother Williams lived in Wells, Mich. AnANllC FISHERMAN IVAN CONRAD Pensioner Ivan Conrad, 96, died Jan. 19. Brother Conrad started his career with the Atlantic Fishermen's Union in Gloucester, Mass before it merged with the AGLIWD. Born in Massachusetts, he worked in the deck department. Brother Conrad lived in his native state and started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1969. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District!NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership's money and union finances . The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the 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 recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU 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 disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval 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 shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively 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 employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in aJI SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and 20 Seafarers LOB lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing 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 SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful 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 responsibility for Seafarers 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. o 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 OBLIGATIONS . Copies of the IU 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 headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which be or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. MEMBER RIGHTS/LMRDA. The Labor-Management Reporting and Disclosure Act (LMRDA) guarantees certain rights to union members and imposes certain responsibilities on union officers. The Office of Labor-Management Standards (OLMS) enforces many LMRDA provisions while other provisions, such as the bill of rights, may only be enforced by union members through private suit in Federal court. Union Member Rights Bill of Rights: Union members have equal rights to participate in union activities; freedom of speech and assembly; a voice in setting rates of dues, fees and assessments; protection of the right to sue; and safeguards against improper discipline. Copies of Collective Bargaining Agreements: Union members and nonunion employees have the right to receive or inspect copies of collective bargaining agreements. Reports: Unions are required to file an initial information report (Fonn LM-1), copies of constitutions and bylaws, and an annual financial report (Form LM-2/3/4) with OLMS. Unions must make the reports available to members and permit members to examine supporting records for just cause. The reports are public information and copies are available from OLMS. Officer Elections: Union members have the right to nominate candidates for office; run for office; cast a secret ballot; and protest the conduct of an election. Officer Removal: Local union members have the right to an adequate procedure for the removal of an elected officer guilty of serious misconduct. Trusteeships: Unions may only be placep in trusteeship by a parent body for the reasons specified in the LMRDA. Prohibition Against Violence: No one may use or threaten to use force or violence to interfere with a union member in the exercise of LMRDA rights. Union Officer Responsibilities Financial Safeguards: Union officers have a duty to manage the funds and property of the union solely for the benefit of the union and its members in accordance with the union's constitution and bylaws. Union officers or employees who embezzle or steal union funds or other assets commit a Federal crime punishable by a fine and/or imprisonment. Bonding: Union officers or employees who handle union funds or property must be bonded to provide protection against losses if their union has property and annual financial receipts which exceed $5,000. Labor Organization Reports: Union officers must file an initial information report (Form LM-1) and annual financial reports (Fonns LM-2/3/4) with OLMS; and retain the records necessary to verify the reports for at least five years. Officer Reports: Union officers and employees must file reports concerning any loans and benefits received from, or certain financial interests in, employers whose employees their union represent and businesses that deal with their unions . Officer Elections: Unions must hold elections of officers of local unions by secret ballot at least every three years; conduct regular elections in accordance with their constitution and bylaws and preserve all records for one year; mail a notice of election to every member at least I 5 days prior to the election; comply with a candidate's request to distribute campaign material; not use union funds or resources to promote any candidate (nor may employer funds or resources be used); pennit candidates to have election observers; and allow candidates to inspect the union's membership list once within 30 days prior to the election. Restrictions on Holding Office: A person convicted of certain crimes may not serve as a union officer, employee or other representative of a union for up to 13 years. Loans: A union may not have outstanding loans to any one officer or employee that in total exceed $2,000 at any time. Fines: A union may not pay the fine of any officer or employee convicted of any willful violation of the LMRDA. (Note: The above is only a summary of the LMRDA. Full text of the Act, which comprises Sections 401-531 of Title 29 of the United States Code, may be found in many public libraries, or by writing the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Labor-Management Standards, 200 Constitution Ave., NW, Room N-5616, Washington, DC 20210, or on the internet at www.dol.gov.) SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION - SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further 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 American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. o 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 International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect 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 Michael 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. July2002 �SEAFARERS PAUL HALL CENTER Ul'GRADINS COURSE SCHEDULE Recertification The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Edu~tion in Piney Point, Md. from July through December 2002. All programs are geared to improve the job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and-in times of conflict-the nation's security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course's start date, The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. F()r classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for November l Angust2 October7 Bosun Steward July8 Arrival Date Date of Completion Oiler September 16 November 11 October 25 December 20 Saturday. QMED - Junior Engineer September 30 December 20 Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Welding July 1 August 19 September 23 October 21 November 18 July 19 September6 October 3 November8 December 6 Engine Utility (EU) October 20 November25 November 15 December 20 Course Deck Upgrading Courses Arrival Date Date of Completion Able Seaman September 30 October 28 October 25 November 22 Automatic Radar Plotting Aids* July 15 August 19 September 23 October 14 July 19 August 23 September 27 October 18 July 1 September 30 October 21 November 11 December9 July 5 October4 October25 November 15 December 13 August26 August 30 Course ("mast have. radar wrl.imited) Bridge Resource Management (BRM) - Inland Bridge Resource Management (BRM) - Unlimited* Safety Specialty Courses Course Arrival Date Date of Completion Advanced Firefighting October 7 December 2 October 18 December 13 Government Vessels September 23 October 11 Tanker Familiarization/ Assistant Cargo (DL)* July 15 December2 July 26 December 13 Augusts September 23 October 28 August 9 September 27 November 1 Basic Fire Fighting/STCW July 1 July 8 July 15 August 5 August 19 August 26 September 23 September 30 October 14 October28 November 18 December9 December 16 July5 July 12 July 19 August 9 August 23 August30 September 27 October 4 October 18 November 1 November22 December 13 December20 STCW Medical Care Provider August 12 October 21 August 16 October 25 (*must have basic fire fighting) Tankerman (PIC) Barge* (*must have basic fire fighting) (*prerequisite required) GMDSS (Simulator) July 8 October 7 November4 December 2 July 19 October 18 November 15 December 13 Lifeboatman/Water Survival September 16 October 14 September 27 October25 Lifeboatman/Water Survival (one week) July 15 August 19 September 30 October28 July 19 Augu t 23 October 4 November 1 August 5 August 14 July 1 September 16 November4 December9 July 12 September 27 November 15 December20 ecially Trained Ordinary Seaman OS) - Engine Upgrading Courses Academic Department Courses Steward Upgrading Courses Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations modules start every week beginning January 7. Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward classes start every other week beginning January 7. General education and college courses are available as needed. In addition, basic vocational support program courses are offered throughout the year, one week prior to the AB, QMED, FOWT, Third Mate, Tanker Assistant and Water Survival courses. An introduction to computers course will be self-study. -·-~-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·-·With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty UPGRADING APPLICATION (120) days sea time for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date Name _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _~ Address ---------------------------- your class starts, US MMD (z-card) front and back, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, and qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. All FOWT. AB and OMED applicants must submit a U.S. Coast Guard fee of $280 with their aoplication.. The payment should be made with a money order only. payable to LMSS. COURSE Telephone _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Deep Sea Member D Lakes Member BEGIN DATE END DATE Date of Birth _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ D Inland Waters Member D If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security# _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Seniority _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Department U.S. Citizen: Yes D No D Home Port Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? DYes DNo If yes, class# _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? DYes DNo If yes, course(s) taken _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? D Yes D No Firefighting: Primary language spoken July2002 D Yes D No CPR: D Yes DNo LAST VESSEL: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Rating: _ _ __ Date On: - - - - - - - - - - -- Date Off: SIGNATURE _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ _ _ DATE NOTE: Transportation will be paid in accordance with the scheduling letter only ifyou present original receipts and successfully complete the course. If you have any questions, contact your port agent before departing for Piney Point. 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 students, who are otherwise qualified, of 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. 7102 Seafarers LOG 21 �- Paul Hall Center Classes . Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Oass 627 - Unlicensed apprentices who graduated from class 627 are (kneeling, from left) Jade Belt, William Farr Ill, (second row) Jill McGeorge, Raul Duarosan, Gerron Foster, Keith Palmisano Jr, Ryan Johnston, Christopher Bryant, Matthew Wade Jr.. (third row) Jeffery Hawkins, Eric Morales-Martinez, Antonio Reed, Angelina Willoughby and Larry Howard. GMDSS - SIU members who completed the GMDSS training May 31 are (from left) Edward Milstead, William Palmer, Brad Wheeler (instructor), Aaron Bass, Lee Gulley, Thomas Mercer, Roy Vincent, Craig Pare, Philip Inman, Joseph Lewis and Dale Wilson. Welding- With their instructor Buzzy Andrews (second from left) are graduates of the welding class, which ended May 24. From the left are Armando Bermudez, Samuel Grant and James Tyson. Tanker Familiarization/Assistant Cargo (DL)- Earning their graduation certificates for completion of the tanker familiarization/assistant cargo (DL) course April 26 are (in alphabetical order) Hassan Bouqfa, Brook Bowers, Davon Brown, Eldin Ebanks, James Fekany, Robert Goodson, Frank Gray, Lee Gulley, Robert Hinkley Jr., David Hollenback, Michael Jejenich, ldowu Jonathan, William Miller, John Murray, Eddie Thomas, Andrzej and Phillip Varos. Their instructor, Jim Shaffer, is at far right. Any student who has registered for a class and finds -for whatever reason-that he Able Seaman - Seafarers who successfully completed the AB course April 26 are (in alphabetical order) Richard Blackman, David Cayetano, Rafael Concepcion, Michael Gallagher, Michael Jalbert, Kenneth Lattin, Lionel Lee, James Logan, Jerry Maya, William Mcintyre, Zaid Muthala, Rusty Norman, Allan Oyao Sr., Fernando Oyao, Deocadio Romney, Uriel Ross Sr., Louis Scull II, Robert Steiner, Kreg Stiebben, Dale Suiter II and Jermaine Williams. Their instructor, Bernabe Pelingon, stands at far left. Computer Lab Classes or she cannot attend, please inform the admissions department so that another student may take that place. Upgraders Water Survival - Upgrading SIU members who successfully completed the water survival course April 26 are (in alphabetical order) Rolando Guity, Timothy Lewis, Jason Roate, Rogoberto Ruiz, Taher Saeed, Laurie Victorino, Harry Wessel and Martha White . Their instructor, Stan Beck, is third from right (in white cap). • FOWf Recent graduates of the computer lab at the Paul Hall Center pose with their certificates. From the left (seated) are Robert Pinkard II, Adam Noor, (back row) Jodie Flesner, Rich Prucha (instructor), Carlos Valerio and Franklin Lind. 22 Seafarers LOG Graduating from the FOWT course June 7 are (in alphabetical order) Sure Anitak, Justin Armstrong, Rafael Costas, Juanita Christia, Lance Cutchember, Jeremy Duncan, Christopher Eason, Fontanos Ellison, Trent Enoch, Vincente Escala, Cody Fleming, Sherrod Frazier, Armando Garayua, Kenneth Green, Edward Grossman, Lisa Harewood, Gerard Hayes, John Herr, Richard Ho, Arthur Hurd, Kenneth Jackson, Joseph Krajnik, Samuel Levecque, Mark Marler, Grady Mason Jr., Harry McKever, Ashley Nelson, Christopher Offrey, David Provost, Kenneth Ross, Kenneth Smith, Richard Striverson, Daniel Thompson, Lima Valoaga, Michael Vada, Bryan Wells and Dennis Wilson. (Note: Not all are pictured.) July2002 �Paul Hall Center Classes Munassar Ahmed, Kasem Ali, Mario Bertrand, Richard Blackman, Lawrence Brissette, Drew Brown, Valerie Bufton, Edward Bush, Mark Carpenter, Roger Cash, Rey Chang, Andrea David, Ferdinand Duenas, Kenneth Epps, Charles Colucci, Michelle Fetterly, Edward Fuller, Walter Harris Jr., Harry Brown, Robert Hudas, Taha Ismail, Army Joe Leake I and Army Joe Leake II. Basic Safety Training Classes Terry Allen, Rafael Concepcion, Clint Haxton, Peter lannetta, Michael Jalbert, Glenn Johnson, Mahmoud Khalil, Timothy Koebel , Kenneth Lattin, Lionel Lee , James Logan, Richard Lovaas, Jerry Maya Jr., William Miller, Helen Mitchell, Allan Oyao Sr., Fernando Oyao, Deocadio Romney, Uriel Ross Sr., Taher, Saeed, Louis Scull II, bert Steiner, Kreg Stiebben, David Stravron, Dale Suiter II, Gary Walker, Michael WilRerson, Dulip Sookiram and Robert Weeks. Sharon Baham, Brook Bowers, David Coggio, Donald Ford, Robert Goodson, Eric Grant. ldowu Jonathan, Fabian Lanzy, Natividad Martinez, Robert Matthews, James McCarthy, Donald Pelto, Lance Riggs, Ali Saleh, William Smalley, Oswald Stoiber, Terry Tolley, Dennis Uchic, George Urban Ill, Richard Hamilton Jr. and Luis Filippetti. Elba Alfaro, Nancy Archie, Glenn Bamman, Zackay Brown, James Callahan, Virgilio Hoffmann, Ismael Martinez, Khalid Meftah, Gene Payne, Eddie Rembert, Exxl Ronquillo, Mary Suniga, Timothy Thompson, Andrea Ursem, Richard West, Jack Mohamad, Richard Doggett, Omaha Redda, Ralph Broadway and Thomas Gruber. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Right: Cecil Husted, Mark Pruitt, Jose Quinones, Ghassan Saeed, Leodiane Torrenueva, Peter Wojcikowski, Joseph Gutierrez, William Bates and Joseph Baselice. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Rolando Batiz, Kurt Benjamin, Blaine Bisegna, Dale Erickson, Welington Furment, Ion lrimia, Karl Leiter, Calvin Mason, Julio Soriano, Segundo Soriano, Horace Thompson and Fernin Elinton. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Carlos Boiser Jr., Daniel Crawford, Samuel Deason, Roger Griswold, Joseph Gutierrez, William Hudgins Jr., Troy Mack, Larry Morisette, Annie Nodd, Amin Quraish, Gilberto Serrano, Ronnie Woodruff and William Bates. July 2002 Douglas Burch, Glen James Sr., Neil Johnson, John Magennis, Michael Mefferd, Kurt Sandberg, Jose Santos, William Scully, Randall VanHorn, Wilfredo Velez, David Wakeman, James Woods and David Hudgins. Seafarers LOG 23 - �NMUPLANS Seepages for an update on the NMU Plans. - Maiitime ntiom .... NORFOLK Town Point Park in Norfolk, Va. was the site of the Maritime Day observances, sponsored by The Propeller Club of the United States, Port of Norfolk. Above left: Norfolk Port Agent Georg G. Kenny (left) and VP Kermett Mangram (right) congratulate Lloyd "Doug" Richardson for his 67 years of sailing. Virginia Pilot Association and McAllister tugs participate in the day's activities (left), while officials aboard the Va. Pilot Boat Dominion (right} prepare to lay a commemorative wreath . ST. LOUIS Following her remarks at the Maritime Day ceremonies in St. Louis, Valerie Miller, representing the SIU, presented a "Battlin' Pete" plaque to Jack Grothe, an official with the SS Samuel Parker Chapter of the American Merchant Marine Veterans. "Battlin' Pete" is the military service patch of the United States Merchant Marine, created by Walt Disney Studios in July 1944, recognizing the efforts of the merchant marine in World War II. GUAM Florence Nelson used her well-earned vacation time to prepare a dinner at the United Seamen's Club in honor of Maritime Day. Nelson currently is sailing on board the Sgt. William R. Button as a cook/baker. PORT ARTHUR -- .. - Heavy rain forced the Maritime Day activities in Port Arthur, Texas to move indoors to the E.J. Club (formerly the Foc'sle, which was owned and operated for more than 35 years by Jeff Riley, who sailed with the NMU and the SIU). Left: Mary Lee, widow of NMU Chief Steward Leonard Lee, reads a scripture passage at the service. Lee had sailed for more than 35 years. Today, Mrs. Lee heads a group of the Legion of Mary, a volunteer organization at the International Seamen's Center. With her are Marcus Hammond of the Department of Agriculture and vice president of the Port Arthur International Seamen's Center, and the U.S. Coast Guard Color Guard. Right: Ron Byrd of Kansas City Southern Railway receives a plaque from SIU member Fr. Sinclair Oubre in recognition of KCS's and Port Arthur's founder, Arthur Stilwell. Through the dream of Stilwell and the industry of KCS, Port Arthur became a major maritime center. Above, SIU member Lloyd "Doug" Richardson poses with his family during the Maritime Day observances. Richardson has been sailing for 67 years and, at 82, is the oldest active Seafarer registered for employment in the port of Norfolk. He began rm~~,,.~::.or he was 15, working abo tugs and barges hauling coal he Ea · a on eep sea career commenced when he was 22 years old, as an ordinary se oard the Alexander G Bell. He was on that ship in 1943 in the port of Naples, Italy, when it was subjected to bombing by enemy aircraft. He also served aboard the James W Nesmith, whtch was torpedoed by German U-boats. Richardson is still supporting the government's efforts, now sailing aboard Maritime prepositioning vessels. His last tour of duty was as an AB on the SPC5 Eric Gibson, and he intends to reclaim his position when the vessel re-crews. When asked what prompted him to go to sea, Richardson replied, "I love the water." And when asked why he continues to sail, he replied , "It's all I know." � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2000-2009 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXII-LXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present, Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource July 2002 Description An account of the resource Headlines: HOUSE PASSES PORT SECURITY BILL; CONFERENCE COMMITTEE APPOINTED FORMER ATC 'RIDING GANG' WORKERS UPGRADE TO AB AWARDS PRESENTED TO ATC VESSEL, OTHER SIU SHIPS CONGRESS WEIGHS FOC THREAT SEAFARERS WELCOME NEW TUG AND BARGE MATSON ORDERS 2 CONTAINERSHIPS FROM KVAERNER GOVERNMENT SERVICES DIVISION WELCOMES USNS ARCTIC NEW PACT FOR TWIN RIVERS BOATMEN ED PULVER, VETERAN SIU OFFICIAL AND HUMANITARIAN, DIES AT 78 UNIONS APPROVE STRATEGY TO FUND POLITICAL ACTION HOUSTON BARGE CO. PLEADS GUILTY TO POLLUTION NOT QUITE SEALED WITH A KISS, BUT 44-DAY HERSHEY STRIKE ENDS DEADLY BARGE CRASH RENEWS CONCERNS UNION MOURNS PASSING OF ROBERT JORDAN LATEST TECHNOLOGY APPEARS PROMISING FOR CARGO SECURITY DOT PLANS NEW BALLAST WATER REGULATIONS ALASKA STUDENT CHRIS EUBANKS GETS PAUL HALL CENTER GRANT INNOVATOR RESCUES FAMILY ADRIFT ON DISABLED BOAT GULF MARINER URGES SENATE TO PROBE ANTI-WORKER CASES CORNHUSKER STATE RETURNS TO VIRGINIA AFTER SUPPORTING 'ENDURING FREEDOM' CAPE HORN CREW CITES COMMENDABLE WORK IN DREADFUL CONDITIONS DEFINING AN FOC VIDEOS OF LOST GERMAN SUB HELP RE-WRITE WWII HISTORY JOHN W. BROWN CRUISES INTO PAST SHARK ATTACKS: SEAFARER URGES SIU MEMBERS TO USE CAUTION WHEN ENTERING OCEAN WATERS AT WORK WITH THE SIU SERVING THE SHIPS THAT SUPPORT OUR TROOPS TRANSITING THE PANAMA CANAL ABOARD THE ITB PHILADELPHIA MARITIME DAY 2002 CELEBRATIONS Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 7/1/2002 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 64, No. 7 2002 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/fbba596b41269b1c1abdb573a1f51ab6.pdf 4037d74135ed0a227471a0d6e7ad35e0 PDF Text Text 18230_p1,3,5,9,10,14,21a.qxd 6/29/2003 1:27 PM Page 1 Volume 65, Number 7 July 2003 More New Jobs! Cable Ship, RO/RO, 3 Ferries Christened ABOVE & RIGHT: SIU-contracted NY Waterway recently christened two new passenger ferries, including the Congressman Robert A. Roe (top), while the Delaware River Port Authority has added another SIU-crewed passenger ferry (the Freedom, right) to its service between Philadelphia and Camden, N.J. Page 3. ABOVE: The cable ship Tyco Decisive was christened May 30 in Baltimore. Page 4. RIGHT: Christened June 14 in San Diego, the North Star, operated by SIU-contracted Totem Ocean Trailer Express (TOTE), will join the company’s Tacoma, Wash. to Anchorage, Alaska service. Page 3. SIU Crews Honored for War Service U.S. Secretary of Transportation Norman Y. Mineta presents AB Karen Domerego with the Merchant Marine Expeditionary Medal during National Maritime Day ceremonies in Washington, D.C. Pages 12-13. ABOVE, LEFT: Seafarers aboard the RRF vessel Wright received a hero’s welcome June 16 in Baltimore as the U.S. Maritime Administration conducted a shipboard ceremony honoring their service in Operation Iraqi Freedom. Among those acknowledging the crew were General John W. Handy, commander, U.S. Transportation Command (dark uniform and flight cap, seventh from left); Vice Admiral David L. Brewer III, commander, U.S. Military Sealift Command (second from left); U.S. Department of Transportation Deputy Secretary Michael P. Jackson (right); U.S. Maritime Administrator Captain William Schubert (front, fifth from right); and SIU President Michael Sacco (to Schubert’s right). Page 2. Mariners at 2 Companies Vote SIU Crews at two companies recently voted to join the SIU. In San Francisco, boatmen employed by Starlight Marine Services unanimously chose the Seafarers. One of their tugs, the Royal Melbourne, is pictured at right. Also signing on with the SIU are mariners at Buffalo Industrial Diving Company (BIDCO), including DEU Richie Bowermaster (left). Page 3. �18230_p2.qxd 6/26/2003 7:57 PM Page 2 President’s Report Internationally Active For anyone entering a new line of work, there’s usually a lot to learn. I’d say that’s especially true for U.S. mariners, given all the rules and regulations we face at the national and international levels. All of us know how important it is for the union to have a strong presence in Washington. That’s why we appreciate your solid support for SPAD. But, it’s also important that all Seafarers—newcomers and old salts alike—take at least a little bit of time to understand the SIU’s international activiMichael Sacco ties. That’s because our work with the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the International Labor Organization (ILO) is crucial to the livelihoods of Seafarers. Let’s start with the ITF. The ITF is a worldwide federation of transport-related unions, including the SIU. In some ways, it’s like a global version of the AFL-CIO, which is the coalition of U.S. trade unions. More than 600 unions in 137 countries are affiliated through the ITF. Together, those unions represent about 5 million members. Headquartered in London, the ITF probably is best-known for its campaign against runaway-flag shipping—an important fight in which the SIU also remains extremely active. But, there’s a lot more to the ITF than just that one campaign. Overall, the federation promotes the interests of transport workers on a global level. The ITF also is very active in organizing, whether it’s aboard ship, in port, on the roads, along the railways or in the skies. The ILO and the IMO also are significant to Seafarers, which is why we regularly take part in their respective forums, usually overseas. The ILO is a United Nations agency which, in its own words, “seeks the promotion of social justice and internationally recognized human and labor rights.” Labor, management and government are represented at the ILO, based in Geneva. To understand how the ILO impacts the maritime industry, look no further than last month’s conference in which ILO delegates approved the basic elements of a new, universal ID for mariners. That agreement will be taken back to the signatory nations, who in turn will be tasked with implementing its terms. The bottom line is that many Seafarers eventually will be required to possess the universal ID—and that’s why we’re making sure the SIU’s voice is heard, not just at the ILO but also here at home with the Coast Guard. Finally, the IMO has similar roots through the UN, though of course it is specifically devoted to maritime issues. Today, the IMO has 162 member states or nations, and its effect on maritime can be summarized in four letters: STCW. Both the original and amended STCW conventions were ratified through the IMO. Basically, the IMO, based in London, functions along the same lines as the ILO. Whatever topic is formally addressed—security, identification, safety—a conference or series of meetings takes place. Participants debate the issues, an agreement usually is reached, and new regulations are put into place in the signatory nations. These descriptions are extremely basic, but I hope they’ll help give you at least a snapshot of the organizations and why they’re important. It takes a lot of time and effort for the SIU to stay active in the ITF, ILO and IMO—but we remain committed to representing Seafarers’ interests internationally. What a Run! These are exciting times for the SIU. From mid-May to mid-June, our shipboard job opportunities grew as we welcomed a new RO/RO, a new cable ship, and three new passenger ferries. Our ranks also grew, as mariners at two companies voted to join the SIU. Congratulations all the way around, and welcome to our newest members, at BIDCO and Starlight Marine. Additionally, Seafarers who sailed during Operation Iraqi Freedom received more accolades during ceremonies conducted by the U.S. Maritime Administration and the U.S. Military Sealift Command. I encourage you to read about them throughout this issue of the LOG. As I mentioned at some of the most recent ceremonies, the SIU certainly doesn’t take the recognition for granted. But, beyond that, I want to thank our friends at MarAd and at MSC for truly going all-out in their efforts to acknowledge the U.S. crews who sailed during the war. I know how much work goes into these events, and I’m positive that our crews will never forget the generous thanks they’ve received. Most of all, I again join in thanking the Seafarers whose patriotism, commitment, reliability and skill helped make victory possible. Volume 65, Number 7 July 2003 Gen. Handy Lauds U.S. Crews for ‘Dedication, Patriotism, Excellence’ MarAd Ceremony for Wright Brings Powerful Praise In a proud scene for the SIU and the rest of the U.S. Merchant Marine, Seafarers were honored June 16 aboard the Ready Reserve Force (RRF) vessel Wright in Baltimore, during a ceremony hosted by the U.S. Maritime Administration (MarAd). General John W. Handy, commander, U.S. Transportation Command, presented crew members and officers with Merchant Marine Expeditionary Medals for their support of U.S. forces during Operation Iraqi Freedom. General Handy delivered the keynote address. He praised the mariners for “the incredible job you’ve done in support of this nation. You make all the difference in the world, and I salute your dedication, patriotism and excellence. Victory was made possible by America’s dedicated merchant mariners.” He also said, “There is no doubt you stand ready again, anytime, anywhere. You have proven yourselves to be great patriots time and time again. You are seagoing warriors.” Vice Admiral David L. Brewer III, commander, U.S. Military Sealift Command, credited the Wright along with the thousands of other merchant mariners who sailed during Operation Iraqi Freedom. “We have prevailed because you answered your nation’s call,” Brewer stated. “You built a steel bridge of democracy from the USA to the coast of Kuwait.” SIU President Michael Sacco was a guest speaker during the noontime ceremony. He commended the crew and also noted the outstanding cooperation between all parties involved in mobilizing America’s sealift capabilities. “We were all in it together, and that’s how we got the job done,” Sacco noted. Also delivering remarks were U.S. Department of Transportation Deputy Secretary Michael P. Jackson; U.S. Maritime Administrator Captain William Schu- Recertified Steward James Kidd (holding medal) is congratulated by (from left) General Handy, Deputy Transportation Secretary Jackson and Maritime Administrator Schubert. bert; U.S. Marine Corps Colonel Chris Joyce; and American Overseas Marine Corporation (AMSEA) President Leland Bishop. An aviation logistics support ship operated by AMSEA, the Wright was deployed for 145 days in support of U.S. troops. It provided rapid and dedicated sealift for deployment of U.S. Marine Corps aviation intermediate maintenance activity. The mission included transporting a helicopter platform, a complete repair shop, and equipment for fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft. More than 300 Marine Corps personnel operated from the ship during the deployment, providing service and repair in support of the Marine Aviation Combat Element. Seafarers Recall Voyage “We did 139 helo drops,” said Recertified Steward James Kidd. “There were many days and weeks when it was 100 degrees or more (inside the ship), but we had a good crew. Everything went well between us and the military personnel.” Repair teams aboard the RRF ship fixed an estimated 2,000 parts for their fellow armed forces personnel. Those pieces ‘Stormed the Gangways’ SIU President Michael Sacco U.S. Marine Corps Colonel Chris Joyce MSC Commander Vice Admiral David L. Brewer III AMSEA President Leland Bishop The SIU on line: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, 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, Deborah A. Hirtes; Associate Editor, Jim Guthrie; Art, Bill Brower; Administrative Support, Jeanne Textor. Copyright © 2003 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD All Rights Reserved. 2 Seafarers LOG were transported to and from the Wright via helicopter. “The mood was good, considering we went four months with no shore time at all,” said Recertified Steward Ed Tulley, who sailed as a chief cook aboard the Wright. “Everyone kept their head up. The Marines were nice —all about business, but I made some friends.” Tulley’s wife, Amber, attended the ceremony and offered another perspective. “It was very scary when I found out about the mines in the water (in the war zone). But I just tried to keep a positive attitude.” Bosun Tom Moore stated, “Everyone worked together and showed real teamwork. The Marines and crew worked together as much as possible. It was a good effort.” AB Larry Justin served in the Marine Corps during Vietnam. He noted the contrast between returning home after that war and this one. “After Vietnam, we had a crowd of people, but they were carrying protest signs,” he recalled. “It’s much nicer today.” OS Seth Rockwell joined the union through a fairly new program that assists displaced Alaskan fishermen. His first trip was aboard the Wright. “It was a chance to meet a lot of people,” said Rockwell, who lives in Seward, Alaska. “I think the contact between the Marines and the crew was pretty good. We got a lot of overtime and kept pretty busy.” The ceremony, one of dozens conducted by MarAd for returning RRF vessels, yielded some of the strongest praise yet for the merchant marine. Handy noted that despite potential dangers faced by U.S. crews, “there was no shortage of volunteers. Quite the contrary, you stormed the gangways and enabled us to achieve victory in record time…. Once again, you’re among the first to fight and the last to come home. The nation is grateful for your service.” Schubert described the Wright’s civilian mariners as “great Americans.” He said the rapid transport of materiel aboard U.S.-flag ships for American forces in Operation Iraqi Continued on page 10 July 2003 �18230_p1,3,5,9,10,14,21a.qxd 6/26/2003 9:07 AM Page 3 TOTE Christens New RO/RO North Star A red, white and blue celebration took place June 14 at San Diego’s NASSCO shipyard—and not just because it was Flag Day. For the SIU, the bigger occasion was the christening of Totem Ocean Trailer Express’ (TOTE’s) North Star, a new roll-on/roll-off vessel that is sister ship to the Midnight Sun. Each of the new SIU-contracted Orca-class trailerships is 840 feet long, 118 feet wide and capable of carrying highway trailers as large as 53 feet in length. Cargo decks are 360,000 square feet apiece and can handle up to 600 cargo trailers and 220 autos as well as oversized freight. The ships employ the latest in marine technologies, including twinscrew, diesel-electric propulsion that can achieve a speed of more than 24 knots. The North Star will join the Midnight Sun in TOTE’s Tacoma, Wash. to Anchorage, Alaska service. “The North Star means new jobs for Seafarers, and I’m confident the SIU men and women who crew this ship will do an excellent job,” stated SIU President Michael Sacco. “But we should not overlook the fact that the North Star also will benefit U.S. national security. “As we again were reminded during Operation Iraqi Freedom, commercial ships are needed to U.S. Rep. Don Young (R-Alaska) delivers the keynote address at the christening in San Diego. Crews at Starlight Marine, BIDCO Vote for Seafarers Mariners at two companies recently voted to join the Seafarers International Union. In San Francisco, boatmen employed by Starlight Marine Services unanimously chose the SIU. They work aboard a conventional tug and barge that is used for bunkering and lightering operations, and also aboard two shipassist tugboats utilized for docking and tanker escort procedures. SIU Vice President West Coast Nick Marrone said that the SIU competed with three other maritime unions during the organizing campaign. “Everyone from the SIU who participated in the campaign did a good job,” Marrone said. “I extend a warm welcome to our newest members, and I congratulate them for choosing the SIU.” The Starlight Marine mariners NY Waterway Fleet Expands support our troops during war,” he continued. “Both the North Star and the Midnight Sun will help maintain the pool of qualified shipboard manpower that’s needed to meet American sealift requirements in times of conflict.” Lu Young, wife of U.S. Rep. Don Young (R- Alaska), and Marie Magee, wife of Robert P. Magee Jr., president and CEO of TOTE, were the ship’s sponsors. Congressman Young, a strong supporter of the U.S. Merchant Marine who is serving in his 16th term in the House of Representatives, was the keynote speaker at the event. “We are pleased with the performance of the Midnight Sun and look forward to placing the North Star into service,” said Magee. “Our multimillion-dollar investment in these ships will contribute immeasurably to the growth and vitality of the Alaskan economy.” The Midnight Sun and North Star have received several prestigious awards for their environmentally sensitive features. These awards include the States/British Columbia Oil Spill Task Force Legacy Award for 2000, the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner’s 2000 Pollution Prevention Award, and the U.S. Coast Guard’s William M. Benkert Foundation 2002 Environmental Excellence Bronze Award. are covered by a five-year contract that stipulates wage increases, pension benefits, top medical coverage and other benefits. Also signing on with the Seafarers are mariners at Buffalo Industrial Diving Company (BIDCO). They crew a 110-foot former survey boat which now tends diving platforms and also delivers construction material. BIDCO’s parent company is involved in marine construction projects including underwater pipeline installation, harbor dredging, underwater repairs and much more. BIDCO assisted in some of the salvage efforts in New York following the attacks of September 11. Crew members at BIDCO now are covered by a three-year contract that calls for wage increases each year of the agreement, plus top pension benefits and the union’s best medical plan, among other benefits. The North Star will join its sister ship, the Midnight Sun, in TOTE’s service between Tacoma, Wash. and Anchorage, Alaska. Photo courtesy of NASSCO Marie Magee (left), with her husband, Robert P. Magee Jr., president and CEO of TOTE, and Lu Young, with her husband, U.S. Rep. Don Young (R-Alaska), prepare to christen the North Star. Right: The Seafarers-crewed Pipeline Surveyor carries a crew of five. Starlight Marine boatmen welcome SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone (second from right). Pictured from left to right are Mate/Tankerman Greg Wall, Engineer/Tankerman Lyle Page, Marrone and Deckhand/ Engineer Mark Carlsen. New ‘Freedom Ferry’ Means More SIU Jobs SIU-contracted NY Waterway recently added two more passenger ferries to its steadily expanding fleet. Christened at the Port Imperial Ferry Terminal in Weehawken, N.J. were the Governor Thomas H. Kean (above, left) on May 20 and the Congressman Robert A. Roe May 17. Pictured aboard the Thomas Kean are (above right, from left) Deckhand Tony Moyet, SIU Patrolman Joe Baselice and Deckhand Nestor Martinez. NY Waterway is the largest privately owned commuter ferry service in the nation. Please be advised that SIU headquarters and all SIU hiring halls will be closed Monday, August 18, 2003 for the observance of Paul Hall’s birthday (unless an emergency arises). Normal business hours will resume the following workday. July 2003 Seafarer James Anderson mans the new ferry. The Delaware River Port Authority has added a second SIU-contracted passenger ferry to its RiverLink service between Philadelphia and Camden, N.J. The Freedom ferry, operated by McGovern Marine, is a fine addition in more ways than one, said SIU Philadelphia Port Agent Jim Malone. “The other boat has a maximum crew of three, whereas the Freedom has a minimum crew of four,” Malone noted. “The Freedom will need a crew of six when it carries its maximum number of passengers, which is 600.” The Freedom is designed after the style used in that region in the 1920s. It is equipped with two decks, a steel canopy, an insulated cabin and dual wheelhouses (one at each end). The Freedom also is quieter than its predecessor and is outfitted with restrooms. McGovern Marine President Jerry McGovern pointed out, “Our (passenger) capacity per hour has improved dramatically. We’ve gone from being able to transport 2,700 people per hour, one way, to 3,600 per hour. Once the docks catch up to the capacity of the vessels, we’ll be able to transport even more passengers.” He added that the old boat may be overhauled or replaced. The Freedom, meanwhile, fits the same ferry slip as its counterpart. Seafarers LOG 3 �18230_p4,15_18,24.qxd 6/26/2003 7:00 PM Page 4 SIU Welcomes New Cable Ship Shipboard opportunities for Seafarers increased last month with the christening of the Tyco Decisive, a new SIU-crewed cable ship. The ceremony took place in Baltimore on the same pier where two other SIU-crewed cable ships, the Global Link and Global Mariner, are tied up. The Tyco Decisive is a sister ship to the Tyco Dependable, which was christened earlier in the year in Honolulu. Both are 456 feet long and 68 feet wide with a registered gross tonnage of 12,184 and a service speed of 14 knots. The Tyco Decisive is the fifth of six new Reliance Class cable ships specifically designed, constructed and outfitted to provide high quality marine services for both undersea cable maintenance and new cable installations. The Reliance Class vessels feature state-of-theart technology that enables them to operate more efficiently and with improved fuel economy. Joining in the christening day festivities are (from left) SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez, AMO President Michael R. McKay, SIU President Michael Sacco and SIU SecretaryTreasurer David Heindel. Recertified Steward Shawn Fujiwara (foreground) and Chief Cook Jorge Lanas enjoy working in a brand new galley. Following a blessing, the guests watch as the champagne bottle is broken against the ship’s hull (inset). Left: Crew members check out the news in the Seafarers LOG. From the left are STOS Michael Widmark and OMU Wade Rudolph. At the gangway are (from left) Chief Electrician Frank Coburn, Bosun Thor Young and Bosun’s Mate Lovell Smith. SIU Baltimore Port Agent Dennis Metz (center) brings copies of the latest LOG to the ship. With him are AB James Gasca (left) and AB Augustus Udan. Bosun’s Mate Lovell Smith and AB Terrence Carmody meet in the crew mess. USNS Comfort Comes Home During Operation Iraqi Freedom, the hospital ship USNS Comfort—crewed by members of the SIU’s Government Services Division—treated more than 650 patients, including about 200 Iraqi prisoners of war and Iraqi civilians. More than 600 surgeries were performed aboard the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) vessel, and nearly 600 units of blood were transfused. Last month, the Comfort’s crew and medical personnel finally got their turn for a little TLC as the vessel returned to Baltimore. “Short and sweet,” Bosun Gerald Butch said of the fivemonth deployment, comparing it to the nine months he spent aboard the Comfort during the Persian Gulf War. “It was a successful trip.” Electrician John Morgan noted, “Although we stopped at the fewest amount of ports and had the least amount of liberty, it was the most rewarding trip.” Morgan added that once during the mission he wanted to return home, but after talking with some of the patients, he believed he could best serve his country by remaining on board. MSC conducted a ceremony for the crew and military-medical personnel immediately upon the ship’s arrival in Baltimore June 13. “We showed the world the United States cares about the world,” said Vice Admiral James L. Brewer III, commander of MSC. “We couldn’t have done it without you. Welcome home, shipmates.” The USNS Comfort arrives June 13 in Baltimore as family and friends wait on shore with signs like the one inset. 4 Seafarers LOG Brewer presented each of the mariners with the Merchant Marine Expeditionary Medal, awarded to those who serve on U.S.-flag ships in support of operations involving American and allied armed forces. SIU President Michael Sacco also addressed the gathering. “Both in the war against terrorism and in the war to liberate the Iraqi people, America has been reminded of the importance of our merchant marine,” he said. “Whether they’re CIVMARS or they’re employed in the private-sector fleet, U.S. mariners have answered the call—just as we’ve done throughout our nation’s history.” At its peak during the war, the 894-foot Comfort carried approximately 60 CIVMARS and 1,000 medical specialists. Many of the medical personnel are from the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Md. The vessel is equipped with 1,000 hospital beds and 12 operating rooms. In addition to assisting in Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, the ship helped with Haitian migrant operations in the Caribbean in 1994. The vessel also has participated in various multinational military and humanitarian exercises, according to MSC. After the terrorist attacks of September 11, the Comfort was activated and directed to New York City. The ship’s crew and the med- On hand to greet the mariners are (from left) SIU Assistant VP Contracts George Tricker, MSC Commander Vice Admiral David L. Brewer III, SIU President Michael Sacco and Admiral Donald Arthur, commander of the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Md. ical staff provided sleeping quarters, meals, laundry services and medical treatment to relief workers. MSC normally operates about 120 civilian-crewed, noncombatant ships for a variety of missions around the world. That number expanded to 214 in March as additional ships were activated from reduced operating status or were chartered for the command’s support of U.S. forces in Operation Iraqi Freedom. Above: SIU President Michael Sacco (left) and SIU Baltimore Port Agent Dennis Metz (right) congratulate EU Arthur James for his service during the war. Left: The expeditionary medals are ready to be awarded during the ceremony held on the deck of the returning hospital ship. July 2003 �18230_p1,3,5,9,10,14,21a.qxd 6/26/2003 9:15 AM Page 5 ILO Delegates Approve Universal Mariner ID The development of a universal identification document for an estimated 1.2 million merchant mariners worldwide took a major step forward last month when delegates to the International Labor Organization’s (ILO’s) 91st annual convention approved the key components of such credentials. By a vote of 392-0 (with 20 abstentions), delegates to the ILO forum in Geneva adopted a new agreement for mariner IDs. The new ILO Convention on Seafarers’ Identity Documents replaces ILO Convention No. 108, adopted in 1958. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel participated in the convention, which ended on June 19. He also serves as vice chair of the Seafarers’ Section of the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF). “With the security concerns around the world that came into focus after September 11, it’s simply a fact that the new universal IDs for mariners are coming,” Heindel said. “Overall, I believe the basic guidelines adopted at the International Labor Organization Conference are reasonable. The SIU will continue working with the ILO, the ITF, MARAD, the U.S. Coast Guard and other involved parties in assuring adoption of the new convention and to ensure mariners’ rights are protected and its implementation is fair and sensible.” The ITF reacted similarly. Jon Whitlow, secretary of the federation’s Seafarers’ Section and secretary of the Workers’ Group at the ILO during the conference, stated, “A sensitive and fundamental balance has been achieved today. Both human rights and nations’ need for security have been respected.” He added, “This decision demonstrates the ILO’s continuing relevance as the forum where these issues must be decided. The urgent requirement now is for speedy ratification (by the ILO’s 176 member states, including the U.S.).” According to the ILO, the pact on mariner identification “establishes a more rigorous identity regime for seafarers with the aim of developing effective security from terrorism and ensuring that the world’s 1.2 million seafarers will be given the freedom of movement necessary for their well-being and for their profes- Reminder: New Policy Regarding Vacation Applications Effective immediately, original payroll vouchers must be submitted to verify employment—in addition to any Coast Guard discharges— for all vacation applications. These original documents will be returned to the applicant along with the vacation check. Failure to submit original pay vouchers could delay the processing of vacation benefits. Sid Smith Dies at 77 Buffalo Native Owned Erie Sand & Gravel Sidney E. “Sid” Smith Jr., retired owner and president of SIU-contracted Erie Sand & Gravel, passed away April 22 at Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital in Buffalo after a long illness. He was 77. “Through business practice and personal reputation, Sid was always known as a solid individual with deep concerns for the preservation of the maritime industry on the Great Lakes,” noted SIU Vice President Great Lakes Thomas Orzechowski. Smith’s son, Sandy Smith, remembered his father as “a great friend of (SIU President) Mike Sacco, (retired SIU VP Great Lakes) Byron Kelley and the union. My father always felt that more involvement and understanding by management of the day-to-day life of sailors would produce a better ship for the sailor and the owner.” As a teenager, Sid Smith worked part-time moving the storage grain ships outside Buffalo harbor during the winter, after the elevators’ inventories were depleted, Sandy noted. He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II, throughout the Pacific theater, and subsequently sailed aboard July 2003 Sid Smith sailed aboard Lakes vessels and later owned SIUcontracted Erie Sand & Gravel. Great Lakes ships as a watchman, wheelsman and mate. A native of Buffalo, Smith was a member of the Propeller Club in his home city. The chapter once recognized him as its man of the year. He also was appointed to the Great Lakes Commission and held a master’s license (unlimited tonnage) for merchant ships. He was preceded in death by his wife, Margaret “Peg” Smith, in 1993. Memorials may be made to the Erie Humane Society, 418 W. 38th Street, Erie, PA 16508; St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, 1070 W. Dutch Road, Fairview, PA 16415; or the charity of the donor’s choice. sional activities and, in general, to facilitate international commerce. The Convention sets out the basic parameters and allows the details in its annexes, like the precise form of the identity document, to be easily adapted subsequently to keep up with technological developments.” A key feature of the new ID will be a “biometric template” based on a fingerprint. A resolution accompanying the pact requests the ILO director-general to take urgent measures for the development of “a global interoperable standard for the biometric, particularly in cooperation with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).” It also makes provision for the facilitation of shore leave and transit and transfer of seafarers, including the exemption from holding a visa for seafarers taking shore leave. The ILO further noted, “To avoid the risk of an ID being issued to the wrong person, the Convention also requires ratifying member states to maintain a IMO Examines Safety, Security, Verification The Maritime Safety Committee of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) met for its 77th session May 28 to June 6 in London. Among other actions, the committee formulated three working groups to discuss maritime security, bulk carrier safety and IMO “model audit schemes.” Bill Eglinton, director of training at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., attended the meeting as a member of the United States delegation. He participated in the maritime security working group, which considered a number of issues relating to the unhindered implementation of the security measures adopted by the 2002 Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) treaty. The measures —which will affect all U.S. ports as well as vessels—are scheduled to go into full force July 1, 2004. According to Eglinton, the new international requirements will consist of several amendments to the SOLAS Convention and a new International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code. The domestic adaptation of these new regulations will be contained in the interim final rule of the Maritime Transportation Security Act, Eglinton pointed out. He added that the International Labor Organization (ILO) currently is studying mariner identification documents and that the Transportation Security Administration hopes to produce a transportation worker proper database available for international consultation by authorized officials and to have and observe adequate procedures for the issuance of IDs. Those procedures, which cover not only the security aspects but also the necessary safeguards for individual rights, including data protection, will be subject to transparent procedures for international oversight.” The text of the full convention can be viewed at: http://www.ilo.org/public/english/standards/r elm/ilc/ilc91/records.htm. Look under provisional record 20 for the Committee report and under 20A for the text of the final agreement. identification card (TWIC) in the near future. In the meantime, Eglinton noted that all U.S.-flag vessels must have the following requirements/capabilities in place by July 1, 2004: Ship security assessments Ship security plans Installation of automatic identification systems (AIS) and ship security alert systems aboard all SOLAS vessels Permanent marking of ship identification number on external surfaces of all SOLAS vessels Vessel recordkeeping (continuous synopsis records) Company security officer Ship security officer Security training, drills and exercises aboard all vessels International ship security certificate Concerning guidelines for U.S. ports, Eglinton said their requirements would virtually mirror those of shipping companies. Rep. Saxton: U.S. Mariners Are ‘A National Treasure’ U.S. Rep. Jim Saxton (R-N.J.) recently commended the work of U.S. mariners who have sailed in Operations Enduring/Iraqi Freedom, describing them as “a national treasure.” In remarks June 4 in the House, Saxton said that on the heels of passing a Congressional resolution recognizing the armed forces, “I also want to recognize a particular group of truly unsung yet most deserving heroes—our U.S. Merchant Mariners. “Once again, our country has turned to its mariners to take the fight to the enemy, to project our force half a world away, to secure the precious freedom that now spreads to an Iraqi people free to choose their own destiny, to raise their families as they choose, and to renew the glories of one of the world’s greatest civilizations,” Saxton stated. “Our liberating force was decisive and it moved on the brawn, ingenuity, and dedication of our merchant marine. Not in 12 years have we moved such a force by sea, and we have done it better, against greater challenge than ever before.” Saxton serves on the House Armed Services Committee, which recently passed legislation that includes a reauthorized Maritime Security Program. More of his remarks from June 4 about the U.S. Merchant Marine follow: “We recently saw a line of ships spread from our East Coast U.S. Rep. Jim Saxton (R-N.J.) through the Straights of Gibraltar, through the Suez Canal and the Red Sea, and into the Gulf of Oman—a ‘steel bridge’ of resolve. A bridge as strong as those mariners who crew our enormous ships and who go on in harm’s way to deliver our force anyplace, anytime they are called. “Since the beginning of the war on terrorism, over 6,800 U.S. Merchant Mariners and civil servant mariners have served and provided support to our global military operations. Currently serving on 211 vessels, our U.S. mariners face many of the same hazards confronting our uniformed military as they regularly transit and operate within potential targeted areas of chemical and biological weapons, waterborne mines, and terrorist activi- ties. Truly, our country’s merchant mariners have answered the call selflessly and brilliantly. “Our mariners activated and crewed 40 vessels of our Ready Reserve Force, essential to the early movement of ammunition, tanks, aircraft, and military vehicles. These U.S. mariners crewed our vital prepositioned ships and our fast response surge sealift vessels, providing time-critical war fighting equipment and supplies to the battlefield. Over 4,000 civil servant mariners manned and supported the continuous worldwide operations of our ships supporting U.S. naval and coalition forces at sea. Around the clock, every day, across the globe, our mariners make it happen. “At this crucial time in history, our U.S. mariners stepped forward with skill, bravery, and an unrivaled legacy of service. They made all the difference. Our nation continues to rely on these warriors, and their impact is profound. Long after the fighting stops, our mariners will still be on the watch, returning the troops, sustaining the force, and providing for the needy as we renew a proud but shattered land. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of our Congress and a grateful nation, it is my humble honor to say thank you to all our U.S. Merchant Mariners. We wish them Godspeed and a safe return. They are indeed a national treasure— long may they serve.” Seafarers LOG 5 �18230_6_8,11_13,19,20,22_23.qxd 6/23/2003 11:39 AM Page 6 SEAFARERS HELP IN WAR EFFORT aboard the cape Edmont The SIU-crewed Cape Edmont departed Jan. 25 from its berth in Charleston, S.C. for Kuwait and other ports in the Middle East, stopping along the way at ports in Crete, Turkey, Spain and Germany, before returning to Charleston on May 21. As part of the Military Sealift command’s Ready Reserve Force (RRF) fleet, the Cape Edmont is a roll-on/rolloff (RO/RO)vessel specifically designed to carry wheeled and tracked vehicles as all or most of its cargo. Vehicles are driven on and off the ship via ramps which must be angled at no greater than 15 degrees. The ship is 652 feet long, 94 feet wide and can travel at a speed of 15.7 knots. Left: In the port of Charleston, S.C., the empty deck of the Cape Edmont will soon be filled with military equipment. Above: Everything has been carefully checked and inspected aboard ship, including the port life boat. ABs Jim Wilby (left), Fred Hayston (center) and Ray Oglesby are three of the many unlicensed crew members aboard the Cape Edmont who returned to Charleston from the four-month trip to Kuwait in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and were awarded Merchant Marine Expeditionary Medals and certificates for their service. Military vehicles wait at the Charleston dock for loading onto the RRF ship. Military vehicles of all kinds are secured on deck. There are many interesting sights to take in while transiting the Suez Canal. This particular one happened to be a U.S. submarine. Below: It was comforting to know the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) was present aboard ship, especially while entering hostile territories. Seas are heavy in the Mediterranean as the Cape Edmont sails toward the Middle East with a full load of equipment. 6 Seafarers LOG The Cape Edmont is tied up at a Kuwaiti pier next to the Cape Knox, another RO/RO vessel in the RRF fleet. July 2003 �18230_6_8,11_13,19,20,22_23.qxd 6/23/2003 11:40 AM Page 7 SEAFARERS HELP IN WAR EFFORT aboard the USNS ANTARES The SIU-crewed fast sealift ship USNS Antares needed some tweaking along the way, but overall the 31-year-old vessel had a smooth voyage while delivering materiel to Kuwait for U.S. forces in Operation Iraqi Freedom. “It was fantastic—the best ship I’ve sailed on, without a doubt,” said OS Dave Frank, who joined the SIU five years ago. “It was just high morale all the way around. Then, when the Marines came aboard, those guys Between the dozen Marines aboard the Antares and the alert crew, security was a strong point throughout the voyage. Pictured, with military counterparts, are (above) OS Dave Frank, (above, right) Chief Steward Carlos Diaz and (below) OS John Murray. The Antares is a roll-on/rolloff ship equipped with onboard cranes. The vessel is 946 feet long. Below: The Marine Corps mechanized unit that boarded the fast sealift ship “made things even better,” said OS Frank. “Those guys were awesome.” made things even better.” Frank, who is upgrading to AB, said the crew endured only one scary moment in Kuwait, following an unofficial report of an Iraqi missile attack. “Everybody stuck close to the gas masks, but it turned out [the missile] wasn’t anywhere near us,” he recalled. Operated by AMSEA, the Antares was deployed for three months. It sailed from San Diego to Singapore, where it underwent minor repairs, and then proceeded to Kuwait. On the return trip, the Antares docked in Malta for additional light repairs. “With the older ships, you have to sometimes expect that they’ll need a little extra maintenance,” observed Frank, who provided the photos on this page. “We carried a lot of different materiel,” added Frank. “Tanks, humvees, bridge layers, all kinds of big trucks…. Some were enclosed armored tracked vehicles, some were trucks with the canvas covers on the back. Plus we carried equipment that was like a backhoe and front-end loader in one.” The Antares also was deployed a dozen years ago for Operations Desert Shield/Desert Storm. The vessel stopped in Singapore (above) for minor repairs en route to Kuwait, then underwent more light maintenance in Malta (below) before returning to the U.S. Another ship in the fast sealift fleet, the USNS Pollux, is pictured near the Antares as both vessels head to Kuwait. Fast sealift ships are specially suited to transport heavy or bulky unit equipment such as tanks, large wheeled vehicles and helicopters. July 2003 Seafarers LOG 7 �18230_6_8,11_13,19,20,22_23.qxd 6/23/2003 11:46 AM Page 8 seafarers help in war effort aboard the cape washington The Cape Washington delivers its cargo in Kuwait earlier this year. The Cape Washington, part of the Ready Reserve Force, spent some unscheduled time near Turkey during the combat phase of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Eventually, the ship diverted to Kuwait, where it discharged tanks and other materiel for coalition forces. “We had an experienced crew, and everybody understood we had a mission to accomplish,” noted Electrician Randy Clark, who provided the photos for this page. “We didn’t have a single argument.” During their 95-day deployment, Cape Washington crew members sometimes wore helmets and flak vests, in response to nearby missile attacks (in Kuwait) and reports of possible sniper attacks (in the Suez Canal). They also unfailingly followed orders to restrict communications and periodically put the ship in a blackout for the sake of operational security. Still, Clark said the most remarkable part of the journey was seeing the military staging area in Kuwait. “I couldn’t believe the amount of cargo we moved,” said the longtime Seafarer. “I drove through an area for an hour-and-a-half, and the entire time there were (military) vehicles as far as the eye could see.” Electrician Randy Clark, pictured aboard the Cape Washington in the Suez Canal, says crew members “were committed to their role as part of the nation’s Fourth Arm of Defense.” Bosun Rick James (right) and a member of the military security force are pictured on the deck of the RRF ship. ABs Richard Owusu (left) and Henry Gable man the anchor watch aboard the Cape Washington. Right: The ship received warnings of possible sniper attacks in the Suez Canal. Entry points are visible in the water (nearly horizontal line in center of photo) as the security force conducts target practice. The massive staging area reflects some of the estimated 21 million square feet of cargo delivered by the U.S. Merchant Marine. 8 Seafarers LOG July 2003 �18230_p1,3,5,9,10,14,21.qxd 6/24/2003 6:31 PM Page 9 Alaska Tanker Company Earns More Safety Awards 1st of 4 New Builds Progressing Nicely Whether looking back or ahead, it seems that lately it’s all good news for SIU-contracted Alaska Tanker Company (ATC). Seven Seafarers-crewed ATC ships recently received vessel safety awards at an annual industry gathering in New Orleans. Additionally, construction of the Alaskan Frontier—the first of four new double-hull tankers being built for ATC in San Diego—is progressing quite well, while a “first cut” ceremony recently took place for the second new build, noted Captain John Ripperger, the company’s Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. “The recognition for the crews is well-deserved, but the real reward of course is their safety and the protection of the environment,” Ripperger stated. “Our commitment to safe operations is stronger than ever.” At the Jones F. Devlin and Ship Safety Achievement Awards ceremony May 29, the following ATC The Denali is one of seven SIU-crewed ATC ships recently recognized for its consistently safe operations. vessels were recognized for operating for at least the last two years without a lost-time accident: Overseas Chicago, Overseas New York, Tonsina, Prince William Sound, Overseas Boston, Kenai and Denali. In fact, the entire ATC fleet for the past several years has reduced what the company calls “recordable injury frequency” to zero or almost nothing. That includes no lost-time injuries last year through the first half of this year. Additionally, ATC ships carried 157 million barrels of crude oil in 2002—and spilled a total of less than one quart. Not a single drop has been spilled in 2003. Others have noticed the safe, smooth operations. A year ago, ATC received formal congratulations from the Alaska state legislature for its outstanding safety and environmental record. Those accolades were followed by ATC earning the State of Washington Department of Ecology’s prestigious Exceptional Compliance Program (ECOPRO) Award for excellence in marine safety and environmental stewardship. Further, ATC is the first U.S.-flag seagoing company to achieve the ISO 14001 certification. Overall, ATC’s efforts have helped achieve continuous improvements in its health, safety and environmental (HSE) performance rating, an important grading system for operators in the Alaskan North Slope trade route. That bodes well for a future that is scheduled to include the four new Alaska-class tankers. The ships have staggered deliver dates (starting early next year and ending in 2006) and will help offset the government-ordered scrapping dates for some of ATC’s current fleet. Each of the new tankers will be 941 feet long, with a capacity for 1.3 million barrels and a design life of 35-50 years. In addition to ATC, the following SIU-contracted companies were honored at the Devlin Awards ceremony: Crescent Towing, Interocean Ugland Management, Horizon Lines, Keystone, Moran Towing, Ocean Ships, and Seabulk International. In the five photos above and below, the Alaskan Frontier takes shape. The double-hull vessel is scheduled for delivery early next year. Notice to Seafarers: STCW Certification Editor’s note: The following notice was posted to the union’s web site (www.seafarers.org) on June 6. An earlier, related notice was posted on May 30. In response to the recent discovery of the existence of questionable or invalid STCW Basic Safety Training (BST) certificates possessed by what appears to be a relatively small number of SIU members, a more secure certificate verification program has been jointly adopted by the union and the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. It applies to both STCW certificates as well as documentation for STCW Basic Safety Training (BST). The new system is not burdensome on the Seafarer. However, the union and the Paul Hall Center believe the new process, properly followed, promises to be secure, accurate and verifiable. For the most part, the only Seafarers impacted by the updated structure are (a) mariners with prior SIU seatime (or NMU seatime) who do not have an STCW certificate on file with the Paul Hall Center and who have a BST certificate issued from a school other than the Paul Hall Center; and (b) mariners with no prior SIU or NMU seatime. Details are available at all SIU halls. If members are concerned that they may be in possession of invalid BST certification, those members may take advantage of a grace or amnesty period—beginning immediately and lasting through September 2003—during which the bad certificates may be submitted at the halls or the Paul Hall Center. Members then may enroll for BST training at the Paul Hall Center (or at any other Coast Guard certified school). However, once the grace period ends (Sept. 30, 2003), any members found in possession of fraudulent certificates will have SAB charges brought against them. Further, the amnesty is only for SAB action and doesn’t preclude action by other (outside) organizations. As most recently demonstrated by our quick response to this situation, both the SIU and the Paul Hall Center remain committed to helping ensure the correct documentation of Seafarers. On the whole, our training and certification database already is considered one of the most accurate private maritime records in the nation. We intend to make it even more precise. Penn Maritime Crews Approve Contract Seafarers employed by Penn Maritime Inc. recently approved a new five-year contract that includes numerous gains. The agreement covers approximately 120 Seafarers and calls for wage increases in each year of the contract. It also moves Penn boatmen into the union’s top medical plan; increases their pension benefits; and improves working conditions. Joining SIU VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi and SIU Rep Jack Sheehan on the union’s bargaining committee were (from left) Deckhand Warren Wirth, Tankerman Teddy Crockett and Mate Jeff Rydza. Penn Maritime owns and operates 13 tugboats and 21 barges. July 2003 Seafarers LOG 9 �18230_p1,3,5,9,10,14,21.qxd 6/24/2003 6:38 PM Page 10 Pedal Power AB Sands Enjoys Challenges, Benefits of Cycling AB Carl Sands is pictured at an elevation of roughly 3,300 feet near Genoa, Italy. Uphill climbs, whether literal or metaphorical, usually are unwelcome. But for AB Carl Sands, an avid cyclist, the base of the mountain is where the fun starts. “I really like the climbing,” says Sands, who joined the union 26 years ago in Houston. “A lot of it is mental. If you have it in your mind that it’s too tough to make it up that hill, you won’t make it.” The Seafarer has no such uncertainty. He has pedaled uphill for “15 miles in one shot” and has climbed for long stretches without a break. “You definitely get your exercise,” says Sands, 55, who lives in Guatemala. “It seems to be a very healthy sport for me—very relaxing.” He stumbled onto the sport a few years ago, while working aboard Crowley’s Prudhoe Bay. “I took it up in my old age. They happened to have cycles on board, and anyone could use them. It was early fall, the weather was beautiful….” Since then—schedule permitting— his trips ashore often have involved cycling to areas near the ports. On those journeys, Sands normally carries two spare tires, wrenches and water. Ironically, Sands finds the rigors of uphill cycling preferable to the typically more congested trips through port towns. “The toughest trips are local,” he notes. During some time off from the SeaLand Atlantic, Sands stands with the city of Palmi, Italy visible to his right. Left: Boats in Malta provide the backdrop during a recent trip ashore. Right: On this trip, Sands approaches the 13th-century castle in the town of Castellar, Spain. MarAd Ceremony Held Aboard Wright Continued from page 2 Freedom “was the most successful sealift in U.S. history, in terms of speed and cooperation—especially with our (contracted) labor unions.” Bishop said the Wright’s performance “demonstrates of the RRF program as a national asset.” Marine Corps Colonel Chris Joyce said the mariners “did a magnificent job. The Wright is one of two ships that enable Marine aviation to deploy. Without you, the success of our air campaign wouldn’t have been nearly as great.” Brewer highlighted the overall sealift effort of the U.S. fleet during the war. He noted that the merchant marine moved more than 20 million square feet of vital cargo—enough to fill more than 350 football fields. Jackson stated, “This was a partnership. When the president began to contemplate the task of sending people into harm’s way, he knew we’d win or lose by virtue of our ability to move (cargo). And there was no more superb team than the one General John Handy brought to the table.” ‘Union Plus’ Offers Consumer Benefits Union Plus gives Seafarers and their families access to a number of cost-saving benefits programs. Union Plus (formerly Union Privilege) is a non-profit entity created in 1986 by the AFL-CIO to provide union members and their families with valuable consumer benefits. Basically, the organization secures good rates for union members who are enrolled in the various programs, based on the potential collective purchasing power of all members of participating unions. In short, it’s a case of strength in numbers. The following is a list of Union Plus programs in which the SIU participates. For more information about a particular program, call the appropriate Union Plus telephone number or visit www.unionplus.org Credit Card SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez (right) chats with Seafarers before the ceremony. Apply online at www.unionpluscard.com or call 1-800-5224000. Secured Credit Card Call 1-800-622-2580. Mortgage and Real Estate Call 1-800-848-6466. Life Insurance Call 1-800-899-2782. Health Savings Call 1-800-228-3523 for more details. Auto Insurance Program For comparison quotes, go to www.unionplus.org or call 1-800294-9496 to apply. ABs Larry Justin (left) and Phil Yaros help bring aboard some of the gear for the observance. 10 Seafarers LOG General Handy greets OS Seth Rockwell during the June 16 ceremony aboard the Wright in Baltimore. National Labor College Scholarship For more details, call 1-301431-5404. Loan Program Apply online at www.unionplusloan.com or call 1-888-2352759. Accidental Death Insurance Call 1-800-899-2782 or enroll online at www.unionplus.org. Family Savers Hotel Royal Plaza Call 1-800-248-7890. Car Rentals To find out more, visit www.unionplus.org; call Avis at 1800-6985685, ID# B723700 or Budget at 1-800-455-2848, ID# V816100. Union-Made Checks Call 1-888-864-6625. Flower Service Visit www.unionplus.org or call 1-888-667-7779 to place an order. North American Van Lines Call 1-800-524-5533. Your Credit Score For $11, you can get your credit score, credit report, and suggestions for improving your score. Visit www.unionplus.org. Education Services Vacation Tours Visit www.unionplus.org or call 1-877-881-1022. Call 1-800-590-1104 for more information. July 2003 �A 18230_6_8,11_13,19,20,22_23.qxd 6/23/2003 11:47 AM Page 11 i h t w t k h r e o S W IU t Many SIU members were involved in crewing the ships that provided vital military equipment to the troops in the Middle East. Many more continued sailing aboard other SIU-crewed merchant ships, attending meetings in their respective ports or at sea, or working on shore. Bosun Wilfredo Rice (kneeling center) returns from Operation Enduring Freedom aboard the USNS Pollux with members of the Puerto Rican National Guard. Below: Darryl White sailed to Kuwait as a QMED aboard the Motivator. At right, a Persian Gulf pilot climbs the ship’s ladder to guide the USSM vessel through the harbor. Members of the crane department at Horizon Lines in San Juan try to adjust the crane spreader. From the left are CME Carlos Parrilla, ILA welder José Fonseca, CME Ray Prim, MEBA Engineer Robert Tower and MEBA Senior Engineer Tom Chiacchia. From Billy Bushey, chairman aboard the USNS Flint, come these shots taken at a recent shipboard meeting (top photo). Bushey says it was the most heavily attended union meeting he has ever seen on an MSC vessel. Five new members were signed up at the meeting as well (bottom photo). The newest Government Services Division members are (from left) AB James Idoni, SU Annaliza Hughes, AB Sam Kuelver, Ref. Eng. George De Leon and OS Victor Omagap. It’s coffee time aboard the Liberty Sun. From the left are Bosun Joseph “Smoky” Moore, GUDE Joe Dunham, AB Spencer Lyle and AB John Grayson. Participating in a fire and boat drill as well as safety training aboard the Liberty Sun are (clockwise from top right) GUDE Louis Simmons, QMED Anwar Muthala, and Bosun Joseph “Smoky” Moore and Chief Steward Ron Davis. OS A. Sarpong (kneeling left) and AB M. Smith (kneeling right) took part in Operation Iraqi Freedom sailing aboard the Buffalo Soldier. Here they pose on deck in Kuwait with members of the 2nd Battalion of the 6th Marine Division, who went along for the ride. July 2003 Seafarers LOG 11 �18230_6_8,11_13,19,20,22_23.qxd 6/23/2003 11:48 AM Page 12 NATIONAL MARIT Merchant Marine’s Wartime Efforts Past and Present Garner Strong Praise With U.S. troops serving overseas in the next phase of Operation Iraqi Freedom, this year’s National Maritime Day ceremonies in Washington, D.C. seemingly carried extra significance. Throughout the stirring events hosted by the U.S. Maritime Administration (MarAd) and the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC), respectively, some of the nation’s most respected officials offered compelling words of praise for U.S. crews past and present. U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao and U.S. Secretary of Transportation Norman Y. Mineta served as keynote speakers at the MarAd ceremony, while General Richard B. Myers, USAF, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, delivered the main address at MSC’s observance. Additionally, President Bush issued a National Maritime Day proclamation in which he cited the merchant marine’s contributions to U.S. national and economic security. The SIU as usual brought a large group to each event—and delivered a rousing cheer for one of their own, AB Karen Domerego, who received the Merchant Marine Expeditionary Medal from Mineta. Domerego was honored by MarAd at the Navy Memorial along with other mariners who sailed during Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. The mariners were symbolic of all U.S. crews who served. “I’m very proud to be a part of the whole thing—proud to stand up for everybody who worked,” said Domerego, who sailed aboard the Cape John for four months. The vessel delivered bombs and other ammunition for coalition forces in Operation Iraqi Freedom. MarAd also honored five shippers and freight forwarders for supporting the U.S. Merchant Marine. World War II-era shipyard workers and crews also were remembered. Mineta detailed the history of the U.S. fleet and noted the reliability of American crews. “Merchant mariners have long been the quiet heroes in our armed conflicts,” he stated. “Each time our nation’s military deployed to protect U.S. interests, the lives of America’s men and women were placed at risk. And in each one of those deployments, their logistical lifelines—merchant mariners —were right alongside, or close behind, with the tools to get the job done and return home safely.” Commenting on the merchant marine’s role in Operation Iraqi Freedom—a war in which more than 2,000 SIU members helped deliver materiel for U.S. troops—Mineta observed, “U.S.-flag ships transported a myriad of critical cargo including Apache helicopters, multiple launch rocket systems, a multitude of wheeled vehicles including HUMVEES and fuel tankers, bulldozers and other combat engineer equipment; and ammunition to our forces. The role of the U.S. Merchant Marine once again proved crucial to victory in 2003.” Chao reminded that audience that “merchant mariners have served in all of America’s wars.” She called particular attention to World War II, when U.S. mariners suffered a per capita casualty rate second only to the Marine Corps. “The numbers speak for themselves: 733 U.S. cargo ships lost to enemy action; more than 6,000 American seafarers killed; and nearly 600 captured as prisoners of war,” Chao said. “But through it all, the U.S. Merchant Marine persevered. They were the crucial lifeline that kept our allies free by delivering crucial supplies and munitions U.S. MARITIME ADMINISTRATION Deputy Maritime Administrator John Jamian credits U.S. mariners with delivering the goods in Operation Iraqi Freedom. ABOVE: Vice Admiral David L. Brewer III (left), commander of MSC, and SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez listen to remarks honoring World War II-era shipyard workers. LEFT: AB Karen Domerego receives the Merchant Marine Expeditionary Medal from U.S. Secretary of Transportation Norman Mineta (right) and a certificate from U.S. Maritime Administrator Captain William Schubert (left). Domerego and other mariners honored at the ceremony were symbolic of all U.S. crews who served. Seafarers LOG National M By the President of th A PROC Audience members at the Navy Memorial watch a MarAd-produced videotape highlighting the work of RRF crews. 12 during the darkest days of the war. “Today, that proud tradition is still with us,” she added. “A strong U.S.-flag fleet was essential to support Operation Iraqi Freedom…. These steadfast mariners are still at work, transporting food and machinery to feed the Iraqi people and rebuild their country.” She concluded that America benefits from maintaining a strong U.S. fleet. “We don’t know where the next frontline will be in the war against terrorism. But we do know that most of the supplies for our troops will probably move by sea. Once more, our armed forces will rely upon the U.S.-flag Merchant Marine to stand behind them while they stand up for us.” During MSC’s ceremony at the Washington Navy Yard, Vice Admiral David L. Brewer III, USN, commander of MSC, commended the efforts of merchant mariners throughout history. “We at MSC are proud of our civilian mariners, so it is fitting that today is set aside to acknowledge the great debt of gratitude we owe to the dedicated men and women of the U.S. Merchant Marine,” he said before introducing General Myers. Myers enthusiastically complimented the civilian crews, and also mentioned that his uncle sailed as a merchant mariner during World War II. “What you have done for our country in Operation Iraqi Freedom is absolutely unparalleled,” Myers told the mariners in attendance. “You’re some of the nation’s often unsung heroes, but you are heroes.” He noted that U.S. mariners “throughout history have been important to our military and economic strength.” The general also offered these words to the students from the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education who attended the ceremony: “Thank you in advance for what you’re going to do for your nation.” Today, as in the past, America depends on our perity, and advance the universal hope of freedom. mariners and also recognize their important contrib For generations, merchant marines and comme recently, more than 5,000 merchant mariners suppo ing aboard 157 ships moving essential supplies to war on terror, their mission continues to be dangero peace. We also remember the vital role the Merchant M mariners lost their lives during World War II, and m United States declared war, merchant mariners we plies. President Franklin Roosevelt, the first Preside of their role during wartime: “They have delivered t and across every ocean in the biggest, the most dif are grateful for the contributions and sacrifices of A Korea, Vietnam, the Persian Gulf, and around the w In addition to their efforts to support our troops, produce around the United States and throughout t country, and strengthens our economy. By operatin our homeland. In recognition of the importance of the U.S. Mer May 20, 1933, as amended, has designated May 2 and requested that the President issue an annual p NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, Pr 22, 2003, as National Maritime Day. I call upon the display the flag of the United States at their homes under the American flag dress ship on that day. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set m thousand three, and of the Independence of the Un July 2003 �18230_6_8,11_13,19,20,22_23.qxd 6/23/2003 11:49 AM Page 13 ITIME DAY 2003 KEYNOTE SPEAKERS AT MARAD & MSC CEREMONIES h s i l o - “The role of the U.S. “Like the military veterans we honor on Merchant Marine once Memorial Day, the story of our mer- again proved critical to chant mariners and their contributions victory in 2003. to our nation is one of heroism and sac- m t e t d t y President Bush, Vice rifice. Their tradition is as old as our President Cheney and country.” the American people —U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine L. Chao are indebted to every merchant mariner.” e l f t C e t l —U.S. Secretary of Transportation Norman Y. Mineta “Merchant mariners have risked their lives for democracy and for our country. The unsung heroes of the merchant marine are not just a part of history. They’re a vital part of our joint force today.” —General Richard B. Myers, USAF, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff U.S. MILITARY SEALIFT COMMAND e s g r s e e e t y o r o n r Acknowledged by General Myers, students from the Paul Hall Center observe MSC’s event at the Washington Navy Yard. l Maritime Day 2003 of the United States of America CLAMATION n our maritime services to help ensure our security, promote our prosedom. We honor the service and proud history of our merchant ontributions in strengthening our economy. ommercial sailors have assisted in the defense of our Nation. Most supported Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom by serves to our troops. As they continue to support our troops in the ongoing angerous and difficult, and remains vital to our efforts to defend the hant Marine has played in past conflicts. More than 6,000 merchant and more than 700 U.S. merchant ships were lost. Even before the rs were making perilous runs to Europe with desperately needed supresident to issue a proclamation honoring merchant mariners, wrote ered the goods when and where needed in every theater of operations ost difficult and dangerous transportation job ever undertaken.” We s of America’s merchant mariners before and after World War II, in the world today. oops, merchant marines play a vital role in moving the goods that we hout the world. Their work provides jobs and economic benefits to our erating as the eyes and ears of America at sea, they also help protect S. Merchant Marine, the Congress, by joint resolution approved on May 22 of each year as “National Maritime Day,” and has authorized nual proclamation calling for its appropriate observance. H, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim May n the people of the United States to celebrate this observance and to omes and in their communities. I also request that all ships sailing y. set my hand this twenty-first day of May, in the year of our Lord two he United States of America the two hundred and twenty-seventh. GEORGE W. BUSH July 2003 Vice Admiral David L. Brewer III, commander of MSC, expresses pride in the jobs done by U.S. crews during the war. RIGHT: One of the final moments during MSC’s annual Maritime Day observance is a wreath-tossing ceremony, neatly handled this year by General Myers and Admiral Brewer. Seafarers LOG 13 �18230_p1,3,5,9,10,14,21.qxd 6/24/2003 6:44 PM Page 14 New California Monument Honors Mariners from WWII A monument paying tribute to the contributions of American Merchant Mariners to our nation since 1775 has been unveiled. The new memorial was dedicated May 22—National Maritime Day—during ceremonies at the Marin County Veteran Memorial site in San Rafael, Calif. Rear Adm. Thomas J. Patterson, U.S. Maritime Service, (retired), served as the event’s keynote speaker. SIU Vice President West Coast Nick Marrone attended the dedication on behalf of the union. The Jeremiah O’Brien Chapter of the American Merchant Marine Veterans sponsored the dedication program. Chapter members took part in the ceremonies, as did a host of other dignitaries including staff associates from the offices of Senator Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.) and California Governor Gray Davis. Situated on the Avenue of the Flags at the Marin Civic Center in San Rafael, the new six-footplus engraved granite monument memorializes the 8,380 merchant seamen who were killed during World War II or who perished from war-related causes. It is embossed with the merchant marine insignia and contains a Remembering Merchant Marine Heroes likeness of the Liberty ship Jeremiah O’Brien in bronze. One of two surviving Liberty ships preserved in the United States, the Jeremiah O’Brien is the last unaltered Liberty. The ship is a product of an emergency shipbuilding program of World War II that resulted in the construction of more than 2,700 Liberty ships. Designed as cheap and quickly built simple cargo steamers, the Liberty ships formed the backbone of a massive sealift of troops, arms, materiel and ordnance to every theater of the war. The Jeremiah O’Brien made wartime voyages between the East Coast, Canada and the United Kingdom, to South America, Australia, and the Philippines. From June until December 1944, the O’Brien made 11 trips between the United Kingdom and Normandy in support of the D-Day invasion, including a trip from Belfast, Ireland, to Normandy with troops from Patton’s Fifth Division. SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone, right, greets Rear Adm. Thomas J. Patterson, U.S. Maritime Service, (retired) in front of the new merchant marine memorial shortly after it was unveiled and dedicated in San Rafael, Calif. Deck Department Seafarer George Pino proudly displayed the U.S. Merchant Marine flag en route to the monument dedication ceremonies. Working on the Great Lakes SIU San Francisco Port Agent Vince Coss (top photo) presents a memorial wreath for the annual National Maritime Day ceremony (below) aboard the historic Liberty ship Jeremiah O’Brien. During the observance, speakers praised the U.S. Merchant Marine’s reliability and sacrifices throughout the nation’s history. The Southdown Challenger is a familiar sight on the Great Lakes Oilers John Cull (left) and Andy Egressey prepare to pull the head on cylinder #2 of the main engine on the Southdown Challenger. IMPORTANT NOTICE SEAFARERS HEALTH AND BENEFITS PLAN COBRA NOTICE Right: DEU Dave Mathes cleans the cylinder on the Southdown Challenger’s main engine. HEALTH CARE CONTINUATION Under federal law, a participant and his or her dependents have the right to elect to continue their Plan coverage in the event that they lose their eligibility. This right is granted by the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act, better known as “COBRA.” The COBRA law allows a participant and his or her dependents to temporarily extend their benefits at group rates in certain circumstances where coverage under the Plan would otherwise end. A participant and his or her dependents have a right to choose this continuation coverage if they lose their Plan coverage because the participant failed to meet the Plan’s seatime requirements. In addition, a participant and his or her dependents may have the right to choose continuation coverage if the participant becomes a pensioner ineligible for medical benefits. The participant’s dependents may also elect continuation coverage if they lose coverage under the Plan as the result of the participant’s (1) death; (2) divorce; or (3) Medicare eligibility. A child can also elect COBRA if as the result of his or her age, he or she is no longer a dependent under the Plan rules. If a member and his or her dependents feel that they may qualify, or if they would like more information concerning these rights, they should contact the Plan office at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Since there are important deadlines that apply to COBRA, please contact the Plan as soon as possible to receive a full explanation of the participant’s rights and his or her dependents’ rights. 14 Seafarers LOG Conveyorman Ron Bujnovski (left) and UA Kevin Koch install crosshead bearings in the main engine on the Southdown Challenger. Larry Curnow (left) is the bosun aboard the Joseph H. Frantz (above). The Frantz was formerly the Kinsman Independent. July 2003 �18230_p4,15_18,24.qxd 6/24/2003 1:28 AM Page 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea MAY 16 — JUNE 15, 2003 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C 1 3 1 9 28 30 16 25 33 15 4 3 5 25 1 26 23 248 2 3 3 12 10 36 6 18 18 18 2 7 6 9 7 27 17 201 4 1 1 2 19 13 4 11 13 8 1 2 1 4 3 16 15 118 0 4 1 10 21 23 13 13 21 14 6 2 3 8 1 25 13 178 1 12 0 4 14 22 10 5 10 9 0 5 2 8 4 12 12 130 1 3 1 9 9 21 2 9 8 15 4 3 3 6 0 15 6 115 1 0 0 1 3 3 1 4 3 3 1 0 0 1 3 10 3 37 1 7 0 4 8 14 6 2 9 3 1 2 4 9 2 11 3 86 Port Algonac Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals 0 4 0 5 9 19 8 9 8 13 2 8 2 7 5 25 8 132 2 2 2 1 9 8 2 10 4 4 2 2 2 1 0 6 4 61 0 0 0 3 18 26 6 10 5 6 2 0 4 6 1 26 8 121 2 10 3 10 43 54 27 35 49 23 5 3 13 41 0 37 41 396 5 2 8 12 15 50 12 30 26 24 3 3 11 15 4 23 21 264 4 1 0 2 32 17 5 21 41 14 1 3 3 4 3 36 23 210 0 9 1 7 22 31 12 12 16 15 3 7 4 15 3 15 17 189 2 3 1 9 14 34 9 18 11 22 6 1 5 9 1 28 11 184 2 0 0 3 11 7 2 9 13 7 3 0 0 1 4 14 8 84 1 2 0 4 11 9 2 5 8 1 1 1 1 10 0 8 9 73 0 3 0 18 27 32 14 12 28 16 3 2 4 40 1 27 38 265 1 1 1 7 2 14 11 6 5 14 3 3 2 7 0 5 8 90 0 0 2 5 6 18 3 2 7 2 0 0 1 2 0 4 5 57 ENGINE DEPARTMENT Port Algonac Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 0 4 0 4 2 15 6 1 11 9 2 2 0 4 0 8 3 71 0 1 0 0 1 4 1 1 4 2 0 0 1 2 1 5 1 24 Algonac ..................Friday: August 8, September 12 Baltimore ................Thursday: August 7, September 11 Boston.....................Friday: August 8, September 12 Duluth .....................Wednesday: August 13, September 17 Guam ......................Thursday: August 21, September 25 Honolulu .................Friday: August 15, September 19 Houston ..................Monday: August 11, September 15 Jacksonville ............Thursday: August 7, September 11 Mobile ....................Wednesday: August 13, September 17 New Bedford ..........Tuesday: August 19, September 23 0 4 0 2 5 11 5 0 6 4 0 1 2 5 2 7 1 55 New Orleans ...........Tuesday: August 12, September 16 New York ...............Tuesday: August 5, September 9 Norfolk ...................Thursday: August 7, September 11 Philadelphia ............Wednesday: August 6, September 10 Port Everglades ......Thursday: August 14, September 18 San Francisco .........Thursday: August 14, September 18 San Juan..................Thursday: August 7, September 11 St. Louis .................Friday: August 15, September 19 Tacoma ...................Friday: August 22, September 26 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 3 0 10 14 20 8 7 16 12 2 0 3 25 1 20 25 166 0 1 1 4 0 9 4 4 5 9 2 2 1 3 0 4 2 51 0 0 1 2 1 11 3 1 3 1 0 1 1 1 0 1 1 28 0 3 0 9 11 15 2 6 16 5 0 2 0 19 0 16 15 119 Algonac Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals 1 1 0 4 1 3 2 1 6 0 1 0 1 2 0 10 1 34 0 4 3 12 19 15 8 7 21 9 1 19 3 12 1 20 11 165 0 7 2 10 18 18 5 4 25 6 1 25 1 7 0 22 11 162 0 0 0 2 2 1 0 0 6 0 0 0 1 1 0 7 1 21 0 3 0 7 13 2 6 5 18 8 0 11 0 12 0 19 8 112 1 8 1 1 1 11 0 2 5 6 1 23 1 4 0 8 4 77 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 9 4 7 2 2 10 0 1 0 2 9 0 8 3 59 1 5 5 24 27 28 10 13 56 20 2 9 5 25 1 30 13 274 2 1 3 21 34 32` 10 13 50 15 4 35 3 15 0 41 25 304 Totals All Departments 578 532 345 404 357 172 249 909 812 655 Port 0 2 1 2 1 6 1 6 4 4 0 3 1 2 1 2 6 42 0 0 0 0 0 3 1 0 0 3 0 3 0 1 0 1 1 13 ENTRY DEPARTMENT *“Total Registered” means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **“Registered on Beach” means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. July 2003 Piney Point .............Monday: August 4, September 8 DECK DEPARTMENT Port Algonac Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Trip Reliefs August & September 2003 Membership Meetings Deep Sea, Lakes, Inland Waters Wilmington ...............Tuesday: August 19* ................................Monday, September 22 ................................*change created by Paul Hall’s birthday holiday ................................ Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Correction On page 2 of the June LOG, scholarship winner Janet L. Ostendarp was incorrectly identified. She is the wife of deep sea member Francis Ostendarp Jr. No Fish Tale Retired Seafarer Ian Allison, who sailed with the SIU during World War II, says that when it comes to fishing, “Some guys come back with stories. I like to come back with pictures.” This photo shows Allison with a 10-foot-4, 275pound blue marlin that he recently caught 15 miles off the coast of Mexico. It took 30 minutes to land the fish, noted Allison, who serves as president of the North Bay Chapter of the American Merchant Marine Veterans. Seafarers LOG 15 �18230_p4,15_18,24.qxd 6/29/2003 2:07 PM Page 16 Seafarers International Union Directory NMU Monthly Shipping & Registration Report MAY 2003 Michael Sacco, President TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Group I Group II Group III John Fay, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer Augustin Tellez, 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 Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services René Lioeanjie, Vice President at Large Charles Stewart, Vice President at Large HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ALTON 325 Market St., Suite B, Alton, IL 62002 (618) 462-3456 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 BOSTON 520 Dorchester Ave., Boston, MA 02127 (617) 269-7877 DULUTH 324 W. Superior St., Suite 705, Duluth, MN 55802 (218) 722-4110 GUAM P.O. Box 23127, Barrigada, Guam 96921 125 Sunny Plaza, Suite 301-E Tun Jesus Crisostomo St., Tamuning, Guam 96911 (671) 647-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St., Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW BEDFORD 48 Union St., New Bedford, MA 02740 (508) 997-5404 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 832-8767 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 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 FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St., San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division: (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS 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) 549-4000 16 Seafarers LOG Port Boston Houston Harvey, LA New York Norfolk San Pedro Tacoma Totals 5 12 7 14 5 19 4 66 2 0 1 3 0 9 2 17 0 5 1 1 0 0 1 8 4 9 2 4 1 15 2 37 3 1 1 1 0 0 2 8 0 3 2 4 0 0 0 9 Totals All Departments 6 2 2 4 2 6 2 24 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 2 0 0 0 5 2 12 4 17 0 11 1 47 5 7 6 11 4 27 33 93 10 10 5 10 0 40 14 89 0 51 9 23 0 0 6 89 3 1 2 1 0 2 0 9 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 3 0 6 1 9 0 11 2 29 1 5 6 16 5 42 21 96 3 4 0 9 0 48 7 71 0 24 5 18 0 0 6 53 2 3 4 4 0 3 0 16 1 6 2 12 2 60 7 90 2 1 1 6 0 32 4 46 0 15 3 10 0 6 2 36 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 2 4 1 2 1 14 0 24 0 1 1 1 0 4 0 7 0 3 2 1 0 0 0 6 Port Boston Houston Harvey, LA New York Norfolk San Pedro Tacoma Totals REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Group I Group II Group III ENGINE DEPARTMENT Port Boston Houston Harvey, LA New York Norfolk San Pedro Tacoma Totals Trip Reliefs DECK DEPARTMENT Port Boston Houston Harvey, LA New York Norfolk San Pedro Tacoma Totals TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Group I Group II Group III 2 2 1 1 1 5 0 12 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 2 1 0 0 0 3 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 2 3 0 5 0 8 0 18 2 2 3 2 0 8 1 18 1 8 3 9 0 0 1 22 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 4 0 0 0 5 1 5 0 7 0 13 0 26 2 3 5 34 0 34 2 80 19 29 3 50 0 10 12 123 2 55 15 105 0 0 17 194 145 50 45 48 2 16 118 359 329 372 PIC-FROM-THE-PAST This photo was sent to the LOG by Dean R. Wooster of Palm Coast, Fla. It was taken aboard the SS Vantage Progress in February 1967 while on the Vietnam run. Pictured “left to right are Oiler Mack, Engineer Dave and F.W.T. Dean R. Wooster.” Wooster notes that one can tell the vessel is a West Coast C-2 because it has Foster Wheeler boilers whereas an East Coast C-2 has Babcox and Willcox boilers. Wooster, now 65, has just filed for his SIU pension (see write-up on next page). If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with the LOG readership, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. July 2003 �18230_p4,15_18,24.qxd 6/24/2003 6:08 PM Page 17 Welcome Ashore 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 waterways 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. DEEP SEA ELIZABETH A. COSS, 72, joined the SIU in 1996 in San Francisco. Born in Seneca, Ill., Sister Coss worked primarily aboard vessels operated by Dyn Marine Services of Virginia. Sister Coss shipped in the steward department and still lives in her native state. LUIS GONZALEZ, 66, launched his career with the Seafarers in 1977 in the port of New York. Brother Gonzalez first went to sea aboard the Warrior, a Sea-Land Service vessel. The steward department member upgraded his skills often at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Born in Puerto Rico, he last shipped on the 1st Lt. Baldomero Lopez. Brother Gonzalez is a resident of Brooklyn, N.Y. ARTHUR MACHADO, 62, joined the Seafarers in 1968 in New Orleans. A veteran of the U.S. Army, the Louisiana-born mariner worked in the deck department and frequently upgraded his skills in Piney Point. Brother Machado last went to sea on the USNS Altair. He calls Belle Chase, La. home. SAID A. MAJID, 65, hails from Yemen. Brother Majid started his career with the SIU in 1990 in Honolulu. He first worked aboard American Hawaii Cruises’ Independence. A steward department member, Brother Majid upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center in 1996. His final voyage was aboard the Cpl Louis J. Hauge Jr. Brother Majid resides in Dearborn, Mich. EDWARD O’BRIEN, 76, joined the SIU in 1967. The New Yorkborn mariner initially went to sea aboard the Eagle Traveler. Brother O’Brien worked in the deck department and last shipped on the Sea-Land Explorer. He makes his home in Riverside, Calif. JESUS PILARE, 65, began his career with the Seafarers in 1991 in the port of Piney Point, Md. Brother Pilare first sailed on the Overseas Alaska. Born in the Philippines, he worked in the engine depart- July 2003 ment. Brother Pilare attended the Seafarers training school on a number of occasions. The Daly City, Calif., resident last went to sea on the Sea-Land Independence. upgraded his skills at the Seafarers training school in 2002. A resident of Bronx, N.Y. he last went to sea on the Seabulk Challenge. TOMMIE SANFORD, 64, was born in Alabama. Before joining the SIU in 1958, he served in the U.S. Coast Guard. Brother Sanford initially sailed for the Seafarers aboard the La Salle. A deck department member, he shipped as a bosun. Brother Sanford completed the bosun recertification course in 1975 at the Paul Hall Center. His final voyage was on the Overseas Ohio. Brother Sanford lives in Colmesneil, Texas. ABDUL YAZIDI, 65, was born in Arabia. Brother Yazidi joined the Seafarers in 1967 in San Francisco. A member of the deck department, Brother Yazidi enhanced his skills at the Paul Hall Center in 1979. He last went to sea on the Cpl Louis J. Hauge Jr. Brother Yazidi is a resident of Brooklyn, N.Y. LEON SCOTT, 69, joined the Seafarers in 1976 in San Francisco. Brother Scott’s first ship was the Santa Mariana. The Louisiana-born mariner shipped in the steward department and enhanced his skills at the Seafarers training school in 1989. Brother Scott last worked on the President Roosevelt. Oakland, Calif. is his home. PAUL SU, 66, hails from China. Brother Su began his seafaring career in 1989 in the port of Honolulu. He worked primarily aboard vessels operated by American Hawaii Cruises, including the Independence. The engine department member was a frequent upgrader at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. Brother Su makes his home in Honolulu. RAY E. TODD, 67, embarked on his career with the Seafarers in 1961. Prior to joining the SIU, Brother Todd served in the U.S. Army. Born in Mississippi, he first went to sea aboard the Morning Light. Brother Todd sailed in the deck department as a bosun. He last sailed aboard the Ultramax. Brother Todd is a resident of Collins, Miss. DEAN WOOSTER, 64, began his SIU career in 1960 in New York. Before becoming a Seafarer, Brother Wooster served in the U.S. Navy. His first SIU ship was on the Oremar, an Ore Navigation vessel. A member of both the deck and engine departments, the Pennsylvania native last shipped on the Golden Monarch. Brother Wooster makes his home in Palm Coast, Fla. MOHSIN YAFAI, 61, launched his career with the Seafarers in 1967. His initial voyage was aboard the John C. The Arabian-born mariner worked in both the engine and steward departments. Brother Yafai INLAND ALFORD CROWDER, 62 began his career with the SIU in 1977 in the port of Norfolk, Va. Born in Little Rock, Ark., he served in the U.S. Navy and first worked for the SIU aboard a McAllister Towing of Virginia vessel. A member of the deck department, Boatman Crowder shipped as a captain. He upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. He is a resident of Virginia Beach. VERNON ELBURN, 63, hails from Maryland. Boatman Elburn joined the Seafarers in 1958 in the port of Baltimore. The deck department member shipped as a captain and enhanced his skills at the Seafarers training school in 1998. Boatman Elburn last sailed on an Interstate Oil Transport Co. vessel. He makes his home in Clayton, Del. RALPH D. GARDNER JR., 64, started his SIU career in 1967 in the port of Philadelphia. The Flint, Mich. native worked in the inland as well as deep sea divisions. Boatman Gardner’s first ship was the Battle Creek. The deck department member sailed as a captain and last worked on a vessel operated by Mariner Towing. Boatman Gardner is a resident of Wareham, Mass. DONNIE MARTIN, 64, joined the Seafarers in 1962. He first worked aboard a Dravo Basic Materials Co. vessel. Born in Florida, he shipped in the deck department, most recently on a Martin Marietta vessel. Boatman Martin now calls Mobile, Ala. home. JOSEPH SHUBERT, 62, was born in Gastonia, N.C. Prior to joining the Seafarers in 1968, he served in the U.S. Air Force. Boatman Shubert sailed in the deck department as a captain. He worked primarily aboard vessels operated by National Marine Service. Boatman Shubert lives in Orlando, Fla. STERLING SPENCER, 55, joined the Seafarers in 1974. The Louisiana native shipped in the deck department, working primarily aboard vessels operated by Crescent Towing & Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG 1945 Loss of 1,554 United States-flag merchant ships of 6,277,077 deadweight tons from war causes and marine casualties largely due to war conditions was announced last week by Vice Admiral Emory S. Land, chairman of the U.S. Maritime Commission and administrator of the War Shipping Administration. The losses occurred during the period from September 1, 1939 to May 8, 1945. The bulk of the tonnage was accounted for by the 570 ships lost from direct war causes. The balance of 984 was lost in marine casualties resulting from convoy operations, reduced aids to navigation, blackouts, etc…. The destruction of ships by the enemy has, of course, been accompanied by heavy loss of life. The latest merchant marine casualty list reports 5,579 merchant seamen dead and missing, and 487 prisoners of war—a total of 6,066 as of May 1. Salvage Co. Boatman Spencer lives in his native state in the city of Harvey. JOSEPH TUCKER, 68, hails from Alabama. Boatman Tucker worked in the inland as well as deep sea divisions during his career. He first sailed on the Alcoa Roamer. The deck department member shipped as a captain, most recently on a Crescent Towing vessel. Boatman Tucker is a resident of Chickasaw, Ala. Editor’s Note: The following brothers, all former members of the NMU and participants in the NMU Pension Trust, recently went on pension. WILLIE DAVIS SR., 70, launched his career with the NMU in 1962. Born in Houston, his initial ocean voyage was aboard the P.C. Spencer, a Sinclair Refining Co. vessel. Brother Davis worked in the steward department and last shipped on the Cape Victory. JUAN J. CANALES, 65, joined the NMU in 1968. Brother Canales first went to sea aboard the Gulf Jaguar. Born in Santurce, P.R., he worked in the steward department. HERMAN WILLIS, 70, started his NMU career in 1969. His first trip to sea was aboard a Lykes Brothers vessel. Born in Port Arthur, Texas, Brother Willis worked in the deck department. His last ocean voyage was aboard the Lykes Discoverer. during the regular July membership meeting at headquarters, President Paul Hall told the members that facilities for the training and upgrading of seamen were being expanded. In addition to local training sites in New York and other outports, the SIU has recently purchased a 28-acre site at Piney Point, Md. to train young men for entrylevel jobs aboard American-flag ships. This will be in addition to upgrading training to enable working seamen to qualify for promotions after specialized training. This Month In SIU History 1967 In a report to the Atlantic and Gulf membership 1990 As the demand increased for vessels to supply the stepped-up military operations in the Persian Gulf, the Seafarers International Union instituted a manpower alert to assure that all manning assignments within the union’s responsibility would be met. In issuing the alert, SIU President Michael Sacco called on all union members to participate fully. He urged all Seafarers who currently are on the beach to immediately contact the nearest union hall or the SIU’s manpower center to register for employment. In addition, Sacco extended the same call to all physically fit pensioners, as well as to inactive SIU members. Seafarers LOG 17 �18230_p4,15_18,24.qxd 6/24/2003 6:16 PM Page 18 Final Departures DEEP SEA WALDO BANKS Pensioner Waldo Banks, 86, passed away Oct. 26, 2002. Brother Banks joined the SIU in 1946 in the port of Baltimore. A native of the West Indies, he worked in the inland as well as deep sea divisions. A deck department member, his last voyage was aboard a Michigan Tankers Inc. vessel. A former resident of Jacksonville, Fla., Brother Banks had been a pensioner since 1976. JUAN COLLAZO Pensioner Juan Collazo, 84, died Feb. 1. A native of Puerto Rico, he embarked on his profession with the Seafarers in 1948 in the port of New York. The steward department member lived in his native commonwealth and started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1967. JOSEPH CURRY Brother Joseph Curry, 78, passed away Feb. 7. Brother Curry started his SIU career in 1956 in Houston. Before becoming a Seafarer, he served in the U.S. Army. The Pennsylvania native first went to sea aboard an Alcoa Steamship Co. vessel. Brother Curry worked in the deck department, last sailing on the Sea-Land Defender. Middlesex, N.J. was his home. PATRICK DURNIN worked in the steward department and lived in Sacramento, Calif. Her last voyage was aboard the Lurline, a Matson Navigation vessel. She began receiving her pension in 1985. MICKIE FREDERICK Pensioner Mickie Frederick, 70, passed away Jan 1. Sister Frederick launched her career with the Seafarers in 1987 in Honolulu. Born in Idaho, she shipped in the steward department. Sister Frederick worked primarily aboard vessels operated by American Hawaii Cruises during her career, including the S.S. Independence and ms Patriot. She started receiving compensation for her retirement in 2001 and lived in Chandler, Ariz. CHARLES HENKING ORA HIGBY SHIGERU MURAMOTO ALBERT DYKES RALPH JAMES Pensioner Nathan Eldridge, 76, passed away Jan 13. Born in Florida, Brother Eldridge joined the Seafarers in 1944. He worked in the deep sea as well as inland divisions. A member of the deck department, Brother Eldridge called Mobile, Ala. home. He began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1971. BETTY EVERETT Pensioner Betty Everett, 78, died Jan 18. Sister Everette began her career with the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) in 1966 in San Francisco. Born in Indiana, Sister Everett 18 Seafarers LOG Brother David Maze, 62, passed away Feb. 18. He joined the SIU in 1976 in Port Arthur, Texas. Brother Maze initially went to sea aboard the Eagle Voyage. The Abbyville, La. native worked in the deck department and last shipped on the USNS Stalwart. Brother Maze was a resident of Houston. DELL McNEELY Pensioner Ora Higby, 95, passed away Jan. 11. Brother Higby began his career with the MC&S in San Francisco. Born in Ohio, the steward department member was a resident of Bodfish, Calif. He began collecting retirement stipends in 1973. NATHAN ELDRIDGE DAVID MAZE Pensioner Charles Henking, 66, passed away Jan. 16. He started his seafaring career with the MC&S in 1971 in San Francisco. Prior to joining the MC&S, he served in the U.S. Army. Brother Henking first shipped on the Santa Mariana and last sailed on the Overseas Alaska. The steward department member lived in San Francisco and began receiving his pension in 1994. Pensioner Patrick Durnin, 76, passed away Jan 1. Brother Durnin began his SIU career in 1968 in San Francisco. His first ship was the President Eisenhower. The Oregonborn mariner worked in the steward department and began receiving his pension in 1998. Brother Durnin last sailed on the Great Land. Gig Harbor, Wash. was his home. Pensioner Albert Dykes, 76, died Feb. 7. Brother Dykes joined the SIU in 1956 in Lake Charles, La. A veteran of the U.S. Army, he was born in Arkansas. Brother Dykes worked in the engine department, last sailing on the Maine. He started collecting stipends for his retirement in 1991. Brother Dykes resided in Houston. died Feb. 28. Brother Marston joined the Seafarers in 1943 in the port of New York. The Maine-born mariner first sailed on the Cantigny. Brother Marston worked in the deck department as a bosun. He last went to sea on the San Juan, a Puerto Rico Marine Management vessel. Brother Marston lived in Carlisle, Pa., and started collecting retirement stipends in 1990. Pensioner Ralph James, 80, died Feb. 11. A native of the Virgin Islands, he embarked on his career with the MC&S in San Francisco. Brother James worked in the steward department. He began receiving his pension in 1978 and called Pacifica, Calif. home. SIMON KENDALL Pensioner Simon Kendall, 82, died Feb. 23. He initiated his SIU career in 1956. The Indiana-born mariner first sailed on the Battle Rock. Brother Kendall worked in the steward department, last sailing on the Sea-Land Warrior. A resident of French Lick, Ind., he began collecting compensation for his retirement in 1990. DEREK KURCH Brother Derek Kurch, 38, passed away Dec.16, 2002. Born in Hawaii, he joined the Seafarers in 1982 in the port of Honolulu. Brother Kurch worked primarily aboard vessels operated by American Hawaii Cruises. A steward department member, he made his home in Honolulu. KENNETH MARSTON Pensioner Kenneth Marston, 77, Brother Dell McNeely, 50, died Feb. 13. He joined the Seafarers in 1969 in the port of New York. Brother McNeely first went to sea on the Cornell Victory. The Louisiana-born mariner worked in the deck department and last shipped on the Sam Houston. Brother McNeely called New Orleans home. Pensioner Shigeru Muramoto, 85, passed away Feb. 17. Brother Muramoto commenced his career with the MC&S in San Francisco. He worked in the steward department and began collecting retirement pay in 1974. Hawaii was his home. HOWARD RUBY Pensioner Howard Ruby, 88, passed away Jan. 13. A veteran of the U.S. Army, he began his SIU career in 1960 in the port of New York. The Ohio-born steward department member was a resident of Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., and last shipped on Matson Navigation’s Lurline. Brother Ruby started collecting compensation for his retirement in 1991. ELVEN STAPLES Pensioner Elven Staples, 80, died Jan. 18. He began his career with the MC&S in 1959 in San Francisco. Before joining the MC&S, Brother Staples served in the U.S. Army. Born in Arkansas, he first worked on Matson’s Maui. The steward department member last went to sea on the Lihue. Brother Staples started receiving his pension in 1985 and called Oak Ridge, Tenn. home. INLAND HARVEY GALLOP Pensioner Harvey Gallop, 65, died Feb. 3. Boatman Gallop started his career with the Seafarers in 1967 in the port of Norfolk, Va. after having served in the U.S. Coast Guard. Boatman Gallop first worked aboard a Steuart Transportation Co. vessel. The engine department member was a resident of Powells Point, N.C. Boatman Gallop began receiving his pension in 2001. born mariner commenced his SIU career in 1993. Boatman Rittenhouse shipped in the deck department as a captain and worked primarily aboard Allied Towing vessels. He lived in his native state in the city of Reedville. OSVALDO MALDONADO Boatman Osvaldo Maldonado, 92, passed away Feb. 2. Born in Puerto Rico, he launched his SIU career in 1976. Boatman Maldonado shipped in the engine department and worked primarily aboard Crowley Towing & Transportation vessels during his career. He resided in his native commonwealth. RICHARD MATLAGA Boatman Richard Matlaga, 43, died Jan. 15. He joined the Seafarers in 1990 in the port of Philadelphia. Boatman Matlaga shipped in the deck department and worked primarily aboard vessels operated by Maritrans Operating Co. Born in New Jersey, he made his home in Riverview, Fla. ALFRED RITTENHOUSE Boatman Alfred Rittenhouse, 54, passed away Jan. 13. The VirginiaEditor’s Note: The following brothers, all former members of the NMU and participants in the NMU Pension Trust, have passed away: HERMAN ALTICE JR. Pensioner Herman Altice Jr., 86, passed away April 30. Brother Altice joined the NMU in 1944. The Mobile, Ala. native worked in the steward department as a chief cook, last sailing on the John Lykes. Brother Altice began receiving his pension in 1979. JOSE DOMINGOS Pensioner Jose Domingos, 87, passed away May 9. Brother Domingos began his career with the NMU in 1962. His first voyage was on the Texaco Wisconsin. Born in Portugal, he worked in the engine department. Brother Domingos last sailed aboard the Mormac Wave. He started collecting retirement stipends in 1979. GREAT LAKES GERALD DOERING Pensioner Gerald Doering, 80, died Feb. 2. He joined the Seafarers in 1968 in Buffalo, N.Y. A veteran of the U.S. Army, Brother Doering was born in New York and worked in both the deck and engine departments. He last sailed aboard Erie Sand & Gravel’s Lakewood. Brother Doering lived in Athens, Ga., and began collecting his pension in 1988. HENRY HANRATTY Pensioner Henry Hanratty, 87, died Feb. 18. Born in New York, he joined the Seafarers in 1961. Brother Hanratty’s first voyage was aboard the Lemmerhirt. The deck department member made his home in Depew, N.Y. He began receiving his pension in 1982. Mlakar worked in the deck department and last shipped aboard the Mormac Pride. He began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1968. CALIXTO VASQUEZ Pensioner Calixto Vasquez, 89, died April 3. Brother Vasquez joined the NMU in 1947 and first sailed aboard the Towanda Victory. Born in Puerto Rico, he worked in the engine department. His final trip was on the Brasil. Brother Vasquez began receiving his pension in 1970. In addition to the foregoing, the following NMU brothers, all of whom were pensioners, passed away on the dates indicated: NAME AGE DOD Lloyd Albright 89 May 12 Jose Arriola 83 May 6 Juan Cardona 82 April 20 Voltaire Ciceron 87 May 17 SANFORD KRAMER Salvador Correa 75 April 4 Pensioner Sanford Kramer, 77, died April 13. Brother Kramer began his career with the NMU in 1943. He first went to sea aboard the Louis Henipen. The Providence, R.I.-born mariner shipped in the engine department and last sailed on the Ruth Lykes. He started receiving his pension in 1969. William Gagne 76 April 12 Robert Gresham 66 May 6 Bernabe Guillen 92 May 26 Albert Hines 77 May 4 Robert James 67 May 19 Kenneth Keene 75 April 29 Dwain Lattimer 74 May 24 Carlton Marshall 82 April 30 Angelo Martinez 74 April 29 Manuel Neves 80 April 16 Luis Pacheco 79 Jan 28 Pedro Padilla 78 May 14 Armando Pita 87 May 20 JOSEPH MLAKAR Manuel Reyes 88 May 11 Pensioner Joseph Mlakar, 85, passed away April 12. Born in Aurora, Minn., Brother Mlakar launched his career with the NMU in 1942. He initially went to sea aboard the Cartago. Brother Hipolito Rodriguez 79 May 14 Juan Rodriguez 87 Feb. 6 Thomas Stanfield 88 March 25 Lucas Torres 99 April 25 Jose Zaporta 79 April 22 July 2003 �18230_6_8,11_13,19,20,22_23.qxd 6/23/2003 11:51 AM Page 19 Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring 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.. EL MORRO (IUM), April 27— Chairman Robert T. Grubbs, Secretary Donald Ganung, Educational Director Fredrick W. Dougherty Jr., Engine Delegate Pedro Gago, Steward Delegate Theodore E. Quammie. Chairman announced payoff April 29 in Puerto Rico. He advised crew members to read Seafarers LOG, especially president’s report. Notice about renewing mariners’ documents located on bulletin board. Educational director urged everyone to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made to lower seatime requirements for pension benefits. HORIZON KODIAK (Horizon Lines), April 27—Chairman Garry D. Walker, Secretary Melvin E. Morgan, Educational Director Alfonso D. Bombita, Steward Delegate Ahmed O. Sharif. Chairman announced payoff April 29 on arrival in Tacoma, Wash. He reminded crew that emergency shipping rules are still in effect and advised them to pay dues on time. Z-cards will be checked when returning to ship from shore. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Those getting off were asked to clean rooms and leave fresh linen and soap for replacement. Vote of thanks given to steward department as well as to Vern Poulsen and the Tacoma shoregang. Next ports: Anchorage and Kodiak, Alaska. HORIZON SPIRIT (Horizon Lines), April 15—Chairman Howard Gibbs, Secretary Edgardo G. Ombac, Educational Director Roger M. Wasserman, Engine Delegate Gregory L. Howard. Chairman thanked everyone for safe voyage. Secre-tary reported new pillows and mattresses received. Educational director talked about facilities at Piney Point for upgrading as well as summer vacation location. He advised crew to check that shipping documents are not due to expire soon. Disputed OT noted in deck department concerning shift from cargo berth to anchorage in Hong Kong Harbor; beef reported in engine department about lodging during dry dock period, also in Hong Kong. Suggestion made to modernize registration procedure. Thanks given to steward department for job well done. Next ports: Tacoma, Wash.; Oakland, Calif. INDUSTRIAL CHALLENGER (PGM), April 13—Chairman Kyle F. Schultz, Secretary Norman Busch. Chairman announced payoff April 28 on arrival in Houston. He asked that rooms be left clean with keys on desk. No word yet on next trip. He advised members to read contract before sailing. Secretary thanked everyone for helping keep ship clean. Educational director stressed importance of upgrading skills at Paul Hall Center and of making sure all necessary shipping documents are up to date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions made to lower age for full retirement, reduce seatime needed for pension and improve dental plan. E-mail is now available on board vessel. Requests made for short wave July 2003 radio, vacuum cleaner, dishwasher and deep-fat fryer. JOHN J. BOLAND (American Steamship), April 27—Chairman Michael J. Keogh, Secretary Denise Chambers-Fox, Educational Director Richard M. Mullins. Chairman talked about monthly meetings and asked anyone with concerns to voice them at that time. Deck delegate noted company policy of walking on deck and dock—no running. Clarification requested on satellite costs, and concerns brought forth regarding travel arrangements. Next port: Ashtabula, Ohio. LIBERTY SPIRIT (Liberty Maritime), April 4—Chairman Neftali Santana, Secretary Lito G. Acosta, Educational Director Thomas E. Hale, Deck Delegate Ronald Owens, Engine Delegate Nestor Montano, Steward Delegate Wilfred Lambey. Chairman reminded those getting off to clean room for next person. Secretary thanked everyone for helping keep ship clean, with special thanks to GUDEs Nestor Montano and Nicholas Murgolo. Educational director urged crew members to take advantage of upgrading opportunities at school in Piney Point for job security. No beefs or disputed OT reported. MAERSK GEORGIA (Maersk Lines), April 12—Chairman James J. Keevan, Secretary Dwight E. Wuerth, Educational Director David A. Fletcher, Deck Delegate Joao F. Cordeiro, Steward Delegate Johny Bolton Jr. Chairman thanked everyone for good job and reminded them to clean rooms before leaving ship. Secretary expressed gratitude for crew’s efforts in helping keep house clean. Educational director urged Seafarers to upgrade at Paul Hall Center and contribute to SPAD. He also stressed importance of keeping z-cards current. Treasurer stated $50 in ship’s fund. Some beefs and disputed OT reported in engine department; none noted in deck or steward departments. Suggestion made for SIU bulletin board in crew lounge for posting of important announcements. Guidelines for smoking areas spelled out in SIU contract. Request made for carpet shampoo machine. Company to arrange crews’ transportation to and from airport. Clarification requested on crew rotation. After stop in Charleston, S.C., ship heading to Spain, Italy and Saudi Arabia, returning to Newark, N.J. in June. MOTIVATOR (USSM), April 24—Chairman Anthony Maben, Secretary Matthew Scott, Steward Delegate Tracey L. Newsome. Chairman announced payoff April 27 in New York following long voyage to Persian Gulf with extended stay. He thanked crew for job well done. Secretary advised crew members to stay in touch with local union hall regarding war bonus. Educational director recommended attending upgrading courses at Paul Hall Center. Work of two apprentices on board, Travis Pratt and Eric Kranenberg, greatly appreciated. QUALITY (USSM), April 19— Chairman Luke F. Wells, Secretary Franklyn J. Cordero, Educational Director Brian J. Sengelaub, Deck Delegate Simeon Rivas, Engine Delegate Stephen Roberts, Steward Delegate William Muniz. Chairman announced vessel going into yard May 15 for three weeks. Crew reminded to check union hall about returning to ship as well as transportation information. Secretary thanked all departments for helping keep ship and house clean. He asked that everyone return dirty linen and straighten up rooms before ship yard period. Educational director reminded members to work safely at all times. “Pay attention. Accidents can be avoided.” No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next ports: Charleston, S.C.; Miami; Houston; Elizabeth, N.J. SOUTHDOWN CHALLENGER (HMC Ship Management), April 24—Chairman John F. Cull, Educational Director David L. Knuth, Steward Delegate Joel E. Markle. Chairman announced he and chief engineer are trying to get premium entertainment package for satellite TV. Captain has about $1,200 in satellite TV fund, and this money will go toward movie package. Educational director spoke of importance of upgrading skills at Piney Point and praised programs offered at the school. He also talked about importance of reading contract and shipping rules. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Clarification requested in deck department as to whether English proficiency test should be stamped in TRB. Chairman handed out applications for benefits, vacation and upgrading. He urged members to give 48 hours notice when requesting leave and informed them to contact union hall upon departing and rejoining vessel. Next ports: Charlevoix, Mich.; Cleveland, Ohio. TONSINA (ATC), April 29— Chairman Jose D. Pedroza, Secretary Gregory G. Keene. Chairman reported company and captain pleased with crew’s performance and safety record. Question of satellite receivers for rooms still on hold until after inspection. Educational director informed members of new clinic in Tacoma for physicals and drug testing. He recommended everyone take upgrading courses at Paul Hall Center and make sure z-cards are up to date. Beef reported in engine department. Discussion held about manning change in new agreement, food budget aboard ATC vessels, inflatable life jackets and gym equipment. Request made for more accuracy in setting sailing board. USNS RED CLOUD (Maersk Lines), April 30—Chairman Thomas H. DeCarlo, Secretary Christine Cassie, Deck Delegate David G. Knutson, Engine Delegate Ted Cooke. Chairman advised crew to keep original letter for eminent danger pay. Amount has increased to $225 retroactive to October. It should be automatically mailed to individuals; if not, submit letter to Maersk for payment. Educational director stressed importance of upgrading and how easy it is to attend facilities at Piney Point and the wide variety of courses offered. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew change expected on arrival in Diego Garcia, May 1. USNS WATKINS (Maersk Lines), April 1—Chairman James K. Walker, Secretary Jack Williams, Steward Delegate Raul Napoles. Bosun talked about war bonus and harbor attack bonus. Educational director stressed importance of upgrading skills at Piney Point school. Treasurer stated $1,575.54 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks given to steward department. U.S. Army told 2nd mate that USNS Watkins responded to SCUD alert quicker than any other ship. DEVELOPER (USSM), May 10—Chairman Joseph J. Caruso, Secretary Randy A. Stephens, Educational Director Dimarko L. Shoulders. Chairman announced arrival May 12 in Houston. He praised unlicensed crew for their professionalism and performance in getting vessel ready for inspection. Secretary stated he has application forms of all kind for anyone beefs or disputed OT reported. Question asked as to when crew can expect return to normal shipping rules. Everyone asked to help keep things neat aboard ship, including not using light bulb trash can in laundry room for other refuse, and leaving night lunches covered so as not to dry out. KENAI (ATC), May 12— Chairman Christopher J. Kicey, Secretary Dorothy Odoms, Educational Director Dale F. Graham, Deck Delegate Estella Snyder, Engine Delegate Harry Kinsman, Steward Delegate Self Salvation. Chairman announced Easter in Kuwait The USNS Watkins has made six voyages into Kuwait, where it delivered helicopters and other equipment for U.S. troops as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom. And that’s where the crew was on Easter Sunday, enjoying a special dinner prepared by (from left) 3rd Cook Justino Martinez, SA Ernesto Gonzaga, Chief Cook Raul Napoles, Chief Steward Jack Williams and SA Jose David. needing them. Educational director advised crew members to check all documents for expiration dates. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Clarification requested on seniority for all-ports lists. Thanks given to steward department for job well done. HORIZON CHALLENGER (Horizon Lines), May 2—Chairman Roy L. Williams, Secretary Brandon D. Maeda, Educational Director Clive A. Steward. Chairman announced payoff May 6 in Houston. He reported on clarifications sent by headquarters regarding rest periods, permanent jobs and shortening of pension requirement time. Secretary urged crew members to upgrade skills at Piney Point facility. He also stated $205 in ship’s fund. Educational director informed crew of new requirement to collect vacation checks—original pay vouchers and Coast Guard discharges. Clarification requested on withdrawing funds from money purchase pension plan, accumulating extra pension days from vacation days and whether shipping companies are bound to comply with Family Medical Leave Act. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks given to steward department. Next port: New Orleans. HORIZON RELIANCE (Horizon Lines), May 4—Chairman Lance X. Zollner, Secretary Sherman W. Anderson, Educational Director Kevin T. McCagh, Deck Delegate Rodolfo Asopardo, Engine Delegate Rolando F. Romanillos, Steward Delegate Bienvenido C. Badillo. Chairman led discussion on how to go about presenting a beef and talked about preventing injuries aboard ship. Secretary stated he was pleased to be aboard the Reliance and looked forward to putting out some exceptional menus. Educational director presented flow chart to crew members showing upgrading possibilities in engine department. It was posted on bulletin board. Treasurer stated $972.88 in ship’s fund. No payoff May 14 on arrival in Valdez, Alaska. Discharge will take place at Cherry Point, Wash. Educational director reminded crew members to check documents to be sure they’re up to date. He also recommended everyone upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center and contribute to SPAD. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made that Seafarers be paid for the day when taking functional assessment test. Chief engineer to address problem with fumes in chief cook’s room. USNS PRIDE (Maersk Lines), May 17—Chairman Jessie L. Thomas Jr., Secretary Jonny Cruz, Educational Director Christos Tsipliareles, Deck Delegate Raygene Banks, Engine Delegate Ronald M. Pheneuf. Chairman announced payoff May 18 in Houston and asked that everyone be present for payoff and visit with patrolman. He also reminded crew to keep shipping documents up to date. Secretary reported good trip and thanked members for helping keep ship clean. Educational director stressed continual need for upgrading and self-improvement at Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made to have luggage locker on board. Vote of thanks given to steward department for good menus and meals. Next ports: Freeport, Bahamas; Norfolk, Va.; Rotterdam, Holland. WASHINGTON (ATC), May 11—Chairman Timothy D. Koebel, Secretary Robert Mensching, Educational Director Mo Johnson, Deck Delegate Jay Kannuck, Engine Delegate Antonio Libo-on, Steward Delegate Gary Lofton. Chairman explained bonus vacation day program and how to obtain it. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made regarding payment of health claims. Thanks given to steward department for find food. Thanks also given to company for DVDs in each room. Next ports: Long Beach, Calif.; Valdez, Alaska. Seafarers LOG 19 �18230_6_8,11_13,19,20,22_23.qxd 6/26/2003 7:18 PM Page 20 Letters to the Editor (Editor’s note: The Seafarers LOG reserves the right to edit letters for grammar as well as space provisions without changing the writer’s intent. The LOG welcomes letters from members, pensioners, their families and shipmates and will publish them on a timely basis.) Recognizing a Rep On March 25, 2002, the Three Rivers Chapter of the American Merchant Marine Veterans chartered a bus to Harrisburg, the state capital. Members of the Mon Valley, High Seas Mariners, and John Brown chapters also attended. House Bill 2450 was introduced on this day. The bill is for a $500 bonus for the seamen from World War II. These seamen must be residents of Pennsylvania. When we left Harrisburg, we had 62 cosponsors. When I arrived home, I went to the office of State Representative John A. Maher and got the phone numbers of the 203 state reps plus the phone numbers of 48 state senators. At the end of the year, we had 195 cosponsors. This bill did not get voted on. So, John introduced House Bill 56 earlier this year. We have 118 cosponsors and the bill is in committee. On April 24, 2003, our chapter presented John a plaque that reads: Presented to State Representative John A. Maher, In grateful appreciation for your out- Pennsylvania State Representative John A. Maher (right) accepts a plaque from Leo Bebout, president of the AMMV’s Three Rivers Chapter. standing and dedicated service on behalf of the Pennsylvania Merchant Mariners. Leo Bebout President, Three Rivers Chapter Bethel Park, Pa. (The following letter was sent last month to SIU President Michael Sacco) Buy Union I am sending this plea out to all international unions in an effort to assist what is left of our domestic UNION manufacturers in the textile and apparel industry. For the past three decades, I and many of you have continued to fight the battles trying to stave off the annihilation of our industries. But, like many of you, we have continued to lose ground through the dumping of imports into our domestic markets and/or the exporting of jobs in search of cheap global labor. None of this, of course, was any fault of U.S. workers, including our members. Much of the problem has to do with the pressures being placed on manufacturing through retailers like Wal-Mart and others constantly squeezing their margins. In the end, if you can’t produce your product at the same price as China or some other Third World nation, then they pull the plug. Back at home in the U.S., we watch all kinds of games being played by businesses to retain a “Made in USA” label, including sweatshops like Kathy Lee Gifford’s brands (naturally) at Wal-Mart; Ralph Lauren brands made in Saipan (which qualifies through a Made in USA loophole); and, of course, just plain sweatshops that people set up around major cities where large numbers of immigrants reside who can be exploited. Once (or if) caught violating wage and hour or other laws, they simply move operations and set up under a different name. We’ve all seen and heard the stories and worked very hard to educate the public on what it means to “Buy American and Keep America Working.” But, as illustrated in the examples above, buying American doesn’t always mean that products will be made under the conditions and values we as trade unionists believe in. We in the labor movement can influence our membership and the public only so far. But, as leaders and heads of various organizations, we can decide whether we sign a check or approve an invoice. We can say that “Made in USA” is not good enough when there are unionmade products available. I hear every day from our unionized manufacturers getting their throats cut by non-union domestic competitors selling to organized labor who say “Made in USA” is good enough, as long as they can save a dollar here and there. And when others in the movement say it’s our responsibility to go out and organize these non-union shops, I can tell you that when we try, the companies take the profits (made from sales to labor) and hire the best union busters money can buy. When confronted, these manufacturers will look you straight in the eye and say, “WHY NOT keep the union out? I’m getting your business anyway.” And they’re right! They are getting our business and we have only ourselves in the labor movement to blame. I am asking in this letter for a concerted effort by organized labor to demand a union label, bug or card on products or services that we as organizations purchase. Can we control OUR market? That is the question we need to ask ourselves. Prohibition Against Violence: No one may use or threaten to use force or violence to interfere with a union member in the exercise of LMRDA rights. Union Officer Responsibilities Financial Safeguards: Union officers have a duty to manage the funds and property of the union solely for the benefit of the union and its members in accordance with the union’s constitution and bylaws. Union officers or employees who embezzle or steal union funds or other assets commit a Federal crime punishable by a fine and/or imprisonment. Bonding: Union officers or employees who handle union funds or property must be bonded to provide protection against losses if their union has property and annual financial receipts which exceed $5,000. Labor Organization Reports: Union officers must file an initial information report (Form LM-1) and annual financial reports (Forms LM-2/3/4) with OLMS; and retain the records necessary to verify the reports for at least five years. Officer Reports: Union officers and employees must file reports concerning any loans and benefits received from, or certain financial interests in, employers whose employees their unions represent and businesses that deal with their unions. that in total exceed $2,000 at any time. Fines: A union may not pay the fine of any officer or employee convicted of any willful violation of the LMRDA. (Note: The above is only a summary of the LMRDA. Full text of the Act, which comprises Sections 401-531 of Title 29 of the United States Code, may be found in many public libraries, or by writing the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Labor-Management Standards, 200 Constitution Ave., NW, Room N-5616, Washington, DC 20210, or on the internet at www.dol.gov.) SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further 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 American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect 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 Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Dave Johnson UFCW International Vice President President, UFCW Textile & Garment Council Hermitage, Tenn. Thanks for Bonus As a pensioner, I would like to thank the trustees of the NMU for their consideration of retirees by giving us an extra pension check earlier this year for a bonus. It is much appreciated and I am glad to see that we are not forgotten for the years we spent at sea. A percentage increase in the future would be nice, considering the cost of living in this country. Tyrone Patrick Navarre, Fla. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the 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 recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU 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 disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval 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 shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively 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 employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers 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 20 Seafarers LOG and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing 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 SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful 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 responsibility for Seafarers 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 OBLIGATIONS. 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 headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. MEMBER RIGHTS/LMRDA. The Labor-Management Reporting and Disclosure Act (LMRDA) guarantees certain rights to union members and imposes certain responsibilities on union officers. The Office of Labor-Management Standards (OLMS) enforces many LMRDA provisions while other provisions, such as the bill of rights, may only be enforced by union members through private suit in Federal court. Union Member Rights Bill of Rights: Union members have equal rights to participate in union activities; freedom of speech and assembly; a voice in setting rates of dues, fees and assessments; protection of the right to sue; and safeguards against improper discipline. Copies of Collective Bargaining Agreements: Union members and nonunion employees have the right to receive or inspect copies of collective bargaining agreements. Reports: Unions are required to file an initial information report (Form LM-1), copies of constitutions and bylaws, and an annual financial report (Form LM-2/3/4) with OLMS. Unions must make the reports available to members and permit members to examine supporting records for just cause. The reports are public information and copies are available from OLMS. Officer Elections: Union members have the right to nominate candidates for office; run for office; cast a secret ballot; and protest the conduct of an election. Officer Removal: Local union members have the right to an adequate procedure for the removal of an elected officer guilty of serious misconduct. Trusteeships: Unions may only be placed in trusteeship by a parent body for the reasons specified in the LMRDA. Officer Elections: Unions must hold elections of officers of local unions by secret ballot at least every three years; conduct regular elections in accordance with their constitution and bylaws and preserve all records for one year; mail a notice of election to every member at least 15 days prior to the election; comply with a candidate’s request to distribute campaign material; not use union funds or resources to promote any candidate (nor may employer funds or resources be used); permit candidates to have election observers; and allow candidates to inspect the union’s membership list once within 30 days prior to the election. Restrictions on Holding Office: A person convicted of certain crimes may not serve as a union officer, employee or other representative of a union for up to 13 years. Loans: A union may not have outstanding loans to any one officer or employee Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746. July 2003 �18230_p1,3,5,9,10,14,21.qxd 6/24/2003 6:46 PM Page 21 SEAFARERS PAUL HALL CENTER UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE Recertification Bosun The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. through the end of the year. All programs are geared to improve the job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation’s security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. October 6 Engine Upgrading Courses Arrival Date Date of Completion Oiler July 14 September 8 November 3 August 22 October 17 December 12 Welding July 14 September 8 October 6 November 3 August 1 September 26 October 24 November 21 Engine Utility (EU) August 11 September 29 November 17 September 5 October 24 December 12 QMED Junior Engineer September 22 December 12 Course Deck Upgrading Courses Course Able Seaman Automatic Radar Plotting Aids* (ARPA) Arrival Date Date of Completion July 7 August 18 September 29 November 10 August 1 September 12 October 24 December 5 September 8 September 12 Safety Specialty Courses Course Advanced Fire Fighting* – (5-day course) (*must have basic fire fighting) (*must have radar unlimited) November 3 Arrival Date Date of Completion July 28 November 3 August 1 November 7 Celestial Navigation July 7 July 25 Advanced Fire Fighting – (2-week course) September 1 September 12 GMDSS (Simulator) August 4 September 15 August 15 September 26 Basic Fire Fighting/STCW Lifeboatman/Water Survival August 4 September 15 October 27 August 15 September 26 November 7 August 11 August 25 September 15 October 27 August 15 August 29 September 19 October 31 Government Vessels Radar July 14 August 25 July 25 September 5 September 1 October 20 November 3 September 5 October 24 November 7 Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman (STOS) July 7 August 25 October 13 December 1 July 18 September 5 October 24 December 12 Tanker Familiarization/ Assistant Cargo (DL)* July 21 September 8 October 27 August 1 September 19 November 7 August 25 August 29 Navigation Fundamentals August 4 (*must have basic fire fighting) Tankerman (PIC) Barge* (*must have basic fire fighting) August 15 Steward Upgrading Courses Academic Department Courses Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations modules start every week. Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward classes start every other week, most recently beginning June 23. General education and college courses are available as needed. In addition, basic vocational support program courses are offered throughout the year, one week prior to the AB, QMED Junior Engineer, FOWT, Third Mate, Tanker Assistant and Water Survival courses. An introduction to computers course will be selfstudy. UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ Telephone _________________________ Date of Birth ______________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty (120) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, and qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. All OL, AB and JE applicants must submit a U.S. Coast Guard fee of $140 with their application. The payment should be made with a money order only, payable to LMSS. COURSE BEGIN DATE END DATE ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ Seniority _____________________________ Department _____________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ U.S. Citizen: ____________________________ _______________ _______________ Deep Sea Member Lakes Member Inland Waters Member If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security # ______________________ Book # _________________________ Yes No Home Port _____________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held _____________________________________ LAST VESSEL: _____________________________________ Rating: ___________ _____________________________________________________________________ Date On: ___________________________ Date Off: ________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? Yes No If yes, class # __________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? Yes No If yes, course(s) taken ___________________________________________________ Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? Yes No Firefighting: Yes No CPR: Yes No Primary language spoken ________________________________________________ July 2003 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. 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 students, who are otherwise qualified, of 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. 7/03 Seafarers LOG 21 �18230_6_8,11_13,19,20,22_23.qxd 6/23/2003 11:53 AM Page 22 Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 639 — Unlicensed apprentices who graduated from class 639 are (in alphabetical order) William Boardman III, Robert Brady, Marvin Charles, Gary Cruz, Nathan Garrison, Christopher Gustafson, Si Hughes, Damien James, Douglas Lowry, Andrea Mercado, Michael Merrell Jr., Santos Pabon Jr., Carlos Perez-Arroyo, Robert Raines, Steven Richards, Daniel Smith Jr., Matthew Whitmore and Brett Younginger. Tanker Familiarization/Assistant Cargo (DL) — Graduating from the tanker familiarization/assistant cargo (DL) course May 16 are (in no particular order) Kenny Lattin, Sandra Anderson, Joshua Harris, Jeffery Jack, Stephen Trotter, Michael Price, Marcelino Cayabyab, Stephen Ruppert, William Dukes, Todd Jennings, Sean Tracey, John Zepeda and Mohamed Saleh. Express Marine/Deck — Express Marine boatmen who successfully completed deck department courses April 25 are (in no particular order) Gil Pruitt, Foster Watts, Robert Batson, Russell Hudson, Ernest Parks, Bradley Thomas and Wayne Huebschman. Their instructor, Herb Walling, is back, center. STOS — Receiving certificates for completion of the STOS course May 30 are Alaskan Fishermen (in alphabetical order) Sandra Anderson, Joshua Harris, Jeffery Jack, Todd Jennings, Michael Price, Sean Tracey and Stephen Trotter. Fast Rescue Boat — Under the Express Marine/Engine — Completing courses April 25 in the engine department curriculum are boatmen from Express Marine (in no particular order) Larry Foreman, Arthur Schwedeman, Robert Perusse, Robert Yates, Ronnie Fulcher, Richard Riddick, Wesley Ross, Craig Barton and Pierre Daigle. Their instructors are Eric Malzkuhn (far left) and Jay Henderson (far right). instruction of Stan Beck (standing, rear) are Seafarers who completed the fast rescue boat course May 30. They are (in alphabetical order) Kenny Abrahamson, Michael Archer, Terry Bader, Doug Carson, Brett Hensley and John Shank. Computer Lab Classes Recent graduates of the computer lab at the Paul Hall Center pose with their certificates. From the left (standing) are Loren Wolfe, Rich Prucha (instructor) and Richard West. Seated is Kimberly Strate. 22 Seafarers LOG ARPA — Successfully completing the ARPA course May 9 are (from left) Donald McGraw, David Massey, Douglas Carson, Blair Baker, Michael Proveaux, Leonard Lambert, Benjamin Barnes and Felipe Jimenez. July 2003 �18230_6_8,11_13,19,20,22_23.qxd 6/23/2003 11:54 AM Page 23 Paul Hall Center Classes Bridge Resource Management — Under the instruction of Herb Walling (center) are students who completed the BRM course May 16. They are John Lavergne (left) and Felipe Jimenez. Welding — The two-week welding course was completed May 16 by (in alphabetical order) Alfonza Davis, Harold Gerber, Bobby Jones, Melissa LeonGuerrero and William Parker. Their instructor, Buzzy Adams, is second from right. Bridge Resource Management — Completing the bridge resource management course June 6 are (front row, from left) Benjamin Barnes, Daniel Englund, Douglas Carson, (second row) Mike Thomas, John Toomey and Herb Walling (instructor). Any student who has registered for a class and finds— for whatever reason—that he or she cannot attend, please inform the admissions department so that another student may take that place. GMDSS — Graduating from the GMDSS course May 23 are (in alphabetical order) Michael Archer, Douglas Carson, Barry Freeman, Leonard Lambert, Anthony Lowman, David Massey and Rafik Shahbin. Their instructor, Brad Wheeler, is at far right. Celestial Navigation — With their instructor, Stacy Harris (third from left) are May 30 graduates of the celestial navigation course (in alphabetical order) Benjamin Barnes, Daniel Englund, Kenneth Lewin, William Schuppman, Michael Thomas, Jerome Wong and Stella Zebrowski. Engine Utility — Upgrading Seafarers and unlicensed apprentices in the third phase of their training completed the engine utility course May 30. They are (in no particular order) Anthony Newsome, Terrance Colbert, John Stephenson, Maurice Perry, Forrest McGee, Adam Revels, Gerald Butler Jr., Erwin Liebhart, Samuel Brewer, Reginald Colbert, Antonio Perez, Sam Vanderbrug, Douglas Jardine, Brian Goeson, Matthew Waldman, Aguilo Llorente and Harrison Hawkins. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Express Marine/Engine — May 23 was graduation day for Express Marine boatmen taking engine department courses at the Piney Point school. They included (in no specific order) Johnnie Potter, Donald Fulcher, Leslie Anderson, Albin Henries, David Harris, Jackie Pruitt, Ernest Ross, Guy Ireland, Roland Mason Jr. and Roy Gritz. Basic Safety Training Classes Mohamed Algalham, Timothy Belcher, Vincent Chavez, Nikunj Christian, Edward Dunn, Stephen Harrington, John Hayward, Joseph Irving, Jeffrey Leote, Antonio Mercado, Kenneth Roetzer, Angel Sanchez, Catarino Thomas, David Turinski, Leo Venegas and Charles Westover. July 2003 Alaska Fishermen: Gary Bell, Elpidio Cainag Jr., Rollin Crump, Calvin Edwards, Andrew Esteban, Samuel Finley, Jeffrey Jenkinson, William Jones Sr., Angel Manlunas Jr., Kimberly Nathan, Robert Newcomb, Armando Olde, Lawrence Ramirez and Thessolonian Smith. Seafarers LOG 23 �18230_p4,15_18,24.qxd 6/26/2003 7:37 PM Page 24 Volume 65 Number 7 July 2003 Seafarers may apply for ‘Union Plus’ benefits — page 10 RRF Crews Get Hero’s Welcome from MarAd Administration Honors Every Vessel Activated for Iraqi Freedom Seafarers who sailed aboard Ready Reserve Force (RRF) vessels that were activated for Operation Iraqi Freedom are being honored by the U.S. Maritime Administration (MarAd) at shipboard and pier-side ceremonies throughout the nation. Forty RRF ships were activated for the war—and MarAd is conducting welcome-home ceremonies for every one of them. By mid-June, more than 30 of the vessels had been recognized by the agency. “MarAd has made an absolutely tremendous effort to acknowledge the civilian mariners who sailed during Operation Iraqi Freedom,” stated SIU President Michael Sacco, who has participated in some of the ceremonies. “The SIU and all of maritime labor appreciate the recognition, and we do not take it for granted.” During the proceedings, Seafarers receive the Merchant Marine Expeditionary Medal, along with a personalized certificate and a commemorative ball cap. The medal is awarded to those who serve on U.S.-flag ships in support of operations involving American and allied armed forces. Crews from the Cape Victory and Cape Vincent were praised May 20 at a ceremony in Beaumont, Texas. U.S. Maritime Administrator Captain William Schubert told the audience, “The maritime community has served America with great distinction during every major crisis in our nation’s history, and the mariners who crew the ships are the cornerstone of this effort. From the Revolutionary War, through both World Wars, the Korean War and up to today, our mariners have willingly defended and served this nation with enthusiasm and valor.” The RRF fleet supports the rapid worldwide deployment of U.S. military forces. Specifically, RRF vessels support the transport of Army and Marine Corps unit equipment, combat support equipment, and initial resupply during surge sealift operations. RRF ships moved a substantial portion of the estimated 21 million square feet of materiel utilized by U.S. forces in Operation Iraqi Freedom. More than 2,000 SIU members sailed on U.S.-flag ships that mobilized for the war. Altogether, including civilian mariners employed by the government (CIVMARS), more than 5,000 U.S. mariners sailed during the war. CAPE VINCENT — Crew members from the Cape Vincent (top) await the start of the program May 20 in Beaumont, while local schoolchildren (bottom) display a handmade sign welcoming the mariners. CORNHUSKER STATE – Left: Bosun Scott Pell (left) and AB Bill Humphries sailed aboard the Cornhusker State during the war. Right: AB Joe Urso (left) receives the Merchant Marine Expeditionary Medal from M. Nuns Jain, director of MarAd’s South Atlantic Region, during a ceremony aboard the Cornhusker State May 18 in Newport News, Va. CAPE HUDSON — Cape Hudson crew members who sailed during the war and were honored May 6 in Norfolk, Va. included AB Frank Guido, Wiper I. Edison, GSU Frank Ward, AB B. Watson, AB Vincent Valdere, Electrician Patrick Warncke and Oiler James Corprew. CAPE HUDSON — Chief Cook Ken Laws prepares for serving lunch. Fellow crew members said the Cape Hudson is a good feeder. CAPE HUDSON — AB Frank Guido mans the gangway. CAPE VINCENT — En route to the Persian Gulf aboard the Cape Vincent are (from left) AB Bobby Adams, Bosun Maurice Martin and AB Donald Kelly. CAPE TRINITY — Above left: Seafarers from the Cape Trinity display their certificates and medals that were presented by MarAd. Above right (from left): U.S. Rep. Gene Green (D-Texas), Recertified Bosun Tom Arriola and SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey are pictured May 16 at a ceremony for the Cape Trinity crew in Houston. CAPE VICTORY — SIU Assistant VP Jim McGee (left) congratulates Seafarers on the Cape Victory following their May 20 ceremony in Beaumont, Texas. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2000-2009 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXII-LXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present, Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource July 2003 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES GEN. HANDY LAUDS U.S. CREWS FOR ‘DEDICATION, PATRIOTISM, EXCELLENCE’ MARAD CEREMONY FOR WRIGHT BRINGS POWERFUL PRAISE TOTE CHRISTENS NEW RO/RO NORTH STAR CREWS AT STARLIGHT MARINE BIDCO VOTE FOR SEAFARERS NEW ‘FREEDOM FERRY’ MEANS MORE SIU JOBS SIU WELCOMES NEW CABLE SHIP USNS COMFORT COMES HOME ILO DELEGATES APPROVE UNIVERSALL MARINER ID IMO EXAMINES SAFETY, SECURITY, VERFICATION SID SMITH DIES AT 77 U.S. MARINERS ARE A ‘NATIONAL TREASURE’ SEAFARERS HELP IN WAR EFFORT ABOARD THE CAPE EDMONT ALASKA TANKER COMPANY EARNS MORE SAFETY AWARDS AB SANDS ENJOYS CHALLENGES, BENEFIRTS OF CYCLING NATIONAL MARITIME DAY 2003 MERCHANT MARINE’S WARTIME EFFORTS PAST AND PRESENT GARNER STRONG PRAISE NEW CALIFORNIA MONUMENT HONORS MARINERS FROM WWII RRF CREWS GET HERO’S WELCOME FROM MARAD ADMINISTRATION HONORS EVERY VESSEL ACTIVATED FOR IRAQI FREEDOM Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 07/01/2003 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context vol. 65, No 7 2003 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/27b12defbca76d5bfbfacc5f4874fff4.pdf eb45059f9fab6aac73923639963bb04e PDF Text Text 23499_p1,2,3(cx)_7.qxd 6/26/2004 2:32 PM Page 1 Volume 66, Number 7 July 2004 NCL AMERICA Seafarers Crew Up Pride of Aloha Goes The SIU last month welcomed new shipboard jobs as NCL America’s Pride of Aloha (photos at far left) reflagged under the Stars and Stripes. The 2,000-passenger cruise ship is scheduled to begin offering cruises this month in Hawaii. Formerly the Bahamian-flagged Norwegian Sky, the Pride of Aloha reflagged U.S. on June 7 in San Francisco, following a multimillion dollar refurbishment. The vessel employs nearly 800 shipboard personnel. LEFT: SIU Assistant VP George Tricker (left) and SIU Assistant VP Nick Celona (right) are pictured with Bosun Renato Govico aboard the newly reflagged ship. ABOVE: Crew members applaud as the U.S. flag is hoisted aboard the Pride of Aloha. Page 3. Matson’s Maunawili Set for Christening Seafarers-contracted Matson Navigation Company, along with Kvaerner Philadelphia Shipyard, is scheduled to christen the Maunawili (right) this month. The Maunawili is the second diesel-powered containership built for Matson at Kvaerner Philadelphia, which is hosting the July 17 christening. Page 3. Advisory Board Weighs Vital Security Issues Page 2 Flickertail State Delivers For U.S. Marines in Haiti Page 4 U.S. Tax Dollars Help Fund Foreign-Flag Ferry Page 5 �23499_p1,2,3(cx)_7.qxd 6/24/2004 1:13 PM Page 2 President’s Report A Welcome Rebirth The U.S. flag sails over an oceangoing passenger ship again. Seafarers and other U.S. mariners are showing tourists relaxing on the high seas why we are the best-trained and safest professionals in the world. Last month’s reflagging of NCL America’s first cruise ship under the Stars and Stripes drew warm applause and proud salutes during the ceremony in San Francisco. It was a great day for the Seafarers, a great day for NCL America and Michael Sacco a great day for anyone who supports a strong U.S. Merchant Marine. But in order to more fully appreciate the moment June 7 when our flag was raised on the Pride of Aloha, you may have to think back to one of the darkest days in our nation’s history: September 11, 2001. Obviously, the loss of innocent lives on that grim day is by far the most tragic part of the attacks. Yet, there were other significant aftershocks, not the least of which has been the ongoing impact on our economy. The travel and tourism industries were crippled in September 11’s immediate aftermath, and the U.S.-flag deep-sea cruise business ceased to exist. It has taken nearly three full years, but at last we can say it: We’re back! The work that’s been done to revive U.S.-flag cruise ships has been well-documented. What’s important now is that the SIU has a great opportunity for a bright future in this segment of our industry (and others). NCL America is planning to operate three U.S.-flag ships in Hawaii. That means more and more jobs for Seafarers and, as noted at the reflagging ceremony, it also means a stronger U.S. Merchant Marine in general. I think the Pride of Aloha also may signify something special to Seafarers who embrace the opportunity. Namely, it’s a chance to be part of a vitally important moment in SIU history. It’s a chance to help your union—in other words, your brother and sister Seafarers—get off to a strong start in this newly reborn trade. This isn’t the first time we’ve faced such a challenge. More than 20 years ago, Seafarers were called upon to revive the U.S.flag passenger trade. The Constitution and Independence came back home to the American flag. Seafarers jumped at the opportunity to make the project work. Sure, we had problems, but we overcame them. The Connie and the Indy were huge success stories. Many of our members owe their start in our union to these vessels. Maybe you’ve read about some of the SIU’s historic organizing drives from the 1940s and 1950s, or perhaps you’ve hung around the union hall and heard some of our old-timers talk about sailing during World War II. Undoubtedly, many of you know about our late SIU President Paul Hall defying the skeptics by starting a training school for seamen in southern Maryland back in 1967. Those are more than just stories. They’re key components of who and what Seafarers are today. The hard work and sacrifice and commitment of our predecessors gave us a chance to become the strongest maritime union in the United States. It’s going to take more of the same to help ensure our continued success. And the new cruise ships definitely involve hard work and sacrifice and commitment. Let’s face it—when you’re helping to restart any business, you’re bound to hit a few rough seas along the way. But any way you slice it, this is a glorious moment for the SIU. Every Seafarer can take pride in the fact that our members are sailing aboard the Pride of Aloha. And I know that every one of us will do whatever it takes to help ensure the success of our newest ships. Volume 66, Number 7 July 2004 The SIU on line: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, 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, Deborah A. Hirtes; Associate Editor, Jim Guthrie; Art, Bill Brower; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2004 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD All Rights Reserved. 2 Seafarers LOG School’s Advisory Board Weighs Key Security Issues Maritime Security and related issues dominated the packed agenda of the 37th Annual Paul Hall Maritime Center Advisory Board Meeting. The yearly conference took place June 10 at the Piney Point, Md.-based, SIUaffiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. Attendees included representatives of U.S.-flag shipping companies, officials from the U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Maritime Administration, U.S. Military Sealift Command, Transportation Security Administration and International Labor Organization, and representatives of the union and the school. Paul Hall Center Vice President Don Nolan welcomed conference participants and introduced SIU President Michael Sacco. After thanking those present for their participation in the meeting, Sacco said, “As all of you know, port security and shipboard security are the hottest topics in our industry….We’re all facing tremendous challenges when it comes to keeping our ships and ports safe. “But we’re in this together— the unions, the companies, the Coast Guard, the Maritime Administration, MSC, the ports themselves, and the list goes on,” Sacco continued. “We’re all on the same side. It’s important to keep that in mind, especially when we get together on the various maritime security groups at ports throughout the nation. That type of cooperation and participation can only help when it comes to training seafarers and improving safety all around.” Following his remarks on port and shipboard security, President Sacco briefed meeting participants on some of the Paul Hall Center’s accomplishments since the last advisory board meeting in 2002. Among the events Sacco cited were: The Paul Hall Center successfully transitioned to the amended STCW convention. This accomplishment was achieved by running a school with top instructors and staff who put together curriculums and assessments to provide companies with the safe, qualified shipboard manpower they need. The school opened a new hotel at about the same time of the last advisory board meeting. As a result of this addition, upgraders now have single-occupancy rooms, which makes for a more academically friendly environment. The school added a small arms facility as well as curriculums. The facility and courses were approved by U.S. Military Sealift Command. The school also added or improved other courses including Navigation Fundamentals, Marine Electrician, FOWT and others. A diesel engine that is useful as a training aid recently was added to the school’s training equipment inventory. The school continued operating a satellite school in Hawaii, providing STCW Cdr. Cindy Stowe U.S. Coast Guard Cdr. Linda Fagan U.S. Coast Guard Cdr. Ed Wingfield U.S. Coast Guard Robby Moss, Transportation Security Administration training which helped in the rebirth of the U.S.-flag cruise industry. The unlicensed apprentice program continues to draw numerous applicants from all over the country. The Paul Hall Center during the last two months has provided security training in Jacksonville, Port Everglades, Mobile, Houston, Lake Charles and New Orleans and aboard vessels. In addition, training has been scheduled on the West Coast to help companies meet not only vessel security officer training requirements but also general security awareness for the membership. President Sacco thanked advisory board participants for their previous inputs and suggestions on how the school could achieve its varied objectives. “And make no mistake,” he said, “The advisory board’s input played a big part in helping achieve these goals (outlined above).” SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez and Paul Hall Center Training Director Bill Eglinton then discussed the meeting’s agenda and outlined its goals. The principal speakers for the gathering addressed the audience via a panel discussion format. Those giving presentations in their respective subject areas were: Cdr. Cindy Stowe, U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), “Implementation of the Maritime Security Transportation Regulations;” Robby Moss, Transportation Security Administration, “Transportation Worker Identification Card;” Cdr. Linda Fagan, USCG, “Port State Control Issues;” Mayte Medina, USCG, “Maritime Security Training;” Jim Zok, U.S. Maritime Administration (MarAd) and International Labor Organization, “Seafarer Identification Document Convention;” Todd Ripley, MarAd, “SOCP Mariner Administrative Card;” and Cdr. Ed Wingfield, USCG, “Mariner Licensing & Documentation Program.” Panel members indicated that despite some setbacks in each of their respective areas, significant progress is being made in the implementation of all phases of port security requirements set forth in SOLAS Chapter XI-2, the ISPS Code and the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002. Collectively, they expressed strong optimism that most Continued on page 7 SIU Contract Remains in Place Following Sale of Horizon Lines SIU-contracted Horizon Lines is being sold to private equity firm Castle Harlan, according to the companies involved. The union’s contract remains in place and unchanged, noted SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez. Horizon Lines will retain its name and continue operating the 16 SIU-crewed vessels included in the sale. The Carlyle Group had acquired Horizon Lines (formerly CSX Lines) from CSX Corp. in February 2003. Castle Harlan Managing Director Marcel Fournier stated, “We’ve been impressed with the results that Horizon Lines has achieved over the last several years and are excited about the company’s prospects.” July 2004 �23499_p1,2,3(cx)_7.qxd 6/24/2004 1:41 PM Page 3 Pride of Aloha Joins SIU Fleet Seafarers Crew Up Newly Reflagged Cruise Ship The SIU has returned to the deep-sea cruise ship industry—and in a big way. Seafarers recently crewed up NCL America’s newly reflagged Pride of Aloha, an 853-foot vessel that marks the start of Norwegian Cruise Line’s U.S.-flag division. “This is a great moment for ing economic consultants, NCL our union,” SIU President America’s three U.S.-flag cruise Michael Sacco said June 7 when ships planned for Hawaii are the Stars and Stripes went up on expected to create more than the Pride of Aloha. “It means new 20,000 U.S. jobs and generate jobs for Seafarers, but it also rep- more than $825 million of expenresents a promising start to the ditures in the U.S. economy by rebirth of the U.S.-flag deep-sea the end of 2007. (The Pride of America and another cruise ship cruise ship industry.” “Reflagging this ship is far yet to be named also will be more than symbolic,” said U.S. flagged as U.S. ships.) Nearly Secretary of Transportation $360 million in federal tax revenue are also Norman Minprojected by eta. “Raising 2007 from the the Stars and “Reflagging this ships and the Stripes over landside ecomore ships rais- ship is far more nomic activities es our maritime stimulated by strength and than symbolic. them. raises jobs.” The U.S. The Pride of Raising the Stars Maritime AdAloha is schedministration uled to enter and Stripes over noted that it service this helped bring the month, offering more ships raises Pride of Aloha cruises in Ha- our maritime into the U.S.waii. Formerly flag fleet by the Bahamian- strength and raises overseeing imflagged Norplementation of wegian Sky, the jobs.” the reflagging vessel recently – U.S. Secretary of effort enabling underwent a Transportation the ship to meet multi-million Norman Mineta requirements dollar refurbishestablished by ment in San Congress. Francisco, U.S. Maritime Administrator where it was reflagged. Its home Capt. William Schubert said of port will be Honolulu. The Pride of Aloha employs the reflagging and the other nearly 800 shipboard personnel planned ships, “This is great news for the U.S. Merchant Marine as and can carry 2,000 passengers. “Today marks a milestone not it increases the number of ships only in the cruise industry, but sailing under the American flag. also in our nation’s maritime his- Our nation’s economic welltory,” Norwegian Cruise Line being hinges on an economically America President and CEO viable maritime industry and Colin Veitch said at the reflagging today marks another big step in ceremony. “We are proud to be the right direction.” U.S. Coast Guard Lieutenant the first cruise company in recent memory to offer travelers an Tony Guild added, “We worked unparalleled combination of in cooperation with NCL America interisland Hawaii cruising and a to ensure that the vessel met all modern U.S.-flagged, U.S.- international standards for a passenger ship. This entailed a comcrewed mega-ship.” According to an independent plete inspection of the vessel and study by one of the nation’s lead- its safety and security systems Capt. Gerald Swanson (seated) certifies the Pride of Aloha as a U.S.-flag vessel while NCL America President and CEO Colin Veitch looks on. July 2004 The Pride of Aloha signals new jobs for SIU members and a strengthening of the U.S.-flag fleet. Pride of Aloha At a Glance Entered service: August 1999 Reflagged U.S. in June 2004 Length: 853 feet Breadth: 108 feet Draft: 26 feet Speed: 23 knots Tonnage: 77,104 GRT Propulsion: Diesel electric, six diesel generators Auxiliary power: From diesel electric plant Guest capacity: 2,002 double occupancy Guest decks: 12 from life jackets, lifeboats, complex firefighting systems, complex automation systems that manage the ship’s power and propulsion plants, to various security plans and equipment. In addition, the Coast Guard ensured that the ship’s crew met all The American flag is raised on the Pride of Aloha during a ceremony June 7 in San Francisco. required U.S. standards for merchant mariner certification.” Following an inaugural celebration and a christening on July 4, the Pride of Aloha will begin its regular seven-day, year-round Hawaii cruise schedule. Visiting all four main islands and offering passengers up to 96 hours in port, the cruise features two overnight stays in Kauai and Maui while also making full day calls in Kona and Hilo on the Big Island of Hawaii. Matson, Kvaerner Philadelphia To Christen Maunawili July 17 Seafarers-contracted Matson Navigation Company, along with Kvaerner Philadelphia Shipyard, is scheduled to christen the Maunawili this month. The Maunawili is the second dieselpowered containership built for Matson at Kvaerner Philadelphia, which is hosting the July 17 christening. U.S. Rep. Duncan Hunter (RCalif.), a strong supporter of the U.S. Merchant Marine, is the event’s keynote speaker. Lt. General Gary Hughey, deputy commander, U.S. Transportation Command (TRANSCOM), also will address the audience. Marianna G. Shaw, great granddaughter of one of the founders of Alexander & Baldwin, Inc. will do the christening. (Matson is a wholly owned subsidiary of Alexander & Baldwin.) The Maunawili is virtually identical to sister ship Manukai, Matson’s newest vessel, the Maunawili, is scheduled for christening this month in Philadelphia. which was christened in July 2003 at Kvaerner Philadelphia. Each diesel-powered vessel is 712 feet long and can carry 2,600 containers. The shipyard reported that the Maunawili was floated for the first time on May 15. The vessel is expected to be added to Matson’s fleet of Jones Act trade vessels. The Manukai was the first vessel built in the newly revitalized Kvaerner Philadelphia Shipyard and the first newly constructed vessel introduced by Matson since 1992 (the R.J. Pfeiffer). SIU members sail in the steward department aboard Matson ships. Seafarers LOG 3 �23499p4,8,9,10,14,16,20,21,24.qxd 6/22/2004 2:17 PM Page 4 SIU Maintains Jobs On 7 Survey Ships Horizon Lines Awarded Contract by MSC The U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) last month awarded the operating contract for seven oceanographic survey ships to SIU-contracted Horizon Lines. The vessels covered by the agreement are the USNS Pathfinder, USNS Bowditch, USNS Sumner, USNS Henson, USNS Bruce C. Heezen, USNS Mary Sears and USNS John McDonnell. The ships currently are operated by Seafarers-contracted Dyn Marine Services. Turnover operations are expected to take place in early October. In a mid-June letter to ships’ chairmen in the seven-vessel fleet, SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez pointed out that when the ships transfer to the new operating company, unlicensed personnel will have the opportunity to continue their employment aboard the vessels. Tellez also noted that the new contract improves medical benefits (under the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan’s top level) and increases the Seafarers Vacation Plan benefit. Additionally, SIU members will receive Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan benefits of 3 percent of the daily base wage per man, per day. “To those who opt to continue with Horizon Lines, we expect the company to benefit from the same professionalism and performance you consistently deliver,” Tellez wrote. According to MSC, oceanographic survey ships “study the world’s oceans using multi-beam, wide-angle, precision hydro- graphic sonar systems to collect bathymetric data. One coastal survey ship, the USNS John McDonnell, surveys the sea bottom and collects data in the littorals areas along coastlines. Information gathered is used to develop accurate maritime charts.” The SIU-crewed USNS Bruce C. Heezen is part of the U.S. Military Sealift Command’s fleet of oceanographic survey ships. Flickertail State Crew Delivers Critical Cargo to U.S. Marines in Haiti Seafarers in March again answered the country’s call to deliver the goods when President Bush sent 1,600 U.S. Marines to Haiti to quell the bloody uprising that prompted Haitian president Jean-Bertrand Aristide’s Feb. 29 resignation. The SIU-crewed SS Flickertail State—part of the U.S. Maritime Administration’s Ready Reserve Force and under the operational control of Military Sealift Command (MSC)—was summoned to deliver cargo to support the Marines. The Flickertail State, fresh from participating in a joint logistics over-the-shore military exercise providing humanitarian relief to Honduras, was in port in Norfolk, Va. for a mere 24 hours before being again called to duty. The crane ship sailed from Norfolk to Morehead City, N.C. to pick up 12,000 square feet of Marine Corps support equipment, and on March 7 departed North Carolina for Haiti. The ship’s 600-ton load consisted of Humvees, medical supplies, crates of bottled water and two “reverse osmosis water purification systems.” According to MSC, reverse osmosis machines are designed to purify contaminated water into water that is suitable for drinking—something for which the Marines had a critical need and that is in short supply in Haiti, a country whose infrastructure has crumbled and whose utilities system is in a massive state of disrepair. MSC Representative John Gregov, the individual responsible for coordinating the off- Seafarers aboard the Flickertail State delivered the goods for U.S. Marines in Haiti. load of the urgently needed supplies, knew the off-load would be tricky because the ship was sailing into Port-au-Prince, Haiti, where gangs of well-armed Aristide supporters were on a rampage of looting and destruction in response to his fall from power. With little lead time to make arrangements and only a handful of local port operators on the ground in Haiti, Gregov planned the off-load during the Flickertail’s journey south. “I was sending e-mails from the ship on the way down, rounding up local stevedores and equipment to help with the offloading,” he noted. Gregov ordered flatbed trucks to haul cargo and portable generators to light the pier as it offloaded, but only half of the items made it to the port. “I was notified by port authorities that the items were stuck in transit due to firefights,” said Gregov. “I ordered three portable generators because there were no lights on the dock. One out of the three actually made it. “I also asked the captain for permission to use the ship’s crew during the off-load, which we don’t usually do,” he added. “But we needed them because, under the circumstances, we didn’t want any of the locals coming on board the ship.” The captain agreed. The ship arrived in Port-auPrince in the early morning on March 11, and the crew pitched in operating the vessel’s four cranes to transfer cargo from the ship to the pier. Seafarers aboard the vessel who assisted in the freight download were: ABWs Heather Frizzelle and Curtis Williams; ABMs Adrian Jones and Jonathan Davis; OMUs John Morrison, John Steeber and Brad Neathery; Wipers Nathan Jenkins and Vincent Knight; Chief Cook Adele George and SAs Willie Uzzle, Teresa MacMartin and Kareem Walters. Also aboard the vessel were STOSs Melvin Stegall, Christopher Bryan and Melvin Hall. The crew worked so quickly that they turned their expected 72-hour stay into only a day-long venture. “They really did an outstanding job,” said Gregov. At midnight on March 11, the ship pulled away from Haiti and sailed home. “It was a very good, efficient operation,” said Gregov. “And everyone got home safely.” Notice/Reminder Full Book Applications Happy Retirement to REC Chief SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (left) and Assistant VP Jim McGee (right) recently presented a ship’s wheel to U.S. Coast Guard REC Chief C.J. Bidwell in Houston on the occasion of her retirement after 32 years of service. Bidwell most recently worked at the Coast Guard’s regional exam center in Houston. The wheel was donated by Seafarers and SIU officials, who wish Chief Bidwell a happy retirement and thank her for her work at the REC. 4 Seafarers LOG Seafarers who have at least 260 days of sea time in the past 24 months are eligible to apply for full book membership in the union. This of course includes members who were in the NMU when that union merged into the SIU’s Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District (in 2001). Members are encouraged to apply at any SIU hall. Please bring discharges or pay vouchers (or both) verifying the required sea time, along with two passport-size photos. In order to apply for full book membership, dues must be current, initiation must be paid in full and the member must be in good standing. There is a $10 fee for each application; processing typically takes two to three weeks. Sea time for any member working on equipment that formerly was covered by an NMU agreement and now is covered by an SIU/NMU contract counts toward eligibility for application. Members are reminded that, among other potential benefits, full book membership helps allow Seafarers the right to vote for candidates for union office and the right to run for union office. This is an election year for the SIU. For more information, please contact your port agent. July 2004 �23499_p3,5(cx),6,11_13.qxd 6/24/2004 1:24 AM Page 5 SIU, MTD, Others Protest Bahamian-Flagged Ferry State, Federal Funds Aid Boat Sailing New York-Toronto Route The SIU along with the AFLCIO Maritime Trades Department and other labor organizations are calling upon government officials in the U.S. and Canada to remove the Bahamian flag from a new fast ferry that has been heavily subsidized by American and Canadian taxpayer dollars. The Spirit of Ontario last month was scheduled to begin offering service between Rochester, N.Y. and Toronto. Built by Austal Ships of Australia, the ferry is owned by Canadian American Transportation Systems, which maintains offices in New York and Ontario. Mariners Remembered at Memorial Dedication According to news reports, the State of New York provided $14 million to help build the $42.5 million boat. Another $25 million in federal funds have been awarded in recent years to redevelop the Rochester harbor to enable the ferry project’s launch. More than $6 million in City of Rochester funds have been given for the project. Additionally, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security granted $1.1 million to the owner and the ferry. Canadian funds also were awarded. In a letter to U.S. Senator Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.), SIU and MTD President Michael Sacco said that the ferry itself and the harbor improvements are good ideas, but registering the Spirit of Ontario under the Bahamian flag instead of the U.S. or Canadian flag “is particularly disturbing. By registering the ferry under the Bahamian flag, Canadian American Transport Systems’ fast ferry operation will enjoy the success of the public investment while at the same time avoid meeting U.S. tax obligations on the income generated once the ferry begins service,” Sacco wrote. “I am certain that the public officials who backed this project and who have worked diligently to ensure its launching had no clue that the company would be in a position to skirt U.S. tax payments. It must be disheartening to those New Yorkers to know that their tax dollars have advanced the fast ferry project but the U.S. Treasury will not see a truly just return on the investment.” The SIU of Canada, the New York State AFL-CIO, some of the state’s central labor councils, the MTD and its port maritime councils also have spread the word about the runaway-flag ferry. In a resolution adopted by its executive board earlier this year, the MTD said it “urges officials in both nations to call on Canadian American Transportation Systems to do the right thing by sailing under the American or Canadian flag and hire American or Canadian mariners.” Currently, the ferry reportedly employs a mix of Australian and U.S. mariners. The ferry was supposed to enter service May 1, but a docking accident and engine trouble delayed its opening. The boat can carry 774 passengers and 238 cars. Representative McCrery Receives Annual ‘Salute to Congress’ Award President Bush mentioned the U.S. Merchant Marine during the May 29 dedication of the National World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C. As previously reported, two identical merchant marine bronze emblems are featured at the memorial. During the ceremony, President Bush noted, “In all, more than 16 million Americans would put on the uniform of the soldier, the sailor, the airman, the Marine, the Coast Guardsman or the Merchant Mariner.” The National World War II Memorial is the first national monument dedicated to all who served during the Second World War. Photos by Rick Latoff / American Battle Monuments Commission The chairman of the Select Revenue Measures Subcommittee on the House Ways and Means Committee recently reaffirmed his fervent support for the U.S. Merchant Marine. U.S. Rep. Jim McCrery (RLa.), honored May 4 with The Propeller Club of the United States’ annual Salute to Congress Award, in a prepared address told a maritime audience in Bethesda, Md. that their industry is vitally important to his state as well as the nation. Speaking specifically about his state, the congressman said, “Many of you may not realize that Louisiana is the top state in the country for waterborne transportation with more than 500 million tons of cargo annually shipped and received within the state. MarAd Okays MSP Transfer Agreements SIU-contracted Maersk Line, Limited last month applauded the U.S. Maritime Administration’s (MarAd) decision approving the company’s request to transfer the 15 Maritime Security Program (MSP) operating agreements for the ships currently being operated by U.S. Ship Management (USSM). In a news release, Maersk Line, Limited (MLL) noted that it had petitioned MarAd in 2003 to transfer the MSP operating agreements so the company could more effectively and efficiently operate the vessels. In the original operating contracts between the two companies, USSM agreed to transfer direct operation of the 15 vessels to MLL should MLL elect to become the MSP contractor. The decision follows an arbitration award concluding that the applications for the MSP operating agreements “submitted by MLL to MarAd were properly submitted by MLL.” “We are extremely pleased with the MarAd’s decision approving the transfer of the 15 MSP operating agreements to MLL,” said Kenneth C. Gaulden, MLL senior vice president. “Our first priority with this action was always to ensure that we deliver the best possible service to the U.S. government, both in peacetime and war. Now, we look forward to the benefits that will be brought about by streamlining operations and creating much-needed efficiencies.” Gaulden added, “MLL will work closely with MarAd to assume direct operation of the ships in an appropriate, efficient and expeditious manner, while continuing to support our military forces engaged in the war on terrorism and serve our commercial customers.” July 2004 The vessels will remain U.S.-flagged supporting U.S. global trade and national security, and will be crewed by American seafarers. MLL also provides the U.S. government immediate access to its global network of intermodal assets including terminals, cranes, logistical platforms, computerized management systems and equipment. According to the company, MarAd’s decision “closely integrates management of the 15 MSP vessels with that global system, strengthening the MSP for military purposes and enhancing the U.S.-flag presence in international shipping.” MarAd noted the role of MLL in national security in its decision: “[MLL] currently operates vessels for the U.S. military performing missions as diverse as the afloat pre-positioning of U.S. Army and U.S. Marine Corps combat equipment, U.S. Navy counter-drug operations, and highly classified ocean surveillance. Maersk also holds a special security agreement. The United States Transportation Command supports the transfer and has advised us that they consider [MLL] to be an industry leader providing [the Department of Defense] unparalleled transportation services, not only with regard to U.S.-flag vessels, but also its extensive global infrastructure consisting of berths, cranes, IT systems, transportation systems, regional logistics expertise, and much more.” MLL will work with MarAd to meet the conditions specified in the decision for transfer of the operating agreements, the company noted. MLL is based in Norfolk, Va., and is one of the Department of Defense’s primary shipping contractors. SIU President Michael Sacco (right) greets U.S. Rep. Jim McCrery (R-La.) shortly before the congressman receives the 2004 Salute to Congress Award. With major coastal and inland ports, the Gulf Coast, the Mississippi, Red and other rivers, Louisiana is a major transloading point for billions of dollars of commercial cargo.” Congressman McCrery continued, “Your industry is vitally important to providing jobs for American workers and enhancing our nation’s trade and productivity in all other industrial and economic sectors. I am proud to be a soldier in the fight on your behalf to make the U.S. maritime industry more competitive in the world economy.” He added “I am fortunate through my seniority on the House Ways and Means Committee to be able to lead the effort to ensure that fair and balanced trade policies are implemented to protect your interests, and to work closely with the Congressional leadership and the administration to formulate and enact tax legislation to aid the vitally important maritime industry.” Congressman McCrery has been an advocate of changes to the U.S. tax code to help improve the competitiveness of the U.S.flag merchant marine, and he has supported projects to revitalize the nation’s inland waterway system. McCrery was named by the Congressional Quarterly Magazine as one of the 28 “emerging players” who will shape the Congressional agenda in the post- September 11 world. He has represented the 4th Congressional District in Louisiana since 1988. In accepting the Salute to Congress Award, the congressman offered, “I am extremely honored by this award, and I am pleased to know that you appreciate my heartfelt efforts to support a strong and vibrant United States maritime industry. “At the same time, I am humbled to be included among other distinguished Congressional members from the great state of Louisiana who have received the prestigious Salute to Congress Award,” he continued, “….Senator Russell Long, Senator John Breaux, and of course my former colleague and dear friend, Congressman Bob Livingston.” The annual Salute to Congress dinner in 1985 was established by The Propeller Club of the United States to honor a member of Congress who demonstrated leadership in furthering the cause of the American merchant marine and allied industries. The salute affords an opportunity for all segments of the maritime industry to get together at one forum with not only their own senators and congressmen, but also members of Congress from all over the country to discuss future growth the U.S. fleet. Recent recipients of the Salute to Congress Award include U.S. Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-Calif.), Senator Fritz Hollings (D-S.C.), Senator Ted Stevens (R-Alaska) and U.S. Rep. James L. Oberstar (D-Minn.). Seafarers LOG 5 �23499_p3,5(cx),6,11_13.qxd 6/23/2004 1:42 PM Page 6 Maritime Lawyer Victor Hanson Dies at 80 Detroit Attorney Victor Hanson, a prominent litigator of highprofile cases involving major maritime incidents and also a founder of a forerunner to today’s National Football League Players Association (NFLPA), died May 26 of a heart attack. He was 80. Hanson in 1973 established Labor’s International Hall of Fame to afford recognition to the founders and heroes of the union movement as well as to educate today’s workers and public about the struggles and sacrifices that made today’s labor movement possible. Although not a union member himself, he did a great deal of work as a lawyer for unions including the SIU, the Sailors’ Union of the Pacific, the Teamsters, the American Guild of Variety Arts and many buildingtrades unions. Hanson was involved in cases relating to the following maritime disasters, some of which claimed the lives of Seafarers: the Noronic in 1949 with 119 dead; the Andrea Doria in 1956 with 52 dead; the Carl D. Bradley in 1958 with 33 dead; and the Edmund Fitzgerald in 1975 with 29 dead. Byron Kelley, retired SIU vice president Great Lakes and current Labor’s International Hall of Fame president, knew Hanson well. “He was really a man’s man, and he was always a staunch supporter of the Seafarers,” Kelley said. “Vic was quite a guy. He was bright, he was politically active, and he’ll certainly be a viable candidate for Labor’s International Hall of Fame, which he founded.” Retired SIU of Puerto Rico President Terpe Passes Away Retired SIU of Puerto Rico President Keith Terpe passed away May 30 in California. He was 80. A native of Minnesota, Brother Terpe embarked on his profession with the Seafarers in 1949 in the port of New York. After sailing for several years in the deep sea division in both the steward and engine departments, he came ashore as a union official. SIU Executive Vice President John Fay recalled first meeting Terpe “while I was still going to sea and he was head organizer for Atlantic Refinery. He was a good organizer and he was dedicated to the cause.” Brother Terpe was elected as a patrolman for the port of New York in 1969 and later became president of the SIU of Puerto Rico. He retired in 1981. Victor Nunez, SIU port agent in Puerto Rico, noted that Terpe “was very politically active. He also did a lot of organizing for the UIW. He is remembered by many people in this region.” Brother Terpe was proud of the pivotal role the SIU played in the economics of the commonwealth during his tenure as president. In a piece which was written for his presidential column in the union’s magazine in July 1969, Brother Terpe said, “Clearly, The Island of Dreams as Paul Hall frequently refers to lovely Puerto Rico, has demonstrated that under a free, democratic system and with a free democratic labor movement great progress not only could be made—bust has been made! Once again we must state that we are proud to have been an integral part of this amazing success story that is Puerto Rico today from the poor house of the Caribbean to the showcase of affluent democracy.” Retired SIU Vice President Contracts Red Campbell worked with Terpe in Puerto Rico for approximately six years. He recalled that Terpe kept an unusual pet around the office. “He had a jaguar— not a car, a real one, “ Campbell said. Survivors include his wife, Marilu; his sons, Keith and Kent; daughters Kim Lerman and Karen Palmer; and his sister, Kaye McMarlin. Hanson’s nephew, Robert Edick, told the Detroit Free Press that his uncle “was very active with union politics…. He was very much a people person.” Born in northwest Detroit, Hanson was a 1940 graduate of Redford High School. Following graduation, he joined the U.S. Marine Corps where he served as a paratrooper. An injury suffered during a jump, however, forced him to do the majority of his service in San Diego. After his 1943 discharge as a private, Hanson returned to Detroit. There he enrolled in Wayne State University and began a decadeslong relationship with the school. He earned his bachelor’s and law degrees there. Hanson played guard for the Wayne State Tartars football team from 1945 to 1946 and later became an active member of the Gas House Gang, a club of the school’s former football players. His gridiron fervor served him well in the 1950s when he represented a Detroit Lions football player who had injured his knee and wanted worker’s compensation. During that time, players were considered independent contractors and, therefore, were not entitled to benefits. Hanson won the case—securing weekly payments of $33 for 500 weeks—for the hobbled athlete, who was making $13,000 annually. Hanson also is credited with playing a key role in changing the Victor Hanson, right, posed with Michigan Attorney General Frank Kelley, left, and SIU VP Byron Kelley during an awards dinner in 1990. Hanson assisted the SIU in a variety of legal matters during his career as an attorney. status of professional football players for good when he founded an association which essentially served as a union. That organization was a predecessor to the NFLPA. Hanson raised money for Detroit’s St. Francis Home for Boys and Most Holy Trinity Church and was active in the Democratic Party. He also founded Hands That Help, a charity that distributes clothing and blankets to veterans’ homes. He is survived by a stepdaughter, Loralee Coomes; three sisters, Evelyn Hanson, Beatrice Kuhl and Rose Marie Berry; and two grandsons. Matson Mourns Passing Of Retired President Gray Retired SIU of Puerto Rico President Keith Terpe, center, walks the pickets with his 400-pound jaguar. The animal reportedly was the union’s unofficial mascot in Puerto Rico during Terpe’s tenure as president. Something Fishy on the Expedition Aboard the Horizon Expedition in Guam, SIU steward department personnel enthusiastically prepare sashimi and other fish delicacies for dinner. Chief Steward Mike Gramer (above) and Chief Cook Tom Kelly acquired the catch from local fishermen. 6 Seafarers LOG James P. Gray, retired president of Seafarers-contracted Matson Navigation Company, died May 5 in Rancho Santa Margarita, Calif. He was 87. Gray’s career with Matson spanned 45 years, beginning in 1936 when he joined the company as a stenographer and clerk in Wilmington, Calif. He worked his way up in various positions during the next 11 years before leaving Matson to try a non-maritime busiJames P. Gray retired as ness venture. president of Matson NaviBy 1951, Gray was back with gation Company in 1981. Matson. He earned numerous promotions over the years, eventually becoming the vice president and general manager of the Matson subsidiary, Matson Terminals, Inc. in 1970. Two years later, he was named president of the subsidiary, overseeing all terminal operations for Matson on the West Coast and in Hawaii. In 1977, Gray returned to Matson Navigation Company and was promoted to senior vice president of the freight division, a role that involved overseeing all vessel and container operations. The following year, he was promoted to executive vice president, operations. In 1979, Gray was promoted to president and chief operating officer of Matson Navigation Company, reporting to Chief Executive Officer Robert J. Pfeiffer. As president, Gray was responsible for all aspects of Matson’s business activities, including Matson Terminals. In a press release announcing Gray’s death, the company noted, “His extensive experience with the company during his career gave him a keen understanding of Matson’s operations at all levels of the organization, and his personable style made him both respected and well-liked by employees throughout the company.” Gray retired in 1981 but stayed involved in the industry. He remained a member of the San Francisco Bay Area Chapter of the National Defense Transportation Association, among other activities. Gray is survived by his wife of 65 years, Carolyn; son, James S. Gray of Huntington Beach, Calif.; two daughters, Susan Meek of Potter Valley, Calif. and Janet Gray of Tonopah, Ariz.; four grandchildren and one great grandchild. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the American Cancer Society or a hospice of the donor’s choice. July 2004 �23499_p1,2,3(cx)_7.qxd 6/24/2004 1:51 PM Page 7 Classrooms Upgraded in Simulator Building In keeping with its tradition of remaining ahead of industry demands, the Seafarers-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. has made major improvements in its already excellent simulator building. Specifically, according to Assistant Director of Training J.C. Wiegman, significant upgrades recently were achieved in four classrooms which are housed in the Logan Building. These enhancements, said Wiegman, will not only intensify the quality of training that merchant mariners receive in the facility, but also augment the techniques instructors utilize to deliver their respective course materials. The showpiece of the upgrades is the facility’s electronics technician’s classroom which will be used in the junior engineer, marine electronics technician, chief electrician and marine electrician courses. The room also may be used for marine refrigeration training. “This room already was state- of-the-art throughout,” said Instructor Jay Henderson. “These recent upgrades, however, really will increase our ability to train the people coming through here.” A retired Navy Master Chief Petty Officer who sailed for three years as a Seafarer (marine electrician aboard Maersk LMSRs), Henderson will be the primary tenant in the renovated classroom. Some of the upgrades in the electronics technician’s classroom are as follows: Twelve new electronic work Advisory Board Discusses Security Issues Continued from page 2 of the enforcement provisions would be in place by established deadlines. At the conclusion of the panel’s discussion on Maritime Security and a question/answer session, meeting participants formed two working groups to discuss another pair of issues which have come to the forefront in the maritime industry: shipboard food sanitation and towing/coastal licensing. John Dobson and J.C. Weigman, both instructors at the Paul Hall Center, led the respective discussions. In a related development, U.S. Homeland Security Department Secretary Tom Ridge on June 21 in Los Angeles announced that the nation’s seaports are ready to meet the July 1 deadline for international maritime security standards. Ridge made the announcement after touring the ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles. “I’m very pleased to announce as of today, the United States is in full compliance with the requirements of this new standard,” Secretary Ridge said. “For the first time ever, through an international effort there will be one world standard for ship and port security.” New security measures are being implemented across the United States, providing for safer ports in America. With the implementation of these international standards, in advance of the July 1 deadline, the U.S. is better able to harden the port’s physical infrastructure, verify the security of individual vessels before they approach a U.S. port, and better restrict access to the port area, the secretary noted. “Over 80 percent of world trade travels by sea,” Ridge Jim Zok MarAd/ILO Mayte Medina U.S. Coast Guard added. “By taking a layered, cooperative and balanced approach to strengthening the international maritime system, we are not only further securing our country, we are also protecting U.S. economic interests and the global economy.” In addition to the international requirements of the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code, the United States has required vessels, maritime facilities and ports around the country to implement security measures by July 1, as part of the domestic Maritime Transportation Security Act that establishes a new, robust baseline of security for our nation’s ports. Vessels and port facilities around the country are now on target to meet the July 1 deadline for these increased security measures, as well. An estimated 9,500 vessels, 3,200 facilities, and 40 off-shore oil or natural gas rigs are directly affected. Secretary Ridge also called on all citizens to do their part. “Be alert to things that seem suspicious. Securing our ports and waterways is a team effort— everyone, from local govern- ments and private citizens to the international community play an important role in ensuring that our waterways remain open for business.” Elsewhere, the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2005 (H.R. 4567) has passed both the House of Representatives and the Senate and is being forwarded to the president for his signature and enactment into law. Among other things, this bill provides the following funding: $4.6 billion for operations of Customs and Border Protection; not less than $321 million (with conditions) for the development of the Automated Commercial Environment; $2.37 billion for operations of Immigration and Customs Enforcement; $65 million for expenses related to maritime and land transportation security grants and services; $5.17 billion for expenses of the Coast Guard; $697 million (with conditions) for the USCG Integrated Deepwater System program; and $125 million for port security grants. CIVMAR News Federal Employees’ Group Life Insurance Program Sets ‘Open Season’ The U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) recently announced the first open season for the Federal Employees’ Group Life Insurance Program (FEGLI) since 1999. The FEGLI 2004 Open Season will take place from Sept. 1 through Sept. 30, 2004, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the program. “The Federal Employees’ Group Life Insurance Program is just one of the federal benefits that employees can use to plan for the future and to anticipate the fulfillment of essential responsibility to their families,” said OPM Director Kay Coles James in announcing the open season May 25. “This will give federal employees the opportunity to make any adjustments they need to better plan for the future.” The FEGLI program consists of basic life insurance coverage and three options that include coverage for up to five times an employee’s base salary July 2004 plus coverage for family members. In most cases, a new federal employee is automatically covered by basic life insurance. The types and amounts of coverages available are not changing. During the open season, federal and U.S. Post Office employees in eligible positions may enroll in the FEGLI program or increase or change current coverage without having a physical or answering any questions about their health. The earliest that newly elected coverage will be effective is Sept. 1, 2005. OPM offers much more information on line at http://www.opm.gov/asd/htm/2004/04-203.asp. The federal government established the FEGLI program on Aug. 29, 1954. It is the largest group life insurance program in the world, covering over 4 million federal employees and retirees, as well as many of their family members. stations have been added. Each station is now equipped with 1-½ inch non-conducting (stone) desktops. IBM computers have been installed at each workstation. Each workstation also is now equipped with an assortment of tools for students to use should they have to fabricate a piece of equipment. Each workstation is equipped with new desks, chairs and stools. Instructors now have two computers at their disposal (one in their office area and a second at their lecture locations). Software is on order that will aid student in their equipment designs. Classroom now features an overhead projector that will show power point presentations on screen. Old carpet has been replaced by new tile. Classroom has been enlarged by eight feet. Walls have been painted; new ceiling tiles and light fixtures have been installed. “These upgrades will enable students to go directly to workstations to practice concepts they just received from instructors,” said Henderson. “This capability will be a tremendous time saver because students no longer will have to go to another room, break out tools, etc. to do various projects associated with their training.” In addition to the foregoing renovations, upgrades also have been made in three other classrooms, according to Wiegman. First, all engineering computers (used for shipboard assessments) have been moved to a centralized location in one room. Paul Hall Center Instructor Eric Malzkuhn was instrumental in effecting this change. Two additional rooms that once housed simulators have been converted into one larger, air conditioned classrooms. The same upgrades were accomplished in a room that contained diesel simulators. Under the new setup, simulators are in one room and two new rooms have been earmarked for instruction. Upgraders already are taking advantage of the upgraded facilities in the Logan Building. Above, Instructor Jay Henderson (standing) assists (from left) Olie Webber, Lionel Taylor and Richard Huffman. With Seafarers Aboard the Explorer The Explorer paid off June 2 in Los Angeles. Among those pictured aboard the USSM vessel are (top photo) AB Al Moore, GUDE Saleh Ali, QMED Victor Viernes, AB Abdul Musaed, Steward/Baker William Burdette, AB Leo Bognoson, AB Samuel Lampshire and Chief Cook James Boss. Pictured below right are AB William Horton, AB Andres Mano and QEE Jimmie Robles. At left are Bosun Phil Corl and AB Al Moore. Seafarers LOG 7 �23499p4,8,9,10,14,16,20,21,24.qxd 6/22/2004 2:17 PM Page 8 Nation Honors Service & Sacrifice Of Merchant Marine PORT ARTHUR, TEXAS — Father Sinclair Oubre, president of the Apostleship of the Sea and an SIU member, delivers the invocation at Maritime Day ceremonies in Port Arthur, Texas. This year’s celebration honored the men and women of the U.S. Merchant Marine—with special recognition to those who are serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom. “The officers and men of the Merchant Marine, by their devotion to duty in the face of enemy action, as well a natural danger of the sea, have brought us the tool to finish the job. Their contribution to final victory will long be remembered.” Maritime Day was observed across the country in May to honor the courage, determination, service and sacrifice of the nation’s Merchant Marine. The June 2004 issue of the Seafarers LOG covered the day’s events from Washington, D.C. Some of the other celebrations, which took place in various U.S. ports, appear on this page. —Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower Maritime Day, 1945 SAN PEDRO, CALIF. — SIU Wilmington dispatcher Nick Rios (left) and SIU Wilmington Port Agent John Cox stand before the SIU/NMU wreath following a National Maritime Day observance and memorial service May 22. (Rios is wearing his Bronze Star and other medals from the Vietnam War.) The ceremony (below) took place at the American Merchant Marine Veterans Memorial, which was dedicated on May 22, 1989. Included among the speakers were Councilwoman Janice Hahn, State Senator Betty Karnette, Rep. Dana Rohrabacher (R-Calif.), Capt. Peter Neffenger of the U.S. Coast Guard, and Dr. William R. Eisenhardt, president of the California Maritime Academy. The arrival of the Color Guard signals the beginning of the shipboard ceremony. Chester Wheeler of the Government Services Division presents the SIU wreath. SAN FRANCISCO, CALIF. — Maritime Day ceremonies were held May 22 aboard the Liberty Ship Jeremiah O’Brien. Capt. Patrick Moloney sailed the vessel out beyond the Golden Gate Bridge, where wreaths were laid in honor of all the maritime trades, services and unions. This memorial cruise was dedicated to the men and women serving in Afghanistan and Iraq. A wreath also was presented in memory of the late SIU VP West Coast George McCartney who died in March. In the photo at left, Captain Moloney poses with McCartney’s wife, Helga (right), and daughter, Heidi. SIU San Francisco Rep Archie Ware helped commemorate Maritime Day. “The men of our American Merchant Marine have pushed through despite the perils of the submarine, the dive bomber and the surface raider. They have returned voluntarily to their jobs at sea again and again, because they realized that the life-lines to our battle fronts would be broken if they did not carry out their vital part in this global war.” —President Franklin D. Roosevelt, 1943 QMED Tommy Taylor (third from left), who was recognized for his 39 years of service with the SIU, poses with SIU VP Government Services Kermett Mangram (third from right) and members of the U.S Coast Guard’s Color Guard. 8 Seafarers LOG NORFOLK, VA. — QMED Tommy “Coastwise” Taylor was recognized by the Propeller Club during Maritime Day ceremonies for his 39 years of service with the SIU. Taylor, who comes from a long line of Seafarers, began sailing in 1965 on coal boats running between Norfolk and Amsterday, Holland. He was aboard the Joplin Victory in Vietnam during the Tet offensive and on the Stonewall Jackson in the heavily mined Red Sea. Years later, he earned his nickname “Coastwise Tommy” because he would relieve Waterman crew members returning from overseas, so that they could spend a couple weeks with their families while their vessels discharged their cargos in ports from Norfolk to New Orleans. Dave Brown (above, right) receives a commendation from MarAd for meritorious service as bosun aboard the Flickertail State. At right, Recertified Steward Mike Pooler is awarded a commendation for being a “good feeder” during the Flickertail State’s mission to Haiti. July 2004 �23499p4,8,9,10,14,16,20,21,24.qxd 6/25/2004 9:15 PM Page 9 The APL Philippines, Cape Mohican and Manoa were three of the many SIU-crewed ships calling on the port of San Francisco over the last few months. Sailing into San Francisco MANOA APL PHILIPPINES Clockwise (from left): Kenneth Lee, the ship’s new chief cook, reports for work; ACU Hussain Ahmed; and Chief Steward Brian Burchett. Ivan Zuluaga Gomez Chief Steward ACU Mohamed Wasel, Chief Steward Jill Prescott CAPE MOHICAN Muckbil Shaibi ACU Steven Sun Chief Cook LURLINE Bonifacio Lozada Chief Cook July 2004 Lucille Aguilar Chief Steward Clockwise (from top left): SIU San Francisco Rep Archie Ware and Bob Rogers, VP Operations at IUM; AB Jimmy Crate and Bosun Stephen Garay; and Chief Steward Louis Morris. Seafarers LOG 9 �23499p4,8,9,10,14,16,20,21,24.qxd 6/25/2004 9:20 PM Page 10 Scenes from the Far East Aboard the LNG Libra The SIU-crewed Libra, a liquid natural gas carrier, was launched in the United States in 1979. With a capacity of 126,300 cubic meters, the vessel carries its load from Indonesia to Japan. The carrier is owned by BGT, Ltd. and managed by Pronav Ship Management. AB David W. Collins took most of the photos appearing on this page, and Bosun Frank P. Hedge sent them to the LOG. 10 Seafarers LOG Other SIU members aboard the LNG Libra during the voyage included ABs Craig A. Pare, Lyle J. McCorison, Hector Barnes, Dennis M. Byrne and Robert Triano; QMEDs Paul E. Peterson, John G. Knott and Tran P. Luu; GUDE Brian D. McBride; Steward Vernon S. Thibodeaux; Chief Cook Jose E. Guzman; and SAs Jabr A. Matari, Paul Armstrong and Luis A. Sepulveda. July 2004 �23499_p3,5(cx),6,11_13.qxd 6/25/2004 9:23 PM Page 11 National Labor Division Helps Unions Back Israel Federation Continues Supporting Bonds Program The Israel Bonds National Labor Division was created to perpetuate the historic ties between North American trade unionists and Israel. Under National Labor Division auspices, local, state and international trade unions have expressed support for Israel through events, delegations to Israel and investment in Israel bonds. AFL-CIO President John Sweeney has endorsed the investment in Israel bonds, declaring, “We will continue to support the State of Israel by purchasing the bonds that build and strengthen Israel’s economic infrastructure and create jobs for union workers in Israel.” Israel bond investments are helping to bring the following projects—all of which will be built with union labor—to fruition: Laying the latest stretch of the Trans-Israel Highway, which eventually will connect the northern and southern sections of the country. Developing a new community in the Negev. Constructing what will ultimately be the world’s largest SIU President Set for Award SIU President Michael Sacco has been chosen to receive the Ben-Gurion Labor Award from the State of Israel Bonds National Labor Division, in recognition of the union’s decades of support for the State of Israel. The award will be presented in November in Washington, D.C. Boat Lifting in Long Beach A recent visit by SIU Port Agent John Cox to the Port of Long Beach, Calif. found Seafarer Paul Jernstrom (right) lifting one of American Marine Corp.’s dive boats from the pier to the water. The boat is powered through a transformer on an “alternative maritime power” (AMP) barge, eliminating stack emissions. Attention Seafarers: July 2004 desalination plant along Israel’s Mediterranean coast. Expanding Israel’s international airport. Creating a light rail system to alleviate traffic and pollution. Labor’s solidarity with Israel has remained steadfast for decades. At its annual convention in 1917, the American Federation of Labor passed the movement’s first resolution in support of Jewish people’s right to establish an independent nation in their historic homeland. At its 2001 constitutional convention, the AFL-CIO issued an unequivocal statement reaffirming Israel’s right to exist in peace and security. “The strong, durable relationship between the AFL-CIO and the State of Israel is a source of great pride to everyone associated with the American labor movement,” Sweeney noted. “Our support for Israel is based on common values and ideals rooted in democracy and the inalienable rights of working men and women.” Morton Bahr, president of the Communications Workers of America, pointed out, Labor’s ties with Israel pre-date the establishment of the state, and have only strengthened over the years. Israel is the only place in the Middle East where free trade unionism is a fact of life.” Cecil Roberts, International President of the United Mine Workers of America, added, “We reach out to the people and State AFL-CIO President John Sweeney of Israel because they deserve the support of the American labor movement.” The Israel Bonds organization itself was founded in 1951. It serves as a bridge between Israel and its friends and supporters throughout the world. For more information, visit www.israelbonds.com. Raymond Ebeling, Robert Magee Selected for 2004 AOTOS Award The 2004 United Seamen’s Service (USS) Admiral of the Ocean Sea Award will be presented to Raymond P. Ebeling, chairman and president of American Roll-On Roll-Off Carrier (ARC), and Robert P. Magee, chairman and CEO of Totem Ocean Trailer Express (TOTE). The honors will be awarded at an industry dinner and dance scheduled for Nov. 5 at the Sheraton New York Hotel and Towers in New York City. John Bowers, chairman of the USS AOTOS Committee and president of the International Longshoremen’s Association, AFLCIO, made the announcement. “These two industry leaders from management we salute this year represent the finest in American spirit,” said Bowers. “Mr. Ebeling’s career has spanned some of the finest companies in American shipping and Bob Magee has been a career maritime man at sea, on shore and in shipbuilding.” Bowers added, “Our recipients have been selected by those who know them best—international transportation leaders who understand very well the challenges and issues that confront United States shipping and American seafarers and who wish to recognize leadership in this area.” Raymond Ebeling and Robert Magee led the field of nominees for the award, solicited by USS from more than 200 maritime management, labor and government officials. All proceeds from the event benefit USS community services abroad for the U.S. Merchant Marine and those of other free world countries. Both recipients will share the evening with a group of American seafarers who will be honored for specific acts of bravery at sea. Ebeling has been president and chairman of SIU-contracted ARC, a U.S.-flag liner service ocean carrier, since 1990. The carrier operates three Americanflag ships between the United States and Northern Europe, and Robert P. Magee, chairman and CEO, Totem Ocean Trailer Express Raymond P. Ebeling, chairman and president, American Roll-On Roll-Off Carrier two U.S.-flag vessels between the U.S. and the Mediterranean and Black Seas, and the latter of which carry most of the U.S. military vehicles in those trades. He also is president and chairman of American Auto Logistics (AAL), a logistics management firm that manages the worldwide movement of military service member’s vehicles for the U.S. Department of Defense. Ebeling has served on several advisory commissions to the U.S. government including appointment by President Bush as Commissioner on the Advisory Commission on Conferences in Ocean Shipping. Ebeling was awarded the National Transportation Award by the National Defense Transportation Association (NDTA) and the Herb Brand Award by the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department for “dedication to a strong and viable American Maritime Industry.” Robert Magee’s professional career has always been associated with the maritime industry. A graduate of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy at Kings Point, he served as a deck officer before becoming a manager with Sun Shipbuilding, where he was instrumental in establishing a new Sun Shipbuilding subsidiary, Seafarers-contracted Totem Ocean Trailer Express, Inc. Following a stint as senior vice president with Puerto Rico Marine Management, Inc., he returned to TOTE as vice president and later as chairman and CEO. The American Shipping Group he now heads is a holding company that comprises the blue water domestic and military support shipping businesses of Saltchuk Resources. These businesses include: Totem Ocean Trailer Express, which owns and operates five ships and 1,500 trailers and serves the mainland/Alaska trade; Sea Star Line L.L.C., which operates between Florida and Puerto Rico with two RO/RO-container vessels and is a partnership with Matson Navigation and Taino Star Investments; and Interocean Ugland Management, a technical ship management and ship crewing company that manages and operates 22 vessels—11 of which are in the U.S. Maritime Administration’s Ready Reserve Force. His achievements have included an awareness of environmental responsibilities. The new TOTE diesel-electronic Orca class vessels, have received awards for environmental design elements from government entities in the United States and Canada. Seafarers LOG 11 �23499_p3,5(cx),6,11_13.qxd 6/24/2004 4:13 PM Page 12 Unl lear AB Ray Spooner operates the hatch crane aboard the American Mariner. ABs Larry Curnow (top) and John Anderson work on the deck of the Joseph H. Frantz at fitout in Toledo, Ohio. Aboard the Indiana Harbor at the Detroit Edison plant in St. Clair, Mich. are UA Jamal Ricks (left) and AB William Padgett. The gateman on the Sam Laud is Baisel Kuvshinikov. AB Brendan Murphy works on the boom on board the Joseph H. Frantz. Bon Hosing down the cargo hold on the Indiana Harbor is AB James Davison. Ahmed Kaid is an SA on the John J. Boland. Harry Petersen, the 2nd cook on the Buffalo, gives the pot a stir. AB Mike Locke tends to the lines on the deck of the Great Lakes Towing tug Idaho in Toledo, Ohio. The Great Lakes region represents a multi-billion dollar component of the United States economy, and SIU members consistently do their part to keep waterborne cargo safely moving throughout the area. Seafarers transport approximately half of all cargo that is shipped on Lakes Erie, Huron, Michigan, Ontario and Superior. SIU members in those areas sail aboard self-unloaders, cement carriers, tankers, tugs and barges, dredges and more. The largest SIU-crewed ships on the Great Lakes exceed AB Charles Richardson works during fitout on the Sam Laud in Sturgeon Bay, Wis. 1,000 feet apiece. Cargoes consist of iron ore, stone, coal, cement, salt, sand, grain and liquid-bulk products. The region’s top economic activities include steel production (which relies on some of the aforementioned cargoes), industrial manufacturing and agriculture. SIU Vice President Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski noted that Great Lakes shipping “has been very good this year. We’ve got jobs ranging from 30 to 120 days, and we’ve seen Bosun Mike “Irish” Keogh hoses down the cargo hold aboard the John J. Boland after unloading coal at the U.S. Steel plant in Detroit. The use of safety gear is important when working aboard the Southdown Conquest. 12 Seafarers LOG July 2004 m r r s p y th �23499_p3,5(cx),6,11_13.qxd 6/24/2004 4:13 PM Page 13 Unlicensed Apprentices Timothy Bauer (left) and Mark Kane (right) learn from Conveyorman Richard Mullins aboard the John J. Boland. From the left aboard the Sam Laud are DEU Ahmed Nasser, DEU Ken Troy and AB Walter Sipper. Bosun Ron Bochek (left) directs the DEU operating the hatch crane aboard the Sam Laud. Bonita Vineyard is an OS on board the Southdown Challenger. Serving up some lunch on the American Mariner is 2nd Cook Phil Martin. All is well aboard the Southdown Conquest. From the left are AB Mike Kelley, Cook Gerald Rifenbark, AB Larry Budnick, AMO Engineer Don McDonald and AB Brian Goudy. more and more members who normally sail deep sea, taking relief jobs on the lakes. That’s a credit to the new shipping rules and the new (Great Lakes) agreement that’s similar to the standard contract for deep sea.” For the year, Great Lakes cargoes are up significantly— partly because of better weather this year compared to last year. In the past, U.S.-flag Great Lakes ships have moved more than 125 million tons in a year. The increased traffic in 2004 is good news for Seafarers, but it’s not the only welcome story in that region. In recent months, employees at two companies (Laken Shipping and also Buffalo Industrial Diving) voted to join the SIU. Also, SIU-contracted Hannah Marine recently brought in a new oil barge. “These developments all point to people having confidence in the SIU, confidence in our crews,” Orzechowski said. “They know we’re in this for the long haul and we’re committed to providing well-trained, loyal crew members.” SA William Agnello poses in the galley of the Buffalo. DEU Abdul Ghaleb operates the hatch crane aboard the John J. Boland. AB Mike Kelley works on the deck of the Southdown Conquest. July 2004 Seafarers LOG 13 �23499p4,8,9,10,14,16,20,21,24.qxd 6/22/2004 2:17 PM Page 14 Congratulations, Graduates! SIU President Michael Sacco (right photo, at podium) offers his congratulations and encouragement to graduates of the unlicensed apprentice program June 11 at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md. The SIU president told the graduates (also pictured at left) that he is confident in a strong future for the union, the school and the entire U.S. Merchant Marine. For detailed information on the apprentice program, visit the Paul Hall Center section of www.seafarers.org. SEAFARERS BENEFIT PLANS NOTICE TO PARTICIPANTS Keep the Plan Informed of Your Address Changes It is important that all participants remember to keep the Plan informed of any change of address. Update Your Beneficiary Designations Keep your beneficiary designations up to date. In the event that your beneficiary predeceases you, you must submit a substitute designation. Inform the Plan of Your Divorce In order for your spouse to be eligible to receive continuation coverage (under COBRA) from the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, you or your spouse must inform the Plan at the time of your divorce. Please submit a copy of the divorce decree to the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. Full-time College Students If your dependent child is a full-time college student, you must submit a letter of attendance every semester in order for your child to be covered by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan P.O. Box 380 Piney Point, MD 20674 SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR SIU PACIFIC DISTRICT PENSION PLAN This is a summary of the annual report for SIU Pacific District Pension Plan, 946061923 for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2003. The annual report has been filed with the Department of Labor, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Basic Financial Statement Benefits under the plan are provided by the Trust. Plan expenses were $12,590,672. These expenses included $920,244 in administrative expenses and $11,670,428 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 3,929 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all these persons had yet earned the right to receive benefits. The value of the plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $137,395,691 as of July 31, 2003, compared to $139,693,037 as of August 1, 2002. During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $2,297,346. This decrease includes unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is the difference between the value of the Plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year or the cost of assets acquired during the year. The plan had a total income of $10,293,326, including employer contributions of $34,378, gains of $1,175,214 from the sale of assets, earnings from investments of $9,075,571 and other income of $8,163. Minimum Funding Standards An actuary’s statement shows that enough money was contributed to the plan to keep it funded in accordance with the minimum funding standards of ERISA. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: 1. An accountant’s report; 2. Financial information and information on payments to service providers; 3. Assets held for investment; 4. Transactions in excess of 5 percent of plan assets; and 5. Actuarial information regarding the funding of the plan. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of SIU Pacific District Pension Plan, who is the administrator, 1422 Market Street, San Francisco CA 94102, telephone (415) 437-6850. The charge to cover copying costs will be $9.50 for the full annual report, or $0.25 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan, 1422 Market Street, San Francisco, CA 94102 and the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, Room N5638, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20210. 14 Seafarers LOG Crowley Credits SIU’s Tacoma Hall An official from SIU-contracted Crowley Liner Services recently wrote to SIU President Michael Sacco to convey appreciation for the efforts of officials at the union’s hall in Tacoma, Wash. Edwin Colon, crewing coordinator at Crowley, noted that in answering the call for the first two phases of Operation Iraqi Freedom, “Many Crowley Liner Services ships have been called into service with very short notice and critical deadlines to meet in order to deliver the goods and satisfy our obligations…. We would like to take this opportunity to express our sincere appreciation for the invaluable assistance rendered by the SIU hall in Tacoma, Wash.” Colon continued, “In particular, (Assistant Vice President) Donnie Anderson has been a tremendous help in many cases where we had very critical need and he saved the day on such occasions. In addition, (Port Agent) Bryan Powell and the other officials there all regularly go above and beyond the call of duty to assure the swift and effective crewing of our ships and deal with any other labor issues that may arise.” He concluded, “As a union hall, we feel Tacoma demonstrates a work ethic and commitment that goes above and beyond most. We feel that the hard work and commitment shown by this particular group of individuals should be recognized and rewarded. Please convey to them our gratitude and appreciation.” IMPORTANT NOTICE: SEAFARERS HEALTH AND BENEFITS PLAN — COBRA NOTICE HEALTH CARE CONTINUATION Under federal law, a participant and his or her dependents have the right to elect to continue their Plan coverage in the event that they lose their eligibility. This right is granted by the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act, better known as “COBRA.” The COBRA law allows a participant and his or her dependents to temporarily extend their benefits at group rates in certain circumstances where coverage under the Plan would otherwise end. A participant and his or her dependents have a right to choose this continuation coverage if they lose their Plan coverage because the participant failed to meet the Plan’s seatime requirements. In addition, a participant and his or her dependents may have the right to choose continuation coverage if the participant becomes a pensioner ineligible for medical benefits. The participant’s dependents may also elect continuation coverage if they lose coverage under the Plan as the result of the participant’s (1) death; (2) divorce; or (3) Medicare eligibility. A child can also elect COBRA if as the result of his or her age, he or she is no longer a dependent under the Plan rules. If a member and his or her dependents feel that they may qualify, or if they would like more information concerning these rights, they should contact the Plan office at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Since there are important deadlines that apply to COBRA, please contact the Plan as soon as possible to receive a full explanation of the participant’s rights and his or her dependents’ rights. SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR SIU PACIFIC DISTRICT SUPPLEMENTAL BENEFITS PLAN, INC This is a summary of the annual report of the SIU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Plan, Inc., EIN 94-1431246, for the year ended July 31, 2003. The annual report has been filed with the Department of Labor, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). SIU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc. has committed itself to pay all supplemental benefits. Basic Financial Statements The value of the plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan was $2,109,227 as of July 31, 2003, compared to $2,535,841 as of August 1, 2002. During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $426,614. During the plan year, the plan had total income of $8,612,666, including employer contributions of $8,567,523, earnings from investments of $42,841 and other income of $2,302. Plan expenses were $9,039,280. These expenses included $472,106 in administrative expenses, and $8,567,174 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report. 1. An accountant’s report; 2. Financial information and information on payments to service providers; 3. Assets held for investment; and 4. Transactions in excess of 5 percent of plan assets. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of SIU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Plan, Inc., at 1422 Market Street, San Francisco, CA 94102; telephone number (415) 437-6832. The charge to cover copying costs will be $2.25 for the full annual report, or $0.25 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and the accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and the accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan at 1422 Market Street, San Francisco, CA 94102, and at the U.S. Department of Labor Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to Public Disclosure Room, Room N5638, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20210. July 2004 �23499_p15,17_19,22,23.qxd 6/23/2004 2:08 PM Page 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea August & September 2004 Membership Meetings MAY 16 — JUNE 15, 2004 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port Algonac Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 0 3 1 3 24 38 0 19 23 32 14 9 1 12 30 0 35 28 272 0 7 1 5 15 38 0 11 16 22 15 3 26 6 12 4 20 26 227 2 3 2 6 22 16 1 4 13 14 7 2 7 1 5 3 24 10 142 1 7 0 6 23 22 0 11 15 19 10 3 0 6 13 0 23 17 176 0 6 3 4 11 30 1 7 16 21 12 2 6 8 9 2 18 17 173 1 2 0 1 9 6 0 2 4 9 6 0 5 1 2 2 10 4 64 0 0 0 1 24 21 0 7 13 26 12 0 2 4 13 0 24 9 156 1 5 2 11 42 63 0 29 23 45 21 10 3 12 40 2 60 38 407 3 6 5 13 18 44 0 16 15 25 27 5 35 8 17 7 44 42 330 3 3 2 5 38 33 1 9 23 33 11 5 3 2 13 5 33 28 250 0 5 1 11 16 30 0 12 13 21 13 6 3 3 17 3 20 14 188 1 5 2 8 15 45 0 7 18 16 24 4 2 2 16 4 25 14 208 3 0 0 1 13 15 0 4 6 14 7 1 0 1 2 2 8 9 86 0 0 0 3 6 8 0 0 3 6 0 0 0 1 9 0 10 7 53 0 3 1 17 25 30 0 11 15 29 13 4 6 4 39 2 36 34 269 3 1 2 9 6 20 0 8 10 17 18 1 5 1 7 0 7 10 125 1 0 0 1 5 11 0 1 2 9 7 0 0 0 2 1 7 8 55 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 4 1 4 13 18 0 7 4 15 7 3 1 3 8 2 9 8 107 0 5 1 2 5 20 0 7 9 11 12 4 1 4 15 1 16 12 125 0 0 0 0 10 10 0 4 1 5 6 1 0 1 0 2 3 4 47 0 3 1 9 18 23 0 10 11 14 8 2 4 1 26 1 23 23 177 2 1 2 4 6 13 1 4 5 7 13 0 4 1 4 1 6 11 85 0 1 0 0 1 7 0 1 0 1 3 0 0 0 2 0 1 3 20 1 4 0 10 9 14 0 4 6 9 4 1 2 0 17 0 19 15 115 Algonac Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals 0 0 0 5 5 7 0 2 1 3 0 0 0 0 5 0 8 6 42 2 4 0 12 13 17 0 4 6 28 8 2 22 2 15 1 21 8 165 4 4 1 4 25 22 0 2 6 33 14 1 21 1 10 0 25 16 189 0 0 0 7 3 2 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 2 2 0 3 2 24 1 5 0 5 16 9 0 5 6 20 2 1 9 2 9 0 12 3 105 2 0 0 2 7 10 0 1 3 4 11 0 6 0 3 0 7 3 59 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 8 9 0 1 2 8 0 0 0 2 9 0 10 6 59 2 1 4 25 20 35 1 8 7 51 16 2 23 4 21 3 34 15 272 5 7 3 17 42 39 0 2 16 70 17 4 40 2 16 1 45 28 354 Totals All Departments 598 602 398 406 426 172 274 923 935 745 Port Algonac Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals 1 5 1 10 11 14 0 4 9 6 6 0 4 3 8 1 5 3 91 0 4 3 1 4 20 0 5 4 7 6 4 2 5 8 0 8 8 89 2 1 0 0 3 4 0 1 1 3 1 1 0 0 1 1 1 2 22 0 1 1 5 5 11 0 2 2 5 3 2 1 8 9 1 6 3 65 STEWARD DEPARTMENT Port 0 1 0 5 2 8 1 3 4 3 11 0 2 2 3 1 5 8 59 Piney Point .............Monday: August 2 ................................Tuesday: September 7* ............................................*(change created by Labor Day holiday) DECK DEPARTMENT Port Algonac Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Trip Reliefs 0 2 0 0 3 7 0 0 0 0 6 1 0 0 1 0 3 4 27 Algonac ..................Friday: August 6, September 10 Baltimore ................Thursday: August 5, September 9 Boston.....................Friday: August 6, September 10 Duluth .....................Wednesday: August 11, September 15 Guam ......................Thursday: August 19, September 23 Honolulu .................Friday: August 13, September 17 Houston ..................Monday: August 9, September 13 Jacksonville ............Thursday: August 5, September 9 Joliet .......................Thursday: August 12, September 16 Mobile ....................Wednesday: August 11, September 15 New Orleans ...........Tuesday: August 10, September 14 New York................Tuesday: August 3, September 7 Norfolk ...................Thursday: August 5, September 9 Philadelphia ............Wednesday: August 4, September 8 Port Everglades.......Thursday: August 12, September 16 San Francisco .........Thursday: August 12, September 16 San Juan..................Thursday: August 5, September 9 St. Louis..................Friday: August 13, September 17 Tacoma ...................Friday: August 20, September 24 Wilmington ...............Tuesday: August 17* ................................Monday: September 20 ............................................*(change created by Paul Hall’s birthday holiday) Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals ROBERT GOLDSON Please contact Lucinda Jones at 3114 Dumbarton Road, Richmond, VA 23228; telephone (804) 553-8181. Union Plus gives Seafarers and their families access to many cost-saving benefits programs. The SIU participates in a number of the programs, including credit card, mortgage and real estate, life insurance, health savings, auto insurance, education services and more. Below is one of the newer options. For more information, visit Union Plus at www.unionplus.org. ENTRY DEPARTMENT *“Total Registered” means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **“Registered on Beach” means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. July 2004 Seafarers LOG 15 �23499p4,8,9,10,14,16,20,21,24.qxd 6/25/2004 Seafarers International Union Directory 9:36 PM Page 16 NMU Monthly Shipping & Registration Report MAY 16 — JUNE 15, 2004 Michael Sacco, President TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Group I Group II Group III John Fay, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer Augustin Tellez, 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 Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services René Lioeanjie, Vice President at Large Charles Stewart, Vice President at Large HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ALTON 325 Market St., Suite B, Alton, IL 62002 (618) 462-3456 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 BOSTON Marine Industrial Park/EDIC 27 Drydock Ave., Boston, MA 02210 (617) 261-0790 DULUTH 324 W. Superior St., Suite 705, Duluth, MN 55802 (218) 722-4110 GUAM P.O. Box 31542, Tamuning, Guam 96931-5242 125 Sunny Plaza, Suite 301-E Tun Jesus Crisostomo St., Tamuning, Guam 96911 (671) 647-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St., Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 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 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 832-8767 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 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 FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St., San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division: (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS 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) 549-4000 16 Seafarers LOG Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 0 10 2 4 14 0 1 9 40 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 3 0 4 1 2 3 0 0 5 15 REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Group I Group II Group III 0 11 7 3 12 1 1 9 44 0 0 0 1 3 0 0 1 5 0 3 2 0 3 0 0 5 13 1 11 2 2 9 0 0 5 30 0 29 12 11 36 2 1 21 130 0 5 4 5 3 0 0 8 25 0 30 7 13 0 0 0 0 50 2 4 3 1 4 0 3 1 18 0 13 10 6 14 2 3 20 68 0 6 4 1 3 0 1 2 17 0 19 5 11 0 0 0 0 35 1 2 2 1 3 1 0 1 11 0 7 7 6 10 1 1 10 42 0 3 1 4 16 0 2 5 31 0 20 4 11 0 0 0 1 36 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 3 5 1 10 1 1 6 27 0 1 0 0 2 0 1 0 4 0 0 0 1 2 0 2 3 8 Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals Trip Reliefs DECK DEPARTMENT Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Group I Group II Group III 0 6 4 1 5 0 1 3 20 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 2 0 2 2 6 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 1 4 2 4 1 1 6 19 0 1 1 1 4 0 0 2 9 0 2 0 1 1 0 1 3 8 Port 0 1 3 2 2 1 1 4 14 0 0 1 0 3 0 0 0 4 0 2 0 0 1 0 1 3 7 ENTRY DEPARTMENT Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 0 3 0 1 1 8 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 Totals All Departments 86 16 31 78 12 26 67 222 73 121 PIC-FROM-THE-PAST This photo was sent to the LOG by Adonis Ard Sr. of Bogalusa, La. It was taken in November 1967 in front of the mess hall at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship in Piney Point, Md. Ard, now 53, is the young man on the right. He doesn’t remember the two other students. Can anyone identify them? Still sailing as an AB, Ard most recently worked aboard the Lykes Navigator. If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with the LOG readership, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. July 2004 �23499_p15,17_19,22,23.qxd 6/23/2004 2:09 PM Page 17 Welcome Ashore 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 waterways 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. DEEP SEA ALI M. ABDULLA, 66, began his seafaring career in 1991 in the port of New York. He first shipped on the PFC William Baugh. Born in Yemen, Brother Abdulla worked in the steward department. He last sailed aboard the Sea-Land Integrity and is a resident of Dearborn, Mich. NICK ANDREWS, 67, began his career with the SIU in 1978 in Seattle. Brother Andrews was born in Greece and shipped in the steward department. He completed steward recertification training in 1987 at the union’s affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Andrews first went to sea aboard the Westward Venture and last sailed aboard the Horizon Challenger. Brother Andrews lives in his native country. PATRICK CORLESS, 65, was born in Altoona, Pa. Brother Corless joined the SIU in 1990 in the port of Piney Point, Md., initially sailing aboard the Cape Florida. A U.S. Army veteran, Brother Corless shipped in the engine department. He upgraded his skills on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. His last ship was the Captain Steven L Bennett. Brother Corless makes his home in Ft. Myers, Fla. JACK GARTON, 65, hails from Iowa. After serving in the U.S. Coast Guard, Brother Garton joined the SIU in 1972 in Seattle. He shipped in the steward department and upgraded his skills often at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Garton last sailed aboard the Northern Lights. He resides in Seattle. RICHARD HOUGHTON, 65, began his seafaring career in 1980 in Houston. Born in Philadelphia, he shipped in the deck department and was a frequent upgrader at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Houghton last sailed on the Liberty Sun. He continues to live in Houston. HUSSEIN M. NASSER, 65, started his career with the SIU in 1979 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. An engine department member, he sailed primarily aboard vessels operated by CSX Lines including the Sea-Land Shining and the Exchange. Brother Nasser was born in Yemen and makes his home in Dearborn, Mich. JAMES OSBEY, 65, joined the SIU in 1964 in New Orleans. He July 2004 worked in the steward department and last went to sea aboard the Sea-Land Pride. Brother Osbey makes his home in Houston. HIGOLD SCHULTZE, 70, joined the SIU in 1992 in the port of New York. Born in Argentina, his first voyage was aboard the ITB Baltimore. Brother Schultze sailed in the engine department and upgraded his skills often at the Paul Hall Center. He most recently sailed on Waterman Steamship Corp.’s Sgt. Matej Kocak. North Miami Beach, Fla. is his home. CHARLES SCOTT, 70, began his career with the SIU in 1959 in the port of New York. His first ship was the Coeur D’Alene Victory. Brother Scott worked in the steward department and upgraded his skills in 1980 when he completed steward recertification training at the Paul Hall Center. His last voyage was aboard Pacific-Gulf Marine’s Equity State. Brother Scott was born in Arkansas. He now calls Webster, Texas home. Inland NORMAN HANCOCK SR., 65, started his SIU career in 1973 in St. Louis after serving in both the U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force. Boatman Hancock worked in the deck department and on numerous occasions enhanced his skills at the Paul Hall Center. He last shipped aboard the Buffalo Soldier. Boatman Hancock was born in St. Louis. He currently resides in Farmington, Mo. Editor’s Note: The following brothers and sisters, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU) and participants in the NMU Pension and Trust, recently went on pension. JUAN ADAMS, 65, embarked on his NMU career in 1967. He first shipped out of the New York port aboard the Constitution. Born in St. Croix, V.I., Brother Adams last sailed on the Pacifico. CORNEAL BRAXTON, 70, launched his NMU profession in 1978. Brother Braxton’s first ocean voyage was aboard the American Lark. Born in Mobile, Ala., he worked in the steward department. Brother Corneal last went to sea on the Cape Hudson. JOSE GARCIA, 68, hails from La Habana, Cuba. Brother Garcia launched his career with the NMU in 1996, initially sailing aboard the Cape Horn. Brother Garcia worked in the steward department. His last ship was the Chesapeake Bay. JAMES GARRITY, 68, began his seafaring career with the NMU in 1976. Brother Garrity was born in Liverpool, England. He worked in the deck department and made his last voyage on the Lykes Liberator. JAMES HILL, 60, launched his seafaring career with the NMU in 1964 in San Francisco. Brother Hill was born in the Philippines. His first ship was the Exminster. Brother Hill shipped as a member of the engine department. LEROY HOCKINS, 66, was born in Philadelphia. He joined the NMU in 1964 in the port of New York. A deck department member, Brother Hockins first shipped aboard the Gorden. His last ship was the Louise Lykes. GEORGE HUDDLESTON, 63, began his profession with the NMU in 1965. Born in San Pedro, Calif., his first voyage was aboard the Volunteer State. Brother Huddleston worked in the engine department and last went to sea on the Cape Island. MOISES MARTINEZ, 81, started sailing with the NMU in 1968 from the port of Philadelphia. His first ship was the African Grove. Brother Martinez was born in Puerto Rico and was a member of the steward department. He last worked aboard the Texaco Maryland. JUAN RAMIREZ, 70, joined the NMU in 1969 in the port of New York. Brother Ramirez initially went to sea on the United States. The Puerto Rico-born mariner shipped in the steward department and last sailed aboard the American Archer. LORENE ROBINSON, 59, hails from Los Angeles. Sister Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG. 1944 The War Shipping Administration has established new rules for medical examinations for merchant seamen. The new directive requires a complete annual physical examination for all seafarers shipping aboard WSA ships in addition to the regular signing-on physical. The WSA designated that the U.S. Department of Public Health and its facilities be in charge of implementing the new regulations. It also established that any seaman who does not pass a physical examination can appeal the rejection in accordance with the provisions of his collective bargaining agreement. The WSA also established a requirement that seamen be required to take immunization shots when their vessels will be proceeding into pestilence areas. Robinson started her career with the NMU in 1980 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. Her first ship was the Howell Lykes and her last was the Cape Hudson. Sister Robinson worked in the steward department. GHALEB SALEH, 65, joined the NMU in 1966. The Yemenborn mariner first sailed aboard the American Falcon. He shipped in the engine department. RONALD SMITH, 55, embarked on his NMU profession in 1977. His first ship was the USNS Shoshone. Born in Nampa, Idaho, Brother Smith worked as a member of the steward department. He last sailed on the Fredericksburg. In addition to the foregoing individuals, the following NMU brothers went on pension effective the date indicated. Name Age EDP Cepedes, Salvador 72 May 1 Esquibel, Alberto 58 May 1 Johnson, Gerald 71 May 1 Williams, Wells 61 May 1 manpower needs. The Vietnam War has put great pressure on the existing SIU manpower, but the SIU has always provided enough men to man the needed ships. The SIU, through its extensive upgrading and training programs, is able to provide a pool of manpower to meet sudden crises, such as the Vietnam call-up. The break-out of vessels from the reserve fleet has meant that more jobs are available to SIU men, and the union has effectively filled them. This Month In SIU History 1966 Earl Shepard, vice president in charge of the Atlantic Coast, has been assigned the responsibility of meeting SIU Atlantic and Gulf Coast 1994 SIU members in the port of San Juan, P.R. last month helped pull a grounded oil tanker to safety without spilling any of the 13 million gallons of fuel oil the runaway-flag vessel was carrying. Seafarers aboard tugs operated by Crowley Maritime moved the Greek-flagged, Liberian-owned Mantinia safely into Guayanilla Bay. The 749-foot ship had been grounded in sand. Other SIU members were standing by with oil containment booms and skimming equipment in case of a spill. SIU tankermen also were on hand in case the Mantinia needed to be lightened before the move. Seafarers LOG 17 �23499_p15,17_19,22,23.qxd 6/23/2004 2:14 PM Page 18 Final Departures his career with the Marine, Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) in 1965 in San Francisco. He made his home in Oakland, Calif. and went on pension in 1979. DEEP SEA PAUL ANDERSEN Pensioner Paul Andersen, 89, passed away March 14. Brother Andersen launched his seafaring career in 1946 in the port of New York. He was born in Denmark and worked in the deck department. Brother Andersen initially sailed on a Louisiana Sulphur Carrier vessel. His final voyage was on the Arecibo, a Puerto Rico Marine Management vessel. Brother Andersen resided in Florida and went on pension in 1978. GEORGE BERTHOLD Pensioner George Berthold, 93, died Feb. 23. Brother Berthold was born in New Orleans and joined the SIU there in 1951. The U.S. Army veteran was a member of the engine department. Brother Berthold last went to sea on the Sea-Land McLean. He called Foley, Ala. home and started receiving his retirement income in 1977. KENNETH BETHEA Brother Kenneth Bethea, 45, passed away Jan. 20. Brother Bethea joined the SIU in 1989 in the port of Jacksonville. He initially shipped with Crowley Towing & Transport Co. The steward department member’s last voyage was on the SeaLand Performance. Brother Bethea resided in his native state of Florida. VINCENT CARAFA Pensioner Vincent Carafa, 75, died Jan. 15. Brother Carafa joined the SIU in 1967 in the port of San Francisco. He first went to sea on the Panoceanic Faith. The Pennsylvania-born mariner sailed in the deck department, last working aboard the Sea-Land Mariner. He lived in Santa Rosa, Calif. and began receiving retirement compensation in 1992. JOSE CORTES Pensioner Jose Cortes, 83, passed away Feb. 12. Brother Cortes began his SIU career in 1946 in the port of Baltimore. His first voyage was aboard an A.H. Bull Steamship Co. vessel. Brother Cortes shipped in the deck department, last sailing on the Seattle. He made his home in Puerto Rico and went on pension in 1982. FRANK CUNNINGHAM Pensioner Frank Cunningham, 80, died Feb. 5. Brother Cunningham became a Seafarer in 1953. The deck department member shipped as a bosun, most recently aboard the Overseas Ohio. He began receiving retirement stipends in 1987. Brother Cunningham resided in Mathis, Texas. RAYMOND DAVIS Pensioner Raymond Davis, 77, passed away Nov. 3, 2003. Brother Davis began his seafaring career in 1953 in the port of New York. Born in Athol, Mass., he was a member of the engine department. Brother Davis first went to sea on Delta Steamship Lines’ Del Alba. His last voyage was aboard the Overseas Ulla. Brother Davis began receiving retirement compensation in 1983. He lived in Contoocook, N.H. LLOYD HAWKINS Pensioner Lloyd Hawkins, 88, died Feb. 8. Brother Hawkins joined the MC&S in San Francisco. He resided in Houston and began receiving his pension in 1978. JOHN HAYES Brother John Hayes, 63, passed away Jan. 20. He joined the SIU in 1966 in the port of New York. Brother Hayes initially sailed aboard Waterman Steamship Corp.’s Madaket. The deck department member’s last voyage was on the Sea-Land Discovery. Brother Hayes was born in New York but called San Juan, P.R. home. JUAN HERNANDEZ Pensioner Juan Hernandez, 79, died March 25. Brother Hernandez started his career with the Seafarers in 1953 in the port of Baltimore. Born in Manati, P.R., he was a veteran of the U.S. Army. Brother Hernandez sailed in the engine department, initially working aboard an Ore Navigation vessel. He last worked on the Sea-Land Expedition. Brother Hernandez made his home in Davie, Fla. and went on pension in 1989. WALTER MCCALLUM Pensioner Walter McCallum, 85, died Feb. 14. After serving in the U.S. Navy, Brother McCallum embarked on his SIU career in 1966 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. The New York-born mariner shipped in the engine department and worked primarily aboard vessels operated by Sea-Land/CSX Lines. Brother McCallum resided in Yountville, Calif. and began receiving stipends for his retirement in 1984. Brother Mills also sailed in the inland division. He was born in Georgia and resided in Honolulu. His last voyage was on Maersk Line’s USNS Capable. WILLIAM MITCHELL Pensioner William Mitchell, 83, died Jan. 27. After serving in the U.S. Navy, Brother Mitchell joined the SIU in 1963 in the port of Norfolk, Va. His first voyage was on the Madaket. Born in South Carolina, he sailed in the steward department. Brother Mitchell last went to sea aboard the Walter Rice. He lived in Chesapeake Va. and began receiving retirement compensation in 1991. INLAND Boatman Calvin Barletto, 51, died March 21. Born in Louisiana, he launched his SIU career in 1978 in New Orleans. He first sailed on a Crescent Towing vessel. Boatman Barletto last worked aboard a Moran Towing of Texas vessel. He called Franklin, La. home. A.B. COCEK Pensioner A.B. Cocek, 80, passed away Jan. 14. Boatman Cocek joined the union in 1967 in Houston, after serving in the U.S. Army. The Texas born-mariner sailed primarily aboard vessels operated by G&H Towing. Boatman Cocek shipped in the deck department as a captain and went on pension in 1986. Houston was his home. EDMOND RUBERTO Boatman Edmond Ruberto, 57, died February 25. The New Jersey-born mariner joined the Seafarers in 1966 in the port of Philadelphia. Boatman Ruberto initially worked aboard the Geneva, a vessel operated by U.S. Steel Corp. He shipped in the deck department, last working aboard a Maritrans vessel. Boatman Ruberto called Rockhall, Md. home. GREAT LAKES WILLIAM COCHENET Pensioner William Cochenet, 65, died April 4. Brother Cochenet joined the SIU in 1960 in Detroit. Born in Wisconsin, his first voyage was on an American Steamship Co. vessel. Brother Cochenet sailed in the engine department, last working aboard the Southdown Challenger. He resided in Las Vegas and began receiving his pension in 2000. DONALD LING Pensioner Donald Ling, 73, died May 8. Brother Ling joined the SIU in 1949 in Detroit. He first sailed aboard the Bob-Lo Island; his last voyage was on the Steel Crapo. Born in Port Huron, Mich., Boatman Ling worked in the engine department. He continued to live in Michigan and began receiving his pension in 1997. SCOTT MILLS ANTONIO DIACCI Pensioner Manning Davis, 78, died Jan. 29, 2003. Brother Davis was born in Louisiana and embarked on Brother Scott Mills, 49, passed away Feb. 13. He joined the SIU in 2001. A member of the deck department, Pensioner Antonio Diacci, 80, died May 27. Born in Yugoslavia, Brother Diacci joined the SIU in 1969 in Seafarers LOG FRANK SIWIK Brother Frank Siwik, 48, passed away March 14. He launched his seafaring career in 1979 in Detroit after serving in the U.S. Coast Guard. Born in Michigan, Brother Siwik sailed primarily aboard vessels operated by American Steamship Co. The deck department member first went to sea on the J.T. Hutchinson. His last voyage was on the Indiana Harbor. Brother Siwik called Detroit home. CALVIN BARLETTO MANNING DAVIS 18 Toledo, Ohio. He shipped primarily aboard American Steamship Co. vessels as a member of the engine department. Brother Diacci, who called Chicago home, went on pension in 1988. Editor’s Note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU) and participants in the NMU Pension Trust, have passed away. DIONISIO AGUILAR Pensioner Dionisio Aguilar, 80, passed away April 26. Brother Aguilar joined the NMU in 1945, initially sailing aboard a Lykes Brothers vessel. Born in Honduras, his final voyage was on another Lykes Brothers ship. Brother Aguilar went on pension in 1968. deck department, last sailing on the American Trader. Brother Clark went on pension in 1979. THOMAS DAHER Pensioner Thomas Daher, 75, died May 7. After joining the NMU in 1963, his initial voyage was from the port of New Bedford, Mass. aboard the Marthas Vineyard. He last went to sea on the MV Islander. Brother Daher worked as a member of the deck department. He began receiving his pension in 1975. SERGIO ESQUADRA Pensioner Sergio Esquadra, 90, passed away May 7. Brother Esquadra started his career with the NMU in 1944. Sailing from the port of New York, he first sailed on a Lykes Brothers vessel. He was born in the Philippines and worked in the steward department. Brother Esquadra began collecting compensation for his retirement in 1970. RICHARD MITCHELL Pensioner Richard Mitchell, 80, died March 24. Brother Mitchell was born in Georgia and joined the NMU in 1964. He last shipped aboard the Star Massachusetts and started receiving his pension in 1984. PEDRO ALVARADO Pensioner Pedro Alvarado, 82, died May 14. Brother Alvarado started his seafaring career with the NMU in 1966, first shipping on the American Forwarder. Born in Honduras, he worked in the engine department. Brother Alvarado last sailed aboard the Export Champion. He began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1983. In addition to the foregoing individuals, the following NMU brothers and sisters, all of whom were pensioners, passed away on the dates indicated. NAME AGE DOD Adam, Hassen 82 May 16 Archie, Charles 71 April 29 Aviles, Ismael 82 April 25 Baran, Briggie 90 April 26 Brideau, Arthur 78 April 27 Brin, Alexandre 68 March 4 MANUEL BARBOZA Camargo, Juan 81 March 6 Pensioner Manuel Barboza, 88, passed away April 30. Brother Barboza started sailing with NMU in 1932 from the port of Boston. He worked in the steward department. Brother Barboza’s final voyage was aboard a Hess Petroleum vessel. He went on pension in 1968. Clarke, Walter 93 May 2 Colville, Frank 89 Dec 20 Coram, Ethelbert 84 Feb. 20 HARRIS BLAKE Heinz, Pensioner Harris Blake, 87, died May 5. Brother Blake was born in Georgia. He joined the NMU in 1950, first shipping from the port of Boston on the Reading. Brother Blake worked in the steward department and began receiving his pension in 1985. ZOLLIE CLARK Pensioner Zollie Clark, 76, passed away May 4. Brother Clark first sailed with the NMU in 1945 aboard the Ohio. He worked in the Daw, Mary 68 May 18 Emil, Edward 77 April 13 Farris, Earl 76 March 1 Franklin, Victor 96 April 30 Henry Elliot 68 May 6 Irizarry, Pablo 87 Dec. 23 Jones, John 70 May 1 Lopes, Howard 79 Jan. 18 Lorenzo, Luis 87 April 30 Mallard, Otis 78 May 13 Martin, Juan 77 April 13 Minnard, Melvin 82 April 27 Miskulin, Nicholas 74 May 18 Murphy, Cornelia 71 May 16 Myslinski, Stefan 89 May 11 Pedro, Christian 80 Feb. 27 Peele, Robert 67 May 4 Robinson, Donald 78 Dec. 25 Ryan, Donald 79 Jan. 2 Sanchez, Daniel 82 May 14 Stokes, Calvin 70 March 21 Tolcha, Samuel 85 March 1 Washington, Johnnie 80 May 8 July 2004 �23499_p15,17_19,22,23.qxd 6/25/2004 9:27 PM Page 19 Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring 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.``` CAPE ISLAND (Crowley Liner Services), April 25—Chairman Stephen D. Castle, Secretary Terry N. White, Educational Director Stanley D. Castro, Engine Delegate Allen E. Ward, Steward Delegate Cynthia C. Beatley. Chairman thanked crew members for smooth trip and professional job. Secretary reminded everyone getting off to leave rooms clean and place dirty linen in bags. Educational director emphasized educational opportunities available at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. for upgrading skills and ratings. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made for contracts department to look into increasing pension benefits and decreasing seatime needed. Request made for improved mail service. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. GT DILIGENCE (Maritrans), April 29—Chairman Ronald L. Paradise, Secretary Mary Lou Smith, Educational Director Arthur K. Outlaw, Engine Delegate Patrick Carroll, Steward Delegate Audry C. Flemings. Chairman announced payoff April 30 in Jacksonville. He talked about waste management program and thanked deck department for job well done. He expressed sympathy on behalf of entire crew to family of George McCartney, who will be missed and thought of often. Secretary thanked crew for helping keep living areas orderly. Educational director encouraged Seafarers to upgrade skills at Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Communications read from headquarters regarding vacation pay and unemployment benefits. COLUMBIA (ATC), May 20— Chairman Gregory L. Hamilton, Secretary John F. Huyett, Educational Director Ronald Gordon, Deck Delegate Ramon T. Guimba Jr., Engine Delegate Detricke R. Kelly, Steward Delegate Albert Sison. Secretary reported on company applications for new builds and explained procedure and time constraints. Treasurer stated $5,576 in crew’s fund of which $750 earmarked for installation of XM radio antenna. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendations made that funds expended for fishing gear and replacement DVD players be reimbursed. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. ENDURANCE (USSM), May 10—Chairman Romeo L. Lugtu, Secretary Jesse B. Natividad Sr., Educational Director Tesfaye Gebregziabher, Deck Delegate Dennis A. Hurley, Engine Delegate Teddie H. Carter, Steward Delegate Thurman C. Johnson. Chairman noted smooth sailing. He talked about reflagged passenger ships soon to be in operation around Hawaiian Islands, which could mean more jobs for SIU members. Ship’s fund, temporarily held by captain, contains about $1,100. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made to purchase dart set. Crew inquired July 2004 about having satellite reception aboard ship. ERIC G. GIBSON (Osprey Ship Management), May 9—Chairman Thomas E. Minton, Secretary Steve E. Parker III, Educational Director Doug Foley. Bosun advised crew of letter written to headquarters requesting clarification of transportation issues. He gave thanks to all departments for job well done, with special kudos to AB Robert“Mango” Hinckley Jr. for his smooth crane skills while loading ammunition. Secretary thanked crew for helping keep mess halls and lounge clean. Educational director stressed importance of attending upgrading courses at Paul Hall Center. He also encouraged Seafarers to contribute to SPAD. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vessel has gone from prepositioning status to ammunition cargo carrier to grain ship and back to container ship. Crew members requested contract to reflect that, mirroring contract of American Tern or going to standard contract. Crew requested new pillows, fitted sheets and fan. Suggestion made to build saltwater pool. Vote of thanks given to steward department for innovative menus and barbecues. Next port: Singapore. HORIZON ANCHORAGE (Horizon Lines), May 2—Chairman Dan P. Fleehearty, Secretary Amanda F. Suncin, Educational Director William M. Pinkham, Engine Delegate John R. Day. Chairman announced payoff May 11 in Tacoma, Wash. Blanket day off moved to next day. Coast Guard inspection scheduled for May 21 in Tacoma. Educational director advised everyone to check expiration dates on all documents and renew in plenty of time. He also spoke about new security plans to go into effect July 1. No beefs reported; OT issue in steward department to be discussed with boarding patrolman at payoff. Crew members asked to help keep lounge and laundry areas clean. Next ports: Anchorage and Kodiak, Alaska. HORIZON CONSUMER (Horizon Lines), May 2—Chairman Jay C. Dillon, Secretary Terry L. Allen, Educational Director Donnel C. Tagart Jr., Deck Delegate John T. Emrich, Engine Delegate Gregorio M. Abalos Jr., Steward Delegate Thomas E. Kleine. Chairman announced payoff on arrival May 4 in Oakland, Calif. He thanked crew for smooth, safe trip. Secretary informed crew members about new guidelines being drawn up for port security scheduled to go into effect July 1. He advised everyone to have proper identification when entering terminal. Educational director encouraged Seafarers to take advantage of upgrading opportunities available at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendation made for contracts department to look into increasing pension benefits and lowering age requirement. Suggestion made to start collection for new movies and entertainment. Crew members encouraged to sign up for SPAD contributions when filing for vacation. Next ports: Oakland and Los Angeles, Calif.; Honolulu. HORIZON ENTERPRISE (Horizon Lines), May 16—Chairman Roger J. Reinke, Secretary Franchesca Rose, Educational Director Mike J. Wells, Deck Delegate Robert G. Crooks, Engine Delegate Cecilio A. Banga, Steward Delegate Alejo Fabia. Chairman announced arrival May 21 in Tacoma, Wash. Payoff will take place after clearing customs and immigration. New security regulations go into effect July 1. Everyone reminded to carry current, up-to-date z-card to comply with port security. Secretary stated captain will conduct sanitary inspection of cabins and boxes May 20. He also discussed ordering of consumable food stores and cleaning material. Educational director reminded crew to allow several months when renewing Coast Guard documentation. He also talked about upgrading courses available at Piney Point and led discussion about SPAD and how that fund gets used. No beefs reported; some disputed OT noted in engine department. Written proposals for next negotiating session sent to contracts department. New refrigerator installed in crew mess. Engine and deck departments were thanked for their work in moving, installing and securing the appliance. Vote of thanks given to steward department for two great barbecues. Thanks also given to Oakland and Tacoma shoregangs for all their help and support while ship is in those ports. Next ports: Tacoma; Oakland; Honolulu; Guam. HORIZON EXPEDITION (Horizon Lines), May 9—Chairman Winston D. Thompson, Secretary Michael J. Gramer, Educational Director Glenn A. Snow, Engine Delegate Eric D Vieira, Steward Delegate Thomas M. Kelly. Chairman stated he was not sure whether ship would make another trip before laying up. Captain said he was very happy with recent sanitation inspection and thanked crew for their efforts in getting ship ready on short notice. If another voyage is made, captain said there is a 35-day food order ready. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. HORIZON NAVIGATOR (Horizon Lines), May 9—Chairman Werner H. Becher, Secretary Vainuu L. Sili, Educational Director Daniel F. Dean, Deck Delegate Robert J. Natividad, Steward Delegate Henry O. Wright Jr. Chairman announced payoff upon arrival May 11 in Oakland, Calif. He advised crew members to keep doors locked and be aware of strangers or others who may not belong aboard ship. He thanked everyone for good job separating plastic items from regular trash and asked that those getting off ship leave set of clean linen for next person. Secretary stated everything running smoothly. Educational director encouraged Seafarers to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center for better paying jobs. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made regarding prescription benefits for seamen living abroad. INNOVATOR (USSM), May 16— Chairman Dirk W Adams, Secretary Jose M. Bayani, Educational Director Paul B. Flores, Deck Delegate James D. Morgan, Engine Delegate Adel B. Irani, Steward Delegate Ahmed M. Quraish. Chairman expressed condolences to family of ARC Director Rick Reisman, who died March 8. He informed crew of change in shipping rules. Secretary thanked chairman, ABs and engine department for jobs well done. Educational director reminded crew members of upgrading opportunities available at Piney Point and of need to make sure all shipping documents are up to date. Treasurer stated $316 in ship’s fund. No beefs reported; some disputed OT noted in deck department. Recommendation made for contracts department to look into ship when in drydock. Any information about extension or renewal of contract would be welcome. Next ports: Nagoya, Japan; Bontang, Indonesia; Tobata, Japan. MAERSK VIRGINIA (Maersk Line Ltd.), May 13—Chairman Carlton P. Hall, Secretary Hugh E. Wildermuth, Educational Director John A Collins Jr., Steward Delegate Radfan A. Almaklani. Chairman announced payoff May 18 in Newark, N.J. He thanked everyone for doing a great job. “Keep it up.” Secretary expressed appreciation to crew for keeping vessel clean and secure. Payoff on the Endurance SIU Wilmington, Calif. Safety Director Marshall Novack met with Seafarers May 12 for a payoff on the Endurance in Los Angeles. Pictured aboard the USSM vessel are (from left) QMED Teddie Carter, Electrician Tes Gebregziabher, AB Dennis Hurley, AB Don Pegram, Chief Cook Danny Guerrero, GSU Hassan Mohamed, Chief Steward Jesse Natividad Sr. and Bosun Romeo Lugtu. reducing seatime needed for retirement and to increase pension benefits. Next port: Los Angeles, Calif. INTEGRITY (USSM), May 16— Chairman Domingo Leon Jr., Secretary Gerhard Schwarz, Educational Director Dennis R. Baker, Deck Delegate Alexander Nicholson, Engine Delegate Gregorio A. Blanco, Steward Delegate Lonnie Jordan. Chairman thanked crew for good voyage. Secretary joined bosun in asking those getting off ship to leave clean linen for next person. Educational director advised crew members to check z-cards for expiration date and leave plenty of time for renewal. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made to upgrade pension, medical and dental benefits. Request made for locker for crew storage. Thanks given to steward department for good job. Next ports: Elizabeth, N.J.; Charleston, S.C.; Miami; Houston. LNG VIRGO (Pronav), May 16— Chairman Daniel S. Marcus, Secretary John A. Palughi, Educational Director John W. Stewart, Deck Delegate Raymond Naterlin, Steward Delegate Joseph Welle. Chairman thanked everyone for good, safe work. Secretary reported cabin stores ordered for Japan delivery are to be delivered May 22. Educational director encouraged crew members to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center as often as possible. Treasurer stated $500 in crew fund. No beefs reported; some disputed OT noted by engine delegate. Clarification requested on formula used for reliefs for vessel and whether seniority matters in being relieved. Suggestion made for contracts department to look into allowing full medical benefits to retirees at age 55. New mattresses will be ordered for entire Educational director recommended Seafarers attend upgrading classes at Piney Point. He also suggested they allow plenty of time when renewing shipping documents. Treasurer stated $1,652 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks given to steward department for outstanding food and support. USNS BELLATRIX (Amsea), May 21—Chairman Wayne Venison, Secretary Anthony L. Curran, Educational Director Francis C. Quebedeaux, Deck Delegate Corrie J. Stockton, Engine Delegate Michael L, Mefferd. Chairman announced arrival in Texas followed by layup in Boston. Educational director noted many new upgrading courses available at Paul Hall Center. Steward thanked everyone for trouble-free and enjoyable voyage. He asked departing crew to sort laundry and place outside door prior to departure. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Thanks given to steward department and storekeeper for jobs well done. USNS SISLER (Maersk Line Ltd.), May 23—Chairman Kenneth L. Steiner, Secretary Walter J. Matt, Educational Director Thomas P. Arthur, Deck Delegate Dale Harrison, Engine Delegate Pati F. Taototo, Steward Delegate Kimberly A. Strate. Vessel currently in Diego Garcia. Chairman talked about security and keeping safe while working and on liberty. Educational director encouraged crew members to upgrade skills at Piney Point when possible and contribute to SPAD. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendation made regarding pension plan. Request made to replace refrigerator in crew lounge. TV reception needs to be improved for lounge area and staterooms. Seafarers LOG 19 �23499p4,8,9,10,14,16,20,21,24.qxd 6/22/2004 2:18 PM THE GALLEY CORNER Page 20 Jim Battista sent in this article, recipe and accompanying photograph from aboard the Maersk Constellation, where he currently is the chief steward. The Kane, Pa. native came to the SIU through the veterans’ program at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. After fulfilling his STCW requirements and other mandatory training, Battista began his career as a merchant mariner in the SIU. Into Africa: Stores Aboard! by Chief Steward Jim Battista Under Capt. Thomas Tankersley, the Maersk Constellation left the USA loaded with what seemed to be a million bags of rice and grain. Through a United Nations effort, they were to be delivered to five ports in East Africa for the starving people there. The trip went as scheduled, and the seas were calm. Obviously, Neptune smiled upon us. We traveled from one port to the next and saw the people in need of our cargo. We saw men who unloaded the rice eating it raw off the deck. Sights such as these have to make one reflect on the great country we live in, the union that supports us, the jobs we have, and the abundance of food for our families. But, on a lighter side, let’s talk food. When we arrived in Tanzania, we decided to try and get some fruit and vegetables for the vessel. I contacted the chandlers in port and put in our order. The next day, to my surprise, there was a line of people with woven baskets on their heads loaded with our produce. Fresh melons, pineapples, mangoes like footballs, and all sorts of fresh fruit and vegetables they thought we would like to check out and try. To say the least, it was like going back in time 150 years. Now don’t get me wrong. The inventory was excellent, and some of the items left Chief Cook Cesar Macias and myself scratching our heads. But all was well in Africa, and the chandlers instructed us in what an item was and how and when to eat Letter to the Editor Chief Steward Jim Battista decides what to do with some of the fresh produce that was delivered to the ship in woven baskets. it or combine it with other items and how to cook it. The people brought huge stalks of bananas to the ship with easily 100 bananas on each, so we had plenty of pudding, banana splits, banana cake and one of the crew’ favorites: banana bread (see recipe on this page). The trip to Africa was, to say the least, enlightening and eventful. Smooth sailing to all the departments out there. Keep up the good work, stand tall for what you do, and don’t forget the support you get is what you give. Banana Nut Bread 5 cups flour 2 cups sugar 4 tablespoons baking powder 2 teaspoons salt 6 tablespoons salad oil 1½ cups milk 2 large eggs 2 cups very ripe bananas, mashed 2 cups chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts) Mix all ingredients together for three or four minutes until well blended. Pour ¾ full into three sprayed bread loaf pans. Bake at 350 degrees F for 55-65 minutes. (Editor’s note: The Seafarers LOG reserves the right to edit letters for grammar as well as space provisions without changing the writer’s intent. The LOG welcomes letters from members, pensioners, their families and shipmates and will publish them on a timely basis.) Former Seafarer Still Active on Ships On my 17th birthday, I joined the USMS and took basic training at Catalina Island in December 1944. I later sailed with the NMU in the Atlantic as a messman on the USAT George Washington and Laconia Victory. When the war in Europe was over, I sailed in the Pacific on the Standard Oil tanker R.C. Stoner and then back on the East Coast aboard a collier, the Walter D. Noyes. I returned to California to finish my schooling, never sailing again except in 1985, when I went on board the German ship Lillooet, a 723foot RO/RO with rear ramp. I worked as an ordinary seaman and was the oldest person and only American on the ship, which had German officers and engine crew and a Spanish deck crew. I sailed as a worka-way passenger from Oak- land, Calif. to Brisbane, Australia and had 21 days ashore while the ship went to Sydney, Melbourne and back to Brisbane, where I once again boarded it. It then sailed to Noumea and Suva and back to Tacoma, Wash., where I took a bus home. Since I retired from the correctional system in California in 1979, I have been a volunteer with the Coos Bay Seamen’s Center for 21 years, 14 of those as manager (with no pay). We closed the center about two years ago for lack of ships. However, now at age 76, I still board each ship that stops here and take aboard magazines, Christian tracts, calendars in season, a map of the area, and copies of the Seafarers LOG. My hobby is collecting old or new paper money from around the world and would appreciate any donations. You can write to me at the address below or e-mail me at buddy.san@verizon.net. All letters or e-mails will be answered. Check out my web page at: http://home1.gte.net/res0gtse. Buddy Hincke 66642 East Bay Road, #50 North Bend, OR 97459 Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the 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 recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU 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 disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval 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 shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively 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 employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers 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 20 Seafarers LOG and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing 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 SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful 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 responsibility for Seafarers 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 OBLIGATIONS. 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 headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. MEMBER RIGHTS/LMRDA. The Labor-Management Reporting and Disclosure Act (LMRDA) guarantees certain rights to union members and imposes certain responsibilities on union officers. The Office of Labor-Management Standards (OLMS) enforces many LMRDA provisions while other provisions, such as the bill of rights, may only be enforced by union members through private suit in Federal court. Union Member Rights Bill of Rights: Union members have equal rights to participate in union activities; freedom of speech and assembly; a voice in setting rates of dues, fees and assessments; protection of the right to sue; and safeguards against improper discipline. Copies of Collective Bargaining Agreements: Union members and nonunion employees have the right to receive or inspect copies of collective bargaining agreements. Reports: Unions are required to file an initial information report (Form LM-1), copies of constitutions and bylaws, and an annual financial report (Form LM-2/3/4) with OLMS. Unions must make the reports available to members and permit members to examine supporting records for just cause. The reports are public information and copies are available from OLMS. Officer Elections: Union members have the right to nominate candidates for office; run for office; cast a secret ballot; and protest the conduct of an election. Officer Removal: Local union members have the right to an adequate procedure for the removal of an elected officer guilty of serious misconduct. Trusteeships: Unions may only be placed in trusteeship by a parent body for the reasons specified in the LMRDA. Prohibition Against Violence: No one may use or threaten to use force or violence to interfere with a union member in the exercise of LMRDA rights. Union Officer Responsibilities Financial Safeguards: Union officers have a duty to manage the funds and property of the union solely for the benefit of the union and its members in accordance with the union’s constitution and bylaws. Union officers or employees who embezzle or steal union funds or other assets commit a Federal crime punishable by a fine and/or imprisonment. Bonding: Union officers or employees who handle union funds or property must be bonded to provide protection against losses if their union has property and annual financial receipts which exceed $5,000. Labor Organization Reports: Union officers must file an initial information report (Form LM-1) and annual financial reports (Forms LM-2/3/4) with OLMS; and retain the records necessary to verify the reports for at least five years. Officer Reports: Union officers and employees must file reports concerning any loans and benefits received from, or certain financial interests in, employers whose employees their unions represent and businesses that deal with their unions. Officer Elections: Unions must hold elections of officers of local unions by secret ballot at least every three years; conduct regular elections in accordance with their constitution and bylaws and preserve all records for one year; mail a notice of election to every member at least 15 days prior to the election; comply with a candidate’s request to distribute campaign material; not use union funds or resources to promote any candidate (nor may employer funds or resources be used); permit candidates to have election observers; and allow candidates to inspect the union’s membership list once within 30 days prior to the election. Restrictions on Holding Office: A person convicted of certain crimes may not serve as a union officer, employee or other representative of a union for up to 13 years. Loans: A union may not have outstanding loans to any one officer or employee that in total exceed $2,000 at any time. Fines: A union may not pay the fine of any officer or employee convicted of any willful violation of the LMRDA. (Note: The above is only a summary of the LMRDA. Full text of the Act, which comprises Sections 401-531 of Title 29 of the United States Code, may be found in many public libraries, or by writing the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Labor-Management Standards, 200 Constitution Ave., NW, Room N-5616, Washington, DC 20210, or on the internet at www.dol.gov.) SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further 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 American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect 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 Michael 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. July 2004 �23499p4,8,9,10,14,16,20,21,24.qxd 6/22/2004 2:18 PM Page 21 SEAFARERS PAUL HALL CENTER UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. through the end of 2004. All programs are geared to improve the job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation’s security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Deck Upgrading Courses Course Able Seaman Automatic Radar Plotting Aids* (ARPA) Start Date Date of Completion July 5 August 16 September 27 November 8 July 30 September 10 October 22 December 3 September 13 November 15 September 17 November 19 *(must have radar unlimited) Recertification Bosun October 11 November 8 Engine Upgrading Courses Start Date Date of Completion Basic Auxiliary Plant Operation July 26 September 20 November 15 August 20 October 15 December 10 FOWT July 12 October 25 September 3 December 17 QMED - Junior Engineer September 27 December 17 Welding August 23 October 4 November 1 September 10 October 22 November 19 Course Safety Specialty Courses Start Date of Course Date Completion Advanced Fire Fighting* July 19 August 23 September 20 November 8 July 30 September 3 October 1 November 19 Basic Safety Training (BST) July 19 August 2 August 30 July 23 August 6 September 3 Fast Rescue Boat July 26 August 30 July 30 September 3 (*must have basic fire fighting) Celestial Navigation September 27 October 22 GMDSS (Simulator) July 12 August 23 September 27 November 1 July 23 September 3 October 8 November 12 Lifeboatman/Water Survival August 2 September 13 October 25 August 13 September 24 November 5 Navigation Fundamentals July 19 November 29 July 30 December 10 Government Vessels July 19 September 13 August 6 October 1 Radar August 30 November 1 September 10 November 12 Tankerman (PIC) Barge* July 26 October 4 July 30 October 8 August 9 October 4 November 29 August 20 October 15 December 10 Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman (STOS) Steward Upgrading Courses Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations modules start every week. Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward classes start every other week, most recently beginning June 21, 2004. (*must have basic fire fighting) Academic Department Courses General education and college courses are available as needed. In addition, basic vocational support program courses are offered throughout the year, one week prior to the AB, QMED Junior Engineer, FOWT, Third Mate, Tanker Assistant and Water Survival courses. An introduction to computers course will be self-study. � UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ Telephone _________________________ Deep Sea Member † Lakes Member Date of Birth ______________________ † Inland Waters Member † If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security # ______________________ Book # _________________________ Seniority _____________________________ Department _____________________ U.S. Citizen: Yes † No † Home Port _____________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty (120) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, and qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. All OL, AB and JE applicants must submit a U.S. Coast Guard fee of $140 with their application. The payment should be made with a money order only, payable to LMSS. COURSE BEGIN DATE END DATE ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held _____________________________________ LAST VESSEL: _____________________________________ Rating: ___________ _____________________________________________________________________ Date On: ___________________________ Date Off: ________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? † Yes † No If yes, class # __________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? † Yes † No If yes, course(s) taken ___________________________________________________ Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? † Yes † No Firefighting: † Yes † No CPR: † Yes † No Primary language spoken ________________________________________________ July 2004 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. 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 students, who are otherwise qualified, of 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. 7/04 Seafarers LOG 21 �23499_p15,17_19,22,23.qxd 6/23/2004 2:44 PM Page 22 Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 650 — Graduating from the water survival class are unlicensed apprentices from class 650. They are (from left, kneeling) De’shanna Sherrod, Zsuzsanna Balla, (second row) Christian Oding, Kyle Rayborn, Norman Rodriguez, Richard McKain, Gregory Lariviere, Sigfrid Mayer, Ernie Smith, Harry Smith, William Brinson, Matthew Wright, (third row) Lando Adams, Jason Brown, Kyle Pillsworth, Jerry Stamer, John Tullier, Joshua Smith, Daniel Gaffney and Christopher Dickens. Welding — Graduation certificates for completion of the welding course were given May 14 to (in alphabetical order) Ramaninder Bhyllor, James Buchowski, Francisco Cordeiro, John Cull and Quincy Wilson. Their instructor, Buzzy Andrews, is third from left. ARPA — Government Vessels — Upgrading Seafarers graduating May 21 from the government vessels course are (in no particular order) Brooks Crawford, Mark Beck, Kevin Johnson, Jaime Medina, Gary Santos, Neftali Erausquin, Phillip Maxfield, Joseph Waldera, Damar Shaw, Nathaniel Leachman, Timothy Dexter, Jor-el Holmberg, Christopher Czarske, Richard Wiltison, John Niday, Coda Russell, Ty Varnadoe, Damian Spedale, Christopher Yore, William Bell and Kent Harper. Their instructor, Greg Thompson, is at far left. (Note: not all are pictured.) Earning their ARPA certificate May 28 are (in alphabetical order) Jared Blavat, James Enah, Peter Madden, Steve Randle, George Rew and Jerry Sobieraj. Their instructor, Mike Smith, is at far right. GMDSS — Finishing the 70-hour GMDSS course May 7 are (in alphabetical order) James Enah, Aryid Friberg III, Tzvetan Ovalov, Kenneth Salgado, Ovidio Santos and William Sholley. Their instructor, Brad Wheeler, is at far left. Fundamental Concepts of Navigation— Advanced Fire Fighting — Earning their advanced fire fighting endorsements May 28 are (in alphabetical order) Ian Ferguson, Charles Huggins, Elisha Johnson, Carlos Majao, Steven Medina, Brandon Purcell and Anthony Simon. Their instructor, Anthony Hammett, is at far right. Upgrading deck department members who successfully completed the navigation fundamentals course May 7 are (in no particular order) Miles Janecka, Wayne Smiley, John Mensah, Johnie Chavis, Jared Blavat, David Steinberg, Philip Perry, Adeeb Saleh and Vasiliy Semesjuks. Their instructor, Stacey Harris, as at far left. Specially Trained OS — Completing the STOS course May 14 are Alaska fishermen (in alphabetical order) Ronaldo Aguirre, Ruben Aguirre, Dianna Baines, Reynaldo Dineros, Kyle Hudson, Jay Jones, Robert Makowski and Alexander Millendez. Their instructor, Bernabe Pelingon, is at far right. Any student who has registered for a class and finds—for whatever reason—that he or she cannot attend, please inform the admissions department so that another student may take that place. Computer Lab Class Left: Showing off their certificates of achievement for completion of computer classes May 14 at the Paul Hall Center are (from left, front row) Adeeb M. Saleh, Tzvetan Ovalov and (back row) David E. Steinberg. With them is their instructor, Rick Prucha. Right: Also being congratulated by instructor Rick Prucha is Joao F. Cordeiro, holding his certificate. 22 Seafarers LOG Fast Rescue Boat — Instructor Stan Beck (far left) sits with upgrading students who completed the fast rescue boat class May 7. They are (in alphabetical order) Alexander Fyodorovykh, Richard Huffman, Elisha Johnson, William Schuppman and Lawrence Rose. July 2004 �23499_p15,17_19,22,23.qxd 6/23/2004 2:51 PM Page 23 Paul Hall Center Classes Tanker Familiarization/Assistant Cargo (DL)— Two tanker assistant classes, both ending May 7, included the following students (in no specific order): Lloyd Clark, Nigel Williams, Gilbert Johnson, Rocky Dupraw, Phillip Maxfield, Taneisha Johnson, Neftali Erausquin, Gary Santos, Jaime Medina, Timothy Dexter, Nicholas Doffoh, Jess Cooper, Joseph Waldera, Daniel Miler, Adam Begleiter, Damian Spedale, Jorel Holmberg, Mark Beck, Brooks Crawford, John Niday IV, Coda Russell, Hashiem Pittman, Orlando Pabon, Antonie Rainey, Kevin Johhnson, Michael Maskalenko, Kent Harper, Michael Snowden Jr, Christopher Yohe, Richard Wiltison, Christopher Czarske, Michael Cox, Nicholas Collins, Joseph Walter Jr., Darrion Intram, Damar Shaw, Nathaniel Leachman and Ty Varnadoe. Tanker Familiarization/Assistant Cargo (DL) — May 28 graduates of the tanker familiarization/assistant cargo (DL) course are (in no particular order) Emilio Gonzalez, Marvin St. George, Adeeb Saleh, John Gilliam, David Steinberg, Paul Kucan II, Agustin Arriaga, Duane Evans, George Mazzola, Nebojisa Milosevic, Douglas Maravelias, Randolph Sutton, Charles Franks, Ziting Zu, Kevin Carraby and Maximo Lambert. Their instructor, Jim Shaffer, is standing at far right. Basic Safety Training Classes STCW — Two classes, both ending April 16: Megdi Bady, Brandon Barnato, Francis Butler, Michael Caputo, Diana Chaloux, Sherry Collins, Steve Dalton, Jeremy Fleck, Antonio Garcia, Andrew Gay, Anthony Harris, Natasha Jefferson, Akram Khoury, William Laurila Jr., Joshua Longley, Robert Mathias, Brandy McCracken, Matthew Meeker, Rose Ocampo, Catherina O’Keefe, Tanner Raban, Ryan Riviere, Matthew Rubin, Myka Schwagmeier, Jennifer Sheets, John Siekkinen, Kiera Smith, Dominic Swanek, Jessica Smith, Delinda Dontje and Carl Barnett. Water Survival — April 9: Will Laurila Jr., Jessica Smith, Anthony Harris, Akram Khoury, Tanner Raban, Megdi Bady, Jennifer Sheets, Ryan Riviere, Michael Smeltzer, Joshua Longley, Kiera Smith, Dominic Swanek, Romeo Alcain, John Alonzo and Duane Judd. (Note: not all are pictured.) Water Survival — April 23: Antonio Garcia, James Cedillo, Jeremy Fleck, Michael Caputo, R.C. Cabalouinto, Rose Ocampo, John Siekkinen, Andrew Gay, Josef Mansour, Diana Chaloux, Matthew Meeker, Delinda Dontje, Brandon Barnato, Marion Flores and Natasha Jefferson. Standing at the stern of the boat are their instructors, Tom Gilliland (left) and Stan Beck. STCW — April 30: Ann Adam, Ronaldo Agirre, Ruben Aguirre, Justin Bagley, Dianna Baines, Kim Blosser, Reynaldo ineros, Kyle Hudson, Jay Jones, Colin Lemon, Robert Makowski, Alexander Millendez, Marc Pferdekamper, Jennifer Sanders, Stacy Silverman, Josef Mansour, Cheri Sigford, Anton Nedeltchey, Deborah Hamilton, Terje Ostbye and Iris Zwack. Their instructor, Tom Gilliland, is at far right. Lifeboatman/Water Survival Water Survival — April 30: Jessica Koutecky, Noah Rowan, Amanda Haun, Charles Burton, Chantry McSherry, Kieran McSherry, Lamar Solomon, Andrew Baumrucker and Johnny Cothren. Their instructor, Tony Sevilla, is at far right. Water Survival — May 7: Ronaldo Aguirre, Ruben Aguirre, Dianna Bawes, Reynaldo Dineros, Jeffrey Fiegel, Kyle Hudson, Jay Jones, Robert Makowski, Alexander Millendez, Milissa Oakley and Iris Zwack. Their instructors were Tony Sevilla and Tom Gilliland. Sevilla is at far right. July 2004 Seafarers LOG 23 �23499p4,8,9,10,14,16,20,21,24.qxd 6/26/2004 2:04 PM Page 24 A P D P D R P P p S P I 1 The photos of the Lykes Navigator crew members on this page were sent to the LOG by Jevon Vontoure of Gulfport, Miss. They were taken during a union meeting following completion of a recent voyage from northern Europe. At left are Steward Clyde (Chuck) Thompson and Demac Eloris (Moosie) Tart. At right, signing the patrolman’s forms, are (from left) Steward Clyde Thompson, Demac Eloris Tart, Chief Cook Michael Brown, Bosun Sandy Price and OS Kenny Gaston. Lykes Navigator Specifications: The Lykes Navigator carries about 3,000 containers as it crosses the Atlantic. Gross Tonnage ..................................................39,100 Deadweight ......................................................45,000 LOA ..............................................................259.01m Beam................................................................32.21m Draft ................................................................11.92m Service Speed............................................21.25 knots Container Capacity ....................................3,010 TEU Shaft Horsepower ............................................18,800 Launched in 1987 as the Almeria Lykes Following construction of the Lykes Navigator in Japan, the vessel entered service in 1987 as the Almeria Lykes. Throughout its career, the ship has always flown the U.S. flag, although it has had several name changes since then. In 1996, it was called the President Buchanan; in 1998, it was again named the Almeria Lykes and finally the Lykes Navigator. Six years ago, the U.S. Maritime Administration approved an application for three Lykes vessels (Discoverer, Liberator and Navigator) to participate in the Maritime Security Program and be operated by Marine Transport Lines. The 259-meter Lykes Navigator, a container ship, is on a regular run from the Gulf ports of New Orleans and Houston to the northern European ports of Bremerhaven, Germany, Thamesport, England and Antwerp, Belgium. Steward Clyde Thompson does much of his menu planning on the computer. Great camaraderie exists in the galley of the Lykes Navigator with Clyde Thompson (left) as steward and Michael Brown as the chief cook. Jevon Vontoure, who was relief electrician aboard the Lykes Navigator, is shown in photo above and at home in the engine room at left. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2000-2009 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXII-LXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present, Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource July 2004 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES SCHOOL’S ADVISORY BOARD WEIGHS KEY SECURITY ISSUES SIU CONTRACT REMAINS IN PLACE FOLLOWING SALE OF HORIZON LINES PRIDE OF ALOHA JOINS SIU FLEET SEAFARERS CREW UP NEWLY REFLAGGED CRUISE SHIP MATSON, KVAERNER PHILADELPHIA TO CHRISTEN MAUNAWILI JULY 17 SIU MAINTAINS JOBS ON 7 SURVEY SHIPS SIU MAINTAINS JOBS ON 7 SURVEY SHIPS FLICKERTAIL STATE CREW DELIVERS CRITICAL CARGO TO U.S. MARINES IN HAITI SIU, MTD, OTHERS PROTEST BAHAMIAN-FLAGGED FERRY REPRESENTATIVE MCCRERY RECEIVES ANNUAL ‘SALUTE TO CONGRESS’ AWARD MARAD OKAYS MSP TRANSFER AGREEMENTS MARITIME LAWYER VICTOR HANSON DIES AT 80 RETIRED SIU OF PUERTO RICO PRESIDENT TERPE PASSES AWAY MATSON MOURNS PASSING OF RETIRED PRESIDENT GRAY CLASSROOMS UPGRADED IN SIMULATOR BUILDING NATION HONORS SERVICE & SACRIFICE OF MERCHANT MARINE SCENES FROM THE FAR EAST ABOARD THE LNG LIBRA NATIONAL LABOR DIVISION HELPS UNIONS BACK ISRAEL FEDERATION CONTINUES SUPPORTING BONDS PROGRAM RAYMOND EBELING, ROBERT MAGEE SELECTED FOR 2004 AOTOS AWARD GREAT LAKES SEAFARERS HELPS KEEP ECONOMY MOVING CROWLEY CREDITS SIU’S TACOMA HALL LYKES NAVIGATOR SAILS FROM GULF TO N. EUROPE Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 07/01/2004 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 66, No. 7 2004 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/04afb78d832090694f5035bd16342000.pdf 8fe9e7cb581e0c0a38f3efc6a471b005 PDF Text Text 28631_P1,6,10,2cx.qxd 6/27/2005 4:45 PM Page 1 Volume 67, Number 7 July 2005 SIU Job Growth Continues With Pride of America NCL America’s Newest Vessel Christened The union welcomed more new jobs in the cruise-ship sector as the SIU-contracted Pride of America was christened June 17 in New York City. At right, crew members are introduced during the ceremony at Pier 88. Left (from left), U.S. Coast Guard Rear Adm. Thomas Gilmour, SIU President Michael Sacco, Star Cruises Chairman Tan Sri Lim Lok Thay and NCL America President and CEO Colin Veitch observe as U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine Chao (the vessel’s godmother) formally christens the ship. The secretary’s father, James Chao, is at far right. Pages 2, 3, 12, 13. The Seafarers-contracted Great Lakes fleet recently expanded with the addition of the Burns Harbor, pictured at right. Climbing the gangway to the vessel are (left photo, from left) AB Ronald Lamere, GUDE Eric Hernandez and GUDE James Cedeno. Page 3. Seafarers Crew Up Detroit Princess Page 3 SHBP Scholarship Winners Announced Pages 2, 7 USNS Lewis and Clark Christened in San Diego Page 6 �28631_P1,6,10,2cx.qxd 6/24/2005 4:30 PM Page 2 President’s Report Christening Success Viewed as a stand-alone event, the Pride of America christening last month in New York was a great success. Everything about not only the ceremony but really the entire day aboard NCL America’s newest Seafarers-contracted cruise ship was first class. In the bigger picture, the christening went far beyond a simple public relations success. For those of us who make our living in this industry—for those of us who’ve fought tooth and nail to help revitalize the U.S. Merchant Marine—the official launch of the Pride of America symbolizes much more than one new ship. It represents continued Michael Sacco hope for the future. It signifies a huge victory for supporters of the U.S.-flag fleet. It reinforces what I’ve said all along: Namely, that the opportunities are virtually limitless for the American-flag deep sea cruise ship industry. Of course, I’m not overlooking the immediate practical gains for our union. Like NCL America’s first ship—the Pride of Aloha, launched last year—the Pride of America means hundreds of new jobs for Seafarers. Also like the first ship, the newer vessel is solid proof that SPAD (our union’s voluntary political action fund) helps the SIU have a voice on Capitol Hill, where much of our industry’s fate is determined. Ultimately, that’s what the SIU is all about: securing and maintaining good jobs for the membership. Still, last month’s christening at Pier 88 seemed especially moving. Seeing a U.S.-flag cruise ship in New York reminded me of my early days as a mariner. Glancing at the New York City skyline, I thought back to the tragedies of September 11, and how the city has recovered and moved forward, even while always remembering the victims and heroes from that day. The same is true of our entire nation. Along those lines, there’s a saying that for every action, there’s an equal and opposite reaction. The attacks of September 11 put a temporary end to the deep sea U.S.-flag cruise industry. Some said we’d never bounce back. But we refused to stay down. We did bounce back. We found a terrific partner in NCL America. We lobbied with pro-maritime members of Congress from both parties and the administration and other allies to get the Stars and Stripes flying again in this segment of our industry. It worked. The Pride of America, Pride of Aloha and the ship due next year, the Pride of Hawaii, are one component of the equal and opposite reaction to the attacks on our country. They are floating testimonials to the American spirit. So are the SIU-crewed Delta Queen, Mississippi Queen and American Queen—world-class riverboats that also found renewed life in the wake of September 11. I congratulate every Seafarer who has sailed aboard either of NCL America’s first two ships. You’re part of history—part of what will turn out as one of the greatest chapters in the story of the SIU. And I know you’ll keep up the great work. Congratulations also to NCL America for sticking with your commitment to make these vessels a reality. As I said at the christening, it’s true that we sailed over some rough seas at the beginning—but only for a relatively brief time. “Growing pains” were inevitable, as we all learned many years ago when the SS Independence and SS Constitution came home. Equally certain is the long-range success of every SIU-crewed ship in your fleet. More on Health Care I am no less confident in America’s capability to solve the health care crisis—but it’s becoming more and more clear that something must be done right away to address this mess. Without bogging down in statistics, did you know that since the year 2000, the average cost of health care premiums for families in the U.S. has gone up by about 60 percent? Think about that for a moment. A 60 percent increase! Fortunately, even with the recent adjustments announced by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, SIU members have it better than most. For example, roughly 90 percent of the people in this country who have family medical insurance pay some or all of their premiums. In other words, they have to pay just to maintain the coverage—on average about $2,600 per year. SHBP participants don’t have to pay to carry their coverage. Nationwide, the biggest problem of all—economically and morally —may be the number of uninsured Americans. More than 45 million have no coverage whatsoever, and that figure grows by thousands each and every day. A new report states that on average, an individual with insurance pays about $900 extra each year in premiums to cover the cost of providing treatment for the uninsured. Enough is enough. It’s time for real solutions, and the SIU will continue making this a top priority, particularly through our affiliation with the AFL-CIO. Volume 67, Number 7 July 2005 The SIU on line: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 8990675. 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, Deborah A. Hirtes; Associate Editor, Jim Guthrie; Art, Bill Brower; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2005 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD All Rights Reserved. 2 Seafarers LOG Final Agreements Set For 10 New Tankers Kvaerner Philadelphia Shipyard, Inc. (KPSI) early last month announced that “final definitive agreements” now are in place with SIU-contracted Overseas Shipholding Group, Inc. for the bareboat charter of 10 Veteran MT-46 class Jones Act product tankers which will be built at the shipyard. The 10 double-hulled vessels will be constructed over the next five years. KPSI will transfer the vessels to leasing subsidiaries of American Shipping Corporation, an affiliate of KPSI, which will, in turn, bareboat charter the vessels to subsidiaries of Overseas Shipholding for initial terms of five or seven years, with extension options for the life of the vessels. The vessels are scheduled to be delivered from 2006 through 2010. The preliminary agreement on these charters, as well as the announcement for the new vessel construction contracts, was made April 14 during ceremonies at the Ten new tankers like the one at left are scheduled for delivery from 2006-2010. The ships will be crewed by SIU members. shipyard. “I am extremely pleased with the completion of these agreements which assure a strong future for KPSI and the approximately 800 men and women employed at the yard,” said Dave Meehan, KPSI president and chief executive officer (CEO). “This project represents a commitment to this shipyard by Kvaerner and OSG and is a clear statement of support for the Jones Act and the entire United States maritime industry.” 3rd Tanker ‘Floated Out’ Keel Laid for 4th Alaska-Class Vessel Progress continues on the next two Alaska-class doublehull oil tankers being built in San Diego for BP Oil Shipping Company, USA. On April 18, the National Steel The SIU-crewed Alaskan Explorer is pictured earlier this year in Juneau, Alaska. “The bareboat charters of the 10 new-build Jones Act product tankers by OSG represent a significant milestone in the company’s participation in the U.S.-flag business,” said Morten Arntzen, president and CEO of OSG. “With these charters, OSG will have the largest and most modern Jones Act product tanker fleet. The addition of these vessels also represents increased employment opportunities for our highly qualified U.S. crews.” and Shipbuilding Company (NASSCO) hosted a keel-laying ceremony for Hull 487, the fourth vessel in the class of Seafarerscontracted vessels operated by Alaska Tanker Company for BP. Eight days earlier, the third ship was “floated out” of the shipyard’s graving dock. That vessel is scheduled for delivery later this year, while the fourth is slated for a 2006 delivery. Seafarers already sail aboard the first two ships in the series— the Alaskan Explorer and the Alaskan Frontier. Each vessel is 941 feet long, with a beam of 164 feet and a capacity of 1.3 million barrels of oil. The tankers deliver to West Coast ports including BP refineries in Los Angeles and Cherry Point, Wash. Scholarship Committee Selects 3 Seafarers, 5 Dependents for Monetary Awards in 2005 When the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) scholarship program was introduced in 1953, it was considered one of the most progressive and forward-looking measures to be adopted by any trade union. At that time, four full college scholarships in the amount of $1,500 each were awarded to children of Seafarers or to Seafarers not over 35 years of age who qualified in competitive examinations. For more than half a century, the SHBP has continued to award scholarships to deserving Seafarers as well as to spouses and dependents of SIU members, changing the eligibility slightly. This year, the Plan has selected three Seafarers and five dependents as recipients from the more than 40 who applied—for a total monetary value of $132,000. Chief Cook Kristen Swain is the Seafarer selected for the four-year scholarship. Brandon Maeda and Jeanette Montgomery both were awarded twoyear scholarships. The five dependents of SIU members are Adam Burton, son of Ross Burton; Ashleigh Coppola, daughter of Patrick L. Coppola; Stefan Nikolic, son of Desire Z. Nikolic; Anthony Sabatini, son of Anthony J. Sabatini and Ronald Viernes, son of Leopold A. Viernes. The scholarship recipients were selected by a panel of professional educators: Dr. Michael Glaser, St. Mary’s College of Maryland; Dr. Gayle A. Olson, University of New Orleans; Dr. Trevor Car- penter, Charles County (Md.) Community College; Dr. Charles Lyons Jr., American Association of Colleges and Universities; Dr. Keith Schlender, Medical College of Ohio; Professor Louis Fernandez, provost and vice president of academic affairs, California State (San Bernardino) and Dr. Henry Toutain of Gustavus Adolphus College in Minnesota. See page 7 for brief descriptions of the backgrounds and educational goals of the eight collegebound students. The selection committee met in Boston in May to choose each of the 2005 scholarship winners. From the left are Dr Henry Toutain, Dr. Trevor Carpenter, Dr. Gayle A. Olson, Dr Michael Glaser, Dr. Charles Lyons Jr., Professor Louis Fernandez and Dr. Keith Schlender. July 2005 �28631_pgs3,4,15_18,20.qxd 6/24/2005 4:39 PM Page 3 Pride of America Christened NCL America’s 2nd Ship Continues ‘Huge Success Story’ The rebirth of the U.S.-flag deep sea cruise ship industry continued June 17 as the SIU-crewed Pride of America was christened in New York City. In many ways, the afternoon proved glorious. The stirring ceremony, the magnificent ship, the pleasant weather and the appreciative crowd combined to make the christening memorable. For the SIU, the Pride of America means more new shipboard jobs along with the bolstering of an important sector of the U.S. Merchant Marine. Both SIU President Michael Sacco and U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine Chao, who served as the vessel’s godmother, addressed the latter point in their respective remarks at the christening. Also addressing the audience (consisting of hundreds of guests and some crew members) were NCL America President and CEO Colin Veitch, Star Cruises Chairman Tan Sri Lim Lok Thay, and U.S. Coast Guard Rear Adm. Thomas Gilmour. “NCL America is a huge success story,” Sacco stated. “Working in partnership with the shipboard employees and their unions, NCL America has led the rebirth of the deep sea U.S.-flag cruise ship industry. I’m proud that we are crewing the Pride of America with the best-trained and safest professionals in the world.” He also offered thanks to Secretary Chao and the administration “for helping make this ceremony possible. Your steadfast support of the U.S. Merchant Marine is vital to America’s national and economic security, whether we’re talking about the cruise-ship sector or commercial cargo ships or civilian-crewed military support vessels. They’re all part of the merchant marine, and they’re all good for America.” See pages 12-13 for more photos from the christening ceremony A longtime backer of the U.S. Merchant Marine, Chao gave the keynote address and christened the ship. She pointed out that the Pride of America is the largest U.S.-flag cruise ship ever built (921 feet long, with 15 decks and a passenger capacity of more than 2,100) and “the first newly constructed oceangoing U.S.-flag cruise ship in 50 years. It will provide thousands of jobs for The Pride of America is the second vessel in NCL America’s SIU-contracted fleet. American workers.” She further noted that both the Pride of America and NCL America’s first ship, the Pride of Aloha, “will be joined next year by the Pride of Hawaii. These three ships will employ nearly 4,000 American seafarers.” Tan Sri Lim Lok Thay said that the vessel was built at a cost of $400 million—mountainous evidence that the company has “committed ourselves to the rebuilding of a vibrant U.S.-flag sector” of the industry. He also credited the crew members for their outstanding work and noted, “We are in this for the long haul.” Gilmour conveyed his congratulations on the christening and complimented the company Continued on page 10 U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine Chao (fourth from right) visited with SIU officials as well as apprentices from the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education following the christening. Pictured from left to right are SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez, Unlicensed Apprentices Matt Green, Patrick Devlin and Isaac Garrido, Secretary Chao, Apprentice Natalie Tremblay, SIU President Michael Sacco and Apprentice Bob Light. SIU-Crewed Lakes Fleet Grows As Burns Harbor Joins ASC The union last month welcomed new shipboard jobs when SIU-contracted American Steamship Company added the Burns Harbor, a 1,000-foot self-unloading vessel. “This is an addition to the fleet, rather than replacement tonnage,” noted SIU Vice President Contracts Augie Tellez. “We welcome the chance to work aboard this vessel and I’m confident as always that the SIU crew will do a fantastic job.” The ship primarily sails between Duluth, Minn. and Burns Harbor, Ind. It mainly carries steel and steel byproducts. “We anticipate a very busy season here on the Lakes,” noted SIU Vice President Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski. “The vessel is scheduled to run all season long. It’s a great addition to the fleet.” The Burns Harbor was built in 1979 in Sturgeon Bay, Wis. The ship can carry approximately 80,000 tons of cargo. The Burns Harbor (above left) is the SIU’s newest ship on the Lakes. Pictured above right are the unlicensed mariners aboard the American Steamship Company vessel. New Riverboat in Detroit Brings Additional Union Jobs Hundreds of new jobs for Seafarers were added in April when the union’s most recent contracted vessel, the Detroit Princess, began operations. Members of the engine and deck department were hired to work aboard Detroit’s newest attraction under an SIU contract. Other crew members, including waitstaff, Formerly a casino riverboat owned by Harrah’s, the SIU-crewed Detroit Princess now provides lunch and dinner cruises on the Detroit River. July 2005 cooks, dishwashers and experienced bartenders, belong to an SIU affiliate, the Seafarers Entertainment and Allied Trades Union (SEATU). The 222-foot-long riverboat was launched in 1993 by Harrah’s as a casino boat on the Mississippi River in Illinois. When Harrah’s replaced it, it was sent to Texas, where Capt. John Chamberlain, a riverboat entertainment producer, bought it to provide a unique setting for lunch and dinner cruises on the Detroit River. He is very optimistic about the entertainment possibilities of the vessel in Detroit, including weddings, anniversaries, reunions, conferences, large group cruises and more. The boat cruises are generally two or three hours long, journeying from Hart Plaza past the Ambassador Bridge to Belle Isle, and back to the dock. Already scheduled are big band shows, comedy murder mysteries, moonlight cruises and musical revues featuring music from the 1920s, ’30s and ’40s. The trip from Texas to Detroit proved the seaworthiness of the Princess. Since it was too tall to clear bridges in Chicago, it had to steam through the Gulf of Mexico, around Florida and up the East Coast to the Great Lakes, traveling nearly 7,000 miles through some pretty rough weather, including four hurricanes. When the oceangoing vessel arrived in Toledo last fall to undergo dry dock inspection and repairs, there were a few broken windows and a very tired crew. Every inch of the five-deck converted casino boat was washed and painted and thoroughly cleaned both inside and out. It then traveled to Detroit where it first tied up at the Nicholson Terminal in Ecorse and later docked at Hart Plaza. Chamberlain noted that the vessel, which is designed to look like a 19th century river sternwheeler (although the paddlewheel was removed by Harrah’s) is better equipped than many freighters. There are enough dining rooms on the four entertainment decks to feed 1,600 people. And, unlike other riverboats on the Detroit River, the Princess has its own kitchen and cooking staff and does not rely on shoreside caterers. It is wheelchair accessible and has elevators, air conditioning and heating for year round comfort. The Detroit Princess is owned by CJC Catering L.L.C., and its investors are Chamberlain and many of his friends. Seafarers LOG 3 �28631_pgs3,4,15_18,20.qxd 6/22/2005 3:33 PM Page 4 USNS Lewis and Clark Christened in San Diego The USNS Lewis and Clark, the first ship in the U.S. Navy’s new T-AKE Class, was christened May 21 at the National Steel and Shipbuilding Company (NASSCO) in San Diego. The vessel will be crewed by members of the SIU’s Government Services Division. Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, Congressman Jerry Lewis (R-Calif.), delivered the ceremony’s principal address. Congressman Randy “Duke” Cunningham (RCalif.) introduced Congressman Lewis. Other featured speakers included Adm. Vernon Clark, the Navy’s chief of naval operations; Rear Adm. Charles Hamilton II, program executive officer for ships; and Richard Vortmann, president of NASSCO. The T-AKE is a dry cargo/ammunition ship that will be operated by the U.S. Navy’s Military Sealift Command, providing logistic lift from sources of supply either in port or at sea. The ships will transfer cargo—ammunition, food, fuel, repair parts, and expendable supplies and material—to station ships and other naval forces at sea. The T-AKE vessels are expected to substantially upgrade the Navy’s ability to maintain its forwarddeployed forces, replacing aging T-AE ammunition ships and T-AFS combat stores ships that are near- ing the end of their service lives. The T-AKEs are 689 feet in length and 105.6 feet in beam, with a design draft of 29.9 feet. The ships will carry almost 7,000 metric tons of dry cargo and ammunition and 23,500 barrels of cargo fuel. They can travel at 20 knots and have expected lives of 40 years. Construction on the Lewis and Clark began in September 2003 and delivery is scheduled for early next year. The second T-AKE, to be named the USNS Sacagawea, is now in full production for delivery in 2006. Overall, the new class of ships includes eight vessels with options for four additional ships. The T-AKEs are 689 feet in length and 105.6 feet in beam, with a design draft of 29.9 feet. The ships will carry almost 7,000 metric tons of dry cargo and ammunition and 23,500 barrels of cargo fuel. They can travel at 20 knots and have expected lives of 40 years. The name Lewis and Clark was selected to honor the two legendary explorers who led a visionary project from 1804 to 1806 to explore the American West. Two descendants from the families of Capt. Meriwether Lewis and then-Lieutenant William Clark—Jane Lewis Sale Henley and Lisa Clark—served as sponsors of the ship. USNS Mercy Returns from Relief Mission The Seafarers-crewed USNS Mercy on June 8 returned to its home port at the U.S. Naval Base San Diego following a fivemonth tsunami relief and humanitarian assistance mission in Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands. During its deployment, the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) hospital ship’s on board Medical Treatment Facility staff treated more than 100,000 patients and performed 466 surgeries. In addition, the Mercy’s medical teams distributed 4,041 eyeglasses, performed 6,000 dental procedures and provided preventative and public health training that will benefit residents of the region for years to come. Civil service mariners aboard vessel, many of whom are members of the SIU Government Services Division, also contributed to humanitarian relief efforts, repairing infrastructure and medical equipment in hospitals, clinics and other public buildings. “A major focus of our effort throughout the region was to work together with host-nation medical providers in the spirit of cooperation, promoting the exThe Seafarerscrewed USNS Mercy earlier this year helped provide relief for tens of thousands of people overseas. SIU VP Corgey Appointed To Houston Ethics Committee SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey recently was appointed by the Houston City Council to serve on the council’s ethics committee. His term runs through 2006. Corgey was recommended for the position by the Harris County AFL-CIO. The council approved him unanimously. The ethics committee reviews inquiries about employees and elected officials, and makes recommendations to other government entities when appropriate. SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey Corgey also currently serves as a member of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Area Maritime Security Committee for the Port of Houston/Galveston. Additionally, he is a vice president of the Texas AFL-CIO; secretary-treasurer of the West Gulf Ports Council of the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department; and serves on the executive board of the Harris County AFL-CIO. 4 Seafarers LOG change of ideas among people from all countries to further their capabilities for the future,” said Capt. Mark Llewellyn, MC, commanding officer of Mercy’s Medical Treatment Facility. As was reported earlier in the Seafarers LOG, the hospital ship on Jan. 5 steamed out of San Diego in support of Operation Unified Assistance, the United States’ response to the Dec. 26 tsunami that struck Southeast Asia. The ship first sailed to the region’s most devastated area, Banda Aceh, Indonesia. From Feb. 6 to March 16, the ship’s combined U.S. Navy and nongovernmental organization Project HOPE medical staff treated more than 9,500 patients ashore and afloat, and performed 19,512 medical procedures, including 285 surgical and operating room cases. After completing operations off the coast of Banda Aceh, the Mercy began its voyage home, stopping at several ports along the way to provide humanitarian assistance and demonstrations of the U.S. government’s commitment to the region. In Alor, Indonesia, and Dili, East Timor, the Mercy’s medical teams treated more than 8,000 patients in six days. When an 8.7 magnitude earthquake struck Nias Island, Indonesia, March 28, the Mercy sailed to assist. From April 5-29, the vessel’s medical teams treated earthquake victims and other residents of the island, performing more than 19,000 medical procedures. Following the ship’s operations in Nias, the Mercy conducted a final humanitarian mission in Madang, Papua New Guinea, before heading home. When the Mercy sailed into San Diego, the ship and its crew had traveled 36,000 nautical miles during their mission. The USNS Lewis and Clark is the first in a new class of vessels to be crewed by members of the SIU’s Government Services Division. SMU Members Vote for SIU Members of the Seafarers Maritime Union (SMU) recently voted for representation by the Seafarers International Union, Atlantic, Gulf, Lake and Inland Waters District/NMU. Generally, because of the SMU’s relatively small size and the fact that many of its members already had dual membership in the SIU’s AGLIWD/NMU, the effects of the vote are expected to be positive and relatively seamless. All contracts and benefits essentially remain unchanged. When the former SMU contracts that just became SIU agreements expire, the new ones will be negotiated by the SIU. Voting took place aboard SMU-contracted vessels, where members said they look forward to the increased stability they expect to enjoy with the SIU. SIU Patrolman Michael Russo (second from left) is pictured with crew members aboard the Advantage shortly after the mariners voted for SIU representation. Mariners aboard the Independence in Corpus Christi, Texas chose SIU representation. Notice: Ft. Lauderdale Becomes Full Registration and Shipping Port As reported last month at all SIU membership meetings, the Seafarers Appeals Board, acting pursuant to its authority provided for in the SIU Shipping Rules will initiate action that effective August 1, 2005 will convert the Port of Dania/Ft. Lauderdale into a full registration and shipping port. The port will be responsible for all vessels in the area from Ft. Lauderdale south to Miami, including Tampa. Any member currently registered in Jacksonville via the previous arrangement through the port may opt to remain registered in Jacksonville. However, such registration only will be valid for Jacksonville. Upon registering in Ft. Lauderdale, any Jacksonville registration will be voided. July 2005 �28631_P2,5,12_14,24.qxd 6/27/2005 4:57 PM Page 5 IMO Continues Efforts to Bolster Security The International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Maritime Safety Committee (MSC) from May 11-20 held its 80th Meeting at IMO headquarters in London. Following opening remarks and a welcome to attending delegates by IMO Secretary General Efthimios E. Mitropoulos, the meeting’s packed agenda got under way, according to Bill Eglinton, director of training at the Seafarers-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. “Three working groups were designated in conjunction with the meeting’s very busy plenary session,” said Eglinton, who attended the meeting. Delegates assembled in designated locations to voice concerns, address pertinent issues and present their respective recommendations. In addition to holding membership on the U.S. National Maritime Security Advisory Committee, Eglinton also serves as a member of the U.S. delegation to the IMO’s Maritime Safety Committee. The three working groups referenced by Eglinton and their respective areas of focus were: Maritime Security—The major issue discussed was the U.S. proposal on establishing a Long Range Identification and Tracking (LRIT) system for ships. This group met for four days and engaged in much heated debate—for and against— the development of a LRIT. Basically, such a system would enable ships to transmit LRIT information to tracking stations worldwide. The system would apply to passenger ships, cargo and tank vessels over 500grt on international voyages and to mobile off-shore drilling units. The most contentious issue, according to Eglinton, was the U.S. proposal that the system would have a range off-shore of at least 2,000 miles. The working group’s recommendations were to be forwarded to the IMO’s Subcommittee on Radiocommunications and Search and Rescue (COMSAR) for developing a mechanism for collecting LRIT info from ships for security and search and rescue operations. In addition to addressing the LRIT issue, the working group approved the training and certification requirements for Company Security Officers as an MSC circular. The Subcommittee on Standards of Training and Watchkeeping was instructed to use this developed training as a template for training guidance for Port Facility Security Officers. Passenger Vessel Safety— The working group agreed to a definition for “casualty threshold” and revised the term “time to remain habitable” to become “time for orderly evacuation and abandonment.” A three-hour timeframe would ensure that, in cases where casualty threshold for return to port is exceeded, there will be sufficient time for the safe and orderly abandonment of the ship. The MSC endorsed the working group’s recommendation that an additional casualty scenario, for design purposes, should be developed by the Fire Protection and Stability and Load Lines Subcommittees. The scenario would support the concept that the ship will remain viable for at least three hours to allow for a safe and orderly evacuation and abandonment. Goal-Based New Ship Construction Standards (GBS) —Several items from MSC Session 79 were continued during this working group’s meeting. The five-tier system on which the development of GBS is being based consists of five levels: goals (tier I), functional requirements (tier II), verification of compliance criteria (tier III), technical procedures and guidelines, classification rules and industry standards (tier IV) and codes of practice and safety and quality systems for shipbuilding, ship operation, maintenance, training, manning, etc. (tier V). The MSC agreed in theory with the basic principles of goalbased standards and with the tier I goals developed by the working group. Basically, the agreement states that IMO goal-based standards are: broad, over-arching safety, environmental and/or security standards that ships are required to meet during their lifecycle; the required level to be achieved by the requirements applied by class societies and other recognized organizations, administrations and IMO; clear, demonstrable, verifiable, longstanding, implementable and achievable, irrespective of ship design and technology; and specific enough in order not to be open to differing interpretations. In other developments during the MSC session, the body approved draft amendments to the STCW Code, Part B, on engine room resource management and crew training in launching/recovery operations of fast rescue boats. The group also endorsed STCW to develop the competencies for both deck and engine ratings. In consideration of the increased rate of lifeboat accidents involving onload release mechanisms, the MSC requested that the Ship Design and Equipment Subcommittee develop additional safety recommendations. In a final MSC action, the new harmonized Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Chapter 11-1, Parts A, B and B-1 were adopted. These new damage stability regulations will enter into force Jan. 1, 2009. The MSC is the IMO’s senior technical body on safety-related matters. A number of subcommittees assist the main committee in its work. In a related development, the U.S. last month denied claims by an unidentified IMO official that it wanted to expand its vicinity of authority to 2,000 nautical miles under the LRIT system for ships. The U.S. does not wish to “extend its area of influence” to 2,000 nautical miles from shore said a senior U.S. Coast Guard officer, claiming that statements published in a recent edition of the Fairplay Daily News by an unnamed IMO official were “flatly wrong.” Cmdr. Cindy Stowe, a member of the U.S. delegation to the IMO Maritime Safety Committee, said that the United States and a host of other maritime nations want only to use existing ship communica- Manulani Christened at Kvaerner The SIU-contracted Manulani was christened May 21 at Kvaerner Philadelphia Shipyard by Guam’s First Lady Joann Camacho. The new vessel is the third diesel-powered containership built for Seafarers-contracted Matson Navigation Co. at the Philadelphia shipyard. One additional containership currently is under construction, with delivery scheduled for spring 2006. Gov. Felix Camacho, who delivered the keynote address, said, “The Manulani signifies the expansion of a great company and its commitment not only to the island of Guam, but also throughout the Asia-Pacific Region.” Pictured at the christening ceremony are (from left) retired Lt. Gen. Ken Wykle, Matson’s Mike Garvin, Brig. Gen. Mark Scheid, SIU President Michael Sacco, MSC’s Rick Haynes and SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez. July 2005 tions technology to identify vessels that transit near or into their territorial waters. Under a proposed IMO rule, all costal nations, not just the U.S., would identify ships moving within a 2,000 nautical-mile range of their shores. Such a system for years has been discussed and would be under the authority of the IMO, which would charge member nations for access to vessel information. Under pending proposals, individual ships not bound for interested member nations could withhold identifying data. Information from such a system would also be available to owners and operators as well as flag states, the commander said. Ports to Add Radiation Monitors The nation’s busiest seaports will have complete Radiation Portal Monitor (RPM) coverage by the year’s end, according to reports. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Michael Chertoff last month announced that Los Angeles/Long Beach, Calif. will have the high tech system in place and operational by December. Three terminal locations, at Piers 400, 300 and Trans Pacific, within the Port of Los Angeles are scheduled to go online by the end of June. A total of 90 RPMs, which will screen all international container traffic and vehicles exiting the facility for nuclear materials or hidden sources of radiation, will be operational by December. RPMs are detection devices that provide U.S. Customs & Border Protection (CBP) officers with a non-intrusive means to screen containers, vessels or vehicles for the presence of nuclear and radiological materials. These systems do not emit radiation but are capable of detecting various types of radiation emanating from nuclear devices, dirty bombs, special nuclear materials, natural sources, and isotopes commonly used in medicine and industry. “By applying advanced technology, we will soon be able to screen every vehicle and container entering the nation’s busiest seaports for nuclear and radiological materials, without disrupting the free flow of trade,” said Secretary Chertoff. “Complete and efficient coverage at the LA/Long Beach seaports is a major step forward for national security and a model for other ports.” The DHS is implementing a multi-layered strategy for screening cargo shipped to the U.S. One such layer is the installation of RPMs at seaports, land border ports of entry and crossings nationwide, to include rail crossings, international airports, and international mail and express consignment courier facilities. According to the department, the ultimate aim is to screen 100 percent of all incoming goods, people, and conveyances for radiation. Los Angeles/Long Beach receives approximately 44 percent of all sea cargo destined for the United States. More than 4.3 million foreign cargo containers arrived at the port last year—an average of one container every seven seconds. In a related development, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Commissioner Robert Bonner and Maryland Governor Robert Ehrlich Jr. on June 2 unveiled a highly sophisticated cargo inspection system at the Baltimore seaport. The system, called the Eagle, is designed for inspecting cargo containers and trucks at seaports and other areas of entry. The CBP will use the Eagle primarily in its efforts to thwart terrorists from smuggling weapons of mass destruction into the United States. The machine also will scan for illegal narcotics and other contraband. “The Eagle is yet another tool in CBP’s technological arsenal designed to help prevent terrorists and terrorist weapons from entering the United States,” said Bonner. “It is important to remember that Customs and Border Protection employs a wide range of technology and a layered strategy to defend the homeland. There is no arguing the strategic importance of the Port of Baltimore, and, in the weeks ahead, I look forward to working closely with Governor Ehrlich to provide the maximum security for the Washington-Baltimore area.” The Eagle, a self-propelled imaging system, can rapidly inspect trucks and cargo containers, even when loaded with dense cargo. Elsewhere, Senators Barbara A. Mikulski and Paul Sarbanes (both D-MD) recently announced that the nation’s 2006 Homeland Security Appropriations bill includes key funding for Maryland’s security. The legislation addresses several high priority items, including grants for firefighters, first responders and port security, and a major project for the Coast Guard Yard at Curtis Bay. “As a nation fighting a war on terrorism, we need to be safer, stronger and smarter so that we are able to better detect, prevent and respond to acts of terrorism,” said Senator Mikulski. “This legislation gets us one step closer to meeting those goals by standing up for our first responders and making sure that if terror strikes, measures are in place to protect and save lives. I will keep fighting to make sure that resources are in the federal checkbook for our homeland security.” “In Maryland and across the nation, state, local and regional authorities continue to struggle to make their communities safer from potential terrorist activities,” said Senator Sarbanes. “In many cases, these communities have taken exhaustive measures to identify their areas of greatest vulnerability, and have made significant advances in enhancing their own preparedness and response capabilities—at considerable cost. The federal government must step up and help our states and localities in protecting our domestic homeland and this funding measure helps local communities to meet those needs.” The bill includes $200 million for the Port Security Grant program, a $50 million increase over last year. These funds are granted to localities to finance security enhancements at critical national seaports. The bill will now move to the Senate floor for a vote, which has not yet been scheduled. Seafarers LOG 5 �28631_P1,6,10,2cx.qxd 6/24/2005 4:31 PM Page 6 Chef Romeo Dies at 82 Whether Cooking or Teaching, Lupinacci Gave His All Romeo V. Lupinacci, the former executive chef and chefinstructor at the Seafarers-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., died suddenly June 5. He was 82. A Pennsylvania native, Lupinacci in 1946 launched his culinary career as an apprentice cook in his hometown of Sewickley. He later held positions as chef, baker, saucier, broiler cook, sous chef and executive chef. In 1980, Lupinacci joined the SIU family and for the next 20plus years dedicated himself to the teaching and professional development of steward department students and upgraders at the Paul Hall Center. During his tenure, as the school’s premier chef, Lupinacci freely shared his knowledge and vast experience in the culinary arts with those under his instruction. “He was a special person who prided himself in his cooking, his upbringing and how he advanced to the top of his profession,” said SIU President Michael Sacco upon learning of Lupinacci’s abrupt demise. “He was a good family man and one who was ded- Memorial Fund Established In Memory of Sal Aquia whose parents are too financially A tribute has been planned in challenged to make such memory of the late Salvatore desires reality. Character, Aquia, son of retired desire and commitment SIU employee Sal each will figure Aquia. prominently in the An extremely selection of indiproficient and viduals who highly regarded receive financial amateur backing from wrestler, Aquia the memorial was killed durfund. ing the early morning hours “At first, I of March 25 really did not after being want to be a part struck by both a of the scholarship tractor trailer fund,” shared the and a pick-up senior Aquia, who truck on Interstate understandably is 795 near Baltimore. still traumatized by the Family, friends, the untimely loss of the entire Maryland Sal Aquia, son of the retired SIU younger of his Wrestling representative of the same name, two sons. Community and was an accomplished wrestler. “Losing my the SIU still are son has been mourning the extremely diffitragic death of the gifted and cult for me and my family, espeloving athlete who was taken cially my wife,” he continued. away at the age of 25. “But after thinking about it, Aquia was a native of reflecting on the type of caring Baltimore and lived in Rosedale. person Sal was and about the He was a starter on the sport he loved so much, I University of Maryland thought why not—it’s the right wrestling team during his freshthing to do. Right now I’m lovman, sophomore and senior ing it because we’re doing someyears and ended his collegiate thing in his memory to help othcareer with a record of 51-32, ers achieve their dreams. I think according to published reports. it’s wonderful.” He graduated from Maryland in To help raise proceeds for the 2002 and also had been a standfund, the inaugural Salvatore out performer in his high school. Aquia Memorial Golf TournaIn 1997, he led Baltimore’s ment has been planned for Sept. Archbishop Curley High to a 26 at the Rocky Point Golf win in the state wrestling chamCourse in Essex, Md. Fees for pionship. Aquia later won a the tournament will be $120 per national prep tournament while person and $480 per foursome. attending Blair Preparatory An 8 a.m. shotgun start will sigAcademy in Blairstown, N.J. nal the event’s commencement. The senior Aquia, who sailed In addition to some great golf, on the high seas as an engineer the tournament will feature variwith MEBA, worked for the ous contests, prizes, raffles and union in a number of capacities giveaways. since coming ashore some 15 At the conclusion of play, an years ago. Most recently, he awards banquet will be held at worked at the SIU hall in Cosmopolitan Bar & Grill at Baltimore and in the manpower 2933 O’Donnell St. in office at the Seafarers-affiliated Baltimore. All correspondence, Paul Hall Center for Maritime as well as donations for this Training and Education in Piney event, should be mailed to the Point, Md. same address listed below. Those To honor the memory of his with questions may call (410) late son, a collection of friends 563-5000. and well wishers from MaryDonations for the Salvatore land’s wrestling community creAquia Memorial Wrestling ated the Salvatore Aquia Scholarship Fund, which may be Memorial Wrestling Scholarship Fund. Proceeds from this endow- sent under individual donors’ ment will be used to help finance names, should be sent to the education of deserving junior Archbishop Curley High School, 3701 Sinclair Lane, Baltimore, league wrestlers who want to attend private high schools but MD 21213 c/o Salvatore Aquia. 6 Seafarers LOG icated to his work. “Romeo’s greatest asset was that he was a highly gifted teacher. He communicated well with the students and made them feel special,” Sacco said. “I will miss not only the wonderful meals he used to prepare, but his loyal friendship as well.” “Romeo was a real blessing for the school right from the time he signed aboard,” said Paul Hall Center Vice President Don Nolan. “His vast knowledge and experience in life and in the culinary arts benefited everyone tremendously, especially the thousands of students he taught over the years. Romeo truly will be missed. Our prayers and thoughts are with his family.” Lupinacci sailed in the merchant marine (engine department) during World War II, although he almost didn’t survive his inaugural voyage. In May 1943, his first ship was torpedoed off the North Carolina coast. Lupinacci later received an award for rescuing several shipmates from the wreckage; they spent nearly four days in a life raft before a destroyer’s escort picked them up. He sailed primarily aboard troop ships and made the invasions at France and Sicily. After developing a distinguished post-war culinary career, Lupinacci arrived at Piney Point specifically to help prepare for the initial crewing of the passenger ship SS Independence. He quickly discovered that the school was a good fit so he decided to remain there. A certified executive chef, Lupinacci held membership in many associations, among them the Academy of Chefs, the Golden Toque and the Chaîne Des Rotisseurs. He was one of the first 13 chefs in the world to be certified as an executive chef with distinction by the American Culinary Federation. He also won numerous other awards throughout his Romeo Lupinacci (left) and SIU President Sacco in July 2000 stood in front of the sign designating the Paul Hall Center’s primary galley instruction facility as the Romeo Lupinacci Culinary Lab. career. In 1982, he founded the Professional Culinary Seafarers Association, the first and only chapter of the American Culinary Federation in the U.S. Merchant Marine, and in 1993 wrote a cookbook, “From Chef Romeo’s Recipe Collection.” “The school has improved a lot over the years,” Lupinacci told those gathered in July 2000 during the ceremony in which the Paul Hall Center galley training building formally was named in his honor. “It’s a more dignified educational institute. When the recertified stewards come back here, everyone can see they’re great, great chefs. It does my heart good. “I love it down here,” he continued. “The challenge was to teach young people who are very grateful for their education. It’s fun doing that.” During that same ceremony, Sacco lauded Lupinacci for the fashion in which he put his heart into the school. “When someone loves their work, it’s easy to spot,” Sacco said. “It comes across in everything they do. That’s exactly the case with Romeo. From the very beginning, his love for the school and union has been evi- Romeo Lupinacci, the late corporate executive chef at the Paul Hall Center, prepares broccoli for one of his many special dishes. dent. It shows in his passion for detail, his commitment to training and his pride in the students and the campus.” A mass of Christian burial was held June 19 for Lupinacci at St. Ferdinand’s Roman Catholic Church, Cranberry Township, Pa. U.S. Health Insurance Woes Continue Health care costs across the country continue to surge as family premiums in employer-sponsored plans are reaching epidemic proportions. While part of the problem might manifest itself in other forms, the additional costs of providing health care for the more than 45 million Americans without health insurance are contributors. These added expenses largely are being paid by workers with insurance. According to a report recently released by Families USA, premiums for employer-provided family health insurance are expected to cost an extra $922 (on average) this year. This equates to about $1 in every $12 spent for employer-provided health insurance going to cover the costs of providing health care to the uninsured. The study also estimates that these added premium costs will rise to $1,502 in 2010. “The large and increasing number of uninsured Americans is no longer simply an altruistic concern on behalf of those without health coverage but a matter of self-interest for everyone,” said Ron Pollack, Families USA executive director. “The stakes are high, both for businesses and for workers who do have health insurance because they bear the brunt of costs for the uninsured.” Most of the uninsured are workers and their family members who do not participate in employerprovided insurance plans, forcing employees to seek public health care assistance. Each Wal-Mart store, for example, costs taxpayers an average of $108,000 per year for its workers’ children who are enrolled in state health insurance programs. The study states that health insurance premiums for family coverage in six states (New Mexico, West Virginia, Oklahoma, Montana, Texas and Arkansas) will cost at least $1,500 more this year because of the cost of health care for the uninsured. Nationally, the cost will be more than $43 billion this year and reach $60 billion in 2010, the report said. The cumulative effect of rising health care costs is taking a toll on workers. According to a 2004 survey of 3,017 companies by the Kaiser Family Foundation and the Health Research and Educational Trust, at least 5 million fewer jobs provided health insurance in 2004 than there were in 2001. In 2004, 63 percent of firms offered health benefits to workers, down from 68 percent in 2001, according to the report. The average premium for a family of four grew to $9,950 annually. The family premium for a preferred provider organization (PPO), the most common type of insurance, hit $10,217—the first time it broke the $10,000 barrier. PPOs are plans that provide members with a network of discounted providers that charge a co-payment but also allows for the opportunity of using other doctors and hospitals. The average premium for single coverage rose 9.2 percent to $3,383 annually. “Health insurance is becoming unaffordable. We should expect the ranks of uninsured to grow,” said Drew Altman, president of the Kaiser Family Foundation. Altman noted that the hike in health premiums outpaced both the 2.2 percent growth in wages and 2.3 percent growth in inflation by five times. Continued on page 10 July 2005 �7_9,11,19,21_23.qxd 6/22/2005 4:13 PM Page 7 8 Scholarships Awarded to Seafarers, Dependents W ith three semesters of college already behind her, Chief Cook Kristen Swain is the recipient of the $20,000 scholarship award for SIU members. She hopes to use the funds to attend Butte College or Chico State College, both in California, in the registered nursing program. Kristen Swain Swain, 32, grew up in Waterford, Mich., a town surrounded by several small lakes. She spent the summers of her childhood on the water, swimming and boating—and always had a desire to travel. But she never imagined that her journeys would take her across the oceans of the world. After graduating from Mott High School in Waterford, she traveled around Europe for five months. While she was there, she notes in her application form, she met someone who suggested that she attend the training program in Piney Point, Md. “I graduated from the program in 1993 in class 509 and knew I was home when I stepped aboard my first ship.” Swain has since returned to the school a number of times to upgrade her ratings, and has completed the assistant cook, cook and baker, and the certified chief cook programs. The recent birth of her son, Cohen, made her realize her priorities had to change for a little while. She has been working toward a general education at Butte Community College for the past few years, maintaining a 4.0 grade average, and has decided to begin the prerequisites for a bachelor’s degree in registered nursing. She believes a background in the medical field will not only be a stable profession on land, but also will be beneficial while at sea. Swain notes that “shipping has opened my mind up to so many diverse experiences—some good, some difficult—but in the end, I’ve learned so much from them. I couldn’t have asked for a better career.” Brandon Maeda is one of two Seafarers to receive a two-year scholarship this year in the amount of $6,000. He, too, plans to study for a career in nursing and has applied to the College of Southern Maryland. Brandon Maeda July 2005 Three SIU members and five dependents of Seafarers were selected by a panel of professional educators to receive scholarships provided by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. For more than half a century, the Plan has continued to award yearly scholarships to deserving Seafarers as well as to spouses and dependents of SIU members. This year, a total of $132,000 was Born in Hawaii, Maeda, now 48, graduated from high school in Fayetteville, N.C. in 1974 and then worked in the hotel/restaurant business until 1982. He currently sails from the port of Jacksonville, Fla. In his application, Maeda states that he went to sea for the first time in 1982 on one of the passenger ships in Hawaii. It was there that a friend encouraged him to upgrade at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point. He finally made it to the Paul Hall Center in 1991 and he says it became a turning point in his life—“one of the best experiences I have ever had.” He has since returned to the school many times for both upgrading and college-level courses and graduated from the steward recertification program there, the top curriculum available to mariners in his department. Maeda would now like to take on the challenge of becoming a registered nurse and hopes to continue sailing aboard an SIUcrewed vessel. “Becoming a nurse would afford me the opportunity to give something back to the community and to the Seafarers,” Maeda stated. The third of the 2005 scholarships set aside for SIU members goes to Jeanette Montgomery who, like the other two recipients, also is planning a career in nursing. Jeanette Montgomery Montgomery joined the union in 1988 in the port of Honolulu while working aboard the SS Independence. She upgraded her skills a number of times over the years and received many endorsements, including recertified chief steward in 2000. In 2002, Montgomery was awarded a two-year, $6,000 scholarship from the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. She used the award to start her schooling and is now finishing up her first year of nursing school. Since receiving that initial scholarship, she has become a Washington state emergency medical technician and received an associate in arts and sciences degree. But she still has more than four years of schooling to complete before receiving a master’s degree, which is her goal. In her application, Montgomery says that her life revolves around sailing and schooling, and “the ability to return to shipping makes completing school a very real possibility.” offered. One Seafarer and five dependents each were awarded a $20,000 scholarship for study at a four-year college or university, and two stipends for $6,000 each were given to two Seafarers for study at a two-year college or vocational school. On this page are brief descriptions of the backgrounds and educational goals of the eight college-bound students. Dependents Having just graduated this spring from Little CypressMauriceville High School in Orange, Texas with a 4.93 GPA, Adam Burton is now ready to tackle the demands of college. His four-year, $20,000 scholarship will certainly help him in his quest for a degree in business and communications at one of the Texas universities to which he has applied. He is the son of Harriet and Desire Zeljko Nikolic, chief engineer aboard Great Lakes Dredge and Dock’s Victoria Island, who joined the union in 1995. Born in San Diego, Calif., Anthony Sabatini recently graduated from high school in that city with a 4.167 GPA. With his scholarship winnings, he hopes to major in business or computer science at one of several California universities (San Diego State, University of California Irvine or San Francisco State). Ashleigh Coppola Adam Burton He is the son of Lera and Ross Burton, who joined the SIU in 1996 in the inland division and sails as a captain aboard Higman Towing Co. tugs. The 18-year-old Burton remembers always having had a thirst for knowledge and credits his parents with instilling in him a love for reading at an early age, which has only grown stronger with time. While in high school, Burton participated in a rigorous academic program and still found time for a number of extracurricular activities. The honor student was a member of the high school choir and band program (and is a talented guitar player), participated on the debate team and took part in his local church youth ministry. In his application, Burton states that he felt up to the challenge of university life and, in the future, hopes to open his own business while using his communications major to find a unique outlet for his writing. “Whether it is a magazine, newspaper or my own personal novel, I intend to do some sort of writing as a part of my lifelong career.” Ashleigh Coppola, 18, just graduated from the Science and Technology Program at Eleanor Roosevelt High School in Greenbelt, Md., a highly competitive program which represents the top 5 percent of students from Prince George’s County (Md.) public schools. She hopes to earn a degree in business or business management from the University of Maryland, Towson (Md.) University or Pennsylvania State University. In addition to her rigorous and challenging academic program, Coppola also was involved in a number of extracurricular activities, including the National Honor Society and Italian Honor Society as well as cheerleading and the swim team. Starting in her freshman year of high school, Coppola began working at a retail clothing business. Learning to balance the responsibilities of a job along with school, she believes, helped her learn such skills as time management. By her senior year, she had advanced in her position, pay and responsibilities. It was this job—and her manager there—that influenced her decision to pursue a career in the field of business management. She is the daughter of Terri and Patrick Coppola, a deep sea member currently sailing on the Overseas Philadelphia. He joined the union in 1983. Computers have been a strong influence in the life of Stefan Nikolic, 17. Born in New York, where he lived until he was nine, his family then moved to Durham, N.C., where he graduated last month from Durham Academy. Stefan Nikolic Nikolic notes that he enjoyed mathematics and problem-solving at an early age, and that soon developed into strong interests in the sciences, calculus, logic and computer programming. “At this point,” he wrote on his application form, “I have built them, programmed them and had my own business for two years, running a server rental e-business.” In addition to these academic and entrepreneurial interests, he played competitive soccer and was a member of his school’s swim team. Nikolic also plays the trumpet and piano, writes poetry and studies philosophy. He plans to use his $20,000 scholarship to study electrical engineering at Worcester Polytechnic Institute in Massachusetts, with a minor in philosophy—after returning from a planned six-week train trip across Europe this summer. Anthony Sabatini Throughout his high school years, Sabatini, 17, has been involved in music, academics and church. He participated in a marching band, wind ensemble and jazz band. Academically, he has taken honors and AP courses and was a peer tutor in humanities. He also has been very active in his church’s youth group. Although he does not plan to major in music, Sabatini does intend to stay involved in it as a way to express himself. Sabatini is the son of Debra and Anthony Sabatini, a deep sea member since 1990 who currently sails as a recertified bosun aboard the Alaskan Explorer. With a strong desire to learn, Ronald Paul Viernes graduated from Kapolei High School in Hawaii with a 4.019 GPA. Besides his excellence in academics, including membership in the National Honor Society, Viernes has been looked upon as a leader in the classroom while still finding time for extracurricular activities such as the varsity tennis and volleyball teams and the hiking club. He was very active in the student Ronald Paul Viernes government, and in his sophomore year, he was selected for the school’s highest honor for best exemplifying “caring, dignity and integrity” (the school’s motto). He also found time to volunteer for various community causes: readContinued on page 20 Seafarers LOG 7 �7_9,11,19,21_23.qxd 6/22/2005 4:20 PM Page 8 Appreciative Upgrader Ayotte Seizes School’s Opportunities Engine-department Seafarer Philip Ayotte had a simple but heartfelt message when he spoke at the June membership meeting in Piney Point, Md. “Thank you.” Ayotte, 29, credited the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education as well as SIU officials with helping him find the right career path. “I went through the unlicensed apprentice program four years ago, and since then I’ve taken every upgrading course I could take,” said Ayotte, who is enrolled in the marine electrician class. “I thank the teachers and the entire school, and also the union officials who work so hard on (Seafarers’) behalf.” After the meeting, Ayotte recalled his introduction to the school. Four years earlier, he lived in New Orleans when an SIU member recommended the three-phase apprentice program. Ayotte enrolled and soon realized he’d found a home. “Since then, I’ve made the choice to come back here (to the school),” said the resident of Minneapolis. “I want to continue to learn and be the best I can be on the job. The school helps me meet that goal—I’ve learned a Seafarer Philip Ayotte says the Paul Hall Center helps him stay at peak efficiency on the job. tremendous amount in the last four years.” Ayotte, who most recently sailed on a Waterman ship, said the school’s admissions department and instructors go out of their way to help apprentices and upgraders alike. More on the School Founded in 1967, the Paul Hall Center offers the most U.S. Coast Guard-approved courses of any maritime school in the nation. Based in Piney Point, Md., the school is a hub of STCW training, featuring unsurpassed educational facilities and peaceful surroundings that facilitate learning. Among the school’s most beneficial training tools are the bridge and engine simulators, the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School (located on a nearby satellite campus) and the culinary lab. The Paul Hall Center offers everything from entry training to license preparation to academic support and more. Students at the southern Maryland school also may receive college credit recommendations for successfully completing certain sanctioned courses. As vocational training for U.S. mariners seemingly becomes more important each year, the Paul Hall Center continues offering state-of-the-art schooling for mariners. An overview of the courses available at Piney Point (including the 40-plus Coast Guardapproved classes) is contained in a four-page section in the January 2005 issue of the Seafarers LOG. Course descriptions also are listed on the web site www.seafarers.org, in the Paul Hall Center section. Seafarer Frey Earns GED Seafarer John Frey (center) received his GED during the June membership meeting in Piney Point, Md. SIU President Michael Sacco (left) and SIU VP Contracts Augie Tellez congratulated Frey on the accomplishment. Frey graduated last year from the unlicensed apprentice program at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, where he is enrolled the AB course. In addition to vocational training, the SIU-affiliated center offers academic support, a GED program, a college degree curriculum and more. More than 2,000 students have earned GEDs at the Paul Hall Center. Special Day for Steward The Paul Hall Center features entry-level training, upgrading and more. Retired Steward Ware Publishes First Book Retired Recertified Steward Lois Ware knows plenty about overcoming obstacles and achieving goals. She is a cancer survivor. She is believed to be the first woman to sail as a crew member on a U.S. West Coast-based freighter (the President Van Buren). Now, she has added another title: published author. Ware’s first book, “The Rose and the Sea: Sea Stories,” is available through the web site www.authorhouse.com. Produced in paperback, the book contains 88 pages and sells for $11.50. A promotional release describes the book as providing “an overarching look at her life, from her childhood and school experiences to her lifelong love affair with the salty winds and on-board life of the maritime industry.” In an interview last month with the Seafarers LOG, Ware, who comes from a family of Seafarers, said that writing a book had been a longtime goal. “I wanted people to know what life at sea is like,” she noted. “The book was more work than I expected. It seems like I rewrote it nine or 10 times, but I hope to write another one—maybe a mystery or some poetry, if it’s worthwhile.” Ware sailed with the NMU in the early 1970s before signing on with the Marine Cooks and Stewards Union, which later merged into the SIU. She retired due to health issues in 1994. If writing was a labor of love, sailing couldn’t have been more natural for Ware, considering the Alabama native’s bloodlines. Her uncle, Thomas F. Ware, was one of the more than 1,200 Seafarers who gave his life in World War II. At various times, her son, nephew and brother all sailed with the SIU. “My life was going to sea,” she recalled. “I’ve always regretted having to leave the industry so soon…. To the people just entering this profession, I would say, set a goal and don’t listen to what people say you cannot do. You will achieve your goal and be successful.” Ware, who has been cancer-free for 10 years, last sailed aboard the President Truman. She said that the Seafarers-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is a great asset for mariners who want to advance in their careers. “I love the school,” Ware stated. Retired Recertified Steward Lois Ware is pictured at the Paul Hall Center holding a copy of her new book (left) and sailing aboard an SIUcontracted ship in the early 1980s (below). When SIU President Michael Sacco (right) presented Lonnie Jones with an A-seniority union book last month, the recertified steward nearly was overcome with emotion. Jones, who first sailed with the SIU in 1988, said he takes his union membership to heart. He described receiving his A-book as an exciting, longawaited moment and a special day. 8 Seafarers LOG July 2005 �7_9,11,19,21_23.qxd 6/22/2005 4:20 PM Page 9 AFL-CIO Group Okays Sweeping New Policies Measures Aimed at Increasing Support for Organizing and Mobilization for Politics The AFL-CIO Executive Committee—a 24-member advisory group made up of top union leaders including SIU President Michael Sacco—on June 13 overwhelmingly approved a plan put forward by AFL-CIO President John Sweeney to dramatically shift the work of the labor federation and unite unions for the twin goals of increased organizing and more member mobilization for politics and legislation. The group also approved a new two-year budget that funds the program. “Working people are under attack as never before by corporate and political forces, and today’s plans will help the union movement fight back with all our united strength,” said Sweeney. “Union movement growth and workers’ political power are fundamentally linked and we must strengthen both simultaneously.” The officials, by a 17-7 tally, voted to send to the AFL-CIO Executive Council (which is separate from the Executive Committee) the updated plan, a version of which was first introduced in early March. The resolution will be voted on by the Executive Council, a 54-member constitutional leadership body, at its meeting at the end of June. If approved, the resolution will be presented to the AFL-CIO convention at the end of July. The Executive Committee vote on the budget June 13 was also 17-7. “Without growth, we cannot sustain wins in the policy debates and political contests that determine the future for working people,” asserts the resolution. “And without a more hospitable, proworker political environment, we cannot grow as fast as we must.” The resolution, titled “A Plan to Help Workers Win: Uniting our Power to Build a Stronger, Growing Labor Movement,” points to “30 years of corporate assault and government complicity” as a key factor in the erosion of unions’ strength. Yet, more workers than ever say they want unions, the resolution points out. Fifty-three percent of non-union, non-managerial workers say they would join a union tomorrow if given the chance, according to Peter D. Hart Research Associates—the highest percentage recorded since Hart began collecting this data in 1996. The new plan emphasizes unity among unions and union movement-wide change, rather than change only at the Federation level. “Every union in every sector must change and work to build a stronger movement in the spirit of solidarity, mutual support and mutual accountability that defines us.” The plan calls for increased resources for helping more workers form unions, or organizing, through (1) a ramped up effort to change public policies to help restore workers’ freedom to form unions and (2) an accelerated initiative to help more unions increase their capacity to organize, especially outside the deeply flawed National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) process. Specific changes include creating a $22.5 million Strategic Organizing Fund, establishing industry coordinating committees for more tactical organizing, changing provisions of the AFL-CIO constitution (Articles XX and XXI) to support these committees’ work, training 100,000 worksite stewards by 2008 to defend workers’ freedom to form unions, encouraging and actively promoting mergers of unions, and supporting a major global campaign against WalMart. The officials asserted that their focus is not on a political party, but on supporting elected leaders who support workers. Under the new plan, the AFLCIO will move from a focus on biannual “get-out-the-vote” work to building year-round capacity for mobilizing members for politics and legislation. The federation will fund this work by increasing the Member Mobilization Fund for legislative and political action by approximately $7.5 Major Religious Group Backs Employee Free Choice Act/Card Check The AFL-CIO’s “Voice@Work” campaign recently reported that the General Board of Church and Society of the United Methodist Church on May 20 officially offered its support for the Employee Free Choice Act and majority sign-up agreements (also known as card-check). The General Board of Church and Society is the international social witness and advocacy agency of The United Methodist Church, charged by the denomination “to speak its convictions, interpretations and concerns to the Church and to the world.” The United Methodist Church, through its Social Principles, recognizes and supports the freedom of workers to form unions of their own choosing and bargain collectively. In its recent statement supporting the campaign to restore workers’ freedom to form unions, the board calls on “all employers to abide by their employees’ decision when a majority has signed union authorization cards or otherwise indicated their desire to be represented by a union, and to refrain from using National Labor Relations Board hearings, elections, and appeals as a means for delaying or avoiding representation for their employees.” The United Methodist Church has more than 8 million members in the United States and is the thirdlargest denomination in the country. By mid-June, the Employee Free Choice Act (S. 842 and H.R. 1696) had 37 co-sponsors in the Senate and 187 in the House. AOTOS Honorees Announced The United Seamen’s Service (USS) recently announced its honorees for the 2005 Admiral of the Ocean Seas (AOTOS) Awards. According to the USS, AOTOS awards will be presented to Gen. John W. Handy, USAF, commander of the United States Transportation Command; Ron Davis, president of the Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association (MEBA); and Anthony A. Scioscia, president of APM Terminals North America. The ceremony, chaired by SIU President Michael Sacco, is scheduled to take place Nov. 4 in New York City, noted John Bowers, chairman of the USS AOTOS Committee and president of the International Longshoremen’s Association. “These three leaders represent the American maritime spirit in all the vital areas in our industry,” said Bowers. “Ron Davis, General Handy and Tony Scioscia all understand that while being leaders in their own areas of labor, government and management, they must embrace and cooperate with each other to keep the American transportation industry working.” Bowers added, “Our recipients have been selected by those who July 2005 know them best, international transportation leaders who understand very well the challenges and issues which confront United States shipping and the American seafarers and recognize their leadership in this area.” USS sought nominees from more than 150 maritime management, labor and government officials. All proceeds from the awards ceremony benefit “USS community services abroad for the U.S. Merchant Marine and those of other free world countries,” the organization noted in a news release. “The recipients will share the evening with a group of American seafarers who will be honored for specific acts of bravery at sea.” An outspoken advocate of the U.S. Merchant Marine, General Handy was commissioned in 1967, received his pilot wings in 1968 and has served in various high-ranking positions. Prior to assuming his current post, the general was vice chief of staff at U.S. Air Force headquarters in the Pentagon. General Handy is a command pilot who has logged more than 300 combat hours in Southeast Asia. The general is a heavily million per year. None of the fund will go to contributions to political candidates. The plan also calls for building on the initial success of Working America, the AFL-CIO’s new community affiliate for non-union workers, by increasing members to two million by the end of 2006. The resolution prioritizes grassroots movement-building and calls on the AFL-CIO to strengthen state and local labor movements by requiring strategic decorated officer, receiving many major awards. Throughout his tenure at TRANSCOM his reputation is that of a “hands-on” executive. He strongly supports the U.S. Maritime Security Program and has been enthusiastic in his praise for the U.S. Merchant Marine’s performance throughout the various stages of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Davis began serving as MEBA’s president in 2002. He is a U.S. Navy veteran and former regional official for MEBA. Scioscia was appointed president of APM Terminals North America in 1999. The organization, which is a Maersk company, operates 13 container terminals in North America. Previously, Scioscia was senior vice president of Sea-Land Service’s North America Operations Group and was a member of Sea-Land’s Operating Executive Board. The USS, a non-profit agency established in 1942, operates centers in nine foreign ports in Europe, Asia, Africa and in the Indian Ocean, and also provides seagoing libraries to American vessels through its affiliate, the American Merchant Marine Library Association. planning and budgeting, and consolidating local labor federations. The AFL-CIO will expand leadership development with grassroots union organizations, and work to ensure diversity of representation at every level of its structure. To fund the shift in resources to organizing and political mobilization, the federation has already begun a review of all programs and a reorganization of its staff, which will be reduced by 25 percent. Meanwhile, on June 7 the pro-worker organization American Rights at Work released a report titled “Free and Fair? How Labor Law Fails U.S. Democratic Election Standards.” The report offers a detailed analysis of how fundamental principles governing American elections are systematically denied to those seeking union representation at work. “No political challenger could get elected under these guidelines,” said University of Oregon Associate Professor Gordon Lafer, the political scientist who authored the report. “The system is so corrupt that it doesn’t remotely resemble the democratic process we think of when we use the term ‘election.’” “Free and Fair?” measures the union representation election process against democratic election standards established by the political philosophy and published works of the Founding Fathers, the historical development of electoral law and jurisprudence, and current statutes and regulations that define “free and fair” elections. The report reveals a series of onesided advantages extended to employers, as well as significant barriers imposed upon pro-union workers and their unions. Lafer’s examination concludes that workers’ free speech rights are squelched on the job, and workers are restricted from openly distributing literature while employers have free reign to do so. He further concludes that employers deny essential employee information to thwart pro-union workers’ access to their coworkers. Additionally, employers and supervisors practice various forms of economic coercion with the clear intent to grant or take away privileges based upon an employee’s position on the union. At the same time, existing and excessively permissive labor law allows employers to indefinitely delay recognition of a union through a drawn-out appeals process. Gen. John Handy (left), welcomed by SIU President Michael Sacco earlier this year at the executive board meeting of the Maritime Trades Department, will receive an Admiral of the Ocean Seas Award Nov. 4 in New York. Labor Unions for $400, Alex For at least one moment, Recertified Steward Mike Gramer had the upper hand on the three Jeopardy contestants. The Seafarer tuned in to the popular TV game show June 2 and noticed a second-round category called Labor Unions. The first answer: “The LOG is the monthly newspaper of a union of these.” Alas, none of the three players knew the question. One guessed that the LOG is a newspaper for lumberjacks; the others had no guess. Topping it off, the show’s host said that the correct question was, “Who are sailors?” rather than mariners. He added, “Remember, the captain fills out the (ship’s) log, or one of the officers does.” Hey, it’s better than no mention at all, right? Gramer later went online and looked up a question-by-question review of the show to double-check that he had heard correctly. He subsequently called it to the LOG staff’s attention. Other unions mentioned in the labor category included the United Auto Workers, the California Correctional Peace Officers Association, and the American Federation of Musicians. Seafarers LOG 9 �28631_P1,6,10,2cx.qxd 6/24/2005 4:32 PM Pride of America Continued from page 3 and the mariners for their commitment to shipboard safety. He pointed out that modern safety regulations set high standards for vessel and crew alike, and said he is confident that the Pride of America will continue meeting those standards. Veitch called Sacco “our strongest supporter and partner.” He also complimented the crew, describing them as “professional, ready and raring to go.” One of the ceremony’s high- Page 10 lights took place when Veitch introduced (en masse) crew members from various departments, who then walked from the deck above the stage down the stairs and through the applauding crowd. Recertified Bosun Dan Marcus, who joined the SIU 33 years ago, told the Seafarers LOG, “This is a historic time for the U.S. maritime industry, and this crew is one of the finest I’ve ever sailed with. Everyone has gone the extra two miles. We know how important it is for the membership to have these jobs, and we’re committed.” New Law Covers Prescription Drugs This year, the federal government published regulations to support a new part to the current to Medicare program offered to beneficiaries across the nation. Known as Medicare part D, this new benefit will provide prescription drug coverage to individuals entitled to Part A or enrolled in part B of Medicare’s existing programs. This program is set to begin on January 1, 2006. The government has provided multi-employer trust funds like the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan with several options regarding the administration of prescription drug benefits for retirees under the new law. The Plan’s Board of Trustees is reviewing all of the options available under the new Medicare part D and will discuss these choices at their meeting this month (July). Once these important decisions are made, SIU retirees will be notified as to which option for drug coverage will be adopted. CIVMAR News: Request for Relief Pilot Program The Military Sealift Command has determined that it will implement a program and procedures which may change the way leave, medical examinations and return-to-work assignments are scheduled for CIVMARS. This program would require that CIVMARS complete additional forms and circulate them to their department head, MSO and purser prior to scheduling leave. This new paperwork must be completed 60 days in advance of the date that the CIVMARS request their leave. MSC’s goal is to assign each CIVMAR to a new vessel, training class or medical treatment facility directly from his or her home of record. Mariners may be required to receive physicals at naval medical facilities other than those at San Diego and Norfolk. This new pilot program is expected to begin soon. MSC has advised the union that it will select two East Coast vessels and two West Coast vessels to start. Ships selected to participate in this program will have orientation meetings held by MSC representatives. During the course of the negotiations about this pilot program, the union raised many concerns. The union’s primary concern was that this program puts too much administrative burden on the mariner. The union also questioned what type of pay status the CIVMAR will be placed in (base pay or leave without pay) if the mariner is at home waiting for a medical exam. Currently, mariners have been experiencing many delays associated with the MSC medical examination process. This new process will also require extra coordination with a marine placement specialist. The union noted that this might produce additional problems as frequently, due to time differences and other reasons, marine placement specialists are unavailable to speak on the phone. The union is also concerned that implementation of this program could lead to increased disciplinary actions against a mariner should there be any administrative errors or confusion leading to the inability of the mariner to follow all the new requirements. MSC has committed to ongoing discussions and a program evaluation as the pilot program proceeds. It is very important that CIVMARS keep in touch with the union about their experiences with this pilot program. Please send all comments and questions (both positive as well as negative) to civmarsupport@seafarers.org. If you have any questions or concerns and cannot reach the union via e-mail please call Chester Wheeler at (415) 861-3400, Maurice Cokes at (757) 622-1892 or Kate Hunt at (718) 832-8767. Health Care Woes Continue Continued from page 6 “There is a great sense that there is just no answer to this problem,” Altman added. Employees in 2004 paid 28 percent of the family premium, up from 27 percent a year earlier. However, singles’ out-of-pocket costs for the premium rose 9.8 percent to $558 annually while a worker’s cost for a family premium increased 10.3 percent to $2,661. Since 2001, employee contributions increased 57 percent for single coverage and 49 percent for family coverage. Overall, 56 percent of firms said they shopped for a new plan during 2004. Of those that looked, 31 percent changed carriers while 34 percent switched the type of plan they offered. For the most part, employers are skeptical about whether tools such as disease management and consumer plans really lower costs. Only 42 percent of employers believed disease management and consumer-driven plans were somewhat effective in lowering costs. “Such efforts nibble at the edges,” said Altman. He said controlling health care costs was a vexing problem because no one wants to pay more, but people also aren’t willing to accept less service. “I don’t see any solution in the short or immediate future,” he said. A Do-It-Yourself BBQ on the Lihue Matson’s Lihue recently came into service after a period of extended layup. The SIU steward department aboard the vessel pulled out all the stops for the ship’s first barbecue en route from Oakland, Calif. to Honolulu. The stocktender aboard ship (a non-union employee responsible for taking care of livestock being transported to Hawaii in special containers) donated two live goats for the festive occasion. Although butchering live animals is not a require- ment for upgrading at the Paul Hall Center, the SIU galley gang rose to the challenge and slaughtered the two goats, dressed the carcasses, butchered the meat and prepared the meal. The photos were provided by Recertified Steward John Holtschlag. Holtschlag reports that there was no leftover goat at the end of the barbecue, which also included grilled steak to order, Hawaiian teriyaki chicken, mahi mahi and all the trimmings. Clockwise from top left: Chief Cook Ahmed Quraish (top of ladder) hands off a live kid goat to SA Majed Alsunbahi (holding the goat in a bag on the ladder) to bring the animal on deck for slaughter; Assistant Cook David Hilario (left) and Alsunbahi hold the first goat on deck for butchering while the second goat lies trussed awaiting its fate; Quraish and Alsunbahi go to work on the second goat carcass; Quraish and Hilario proudly display their delectable finished product: a finely roasted kid goat; presentation is an important element at the Lihue’s barbecue as Quraish and Alsunbahi prepare their scrumptious roast goat for the crew. 10 Seafarers LOG July 2005 �28631_pgs7_9,11,19,21_23.qxd 6/22/2005 4:38 PM Page 11 Sailing on the Liberator For two unlicensed apprentices, Samuel Thatcher and Mark Fitzgerald, their first voyage on the Liberator was a totally new experience. After completing their initial 12-week training (Phase I of the unlicensed apprentice program) at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Edu- cation at Piney Point, Md., the two members of Class 662 left the school with Steward/Baker Brandon Maeda (who sent the LOG the photos accompanying this article) to fly to Houston and board the Maersk Line Limited vessel. For the first time, they got to experience the excitement of Having gone through the shellback ceremony, Mark Fitzgerald (left) and Samuel Thatcher display the certificates that show that they crossed the equator for the first time. sailing to the North Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea while visiting Spain and Italy. The vessel also traversed the South Atlantic Ocean on the way down to ports in South Africa, where Thatcher and Fitzgerald experienced the pollywog to shellback tradition when the containership crossed the equator on its run to Capetown. “Both are great workers, good shipmates and have long careers in the SIU ahead of them if they so desire,” stated Maeda when the duo finished their 90 days (Phase II) at sea. “It was great working with both of them on their first ship, and I wish them the best of luck becoming professional seamen. Like [President] Mike Sacco is always saying—the trainees are what the union is all about—the future!” The Liberator currently is on a U.S. to South Africa run. The voyage starts in Newark, N.J. and sails to Baltimore, Newport News, Va. and Freeport, Bahamas before sailing for a couple weeks down the South Atlantic to Capetown, Durban and Port Elizabeth, South Africa before returning to the U.S. All in all, it’s about a 49-day trip. Unlicensed apprentices Mark Fitzgerand and Sam Thatcher spent 90 days at sea aboard the Liberator, learning from their more experienced crew mates. From the left are Thatcher, QMED David Terry Jr., Fitzgerald, AB Bruce Howell, Bosun Ed O’Connor and AB Roy Payne. Melvin Ellis (left) works as an SA on the Liberator; Travell Love is an AB/Watchman. Meeting with SIU’s Government Services Crew Members During Phase II of the unlicensed apprentice program, students take a turn working in all three departments aboard ship. Above, Samuel Thatcher gets some experience in the steward and deck departments while, below, Mark Fitzgerald tries his hand at various chores. When they return to the school for the third phase of the program, they will select the department in which they would like to receive specialized training. Attending the NOAA meeting are (from left) Orlando Thompson, SIU delegate aboard the Albatross IV; Rear Adm. Richard R. Behn, director of Marine and Aviation Operations at NOAA; and SIU Government Services Rep. Kate Hunt. On March 11, 2005, representatives from SIU’s Government Services Division (SIU Boston Port Agent Gerard Cooghey and Rep. Kate Hunt) attended an “allhands” meeting with crew members from SIU-crewed NOAA vessels Albatross IV and Delaware II. The meeting was held in Woods Hole, Mass., where the vessels are homeported. Also in attendance were representatives from MEBA and MM&P as well as senior NOAA management (including Rear Adm. Richard R. Behn, director of NOAA’s Marine and Aviation Operations Centers, and Capt. Gary Bulmer, commanding officer of Atlantic Marine Operations). Various personnel and operations matters were discussed, including the expected addition of 10 vessels into the NOAA fleet over the next decade. Proud of His Nephew Preparing some delicious meals aboard the Liberator are galley gang members (from left) Steward/ Baker Brandon Maeda, SA Melvin Ellis and Chief Cook Suki Suraredjo. July 2005 Recently retired AB Arthur D. Machado Jr. (left) of Belle Chasse, La. is extremely proud of his young nephew, Daniel M. Hathaway. Hathaway is a lance corporal in the U.S. Marine Corps who currently is home on leave. Stationed in North Carolina, Hathaway already has served a tour of duty in Iraq and will likely be going back in the fall. Seafarers LOG 11 �28631_P2,5,12_14,24.qxd 6/27/2005 4:40 PM Page 12 SIU Welcomes the Pride Snapshots from Christening Of SIU-Crewed Pride of America The Seafarers-crewed Pride of America was christened June 17 in New York City, marking the continued rebirth of the deep sea U.S.-flag cruise ship industry. An article covering the event appears on page 3. On these pages are photos from the day. Additional photos from the christening will be published in an upcoming issue of the LOG. SIU President Michael Sacco congratulates crew members for helping the Pride of America get off to a strong start. SIU President Michael Sacco (right) and Paul Hall Center VP Don Nolan (left) chat with Recertified Bosun Dan Marcus. U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine Chao shakes hands with Unlicensed Apprentice Isaac Garrido. The secretary visited with several apprentices following the ceremony. Seafarers in the preparation galley busily prepare pre-christ lunches for guests aboard the new vessel. SIU VPs Joseph Soresi (left) and Tom Orzechowski observe the christening. Job Growth Continues with NCL America’s Newest Vessel 1st Cook Aaron Lanet The Pride of America is the largest U.S.-flag cruise ship ever constructed. 12 Seafarers LOG The four photos directly above, left to right, show some of the facilities an July 2005 �28631_P2,5,12_14,24.qxd 6/27/2005 4:41 PM Page 13 e of America tes rica U.S. Secretary of Labor Elaine Chao points out that NCL America’s fleet will employ nearly 4,000 mariners. NCL America President and CEO Colin Veitch describes SIU President Sacco as “our strongest supporter and partner.” U.S. Coast Guard Rear Adm. Thomas Gilmour notes that the Pride of America meets or exceeds the agency’s safety standards. Star Cruises Chairman Tan Sri Lim Lok Thay reiterates the commitment of NCL America’s parent company to see the U.S.-flag venture succeed. christening Oiler Curtis Tobey and QMED Don Lumpkins Unlicensed Apprentices Karel Cain and Bob Light Unlicensed Apprentice David Moses es and décor aboard the 921-foot vessel. The Pride of America also features spacious meeting rooms, workout areas and other amenities. July 2005 Seafarers LOG 13 �28631_P2,5,12_14,24.qxd 6/22/2005 8:40 PM Page 14 Lakes Task Force Honors 2 The SIU-affiliated Great Lakes Maritime Task Force recently named U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.) and Congressman Mark Green (R-Wis.) to receive its 2005 Legislator of the Year Awards. The honors annually are bestowed on legislators who best advance the interests of the Great Lakes economy in Congress. Both recipients in early May received their awards during the task force’s 10th annual informational breakfast for the Great Lakes delegation in Washington, D.C. “Perhaps no other senator has ever made more contributions to Great Lakes shipping in their first term than Debbie A. Stabenow,” SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR SIU PACIFIC DISTRICT SUPPLEMENTAL BENEFITS FUND, INC This is a summary of the annual report of the SIU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc., EIN 94-1431246 for the year ended July 31, 2004. The annual report has been filed with the Department of Labor, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). The Board of Trustees of SIU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc. has committed itself to pay all supplemental benefits. Basic Financial Statement The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan was $1,618,698 as of July 31, 2004, compared to $2,109,227 as of August 1, 2003. During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $490,529. During the plan year, the plan had a total income of $9,392,124, including employer contributions of $9,359,818, earnings from investments of $30,506 and other income of $1,800. Plan expenses were $9,882,653. These expenses included $490,522 in administrative expenses, and $9,392,131 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report. 1. An accountant’s report; 2. Financial information and information on pay ments to service providers; 3. Assets held for investment; and 4. Transactions in excess of 5 percent of plan assets. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of SIU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc., at 1422 Market Street, San Francisco, CA 94102; telephone number (415) 437-6832. The charge to cover copying costs will be $3.25 for the full annual report, or $0.25 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and the accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and the accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan at 1422 Market Street, San Francisco, CA 94102, and at the U.S. Department of Labor Washington, DC, or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to Public Disclosure Room, Room N5638, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20210. IMPORTANT NOTICE: SEAFARERS HEALTH AND BENEFITS PLAN — COBRA NOTICE HEALTH CARE CONTINUATION Under federal law, a participant and his or her dependents have the right to elect to continue their Plan coverage in the event that they lose their eligibility. This right is granted by the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act, better known as “COBRA.” The COBRA law allows a participant and his or her dependents to temporarily extend their benefits at group rates in certain circumstances where coverage under the Plan would otherwise end. A participant and his or her dependents have a right to choose this continuation coverage if they lose their Plan coverage because the participant failed to meet the Plan’s seatime requirements. In addition, a participant and his or her dependents may have the right to choose continuation coverage if the participant becomes a pensioner ineligible for medical benefits. The participant’s dependents may also elect continuation coverage if they lose coverage under the Plan as the result of the participant’s (1) death; (2) divorce; or (3) Medicare eligibility. A child can also elect COBRA if as the result of his or her age, he or she is no longer a dependent under the Plan rules. If a member and his or her dependents feel that they may qualify, or if they would like more information concerning these rights, they should contact the Plan office at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Since there are important deadlines that apply to COBRA, please contact the Plan as soon as possible to receive a full explanation of the participant’s rights and his or her dependents’ rights. 14 Seafarers LOG said Daniel L. Smith, president of Great Lakes Maritime Task Force and national vice president, Great Lakes, American Maritime Officers. Other speakers also lauded the contributions of the Michigan senator. She was credited for having been a leader in the effort to stop the introduction of nonindigenous species into the Great Lakes from oceangoing vessels and also for having authored legislation and sought funding to find a solution to this worldwide problem. Stabenow was labeled as a person who understands that what’s good for Great Lakes shipping is good for Michigan. Her work to foster policies that benefit both also was praised. In the area of free trade, the senator was hailed as one who believes that free trade must be fair trade. “She supports fair trade in steel, but expects the federal government to react quickly to illegal dumping,” a task force official said. “She has stood with American shipyards….” “I am pleased and proud to be recognized by the Great Lakes Maritime Task Force for my legislative efforts on behalf of the Great Lakes economy,” Stabenow said. “The task force represents a broad constituency with a great stake in ensuring that we not only use the Lakes wisely, but that we also bolster commerce in the Great Lakes and create jobs. Our most recent challenge is to head off tolls on Great Lakes shipping, and I know we will continue to work together to bring commerce and jobs to our Great Lakes ports.” At the conclusion of Senator Stabenow’s remarks, the contributions of Congressman Green to the Great Lakes shipping community took center stage. U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.) receives a framed photo to signify her selection as one of two recipients of the Great Lakes Maritime Task Force’s 2005 Legislator of the Year Awards. Presenting the award is Dan Smith, president of the task force and a VP with the American Maritime Officers. Others pictured are (from left) SIU Lakes and Inland Waters Business Rep. Todd Brdak, Bill Yockey of the ILA and SIU VP Lakes and Inland Waters Tom Orzechowski. “Representative Green has been an ardent supporter of Great Lakes shipping since being elected to the House of Representatives in 1998,” said Smith. The congressman was cited for his understanding that in a post 9/11 world, having ships that are U.S.-owned, U.S.-built and U.S.crewed is not only a vital element of the country’s national security, but also a foundation America’s economic strength. Green also was recognized for his support of Wisconsin’s shipyards and his work toward advancing ship construction the United States. “A vibrant shipping industry in the Great Lakes means a healthier economy in Wisconsin,” Green said. “Since arriving in Congress I have fought alongside [the task force] to protect the Great Lakes maritime industry and I’m proud of the victories we’ve scored. I look forward to continuing my efforts with the task force.” The Great Lakes Maritime Task Force was founded in Toledo, Ohio, in 1992 to promote domestic and international Great Rep. Mark Green (R-Wis.) Lakes shipping. It is the largest 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, shipyards, and other Great Lakes interests. Among other things, its goals include preserving the domestic steelmaking infrastructure; protecting the nation’s cabotage laws; maximizing the Lakes overseas trade; and increasing funding for annual dredging of ports and waterways. SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR SIU PACIFIC DISTRICT PENSION PLAN This is a summary of the annual report for SIU Pacific District Pension Plan, 94-6061923 for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2004. The annual report has been filed with the Department of Labor, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Basic Financial Statement Benefits under the plan are provided by the Trust. Plan expenses were $11,791,666. These expenses included $884,889 in administrative expenses and $10,906,777 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 3,645 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all these persons had yet earned the right to receive benefits. The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $135,749,137 as of July 31, 2004, compared to $137,395,691 as of August 1, 2003. During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $1,646,554. This decrease includes unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets that is, the difference between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year or the cost of assets acquired during the year. The plan hada total income of $10,145,112, including employer contributions of $31,186, losses of $1,132,505 from the sale of assets, earnings from investments of $11,242,953 and other income of $3,478. Minimum Funding Standards An actuary’s statement shows that enough money was contributed to the plan to keep it funded in accordance with the minimum funding standards of ERISA. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report. 1. An accountant’s report; 2. Financial information and information on payments to service providers; 3. Assets held for investment; 4. Transactions in excess of 5 percent of plan assets; and 5. Actuarial information regarding the funding of the plan. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of SIU Pacific District Pension Plan, who is the administrator, 1422 Market Street, San Francisco CA 94102, (415) 437-6850. The charge to cover copying costs will be $17.00 for the full annual report, or $0.25 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan, 1422 Market Street, San Francisco, CA 94102 and the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, Room N5638, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20210. July 2005 �28631_pgs3,4,15_18,20.qxd 6/22/2005 3:34 PM Page 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea August & September 2005 Membership Meetings MAY 16 — JUNE 15, 2005 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Totals DECK DEPARTMENT 2 8 4 5 6 22 43 0 5 18 25 18 5 5 11 12 4 34 26 0 2 1 1 3 14 13 0 2 12 13 5 0 0 1 4 0 9 13 0 0 2 1 5 17 23 0 8 8 18 5 1 1 7 14 1 22 16 0 2 2 2 2 18 25 0 9 7 9 11 1 10 16 8 1 24 12 1 2 1 2 2 9 8 0 4 3 6 6 0 0 0 3 0 4 3 0 0 4 0 3 10 27 0 1 3 8 3 2 1 13 9 1 19 11 2 0 10 4 10 59 62 0 13 30 55 23 6 0 17 27 0 60 45 7 9 10 9 9 29 66 2 15 30 49 31 7 12 9 19 6 54 42 1 3 3 2 3 28 28 1 7 27 33 14 4 0 1 7 4 31 30 258 253 93 149 159 54 115 423 415 227 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 0 3 1 7 14 23 0 8 10 8 5 6 4 7 6 1 18 8 0 4 2 3 6 15 29 0 2 11 10 10 3 5 3 3 3 21 12 0 2 0 0 1 4 9 0 0 4 6 4 1 3 1 2 0 4 9 0 0 3 0 5 7 17 1 7 7 4 5 0 4 4 9 2 12 8 0 3 2 1 4 8 13 0 3 3 7 8 1 3 5 5 2 20 5 0 0 0 0 2 3 6 1 2 1 2 1 0 1 0 1 0 3 2 0 0 1 0 1 10 8 0 2 4 6 1 0 1 7 6 0 16 3 0 0 4 2 9 25 31 0 7 14 21 11 7 2 6 9 2 18 10 0 2 5 4 7 18 47 0 7 15 15 16 4 2 6 7 6 23 22 1 4 0 0 2 9 16 0 4 7 13 6 3 2 2 4 1 6 14 129 142 50 95 93 25 66 178 206 94 0 0 5 4 11 13 24 0 7 7 22 12 4 4 1 25 0 22 17 0 0 0 4 5 6 17 0 6 3 6 12 2 3 2 4 1 8 8 0 0 0 1 0 2 4 0 0 4 4 2 0 0 1 1 3 3 3 0 0 2 3 3 7 12 0 4 5 10 10 3 1 1 14 0 11 20 0 0 1 1 5 7 7 0 3 1 7 8 1 2 3 3 0 3 5 0 0 0 0 0 4 1 0 0 2 0 2 0 0 0 1 0 1 2 0 0 0 1 1 6 13 0 0 4 8 4 2 0 1 8 0 8 9 0 0 5 1 21 31 36 0 8 15 35 11 2 7 2 45 3 25 33 1 0 2 5 6 5 31 0 6 7 10 17 2 3 3 9 1 14 12 1 0 0 1 1 3 9 0 0 4 8 4 0 1 1 1 4 4 4 178 87 28 106 57 13 65 280 134 46 1 0 0 0 3 3 4 0 1 3 5 0 0 0 0 1 0 4 0 1 2 3 1 6 19 12 0 8 6 35 9 0 5 3 13 0 14 13 3 7 3 4 4 21 23 0 1 6 24 15 0 23 0 7 1 12 14 0 0 0 0 1 1 5 0 0 2 2 0 0 0 1 2 0 3 1 0 0 2 0 3 11 8 0 1 5 11 6 0 9 2 4 0 8 2 0 1 2 2 2 9 4 0 0 0 1 10 0 20 0 1 0 5 8 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 9 7 4 0 2 4 9 0 0 0 1 5 0 9 3 2 3 2 4 17 35 29 1 13 11 65 17 1 9 5 20 0 32 16 4 12 4 6 11 37 47 1 3 20 67 28 2 16 1 14 1 27 22 25 150 168 18 72 65 0 54 282 323 590 632 339 368 381 157 246 935 1037 690 Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals STEWARD DEPARTMENT Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Totals All Departments **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 1 0 8 3 5 31 38 0 10 15 32 17 6 0 15 14 0 41 22 Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Trip Reliefs ENTRY DEPARTMENT Piney Point .............Monday: August 8 ................................Tuesday: September 6* .................................(*change created by Labor Day holiday) Algonac ..................Friday: August 12, September 9 Baltimore ................Thursday: August 11, September 8 Boston.....................Friday: August 12, September 9 Duluth .....................Wednesday: August 17, September 14 Guam ......................Thursday: August 25, September 22 Honolulu .................Friday: August 19, September 16 Houston ..................Tuesday: August 16* .................................Monday: September 12 .................................(*change created by Paul Hall’s birthday holiday) Jacksonville ............Thursday: August 11, September 8 Joliet .......................Thursday: August 18, September 15 Mobile ....................Wednesday: August 17, September 14 New Orleans ...........Tuesday: August 16, September 13 New York................Tuesday: August 9, September 6 Norfolk ...................Thursday: August 11, September 8 Philadelphia ............Wednesday: August 10, September 7 Port Everglades.......Thursday: August 18, September 15 San Francisco .........Thursday: August 18, September 15 San Juan..................Thursday: August 11, September 8 St. Louis..................Friday: August 19, September 16 Tacoma ...................Friday: August 26, September 23 Wilmington ...............Monday: August 22, September 19 ................................. Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals MANUEL OLVERA Please contact Wayne Korb at (702) 386-2803. (Manuel was bosun and Wayne was the dayman aboard the Citrus Packer in 1956.) GEORGE MAZZOLA Please get in touch with James W. Bernachi at (618) 593-0936, or e-mail him at goofy3110378@aol.com. PAUL BORG Tommy McCormack, who worked with you 35 years ago on United States Lines’ American Archer, would like you to call him at (561) 357-0529. WILLIAM BEADLES Your godson, John Seaman, is trying to get in touch with you. Please call him at (415) 462-0841; or e-mail yardbirdie@comcast.net. JAMES BUCKOWSKI Please contact your niece, Raven Giaquinto (Wendy’s daughter), regarding your mother. The family would love to hear from you. You may e-mail Raven at skyblazerange12010@yahoo.com. ANDRE ZENE Dan Jones (your roommate at the Paul Hall School) would like to get in touch with you. Please e-mail him at danvis_65@yahoo.com. *“Total Registered” means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **“Registered on Beach” means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. July 2005 Seafarers LOG 15 �28631_pgs3,4,15_18,20.qxd 6/22/2005 3:34 PM Seafarers International Union Directory Page 16 NMU Monthly Shipping & Registration Report MAY 16 — JUNE 15, 2005 Michael Sacco, President TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Group I Group II Group III John Fay, Executive Vice President David Heindel, Secretary-Treasurer Augustin Tellez, 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 Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services René Lioeanjie, Vice President at Large Charles Stewart, Vice President at Large HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 ALTON 325 Market St., Suite B, Alton, IL 62002 (618) 462-3456 ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 BALTIMORE 2315 Essex St., Baltimore, MD 21224 (410) 327-4900 BOSTON Marine Industrial Park/EDIC 27 Drydock Ave., Boston, MA 02210 (617) 261-0790 DULUTH 324 W. Superior St., Suite 705, Duluth, MN 55802 (218) 722-4110 GUAM P.O. Box 315242, Tamuning, Guam 96931-5242 125 Sunny Plaza, Suite 301-E Tun Jesus Crisostomo St., Tamuning, Guam 96911 (671) 647-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St., Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 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 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 832-8767 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 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 FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St., San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division: (415) 861-3400 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 ST. LOUIS 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) 549-4000 16 Seafarers LOG Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 5 9 4 6 11 0 0 5 40 1 1 2 4 10 0 0 7 25 0 3 9 4 2 2 5 7 32 REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Group I Group II Group III 5 6 4 5 7 2 0 0 29 0 2 2 1 2 0 0 2 9 0 2 7 0 2 2 4 6 23 0 4 4 4 3 1 1 2 19 6 33 13 14 33 4 1 11 115 3 6 7 7 14 1 0 6 44 0 12 4 20 1 0 5 0 42 0 4 3 0 1 0 1 6 15 7 14 5 7 13 1 2 5 54 1 3 10 1 7 0 0 1 23 0 6 5 11 0 1 1 10 24 0 4 0 0 2 0 1 4 11 6 8 8 5 15 2 1 3 48 0 7 3 1 14 0 0 2 27 0 8 0 13 0 1 2 1 25 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 3 3 1 3 5 0 0 3 18 0 0 5 0 3 0 0 0 8 0 4 9 4 2 2 0 3 24 Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals Trip Reliefs DECK DEPARTMENT Port Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Group I Group II Group III 3 4 1 2 4 0 0 2 16 0 0 3 0 1 0 0 0 4 0 3 9 1 2 1 0 3 19 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 3 4 4 4 7 2 1 1 26 0 5 4 0 2 0 0 2 13 0 3 3 4 0 0 2 9 21 Port 3 2 4 3 8 1 0 2 23 0 1 3 0 5 0 0 1 10 0 2 3 0 0 0 2 9 16 ENTRY DEPARTMENT Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Totals All Departments 84 46 77 68 23 58 45 211 94 91 PIC-FROM-THE-PAST With all the celebrations surrounding the christening of the Pride of America, this photo was of a christening 30 years ago, that of the SIU-crewed J.A.W. Iglehart. It is from the LOG archives and was taken in 1965 in Cleveland. Jane Purinton, granddaughter of J.A.W. Iglehart, did the honors.. The cement carrier began life as the ocean-going tanker Pan Amoco in 1936. By 1965, its ocean-going career was at an end and it was sold to Huron Cement for conversion to a self-unloading cement carrier—and a new life on the Great Lakes. Today, the Iglehart continues much as it did in 1965. The former Huron Cement fleet now operates under the banner of Inland Lakes Management. The Iglehart holds the distinction of being the oldest turbine-driven vessel on the Great Lakes. When the E.M. Ford and S.T. Crapo were taken out of service in 1996, the Iglehart gained further distinction of being the oldest steam-powered laker in service with its original engine. If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with the LOG readership, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. July 2005 �28631_pgs3,4,15_18,20.qxd 6/22/2005 3:34 PM Page 17 Welcome Ashore 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 waterways 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. DEEP SEA WAYNE BALLARD, 65, joined the union in 1968 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Ballard was born in Texas and initially sailed in the deep sea division aboard the Santa Maria. During his seafaring career, he also shipped with the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S). Brother Ballard’s most recent voyage was on American Ship Management’s President Wilson. The steward department member makes his home in San Jose, Calif. PAUL BRADSHAW, 64, was born in Oklahoma. Brother Bradshaw began his seafaring career in 1964 in the port of New York. He first worked aboard the Monticello in the engine department. Brother Bradshaw upgraded his seafaring abilities at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. on two occasions. His last voyage was on the Innovator. Brother Bradshaw is a resident of Gardnerville, Nev. CHARLES GOOCH, 69, became a Seafarer in 1978 in the port of New York. Brother Gooch first shipped aboard the Delta Peru. He was a frequent upgrader at the Piney Point School and sailed as a member of the steward department. Brother Gooch last went to sea on the Horizon Tacoma. Born in the Philippines, he now calls Seattle home. JOHN GRAHAM, 66, joined the SIU in 1965 in the port of New York after serving in the U.S. Air Force. Brother Graham enhanced his skills on numerous occasions at the unionaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. His first voyage was on the Spitfire. Before retiring, Brother Graham worked on Pronav Ship Management’s Taurus. The deck department member was born in Pennsylvania; he currently resides in Philadelphia. GEORGE JORDANIDES, 67, embarked on his SIU career in 1979 in New Orleans, initially sailing on the Point Judy. Brother Jordanides, who was born in Connecticut, was a member of the deck department. He attended classes at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Jordanides most recently July 2005 shipped on the Constellation. He lives in Kissimmee, Fla. CHARLES KAHL, 67, started sailing with the Seafarers in 1977 in New Orleans. A veteran of the U.S. Coast Guard, Brother Kahl was born in Louisiana. He first shipped aboard a Waterman Steamship Corp. vessel. Brother Kahl worked in the deck department, upgrading frequently at the Paul Hall Center. His last vessel was the Gemini. Brother Kahl makes his home in Bush, La. DANIEL McDONALD, 63, hails from Iowa. Brother McDonald joined the ranks of the SIU in 1966 in the port of San Francisco. His first ship was the Lucile Bloomfield. In 2000 and 2001, Brother McDonald attended the training facility in Piney Point, Md. He last sailed aboard the Horizon Trader. Brother McDonald is a resident of Cedar Rapids, Iowa. MANUEL MILLAN, 68, joined the union in 1995. Brother Millan worked primarily aboard the Florida. He was born in New York and calls Davie, Fla. home. INLAND FRANKLIN HOLDER, 61, was born in Florida. Boatman Holder became an SIU member in 1982. He sailed mainly on vessels operated by C.G. Willis Inc. Boatman Holder resides in Jacksonville, Fla. CHARLES NICHOLS, 62, began his seafaring career in 1994 first sailing with Red Circle Transport. Boatman Nichols enhanced his skills at the Piney Point training center in 1998. Born in Nashville, Tenn., he last went to sea aboard a Moran Towing of Texas vessel. Boatman Nichols lives in Pensacola, Fla. GREAT LAKES ABDUL MAWARI, 65, began sailing with the union in 1973 in Detroit. Brother Mawari’s first ship was the Thomas Wilson; his last the Buffalo. Born in Arabia, he was a member of the deck department. Brother Mawari attended classes at the Paul Hall Center in 1980. He makes his home in Dearborn, Mich. Editor’s Note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU) and participants in the NMU Pension and Trust, recently went on pension. Texaco Montana. Born in Providence, R.I., his last trip to sea was aboard the Cape Ann. The deck department member’s most recent voyage was aboard the Cherry Valley. JACK ZARO, 55, started his career with the union in 1966 in Galveston, Texas. Brother Zaro first sailed on the Silvia Lykes. Celebrating a Special Birthday ROBERT McKEEVER, 61, was born in Wilmington, Del. Brother McKeever first sailed aboard the Golden Gate. He was a member of the steward department and last went to sea on the Texaco Massachusetts. ELORIS TART, 65, joined the NMU in 1964 initially shipping from the port of Mobile, Ala. Brother Tart’s first voyage was aboard the Sue Lykes. The Alabama-born mariner last worked on the Lykes Navigator. Turning 21 is a memorable day, and Steward/Baker Javier Delosreyes helped make it that much more special for SCP Brian Etz by baking him a beautiful and delicious cake. Etz and the others pictured are aboard the SIU-crewed USNS Pomeroy at sea enroute to Kuwait. The photo was submitted by Paul K. Davis, master, and sent to the LOG by Capt. Mike Finnigan. JAMES TIERNEY, 68, became an NMU member in 1989 in Boston. Brother Tierney’s first ship was the Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG. 1946 On July 24, the two largest companies contracted to SIU signed the best contracts in maritime. This concluded six weeks of hard and bitter negotiations with the shipowners, and as a result the solid front of the operators was broken. Among other things, wages were increased from $17.50 per month to as high as $50 per month. mariners through the SIU. The wage structure provided in the proposal submitted by the ITF’s Special Seafarers’ Section was based on the current average wage rates of all European union-represented seamen. For bosuns, carpenters, chief cooks and pumpmen, the average rate of pay is $252 a month—far less than half of the Seafarer’s base rate. The same ratio held for other jobs. The average European working as a bosun’s mate receives $232.80 a month. 1951 On July 20, Cities Service Oil Company agreed to the same conditions and benefits as were in effect with all other SIU-contracted tanker companies. On the terms of the agreement Cities Service agreed to the same SIU industry-wide vacation plan that the union had won from its other contracted operators on June 1. First payments by the company to the vacation plan were made retroactive to June 1. In addition the new agreement provided for an increase in the stewards’ department manning scale on Cities Service tankers with one messman being added to each ship. Other working conditions were improved in order to bring the Cities Service ships in line with the remainder of the SIU fleet. 1995 The House of Representatives overwhelmingly gave its approval on July 24 for the export sale of Alaskan North Slope crude oil as long as it is carried aboard U.S.-flag tankers. By a vote of 324 to 77 on the Alaskan Oil Export Act (H.R. 70), the House joined the Senate in endorsing legislation that will keep the U.S.flag independent tanker fleet sailing into the next century. The Senate had approved a similar bill (S. 395) by a margin of 74-25 on May 16.…. The SIU, in testimony given in March before the Senate committee and in May before the House committee considering lifting the 22year export ban, has supported the legislation because it would provide jobs for U.S. mariners. The union dropped its opposition to exporting Alaskan North Slope oil last year when legislation was introduced in Congress indicating that the product would be carried to foreign ports aboard U.S.-flag tankers. This Month In SIU History 1971 A draft of a proposed contract to be used in negotiations with runaway-flag operators who might accept a collective bargaining agreement shows graphically the advances made by U.S. Seafarers LOG 17 �28631_pgs3,4,15_18,20.qxd 6/22/2005 3:35 PM Page 18 Final Departures DEEP SEA JOHN BARTOLOME Pensioner John Bartolome, 96, passed away Jan. 4. Brother Bartolome was born in the Philippines and became a member of the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) in the port of San Francisco. Brother Bartolome worked in the steward department. He started collecting his pension in 1974 and called San Francisco home. BROOKE BUTLER Pensioner Brooke Butler, 85, died Feb. 11. Brother Butler joined the union in 1943 in the port of Norfolk, Va. His first voyage was aboard a Sproque Steamship Company vessel. Brother Butler was a member of the engine department. Prior to retiring in 1980, he sailed on the Newark. Brother Butler made his home in Richmond, Va. SAMUEL CASE JR. Pensioner Samuel Case Jr., 90, passed away March 11. Brother Case began sailing with the SIU in 1951 from the port of New Orleans. He initially shipped with Seatrain Lines in the engine department. A veteran of the U.S. Navy, Brother Case retired in 1977 after sailing aboard a Michigan Tankers vessel. Born in New Orleans, he resided in Jefferson, La. DONALD CHESTNUT Pensioner Donald Chestnut, 82, died Dec. 29. Brother Chestnut embarked on his seafaring career in 1943 in the port of Mobile, Ala. He first worked on the Rudolf Kauffman. Brother Chestnut was born in Alabama and sailed in the deck department. His last ship was the Cove Sailor. Brother Chestnut began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1985 and lived in Mobile, Ala. DONALD EDWARDS Brother Donald Edwards, 59, passed away Nov. 23. He began his seafaring career in 2002 in Seattle. Brother Edwards’ first ship was the Westward Venture. He was born in Bremerton, Wash. and worked in the engine department. Brother Edwards most recently sailed aboard the USNS Watkins. He was a resident of Seattle. ARTHUR FINNELL Pensioner Arthur Finnell, 83, passed away March 4. Brother Finnell donned the SIU colors in 1953 in the port of New York. The deck depart- 18 Seafarers LOG ment member was a veteran of the U.S. Navy. Born in Mexico, his final voyage was on the Duchess. Brother Finnell went on pension in 1990. He was a resident of Houston. CHRISTOPHER FLOWERS Pensioner Christopher Flowers, 78, died Jan. 23. Brother Flowers became an SIU member in 1951 in New York. At the beginning of his seafaring career, he sailed with Doric Shipping. Brother Flowers worked in the deck department, last sailing on the OMI Wabash. He started collecting his retirement stipends in 1989. Born in Aurora, N.C., Brother Flowers made his home in Houston. STEPHEN GALATOLO Pensioner Stephen Galatolo, 76, died Feb. 22. Born in Maryland, Brother Galatolo joined the union in 1962 in Baltimore. His first trip to sea was on the Columbia Star. Brother Galatolo was a member of the steward department. The U.S. Army veteran last shipped aboard American Overseas Marine’s Scan. Brother Galatolo resided in Towson, Md. He began receiving his retirement pay in 1996. FRANCIS HARPER Pensioner Francis Harper, 81, passed away March 2. After serving in the U.S. Army, Brother Harper launched his career with the SIU in 1948 in New York. His first ship was the Steel Voyager. Brother Harper worked as a member of the engine department. He was born in Maryland and last sailed aboard the Venture. Brother Harper retired in 1985 in Baltimore. JOHN KELLY JR. Pensioner John Kelly Jr., 78, died Feb. 3. Brother Kelly started sailing with the Seafarers in 1943 in New York. He initially worked for Alcoa Steamship Company. Brother Kelly, who was born in Mississippi, shipped in the deck department. The U.S. Army veteran last went to sea on a Michigan Tankers vessel. Brother Kelly became a pensioner in 1978. He lived in Petel, Miss. GRIM LEE Pensioner Grim Lee, 85, passed away Jan. 3. Brother Lee joined the MC&S in 1958 in San Francisco. Born in China, he was a member of the steward department. Brother Lee, who made his home in San Francisco, went on pension in 1979. EARL MATTHEWS Pensioner Earl Matthews, 74, died Jan. 5. Born in Norfolk, Va., Brother Matthews began his seafaring career in 1951. The steward department member first sailed aboard the Seagarden. Prior to retiring in 1995, Brother Matthews shipped on the OMI Sacramento. He was a resident of Dequincy, La. VINCENT PIZZITOLO Pensioner Vincent Pizzitolo, 82, passed away Feb. 3. Brother Pizzitolo joined the SIU ranks in 1953 in New Orleans. His first ship was the Del Viento. Brother Pizzitolo was a U.S. Army veteran. His last voyage was aboard the Cove Liberty, where he shipped in the steward department. Brother Pizzitolo started receiving his retirement compensation in 1987. He was born in New Orleans and lived in Metairie, La. HARRY SMITH Pensioner Harry Smith, 76, died Feb. 11. Brother Smith was born in Philadelphia, Pa. Following his service in the U.S. Army, he started sailing with the SIU in 1947. Brother Smith’s first trip to sea was on an Emerson Steam Company vessel. He worked in the deck department. Brother Smith last shipped on CSX Lines’ Integrity. In 1991, he retired and settled in Philadelphia. POLO VASQUEZ Pensioner Polo Vasquez, 82, passed away Jan. 9. Brother Vasquez joined the union in 1951, shipping as a member of the deck department. His first vessel was the Warhawk. Brother Vasquez was born in Humacao, P.R., which is also where he resided. His last ship was the Point Julie. Brother Vasquez went on pension in 1982. INLAND JEFFERY DEKERLEGAND Pensioner Jeffery Dekerlegand, 87, died Jan. 25. He became an SIU member in 1969 in New Orleans. Born in Arnaudville, La., Boatman Dekerlegand shipped in the deck department, working primarily on vessels operated by Dravo Basic Materials Company. Boatman Dekerlegand began receiving his retirement compensation in 1979 and lived in his native state. WILLIAM HOOK II Pensioner William Hook II, 66, passed away Dec. 26. Boatman Hook began shipping with the Seafarers in 1973 in the port of Norfolk, Va. He initially sailed in the deck department of a vessel operated by Virginia Pilots. Boatman Hook was a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps. He was born in Virginia and last shipped with the Association of Maryland Pilots. Boatman Hook started collecting his pension in 2000 and called Virginia Beach, Va. home. Editor’s Note: The following brothers and sister, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU) and participants in the NMU Pension and Trust, have passed away. RALPH BODDEN Pensioner Ralph Bodden, 83, passed away April 7. Brother Bodden was born in Honduras and joined the NMU in 1957, shipping first from the port of New Orleans. Brother Bodden worked in the engine department. He became a pensioner in 1986. Brother Bodden’s last trip to sea was on the James Lykes. CHARLES DINI Pensioner Charles Dini, 62, died March 18. He began sailing with the union in 1967 in Miami, Fla. Brother Dini initially navigated the seas aboard the Lyons Creek. The New York-born mariner retired in 2001. His most recent voyage was on the Green Clove. ALONSO DUARTE Pensioner Alonso Duarte, 92, passed away April 12. Brother Duarte became an NMU member in 1946. He was born in Honduras and worked in the engine department. Brother Duarte’s last ship was the Keystoner. He went on pension in 1986. DENNIS HARRIS Pensioner Dennis Harris, 82, died March 28. Brother Harris first donned the NMU colors in 1945 in the port of Seattle. Before retiring in 1986, he went to sea on the Central Gulf. VINCENT MARTIN Pensioner Vincent Martin, 79, passed away March 21. Born in Brooklyn, N.Y. Brother Martin joined the NMU in 1944. His first voyage was on the Aquarius. Brother Martin began receiving his retirement compensation in 1973. MARJORIE MORGAN Pensioner Marjorie Morgan, 76, died March 19. Sister Morgan started her NMU career in 1979 in San Pedro, Calif. The steward department member was born in Texas. Sister Morgan’s first ship was the Sinclair Texas; her last was the Alaska. She retired in 2000. WALLACE NUNES Pensioner Wallace Nunes, 77, passed away March 29. He began his seafaring career in 1945, initially working aboard the Santa Monica in the steward department. Brother Nunes was born in Sacramento, Calif. Prior to retirement in 1987, he worked on the Petersburg. FRANK TORRES Pensioner Frank Torres, 80, died March 18. After joining the NMU in 1945, Brother Torres’ initial voyage was aboard the E.R. Kemp. Born in Galveston, Texas, he was a member of the steward department. Brother Torres last shipped on the USS Chancellorsville. He started collecting his pension in 1983. YUEN YUENG Pensioner Yuen Yueng, 89, passed away April 8. Sailing out of the port of Boston, his first vessel was the Edward. Brother Yueng was born in China and worked in the engine department. He went on pension in 1978 after sailing aboard the Carbide Seadrift. Editor’s Note: In addition to the individuals listed above, the following NMU members, all of whom were pensioners, passed away on the dates indicated. NAME AGE DOD Aitken, Joseph 87 April 27 Cirino, Marcos 69 May 4 Collazo, Manuel 88 May 6 Condon, James 82 May 2 Davis, Jasper 74 Jan. 1 Douglas, Gary 72 May 18 Gould, Wendell 68 May 16 Jones, William 70 May 9 Kraesig, Melbert 81 May 6 Lino, Hector 80 April 25 Lucas, James 77 May 16 Macksound, Abel 84 April 22 Middleton, Robert 85 April 18 Nunez, Max 73 May 7 Olvera, Joseph 84 April 20 Pontus, Reinhard 82 May 8 Saunders, Frank 77 April 17 Springer, Jerry 82 April 29 Stewart, William 66 April 22 Tyler, William 77 May 5 July 2005 �28631_pgs7_9,11,19,21_23.qxd 6/22/2005 4:39 PM Page 19 Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occassion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships minutes first are reviewed by the uniion’s contract department. Those issues requiring attention or resolution are addressed by the union upon receipt of the ships’ minutes. The minutes are then forwarded to the Seafarers LOG for publicatiion. ADAM E. CORNELIUS (American Steamship Company), April 16—Chairman Scott Gallagher, Secretary Edward E. Bush, Educational Director George R. Keeley. Chairman encouraged crew members to contribute to SPAD and Maritime Defense League, as both funds are vital in protecting U.S.-flag fleet. Seafarers were reminded to work safely and sign off and reregister at union hall within 72 hours of leaving vessel. No beefs or disputed OT reported. ALASKAN EXPLORER (Alaska Tanker Company), April 26— Chairman Anthony J. Sabatini, Secretary John F. Huyett, Educational Director Winfred W. Opare, Deck Delegate Michael E. Moore, Engine Delegate Detricke R. Kelly, Steward Delegate David W. Vaughn. Chairman praised crew for working safely during vessel start up and noted vessel operations went smoothly. He reported on changes to health plan and informed crew that complete list of medical providers is available on SIU website. Secretary thanked crew members for separating plastics from regular trash and stated new receptacle now in place for recycling aluminum cans. Educational director advised mariners to watch expiration dates on z-cards and other important documents, as renewing them takes time. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made regarding vacation pay. Questions raised pertaining to disposition of NMU annuity funds and starting a movie library. Next port: Long Beach, Calif. AMERICAN MARINER (American Steamship Company), April 28—Chairman Albert J. Brzezinski, Secretary Daniel J. Kane, Educational Director Mark A. MacRury, Steward Delegate Daniel J. Kane. Chairman reported all departments operating smoothly and stressed the need for continuing to work well—and safely—together. Educational director spoke about upgrading opportunities available at Paul Hall Center for Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. He mentioned that when applying for vacation benefits, Seafarers should make sure they have both discharges and monthly pay records. No beefs or disputed OT reported. AMERICAN SPIRIT (American Steamship Company), April 29— Chairman Rudolph W. Tahtinen, Secretary Nasser M. Aljalham, Educational Director Craig Fitzhugh, Engine Delegate Michael Kruse. Chairman reminded crew to follow union and company procedures when leaving and returning to ship. Secretary reported company has resolved security problems at Zug Island, Mich. When going on vacation, crew members were reminded to contact union within 72 hours and before returning to reclaim job. Also, everyone should make sure z-cards and all paperwork are updated before returning to ship. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Discussion held on proper channels to follow when problems arise aboard ship. Next ports: Superior, July 2005 Wis.; Indiana Harbor, Ind. HORIZON CHALLENGER (Horizon Lines), April 19—Chairman Roy L. Williams, Secretary Donald B. GaNung, Educational Director Clive A. Steward, Deck Delegate Francisco Caceres, Engine Delegate Karl A. Leiter, Steward Delegate John L. Foster. Chairman informed crew about two new ships coming out, a double-hulled tanker and a passenger ship, “This means more growth for the union and more jobs for us,” he said. Educational director told crew that meetings were being held at each port to inform members, spouses and dependents about changes to costs of health care benefits. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Treasurer stated more than $200 available in ship’s fund, possibly for DVDs. Suggestion made to raise pension and lower age required to retire. MAERSK RHODE ISLAND (Maersk Line Limited), April 1— Chairman Stephen J. Argay, Secretary Army J. Leake, Educational Director William Pough, Engine Delegate George R. Moxley, Steward Delegate Craig S. Croft. Chairman reported that during shipyard period, mess areas will be locked after each meal and overnight. Educational director informed crew that schedule for upgrading courses at Paul Hall Center are in each issue of Seafarers LOG. He urged them to check expiration dates on documents needed for shipping. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made regarding age and seatime requirements needed to receive full pension benefits. Vote of thanks given to steward department for outstanding food and service. Next port: Gibraltar. WALTER J. McCARTHY JR. (American Steamship Company), April 25—Chairman Michael L. Schaff, Secretary Dariusz T. Czepczynski, Educational Director John F. Bonifas. Chairman reviewed matters discussed at winter bosun’s meeting in Algonac. He also talked about importance of safety at sea and encouraged members to donate to SPAD and MDL. Educational director encouraged crew members to check Seafarers LOG for information on classes available at Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Deck delegate reminded crew to keep shipping credentials up to date. CAPE INTREPID (Crowley Liner Services), May 8—Chairman Michael Brewley, Secretary Christopher B. Amigable, Educational Director Phillip L. Greenwell, Engine Delegate William E. Cassel, Steward Delegate Emilia L. Woodin. Chairman announced payoff May 11 in Jacksonville and will then head to Tacoma, Wash. Secretary asked for everyone’s assistance in keeping ship clean. Educational director urged mariners to upgrade skills at union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew members requested new mattresses for everyone, parts for coffee machine and more information on pension plan. Vote of thanks given to steward department for delicious food, especially freshly baked goodies. CAPE KENNEDY (Keystone Shipping), May 20—Chairman Donald Byrd, Secretary Eddie W. Taylor, Educational Director Anton Popescu. Chairman advised all mariners to keep documents current and contribute to SPAD. Secretary encouraged crew to always think of safety while working aboard ship. Educational director urged members to upgrade skills at Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew members requested computer be set up in steward’s office that could be used for e-mailing family and friends. Crew thanked Captain Galgano for keeping them informed and supplying daily newspapers. Next ports: Beaumont, Texas; New Orleans, La. HORIZON PRODUCER (Horizon Lines), May 1—Chairman Joel A. Lechel, Secretary Danny A. Brown, Educational Director Angel S. Hernandez, Deck Delegate Alvin V. Jackson, Engine Delegate Greg Alvarez, Steward Delegate Fernando L. Vega. Chairman announced payoff May 6 in Jacksonville, Fla. He led discussion about changes made to medical benefits and assured crew any questions would be addressed by boarding patrolman. He also suggested that z-cards should be renewed well before expiration date to ensure no disruption of sailing. Educational director requested full explanation of changes to benefit plan to pass on to crew. Treasurer said contributions are welcome to continue satellite TV and radio. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made regarding member control over investments of Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan. New dryer installed in crew laundry. Seafarers were asked to keep room clean and follow separation of trash policy aboard vessel. Vote of thanks given to Steward Vega and his department for great pig roast. Crew also recognized Apprentices Robert Noble and Kenneth Thompson for their hard work. Next port: San Juan, P.R. INTEGRITY (Maersk Line Limited), May 13—Chairman Domingo Leon Jr., Secretary Stephanie L. Sizemore, Educational Director Dennis R. Baker, Deck Delegate John C. Wagner, Engine Delegate Gregorio A. Blanco, Steward Delegate Rodrigo Jimenez. Bosun announced May 19 payoff in Houston following stop in Charleston, S.C. He thanked crew for an excellent trip. Secretary expressed gratitude to all hands for helping keep ship clean, especially GUDE Richard Gould for tending to living area. Educational director stressed need for keeping safe work area and eliminate tripping hazards. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made to have just one standard contract for freight ships and one for tankers. Crew requested written clarification on new medical care benefits. Thanks given to steward department for excellent food, to QMED and electrician for keeping galley equipment in good working order and to bosun for maintaining decks. Next ports: Charleston, S.C.; Houston and Freeport, Texas; Miami, Fla. JOHN L. BOLAND (American Steamship Company), May 16— Chairman Michael J. Keogh, Secretary Earl N. Hicks, Educational Director Martin L. Hochstafl, Engine Delegate David E. Werda. Chairman reported that company safety director came aboard ship recently to talk to members. He asked that everyone be extra careful to avoid accidents. Secretary reminded crew about importance of contributing to SPAD and MDL. Educational director encouraged mariners to check expiration dates on all shipping documents. Steward department thanked fellow crew members for helping keep galley and messroom clean at night. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Port agent’s report about passports was read and discussed, and Union Plus literature was distributed. Crew members informed that water taxi service has been arranged while in Detroit at G.L. Steel. Discussion held on changes to medical plan. Next port: Toledo, Ohio. METEOR (Maersk Line Limited), May 9—Chairman Stephen Kastel, Secretary Peter J. Schmitt, Educational Director Christopher L. Earhart, Steward Delegate Claudia Mauricio. Chairman announced payoff May 10 in Los Angeles. He reminded departing mariners to leave rooms tidy for next person. Secretary thanked crew for helping keep messrooms clean. Educational director encouraged crew to take advantage of Paul Hall Center this summer whether for vacation or upgrading, and to keep shipping documents current. Treasurer stated BBQ and TVs being purchased soon. Suggestion made to request that seamen’s clubs overseas coordinate hours with ship arrivals. No beefs or disputed OT reported. PATRIOT (Maersk Line Limited), May 1—Chairman George B. Khan, Secretary Robin D. Ballard, Educational Director Phillip A. Curtis, Deck Delegate Lloyd B. La Beach Jr., Engine Delegate Sjarifudin Noor. Chairman reported no news yet on reflagging of vessel. Secretary thanked bosun and day worker for taking care of all repairs. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Educational director informed crew members that listing of courses offered at the SIU-affiliated training center in Piney Point is available in Seafarers LOG each month. New TV for lounge has been ordered and is to arrive in Hong Kong. Suggestion made to change formula by which pension benefits are established. Vote of thanks given to steward department for great food. Next port and port of payoff: Ensenada, Mexico. USNS SISLER (Maersk Line Limited), May 2—Chairman Eddie L. Thomas, Secretary Susan K. Bowman, Educational Director Timothy A. Chestnut, Deck Delegate Abdul R. Hasan, Steward Delegate Efren Matias. Chairman thanked steward department for job well done. Secretary encouraged mariners to use mail order prescription forms to send for medications. Educational director talked about upgrading at Paul Hall Center and importance of contributing to SPAD. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made to set up schedule for video library; bosun offered to manage it. Request made for soda machines. Next port and port of payoff: Beaumont, Texas. SIU-Crewed Sealand Express Makes Final Voyage Recertified Steward Robert Davis makes it look easy as he whips up a condiment for the upcoming meal. On Feb. 24, 2005, the Sealand Express began its last voyage as an SIU-contracted vessel. One month later, on March 25 in the port of Genoa, Italy, the ship was turned over to its new foreign crew, and the American crew members flew home. According to Recertified Steward Robert Davis, who sent these photos to the LOG, on the way to Genoa, the ship carried five Indian passengers who were to be replacement officers. They had nothing but praise for the entire galley gang and the quality of the food as well as the variety of items in the salad bar. Capt. Robert Lamb and the rest of the crew gave special thanks to each steward department member for a job well done. Left: Chief Cook Connie Tarplin prepares her delicious fish fry. The galley gang poses with Capt. Robert Lamb on a beautiful day aboard ship in the Mediterranean. From the left are Captain Lamb, Chief Cook Connie Tarplin, Recertified Steward Robert Davis and SA Dominic Dumlao. Steward Assistant Dominic Dumlao pitches in and preps for the noon meal: cheeseburgers. Seafarers LOG 19 �28631_pgs3,4,15_18,20.qxd 6/22/2005 3:35 PM Page 20 Letter to the Editor (Editor’s note: The Seafarers LOG reserves the right to edit letters for grammar as well as space provisions without changing the writer’s intent. The LOG welcomes letters from members, pensioners, their families and shipmates and will publish them on a timely basis.) Sailors’ Snug Harbor Announces Sale of Retirement Facility In an effort to keep as many seamen—retired and active—as informed as possible, F. Patrick Ausband, the executive director of The Sailors’ Snug Harbor in Sea Level, N.C., has requested that the following press release be shared with the SIU membership. The Trustees of The Sailors’ Snug Harbor have announced the sale of the retirement facility located in Sea Level, N.C., which they have owned and operated since 1976. The transaction is part of a strategy formulated in the early 1990s to better leverage the Scholarship Winners Announced Continued from page 7 ing and tutoring at the elementary school, helping a drug recovery center with a Christmas tree sale and assisting with Kids Vote Hawaii during the elections. Viernes has a passion for graphic design and graphic communications, but he will most likely pursue the field of electrical engineering which, he believes, will allow him to be involved with the testing and creation of new technologies that will benefit people and make their lives easier. To that end, he has applied to the University of Washington, University of Hawaii and San Jose State University. The 18-year-old is the son of Nora and Leopoldo Viernes Jr., an SIU member since 1987 who currently sails as an AB aboard the Horizon Trader. assets of the Trust and to provide expanded assistance to a larger number of retired seamen in their own homes and in facilities around the country. Plans for the sale have been widely discussed with the maritime public for several years. Terms of the sale insure the continued care of current residents and future seamen who wish to retire at the Sea Level facility. ... In 1990, the Trustees undertook a comprehensive study of eligible potential beneficiaries to determine why seamen were not seeking admission and what additional ways could be developed to provide help to a larger segment of aging mariners....It was determined that there were approximately 25,000 mariners eligible for admission at that time. Over two-thirds of that number were married and most were not at all interested in leaving spouses and/or families.... Of the remaining one-third, most had been married and many had children or other family members residing in the area where they had elected to retire. The information uncovered by Trustees revealed, however, that there were still a number of seamen with financial problems. After considerable study and discussion, the Trustees elected to create a pilot project to provide stipendiary assistance—money paid to service providers or vendors—on behalf of retired seamen to allow them to “age in place.” Because the Trustees are New York-based, the pilot project was restricted to the New York City area. After a year of operation, the Trustees were satisfied that the approach was a sensible and solid one.... Data revealed that the recipients were very pleased with the assistance they were receiving, providing them a higher quality of life in retirement, and all stated that the program approach was quite “user friendly.” Armed with that information and enthused that the “portability” of the program could allow them to continue helping retired seamen everywhere, the Trustees engaged a law firm in New York to petition the Surrogate’s Court to change the will to develop the Outreach Assistance program as the primary way seamen would receive help from the Trust in the future.... The Trustees expected the decline in census to accelerate when seamen had the opportunity to receive help at home. This did, in fact, happen and plans were made to sell the facility to another operator who would contract with the Trustees for the continued care of seamen in residence and for those who desired to come in the future. As these efforts initially proved unsuccessful, the Trustees formed a wholly-owned subsidiary corporation in 2001 to allow the admittance of the paying public. The number of seamen in the 120-bed facility was down to 59 by that time. After four years of operating under the subsidiary corporation, the census rose to over 100 with approximately half of the residents being non-seafarers. The integration of persons from different backgrounds into the seamen’s home proved to be smoother than anticipated and beneficial in virtually all respects. After two years of negotiations, the Trustees have sold the retirement facility to a small group of private investors.... Seamen will always be welcome and will, in fact, have the highest priority for admission. In other words, should there ever be a waiting list for admission, any seaman desiring admission will go to the top of the list. The new owners have also agreed to keep staffing patterns at the same high rate they have been, thus ensuring high quality care. Even recreational events such as the weekly happy hour have been covered in the contractual agreement. The Trustees, in turn, will continue to inspect the facility at Sea Level and assure that mariners are provided a beautiful retirement facility and excellent medical and nursing care. It is the intent and desire of the new owners of the facility to actively market for mariner residents while the Trust will continue to offer outreach assistance for those in need of help but desire to remain in their own homes.... All those interested in obtaining more information about the Mariners Outreach Assistance Program or admission to the residential facility in Sea Level, N.C. may call 1-800-257-5456 or email: www.thesailorssnugharbor.com. Former Seafarer’s ‘Modern Stories’ Offers Entertainment and Insights Capt. Kelly Sweeney, a former SIU member and current master mariner, pulls no punches in his newly released book, “From the Bridge–Authentic Modern Sea Stories.” The 188-page paperback is packed with crisp anecdotes, strong opinions and learned insights into shipboard life in the U.S. Merchant Marine. It is a compilation of monthly columns written by Sweeney for Pacific Maritime Magazine. Sweeney sailed with the SIU in the deck department from 1983-85. He credits the late SIU Vice President George McCartney with helping him solidify his seafaring career (which continues today), and recalls that SIU Wilmington Port Agent John Cox was one of his first shipmates. “The SIU gave me my start, and I’ll never forget it,” Sweeney stated. “When I needed a break, the SIU gave me that break and got me started. In my opinion, the SIU has only gotten better—more jobs, great school and on a forward-looking mission.” Sweeney is equally candid and not afraid to criticize in “From the Bridge.” He tackles a wide range of subjects including crew sizes, the amended STCW convention, piracy, entry training, holidays at sea, gender equality and much more. 20 Seafarers LOG The book includes photos and in a few different chapters briefly mentions the SIU and its affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. A news release from the book’s publisher (Philips Publishing Group) captured the volume’s flavor with this line: “Captain Sweeney distills the essence of a mariner’s life for us in this compilation of stories.” “From the Bridge–Authentic Modern Sea Stories” sells for $15.95 (not including shipping) and may be ordered from Philips Publishing Group at (206) 2848285 or through their web site (www.pacmar.com). On the web site, a PDF-format Captain Sweeney’s book offers a firsthand order form is available. look into life at sea. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the 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 recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU 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 disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval 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 shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively 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 employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers 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 filing 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 SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful 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 responsibility for Seafarers 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 OBLIGATIONS. 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 headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect 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 Michael 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. July 2005 �28631_pgs7_9,11,19,21_23.qxd 6/22/2005 4:39 PM Page 21 SEAFARERS PAUL HALL CENTER UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE Engine Upgrading Courses The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. through the end of this year. All programs are geared to improve the job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation’s security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Deck Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion FOWT September 19 November 11 Welding August 22 September 9 September 19 October 7 October 24 November 11 October 31 November 18 Safety Specialty Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Advanced Fire Fighting* July 18 July 29 July 4 July 8 (*must have basic fire fighting) Course Start Date Date of Completion August 8 August 12 Able Seaman July 11 August 5 August 22 August 26 August 22 September 16 September 26 September 30 October 3 October 28 October 31 November 4 November 14 December 9 November 14 November 18 Automatic Radar Plotting Aids* August 22 August 26 August 1 August 5 (ARPA) (*must have radar unlimited) October 24 October 28 Bridge Resource Management November 14 Government Vessels Medical Care Provider Tankerman Familiarization/ November 18 Assistant Cargo (DL)* August 1 August 11 September 26 October 7 October 17 October 21 (*must have basic fire fighting) (Unlimited) Tankerman (PIC) Barge* Celestial Navigation July 18 August 11 GMDSS (Simulator) August 29 September 9 October 31 November 11 August 8 August 19 September 19 September 30 October 29 November 11 August 8 August 17 October 10 October 19 (*must have basic fire fighting) Lifeboatman/Water Survival Radar Radar Renewal (1 day): Academic Department Courses General education and college courses are available as needed. In addition, basic vocational support program courses are offered throughout the year, one week prior to the AB, QMED Junior Engineer, FOWT, Third Mate, Tanker Assistant and Water Survival courses. An introduction to computers course will be self-study. August 29, October 31 Steward Upgrading Courses Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations modules start every week. Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward classes start every other week beginning May 30, 2005. UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ Telephone _________________________ Date of Birth ______________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty (120) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, and qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. All OL, AB, JE and Tanker Assistant (DL) applicants must submit a U.S. Coast Guard fee of $140 with their application. The payment should be made with a money order only, payable to LMSS. COURSE BEGIN DATE END DATE ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ Seniority _____________________________ Department _____________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ U.S. Citizen: ____________________________ _______________ _______________ Deep Sea Member Lakes Member Inland Waters Member If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security # ______________________ Book # _________________________ Yes No Home Port _____________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held _____________________________________ LAST VESSEL: _____________________________________ Rating: ___________ _____________________________________________________________________ Date On: ___________________________ Date Off: ________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? Yes No If yes, class # __________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? Yes No If yes, course(s) taken ___________________________________________________ Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? Yes No Firefighting: Yes No CPR: Yes No Primary language spoken ________________________________________________ July 2005 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. 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 students, who are otherwise qualified, of 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. 7/05 Seafarers LOG 21 �28631_pgs7_9,11,19,21_23.qxd 6/22/2005 4:40 PM Page 22 Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 662 — Graduating from the water survival class are unlicensed apprentices from class 662 (from left, front row) Robert James, Adrian Taylor, David Spaulding, David Maisonet, Christopher Doucet, Blake Pullins, David Vandecar, Mario Moralita, (second row) Terry Lane, David Anderson, Justin Jarmolowicz, Scott Jones, Troy Sullivan, Patrick Guertin, David Bennett, Mark Fitzgerald, Robert Hardesty, (back row) Renaudo Pierce, Jack Gainers, Samuel Thatcher, Romeko Fly, Roger Dillinger, Willie Lewis, Oscar Pena, Dean Bettis and Geoffrey Hull. ARPA — The three Seafarers completing the ARPA course April 22 are (in alphabetical order) Ato Aikins, Shannon Smith and Michael Worthington. Their instructor, Mike Smith, is at far left. Small Arms Training — Completing the small arms training course April 29 are unlicensed apprentices in Phase III of their program. They are (in alphabetical order) Fausto Aranda, Audania Bomar, Billie Munoz, Karberto Ramos, Edgar Reed, Timothy Reiman, Anthony Roca, James Ruffin, Benny Samosan, William Sanchez, Gabriel Santa and Jon Silveira. Their instructor, Robbie Springer, is at far left. Chief Cook — Working their way up the culinary ladder are graduates of the chief cooks class (in no specific order) Jaime Austria, Fatir Muhammad, Darlene Steede, Gerald Joseph and Benjamin Ines. Specially Trained OS — With Stacey Harris (not pictured) as their instructor, the following students completed the STOS course April 22. They are (in no specific order) Elliott Del Aguila, Victor Nunez, Kenneth Johnson, Louis Kramm, Audania Bomar, Craig Burmeister, Calvin Andrews Jr., Perry King, John Kelly, Steven Hurden, Steven Cedres, Norman Dize and Richard Green. Welding — Under the instruction of Buzzy Andrews (center, back row) are students who completed the welding course April 29. They are R.J. Rowland, Jordan Cuddy, Gary Ranne, Alshea Dixon, Kris Bechtel, Daniel Link, Daniel Borden and Edward Fore. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Specially Trained OS — Receiving their certificates of completion April 22 from instructor Brad Wheeler (fourth from left) are (in no specific order) Anthony Roca, Jon Silveira, Samuel Miller, Patrick Ryan, Karberto Romos, Timothy Littles, Nelson Smith, Michael Rodriguez, Adam Ramey, Billie Munoz, Nigel Williams and James Ruffin. Computer Lab Classes On April 22, Robert Austin received his certificate of achievement for completing the Computer Basics course. With him is Instructor Rick Prucha. Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations — April 22 was graduation day for students in the basic auxiliary plant operations class. They are (in no specific order) Tim Rieman, Robert Ott, Dean Parks, Stanley Smith, Richard Frederick, Leandro Cacho, Freddy DeCoteau, Michael Hill, Jonathan Singleton, Tim Johnson II, Brian Joyner, Brandon Granger, Ian Manthey, Ken Johnson, Garfield Persley Jr., Michael Warner and William Burdette. 22 Seafarers LOG July 2005 �28631_pgs7_9,11,19,21_23.qxd 6/22/2005 4:41 PM Page 23 Paul Hall Center Classes Water Survival — Alaska Fishermen, April 22: Tracy Hanson, William Sanborn, Robert Mobert, Dennis Parsons, Garry Smock, Oliver Fronteras, Nicolas Macaraeg Jr., Richard Pelkey, Christopher Demmert, Steve Cooper and Michael Moody. Water Survival — NCL, April 29: Michael Maldonado, Rodrigo Santos, Andrew Sparks, Endra Hartanto, Jose Quinones, Karen Gillespie, Gina Forneris, Daniel Bryan, Claude Fowler Jr., Alexandra Stafford, Robert Dunlap, Tegnear Butler, James Gouveia Jr. and Shantell Thomas. Basic Safety Training Classes STCW— April 22: Jamal Sailan, Ross Waisanen, Timothy Brock, James Demouy, Christopher Edyvean and Tracy Hill. Their instructor, Tony Sevilla, is at far right. STCW — NCL, April 22: Ofeibia Laud-Darku, Kenneth McDowell, Alexander Rust, Mitch Rosen, Valerie Lucidon, Michael Maldonado, Jamaica Robert, Troy Powell, Kelly McLaughlin, Geoffrey Pitts, Jose Quinones, Sean Langenberg, Cory McGeehon, Scott Moore, Larry O’Neal, Joshua Roberson, Joseph Romero, Mary Rivera, Allen Mallari, Brandon McCowan, Anthony Miller, Chen Lem and Ered Matthew. STCW — NCL, April 22: Erin Adams, Gerard Alcantara, Christian Baca, Phillip Best, Carol Bingley, Kristen Blinkhorn, Vickie Boehmer, Eric Bolinger, Lory Bueno, Allison Carpenter, Andrew Case, Quinn Challinor, Elizabeth Chatham, Adam Clark, Jason Cole, Howard Cook, Cordi Coward-Stringfellow, Fanny Defais, Robert Delao, Louvenia Denmark, Denis Doerfler, Nicholas Dolce, Lacee Doolin and Nicholas Duncan. STCW — NCL, April 22: Robert Dunlap, Robert Duvall, Alejandro Escobedo, Richard Fisher III, Gina Forneris, Jacquelyn Fortini, Claude Fowler Jr., Tiffany George, Christopher Giffen, Karen Gillespie, James Gouveia Jr., Robert Haden, Jennifer Hall, Peter Hamilton, Carl Higgins Jr., Peter Ibanez, Victor John, Shamean Johnson, Christopher Jolly, Debra Jones, Logan Keith, Andrew Kemp, Laura Kratz, Michelle Lane and Marshall Keyes Jr. July 2005 STCW — NCL, April 22: Julio Sablan, Josue Sanchez, Ren Sanders-Mills, Tawana Santiago, Rodrigo Santos, Krishanna Scotland, D-An Smith, Hollie Smith, Karima Smith, Andrew Sparks, Alexandra Stafford, Evan Stephenson, Carolyn Stone, Guadalupe Tapia, Shaaaaaaaaantell Thomas, Jonah Townsdin, Yvonne Turner, Cody Vick, Terrance Welte, Monique West, Chinatbu Williams, Noel Wong, Kristi Woodruff and Edwardo Zuniga. STCW — NCL, April 29: Seth Alechko, Kuang An, Lucretia Anders, Mark Anglemyer Jr., Samantha Baker, Michael Barnes, Phylicia Bell, Style Bell, Eliezer Berger, Robert Bia, James Brown, Aaron Campos, Michael Canning, Kathryn Cardwell, Michael Ceraso, Betty Chambers, Cecilia Chan, Kimberly Chesnutt, Janice Clemons, Nicole Calcagno and James Cowan. Seafarers LOG 23 �28631_P2,5,12_14,24.qxd 6/27/2005 4:32 PM Page 24 Volume 67, Number 7 July 2005 A t P F D I D R S a P f t P S 1 FUNERAL OF LABOR LEADER: SIU Wilmington Port Agent John Cox (right) and Patrolman Andrew Linares join thousands of union members, labor and community activists and public officials at the funeral of Miguel Contreras, LCLAA Executive Board Member and Executive Secretary-Treasurer for Los Angeles County Federation of Labor. The labor leader died May 6. JEAN ANNE: The SIU-crewed car carrier Jean Anne (above) entered service in the Jones Act trades between California and the Hawaiian islands last March. It is the first pure car and truck carrier to be built in the U.S. and the first such vessel to service this particular trade. The new vessel recently was in San Diego where these photos were taken. Above left is the100-ton stern ramp, painted on the outside with pictures of cars and trucks. At right, aboard the vessel, are (from the left) Electrician Allen Jones, SIU Patrolman Andrew Linares, Bosun Daniel Davenport and Steward Samuel Sinclair. ALASKAN FRONTIER: Recertified Bosun Carlos Loureiro (above) checks out the latest copy of the Seafarers LOG during a recent stop in Wilmington, while (left) an AB attends to his work aboard the Seafarers-contracted vessel operated by Alaska Tanker Company for BP. At right are the ship’s chairman, Greg Lynch (left) and the steward delegate, Justo Reyes (right). DEFENDER: The port of Los Angeles was the final payoff for the crew of the Defender before the ship was to be reflagged. Crew members (above and at right) completed their paperwork at the meeting, which was attended by Port Agent John Cox and Patrolman Andrew Linares. The ship is being replaced with a newer SIU-crewed vessel. MARITIME DAY: A wreath was presented by the SIU at the annual Maritime Day ceremony and luncheon, hosted by the American Merchant Marine Veterans Memorial Commmittee. The May 22 event took place at the San Pedro AMMV memorial. Standing with the wreath are Wilmington Port Agent John Cox (left) and dispatcher Nick Rios. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2000-2009 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXII-LXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present, Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource July 2005 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES SIU JOB GROWTH CONTINUES WITH PRIDE OF AMERICA NCL NEWEST VESSEL CHRISTENED FINAL AGREEMENTS SET FOR 10 NEW TANKERS 3RD TANKER ‘FLOATED OUT’ PRIDE OF AMERICA CHRISTENED NCL AMERICA’S 2ND SHIP CONTINUES ‘HUGE SUCCESS STORY’ SIU-CREWED LAKES FLEET GROWS AS BURNS HARBOR JOINS ASC NEW RIVERBOAT IN DETROIT BRINGS ADDITIONAL UNION JOBS USNS LEWIS AND CLARK CHRISTENED IN SAN DIEGO USNS MERCY RETURNS FROM RELIEF MISSION SMU MEMBERS VOTE FOR SIU SIU VP CORGEY APPOINTED TO HOUSTON ETHICS COMMITTEE SMU MEMBERS VOTE FOR SIU IMO CONTINUES EFFORTS TO BOLSTER SECURITY PORTS TO ADD RADIATION MONITORS MANULANI CHRISTENED AT KVAERNER CHEF ROMEO DIES AT 82 MEMORIAL FUND ESTABLISHED IN MEMORY OF SAL AQUIA U.S. HEALTH INSURANCE WOES CONTINUE RETIRED STEWARD WARE PUBLISHES FIRST BOOK AFL-CIO GROUP OKAYS SWEEPING NEW POLICIES MAJOR RELIGIOUS GROUP BACKS EMPLOYEE FREE CHOICE ACT/CARD CHECK AOTOS HONOREES ANNOUNCED LABOR UNIONS FOR $400, ALEX CIVMAR NEWS: REQUEST FOR RELIEF PILOT PROGRAM NEW LAW COVERS PRESCRIPTION DRUGS A DO-IT-YOURSELF BBQ ON THE LIHUE SIU WELCOMES THE PRIDE OF AMERICA LAKES TASK FORCE HONORS 2 AROUND THE PORT OF WILMINGTON Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 07/01/2005 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 67, No. 7 2005 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/d6f0d6016dc6edc135526e590318960c.pdf bb4bc44aa444e73c68a2a9c472747f14 PDF Text Text 36817p01_02_04_24x1.qxp 6/27/2006 8:14 PM Page 1 Volume 68, Number 7 July 2006 President Praises Mariners President Bush on June 19 delivered the commencement address at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, and he offered strong words of support not only for the graduates but for the U.S. Merchant Marine as a whole. In photo at left, en route to Washington, D.C. after attending the graduation ceremony in Kings Point, N.Y., President Bush poses with SIU President Michael Sacco after their meeting in the president’s office on Air Force One. Below, President Bush addresses the audience at the academy (the SIU president is seated sixth from President Bush’s left). In his column on page 2, President Sacco reflects on the experience. White House photos by Kimberlee Hewitt Philly Tankers Reach Construction Milestones Union-contracted Aker Philadelphia Shipyard recently announced two milestones in its “Veteran Class” tanker construction program. The keel was laid for the second vessel in the U.S.-flag series (far left photo)—a ship scheduled for completion in 2007. A week earlier, the shipyard started production on the third of the 10 doublehulled tankers. Construction also continues on the first ship in the series, pictured at immediate left. Page 3. New Cruise Ship Arrives in Hawaii Christened May 20 in Los Angeles, the SIUcrewed Pride of Hawaii is the newest addition to NCL America’s fleet. The ship arrived in Kauai’s Nawiliwili Harbor early May 28 to dock in Hawaii for the first time. Before that, the vessel traveled a long route beginning at a shipyard in Germany. We’ve got lots of photos of that journey on pages 12 and 13. Moment of Remembrance On May 29 a number of SIU members participated in Memorial Day observances at sea and ashore. Those events included the National Memorial Day Parade in Washington, D.C. and shipboard ceremonies conducted for the National Moment of Remembrance. At left, crew members and military personnel on the USNS John McDonnell do their part for the National Moment of Remembrance. Page 4. Standard Contract News Page 3 SIU Family Photos Page 11 �36817p01_02_04_24.qxp 6/27/2006 1:45 AM Page 2 Unions Adopt Key Resolution President’s Report SIU Statement Focuses on Mariners’ Rights Our Commander-in-Chief Both personally and professionally, June 19 is a day I’ll always remember. On that date, I had the great opportunity to travel with President Bush, Secretary of Transportation Norman Mineta and other dignitaries aboard Air Force One as the president flew to the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy to deliver the commencement address. So many things stand out about that day it’s Michael Sacco hard to know where to start. But I want every Seafarer to know that President Bush definitely understands and appreciates the absolute necessity of maintaining a strong U.S. Merchant Marine. In particular he knows that America must have a strong U.S.-flag presence in the commercial sector, partly because such action helps guarantee the ongoing presence of a pool of well-trained, loyal, U.S. citizen seafarers. His appearance at the academy, where he spent several hours, says a lot about the president’s view on our industry. As he said during his formal remarks, “America is a great maritime power, and our merchant marine has a vital role to play. In times of peace, the merchant marine helps ensure our economic security by keeping the oceans open to trade. In times of war, the merchant marine is the lifeline of our troops overseas, carrying critical supplies, equipment, and personnel.” It’s tough to imagine a stronger endorsement than that one. Behind the scenes on the airplane, President Bush was equally enthusiastic about our nation’s mariners. Simply put, he gets it. He knows we’re the nation’s fourth arm of defense, and that we remain ready to deliver the goods—anytime, anywhere. That is no small achievement when you think about how generally overlooked our industry sometimes seems. It is recognition and an approval at the highest level, and it obviously must not be taken for granted. As mentioned, other strong supporters of the U.S. Merchant Marine also made the trip from Washington to Kings Point and back. They included Secretary Mineta, as articulate a spokesman as our industry has ever had, and recently retired White House Chief of Staff Andrew Card, a huge figure in advancing both the original and the expanded U.S. Maritime Security Program. For our industry, the entire day was a home run. I also want to share with the membership how warm and welcoming President Bush was throughout the entire experience, both aboard Air Force One and at the school. He could not have been any more generous with his time or any more willing to listen when we had a chance to discuss the U.S. Merchant Marine. His friendliness toward me felt genuine, and I believe 100 percent that it also reflects his appreciation for the sacrifices made by SIU members and other mariners in defense of this great nation. On a much lighter note, if you’re wondering about the perks of the presidency and what it’s like to travel with our commanderin-chief, let’s just say you never have to wait in line. The security and the overall flow from point to point were very impressive throughout the day, a true credit to all concerned. On the other hand, it’s not as easy as it looks to keep your balance when ducking underneath whirling helicopter blades, as I discovered when President Bush moved from Air Force One to Marine One, the presidential helicopter. Brothers and sisters, on June 19 I couldn’t have been happier to answer the question, “How was your day?” It was a real thrill and a real honor, not just for me but for the whole Seafarers International Union. Volume 68, Number 7 The SIU and the Seafarers International Union of Canada last month approved a joint resolution aimed at protecting mariners’ rights while respecting the modern-day realities of port security requirements. During mid-June meetings in Montreal between the SIU’s Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU and the SIU of Canada—affiliated through the Seafarers Interational Union of North America—officials from both unions carefully put together a statement that will serve as a guidepost for the SIU in the months and years ahead, particularly with respect to impending new requirements for mariner credentials. Among other points, the SIU asserts that the United States and Canada should recognize and accept the two countries’ respective mariner identifications. This is an important and fair step in light of the elimination of crewlist visas, which have been utilized for many years to facilitate shore leave for merchant mariners. Passed on June 16, the joint resolution notes that tighter security requirements inevitably have evolved since September 11, 2001. “The Seafarers International Union and its members, by the very nature of the work we do, have been at the forefront of these efforts to resist and to prevent acts of terrorism from spreading through international and domestic trade routes,” the unions declared. “However, mariners have also been among the most profoundly affected by the international focus on frontier and border security. For these reasons, the Seafarers International Union has determined that it is Among the meeting participants last month in Montreal were (from left) SIU General Counsel Leslie Tarantola, VPs Kermett Mangram and Charlie Stewart, Executive VP Augie Tellez, Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, VP René Lioeanjie, President Michael Sacco, SIU of Canada President Roman Gralewicz and Executive VP Michel Desjardins, UIW National Director John Spadaro, and SIU VPs Joseph Soresi and Dean Corgey. essential in the best interest of its members and mariners worldwide and in order to further the battle against international terrorism to adopt the present resolution.” The resolution notes that the International Maritime Organization (IMO), through recent amendments to the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Convention, “has reviewed measures and procedures to prevent acts of terrorism which threaten the security of passengers and crews and the safety of the ships by issuing revised measures specifically designed to enhance maritime security.” The unions further point out that the implementation of the ISPS Code in July 2004 requires ships and ports to apply a series of specific measures to ensure the security of vessels and port facilities and to provide a standardized, consistent framework for evaluating security risks. This standardized framework is designed to permit governments to respond to perceived threat levels and vulnerability for ships and port facilities through determination of appropriate security levels and corresponding security measures. Providing additional important background, the resolution notes “that in addition to the revision of the ISPS Code, various governments expressed an urgent need to revise ILO Convention C108, Seafarers Identification Documents (SID), first adopted in 1958 and ratified by 64 countries. As a result of this expressed need, in its Conference held in London in December 2002, the IMO adopted a series of amendments to update and reinforce the security value of the SID; that the revised SID will clearly demonstrate that the holder is a genuine Seafarer and ensure that a Seafarer’s identity can be verified positively and that adoption of the revised SID would, if widely adopted by Contracting Governments, permit Continued on page 7 New Oakland Hall Opening Soon As previously reported, the SIU plans to relocate its San Francisco-area operations to a new union hall in nearby Oakland, Calif. this month. At press time, the tentative date for the new hall’s opening was Monday, July 26. The new building is located at 1121 7th Street. The phone number is (510) 444-2360 (a different area code and number than at the old San Francisco hall). By mid-June the new building had been undergoing modifications to prepare for the opening and to suit the membership’s needs. The new hall is two stories, not including a basement, and is approximately 17,000 square feet. It offers more than 30 parking spaces next to the building, with additional parking available nearby. The Oakland hall is 9 miles from the union’s current San Francisco hall, which is located at 350 Fremont Street. The “Seafarers” letters are being moved from the San Francisco hall (top photo) to the new facility in Oakland (below, left and right). July 2006 The SIU on line: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 8990675. 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, Deborah A. Hirtes; Associate Editor, Jim Guthrie; Art, Bill Brower; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2006 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD All Rights Reserved. 2 Seafarers LOG July 2006 �36817_P03x1.qxp 6/27/2006 8:12 PM Page 3 Std. Freightship/Tanker Contracts Due for Vote In an effort to protect and ensure the continued job security of the SIU membership, the contracts department has negotiated tentative new standard freightship and tanker agreements that will be effective from June 16, 2006 through June 15, 2011, pending ratification. The contracts will be voted on at SIU halls and aboard ship beginning this month (July). In negotiating the new fiveyear pacts, the union carefully reviewed recommendations made by Seafarers in minutes of shipboard union meetings, in minutes of monthly mem- bership meetings at the various halls, in communications to the contracts department and in sessions with Seafarers attending upgrading classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. Not surprisingly, health care costs dominated the negotiations—and offsetting those costs was a huge challenge, according to SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker. (See related story, page 5.) Nevertheless, the standard agreements maintain medical benefits at the top level offered by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (known as the Core Plus level). Also, despite the looming specter of insurance costs, the SIU negotiating team secured wage increases in each of the contracts’ five years. More details of the new agreements and the ratification votes will be published in an upcoming issue of the LOG. Also, a number of other SIU contracts—many of which in part are patterned after the standard agreements—were expected to be finalized late last month or in early July. Bulletin Secretary Mineta Submits Resignation As this edition of the Seafarers LOG was going to press, U.S. Secretary of Transportation Norman Mineta, an outstanding supporter of the U.S. Merchant Marine, submitted his resignation to President Bush, effective July 7. The entire text of the letter is available through a link at www.seafarers.org and also may be accessed via the Transportation Department web site (www.dot.gov). SIU President Michael Sacco described Mineta as “a tremendous ally through his years of public service in both the Congress and the Clinton and Bush Administrations. We will miss his friendship and his leadership.” SIU Studies TWIC, MMC Rules Proposed Regulations Call for New Maritime Credentials Officials from the SIU and its affiliated training center participated in all four public meetings recently conducted by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and the Coast Guard after the government issued proposed regulations for documenting mariners and port personnel. At press time, the union was preparing formal comments on the seemingly inevitable Merchant Mariner Qualification Credential (MMC) and the Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC). The deadline for comments was July 6, though efforts were under way to secure an extension. “The union is monitoring and participating in this process with the utmost care and energy,” said SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel. “We will use every resource necessary to make sure that our input is fairly considered by the appropriate agencies. Meanwhile I would ask that the membership remain patient and stay informed as this situation unfolds in the coming months and years.” Generally, the upshot for Seafarers is expected to be as follows, though this may change once the final regulations are issued by the Department of Homeland Security: The TWIC and the MMC together eventually will replace the merchant mariner document (z-card) and STCW certificate. In other words, whereas today an SIU member may be required to carry a merchant mariner document and an STCW certificate, within a few years those credentials will have been phased out and supplanted by a TWIC (currently envisioned as a card similar in size to a z-card or driver’s license) and an MMC (projected to be a larger, paper document). However, as with the rest of the notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) issued on May 22, nothing has been finalized. SIU members are asked to keep in mind that the final regulations likely won’t be finished for at least a few months. Understandably, the proposed details for issuing the new credentials—including time-frames, July 2006 content and costs, among numerous other considerations—are under intense discussion throughout the industry. Some of those discussions took place at the public meetings which quickly were arranged after the NPRM was released. The meetings took place from May 31-June 7 in Newark, N.J.; Tampa; St. Louis; and Long Beach, Calif., respectively. Besides requesting additional time to review the NPRM and asking for additional public meetings, among the most common points and questions raised at last month’s sessions included the following: „ The new credentials were mandated in the Maritime Transportation Security Act (MTSA) of 2002. „ As currently written, the new regulations would require that the TWIC program is fully in place 18 months after the final rules have been published. The MMC program would follow and be completely in place no later than 18 months after the TWIC is implemented. However, where the MMC is concerned, a mariner may continue to serve under the authority of his or her license, zcard, certificate of registry and/or STCW certificate until the first renewal or upgrade of that credential, but not later than five years after the effective date of the final rule. „ There is great concern among ship operators regarding a requirement for a TWIC reader on every vessel. Those machines are estimated to cost $10,000 apiece. „ Mariners and their unions are asking for one credential for shipboard personnel—either a TWIC or an MMC, but not both. „ Mariners and their unions also declared that because the TWIC is a security requirement, the government should pay for it. The NPRM spells out total individual TWIC fees ranging from $95 for mariners with a z-card issued after Feb. 3, 2003 to $149 for all other applicants. „ Port workers said that excessive background checks might decimate their manpower pool. „ The recordkeeping requirement for vessels and port facilities is burdensome to execute and per- haps even more difficult to enforce. Everyone entering a port facility or vessel would have to be logged in and out, and the records would have to be maintained for at least two years. „ Numerous attendees suggested TWIC applicants should not be required to travel to an enrollment center twice (once to apply for the credential and once to pick it up), although the TSA is proposing mobile enrollment centers. (The MMC would be obtainable via mail service, basically because the TSA will share information collected from TWIC Secretary Mineta addresses the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department Executive Board earlier this year in San Diego. applicants with the Coast Guard. A person would need to possess a TWIC before acquiring an MMC.) Technically there are three separate NPRMs to bring the TWIC and MMC on board. Each has its own docket for comments, with the same July 6 deadline. The proposed regulations would incorporate the new credentials into the Code of Federal Regulations (46 CFR, Parts 10, 12 and 15, covering, respectively, licensing of maritime personnel, certification of seamen, and manning requirements); authorize and explain the TWIC system; and authorize and explain the MMC program. As previously reported, the TWIC would be required for mariners and for people needing unescorted access to secure areas of a regulated port facility or vessel. The document itself is an identification card utilizing various technologies designed to make it secure and tamper-proof. It is expected to contain two electronic chips, fingerprints and a photograph, and would be valid for five years. The TSA envisions having 125 enrollment centers covering approximately 300 ports. Roughly 750,000 individuals are expected to need a TWIC, although foreign-flag vessels are exempt. The MMC would appear in certificate form with many fraud protection measures. Its format hasn’t been finalized, but the credential is expected to resemble an STCW certificate. Philly Tanker Updates: Keel Laid for 2nd Ship, Construction Starts on 3rd Union-contracted Aker Philadelphia Shipyard recently reported two more milestones in its current 10-ship tanker build program. On May 15, the keel was laid for the second vessel in the U.S.-flag series—a ship scheduled for completion in 2007. A week earlier, the shipyard started production on the third of the 10 double-hulled tankers, cutting steel for the vessel which also is scheduled for completion next year. The 10 tankers will be owned by American Shipping Corporation, a subsidiary of Aker American Shipping, and chartered to SIU-contracted Overseas Shipholding Group (OSG). They are expected to sail in the Jones Act market. Part of the Merchant Marine Act of 1920, the Jones Act (named in honor of its author, the late Senator Wesley Jones, R-Wash.) mandates that cargo moving between United States ports is carried on U.S.crewed, U.S.-flag, U.S.-owned and U.S.-built vessels. The tankers being built in Philadelphia are categorized as “Veteran Class.” Each will be 600 feet long and capable of transporting 330,000 barrels of petroleum products. Each vessel will weigh 46,000 deadweight tons (dwt). The first ship is slated for completion later this year. Dave Meehan, president and CEO of Aker Philadelphia Shipyard, said, “Keel laying for our second tanker just days after start of production on our third tanker signifies another important step in advancing our yard and the 10-ship build program to new levels of efficiency and sophistication. For the first time in its history, Aker Philadelphia Shipyard now has four ships currently under construction, including three tanker vessels of the exact same design.” As part of the ceremony, coins were placed under the keel block in a practice which recreates a longstanding tradition whereby shipbuilders hide special coins in the keel section of a ship as a permanent symbol of good fortune and safe travels. Aker American Shipping CFO Jan Ivar Nielsen represented Aker in the ceremony, with Theo Mandopoulos, OSG’s site The keel-laying for the second tanker at Aker Philadelphia Shipyard (above) signaled another milestone for a program in which 10 U.S.-flag tankers will be built. manager at the yard, participating from the Seafarerscontracted company. The tanker program was announced in April 2005. At that time the company pointed out that in the U.S. commercial shipbuilding sector, the order for 10 tankers is believed to be the largest of its kind. Also at that time, OSG President and CEO Morten Arntzen stated, “The 10-ship program is OSG’s first giant step to building a world-class U.S.-flag shipping business.” More recently and as previously reported in the Seafarers LOG, OSG Senior Vice President Captain Robert Johnston stated that his company is exploring the possibility of investing in as many as 17 new additional U.S.-flag ships. “We believe we can deliver,” Johnston stated. “We believe you can build the ships in the United States. We also believe you can crew and maintain the ships in the United States.” Formerly known as Kvaerner Philadelphia Shipyard, Aker Philadelphia earlier this year launched the final containership in a four-ship series being built for Seafarers-contracted Matson Navigation Company. The 681-foot long CV 2500 containership will be named the Maunalei and upon delivery this year will join three similar vessels in Matson’s fleet also constructed at the yard and delivered between 2003 and 2005. Aker Philadelphia Shipyard is located on the site of the former Philadelphia Naval Shipyard. Seafarers LOG 3 �36817p01_02_04_24.qxp 6/27/2006 5:47 AM Page 4 Crews Observe National Moment of Remembrance On May 29, a number of SIU members took part in Memorial Day observances at sea and ashore. Those events included the National Memorial Day Parade in Washington, D.C. and shipboard ceremonies conducted for the National Moment of Remembrance. Aboard the Freedom, while the RO/RO vessel was at sea headed for New York City, Unlicensed Apprentice Timothy Dougherty read a tribute he had penned on behalf of the entire crew. In part, he stated, “Today, we honor those heroes (our family members—fathers, brothers, uncles, sisters) fallen and present who have given us the freedom we take for granted today…. As multi-tasking Americans, we need days like this one to bring us back to reality. Our busy schedules don’t give us that time, but we have it today, and this bell ceremony with each ringing can remind us that we can strive to behave like those servicemen and women with virtues that are instilled during intense periods of military training from the very beginning of their service careers.” Freedom Captain Shawn M. Hagerty thanked Dougherty for Crew members and military personnel aboard the USNS John McDonnell take part in the National Moment of Remembrance. Following the observance aboard the Freedom, pictured from left to right are 3rd A/E J. Barto, Chief Steward Anthony Brown, Bosun Daniel Bratta, QMED Charles Bennett, AB Joseph Laine, UA Keith Parsons, SA Marcelo Alicea, UA Timothy Dougherty, Cadet B. Gilbert, Captain Shawn Hagerty, 3/M W. Payne, 1st A/E T. Hibl, Chief Cook Charles Davis, Cadet P. Wolfinger, Chief Engineer G. Benson, 2nd A/E E. Stone, and OMU Joseph Yamson. sharing his sentiments with the crew. On the hopper dredge Wheeler (SIU Government Services Division) in New Orleans, crew members gathered around the ship’s bell. After a moment of remembrance, a statement from the U.S. Maritime Administration was read, along with a reading of names of Wheeler mariners who have passed on since commissioning of the dredge in 1982. Additionally, aboard the hydrographic survey ship USNS John McDonnell, crew members met at the ship’s bell. They also rang eight bells and observed a moment of silence. “We shared a few words about those we were remembering from all branches of the armed services, the merchant marine, and the civilians who gave their lives throughout the nation’s history,” noted McDonnell Master Bob Mattsen. “We spoke of those who are continuing to make the ultimate sacrifice for our nation.” Writing from the containership Maersk Maryland, Richard Hoey, the ship’s master, noted that crew members “paid tribute to the heroic men and women who have courageously served our country in times of war with special emphasis on the departed sailors of the United States Merchant Marine. The crew mustered on the bow to pay their admiration to those who have and continue to serve the United States. “Before the moment of silence, the crew was reminded of the historical sacrifices made by the merchant marine while gaining and maintaining our nation’s freedom. At 1500 hours, there was a moment of silence as the ship’s bell was rung eight times. Completing the ceremony, the chief cook (Benjamin A. Brooks) led the crew in a moving invocation in remembrance to those who came before us, to those in the present, and to those that will serve in the future.” Pictured aboard the Wheeler are (from left) Chief Steward Morrell Jones, Chief Engineer Brian Kavanagh, Electrician Clifford Farmer, 3rd Engineer William Kicklighter, 1st Engineer Brian Grover, Bosun Alton Dawkins and Administrative Technician Belinda Cannon. Crew members aboard the Maersk Maryland paid tribute to those who have served America in times of war, including fellow mariners. Other SIU-crewed vessels also participated in the National Moment of Remembrance. In the nation’s capital, students from the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education helped represent the U.S. Merchant Marine in the National Memorial Day Parade. The annual event is organized by a coalition of military, veteran and civic groups in association with the White House Commission on Remembrance. Panel Weighs Maritime Convention Students from the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education joined other mariners in representing the U.S. Merchant Marine at the National Memorial Day Parade in Washington, D.C. As part of the National Maritime Day events that took place May 22 in venues around Washington, D.C., the North American Maritime Ministry Association (NAMMA) hosted a panel discussion of the newly crafted Maritime Labor Convention under discussion for national ratification. The panel met at the Convention Center of the Washington Navy Yard. The Maritime Labor Convention, adopted in February of this year, was designed to update and consolidate approximately 60 earlier agreements dating back to the 1920s. The Convention applies to all oceangoing ships with few exceptions, and is expected to take three to five years for ratification by maritime nations. Participating were (from left) Rev. Lloyd Burghart, interim executive secretary, NAMMA; Alfred “Fred” Kuffler, partner, Montgomery McCracken Walker & Rhoads LLP; Clay Maitland, managing partner, International Registries, Inc.; Bruce Carlton, associate administrator for policy and international trade, U.S. Maritime Administration; Joe Cox, president and CEO, American Chamber of Shipping; and U.S. Coast Guard Captain Frank Sturm. 4 Seafarers LOG July 2006 �36817p01_02_04_24x1.qxp 6/27/2006 8:15 PM Page 5 AFL-CIO Announces Gulf Coast Revitalization Program Billion Dollar Effort Aims to Create Good Jobs, Housing, Economic Development AFL-CIO President John Sweeney, flanked by New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin, Building and Construction Trades Department President Edward Sullivan, International Longshoremen’s Association Local 3000 President James O. Campbell, AFL-CIO Housing Investment Trust CEO Steve Coyle and a broad contingency of New Orleans labor, civic, religious, financial, and academic leaders on June 14 announced the AFLCIO Gulf Coast Revitalization Program, a seven-year, $1 billion housing and economic development initiative. The program is designed to produce affordable housing, promote homeownership, and create good jobs with good wages in construction and other industries for New Orleans and other coastal communities ravaged by Hurricane Katrina last year. “Labor is in solidarity with the citizens of New Orleans,” stated Sweeney. “We are here to do our part to rebuild and reunite this great city. I am proud to stand with my brothers and sisters to announce this very first significant investment by labor in the rebuilding of this city. We hope business and financial institutions will follow our lead as they did when we stepped forward after 9/11 in New York City.” “Thousands of our people have been scattered by the wrath of Katrina,” said Nagin. “We want them back home and we must provide the affordable housing, jobs and community services to make that happen. Labor is stepping forward in a big way to help us make this difficult job an attainable reality.” Adding to the announcement, Sullivan said that his organization is establishing a Gulf Coast Workforce Development Project to meet the anticipated demand for skilled workers. It is anticipated that this project will create new employment and training opportunities in the construction industry for Gulf Coast residents. The project will build a stronger union presence in the New Orleans and Gulf Coast region, while providing job skill training for residents wishing to return to the area. Joining Sweeney, Nagin, Sullivan, Campbell and Coyle in announcing the Gulf Coast Revitalization Program were AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Richard Trumka; AFL-CIO Executive Vice President Linda Chavez-Thompson; Greater New Orleans AFL-CIO President Robert “Tiger” Hammond; Southeast Louisiana Building and Construction Trades Council President Donald Denese and Executive Secretary Joseph Bertucci; Louisiana AFL-CIO President Louis Reine; Mike Arnold, secretary-treasurer of the AFLCIO Investment Trust Corporation; James R. Kelly, CEO of Catholic Charities Archdiocese of New Orleans; Charlotte Bourgeois, chief operating officer of Catholic Charities of New Orleans; Phil Thompson, associate professor of urban politics at Massachusetts Institute of Technology; Reed Kroloff, dean of Tulane School of Architecture; and Rev. Michael P. Jacques of the Society of St. Edmund, pastor of St. Peter Claver Church. The billion dollar investment plan will be carried out by three labor-backed investment and financial service organizations—the AFL-CIO Housing Investment Trust (HIT), the AFLCIO Building Investment Trust (BIT) and the AFL-CIO Investment Trust Corporation (ITC). Both the HIT and BIT invest Taft-Hartley and public employee pension funds in housing and economic development projects nationwide to seek competitive returns for their participants. The ITC provides marketing, investor relations and investment development services for the BIT. All construction projects financed by the HIT and BIT are built with 100 percent union labor. Key components of the AFLCIO Gulf Coast Revitalization Program include the following: „ Multifamily Housing: $250 million in direct financing to be provided by the HIT for the production or rehabilitation of housing. This significant finan- Penn. WWII Mariners Eligible for $500 Bonus Applications for the Pennsylvania Merchant Marine World War II Veterans bonus now are available at each county’s Veterans’ Affairs Office. The legislation, which was sponsored by Pennsylvania State Rep. John A. Maher (R-Allegheny/Washington) and signed into law April 12 by Pennsylvania Gov. Edward Rendell, calls for a one-time, $500 cash bonus to qualified veterans. To be eligible, an applicant must be a U.S. Merchant Marine veteran who served on active duty in the U.S. Merchant Marine between Dec. 7, 1941 and Aug. 15, 1945; be in possession of a DD Form 214 evidencing honorable service; and be a legal resident of Pennsylvania on April 12, 2006. The benefits will be paid from July 2006 a U.S. Merchant Marine World War II Veterans’ bonus fund, a restricted receipt account in the general fund. Money for the fund will be appropriated from the General Fund by the General Assembly, and any money remaining in the fund on June 30, 2007, will be returned to the General Fund. Applications for this bonus must be submitted by Dec. 31, 2006. All applications will be reviewed, and payments will be made by next summer. For application forms or additional information, call 1-800547-2838 or write to the Department of Military and Veterans’ Affairs, Bureau for Veterans’ Affairs, Ft. Indiantown Gap, Annville, PA 17003-5002. Their web site is located at: www.dmva.state.pa.us. AFL-CIO President John Sweeney cial investment will seek to build or renovate 5,000 to 10,000 housing units, both in New Orleans and other Gulf Coast communities, and is expected to leverage an additional $150 million from other public and private sources. Special emphasis will be given to affordable housing, and workforce and special needs housing, as well as worker training programs in the building and construction trades. „ Commercial and Economic Development: $100 million in direct investment by the BIT for commercial real estate development in New Orleans and other Gulf Coast cities. BIT investments will seek to focus on hotels and other economic development projects that create jobs in construction and services. These investments are expected to leverage an additional $150 million. The ITC will also explore the feasibility of alternative housing solutions, such as manufactured and modular housing. „ Health Care and Hospital Facilities: In conjunction with other partners, the HIT will seek to invest $100 million in health care facilities and hospital construction. These investments will help reduce the significant shortage of health care facilities in the region. „ Home Ownership: $250 million will be designated through the HIT’s successful HIT HOME mortgage program to enable union members and public employees to purchase homes throughout the region. In addition, HIT will work with local community development corporations on innovative home ownership programs for low-income families such as limited equity co-ops and the Section 8 program. „ A Long-term Commitment: Demonstrating its long-term commitment to the region, the ITC has leased office space at 1100 Poydras Street, Suite 2870, in downtown New Orleans. Experienced staff will work with the city and other labor, financial and community organizations throughout the Gulf Coast region to carry out the investment program. Since September 2005, HIT, BIT and ITC staffs have spent thousands of hours in the region assessing the critical housing needs of local communities and developing ties with local governments and community organizations. As part of the commitment to the region, the ITC last month joined with Providence Community Partners—a group that includes the Catholic Charities Archdiocese of New Orleans, Christopher Homes, and three community development corporations (Reconcile New Orleans, Tulane/Canal Community Development Corporation and UJAMAA Community Development Corporation)—to submit a proposal to the city of New Orleans for redevelopment of 196 abandoned adjudicated properties in Tremé and Tulane/Gravier that are available for single and multifamily development. “Labor plays a vital role in the social and economic life of our community” said Hammond, president of the New Orleans AFL-CIO. “What Katrina destroyed, we will help to rebuild. Our neighborhoods have been destroyed, our citizens scattered, but our spirit and resolve are strong. This is a great program for this city, our communities and our workers.” Hammond mentioned that the local AFL-CIO will also play a role in supporting the labor-sponsored training programs for people seeking jobs in the building and construction trades. Continued Increases in Health Care Costs Affect All Sectors of American Economy The high cost of health care in this country has received lots of publicity lately. Employers are seeing double-digit premium increases annually, resulting in skyrocketing out-of-pocket expenses for their employees, including increased co-pays for office visits and prescriptions as well as high deductibles for insurance benefits. American automobile makers are one of the hardest hit segments of the population. Health care costs for General Motors Corp. (GM) workers and its retirees add $1,500 to the price of every car. Toyota’s health care costs are figured to be half that amount, still a substantial figure. In recent remarks, the president of the United Automobile Workers union (UAW), Ron Gettelfinger, told his members that they cannot ride out the automobile industry crisis and should be prepared to make tradition-breaking decisions to help rescue the industry. While U.S. companies have been moving overseas, foreign automakers have been increasing their investments in the United States, and sales of their American-made products have been increasing even faster than those of imports. As foreign-owned final assembly plants opened in the United States, foreign-based parts suppliers also expanded here. This has resulted in a reduction in the union share of the auto industry—from roughly 60 percent of the workforce in the early ’80s to about 30 percent today (even less for parts workers like GM’s spinoff Delphi Corporation, whose members were to decide by June 23 whether to accept buyouts and other retirement incentives to leave their jobs). Gettelfinger—long a proponent of national health care coverage—pointed to many reasons for the industry’s extensive health care expenditures. Bad management, coupled with Detroit’s fading fortunes, helped create a health cost crisis that has become “unsustainable” in the face of the auto companies’ declining sales. This, he said, was one reason why the UAW agreed to substantial health care concessions last year. Jobs in the UAW, which were once considered to be the envy of the labor movement for their contracts with high wages and extensive benefits, are now experiencing the same demands for givebacks that have swept other workers across the United States. In Quincy, Mass., for example, exploding health care costs for the city’s public employees was considered to be a major topic as city hall begins negotiating new contracts for its nearly 2,000 workers. The city currently covers 90 percent of the health care costs for most of its employees—a high percentage even among traditionally generous packages for public employees—but union officials fully expect the new contract to reflect a shift in how health care costs are split between the city and employees. School districts also are affected. In San Francisco, the school district faces declining student enrollment (and the resulting loss of state funds) and is seeing its worker health care costs skyrocket. The district has lost about 1,000 students every year for the past several years, and each departing student means $5,000 less in state revenue based on student attendance. That means the district will take in $5 million less next year and $10 million less in two years and therefore will have to make unpopular decisions to close more schools, lay off staff or further cut programs. But the fastest-growing financial strain, according to the district’s director of policy and planning, is the retiree health benefits. Until three years ago, teachers working in San Francisco Unified had to have just five years in the district to retire with lifetime health care benefits. In 2004, because of escalating costs, the teachers union renegotiated longer vesting periods. Teachers already in the district at that time now have to work 12 years to earn the same benefits, while new teachers must work 20 years. Policymakers and government officials agree that health care costs need to be controlled, but there has been no consensus as to the best way to go about it. The National Coalition on Health Care stated that while there appears to be no agreement on a single solution to health care’s woes, a continuing escalation in health care spending and health insurance premiums will severely affect the quality of life for employees—as well as the bottom line for many employers. Seafarers LOG 5 �36817p01_02_04_24.qxp 6/27/2006 5:47 AM Page 6 Engine Dept. Training Gets an Upgrade Following exhaustive efforts to logically restructure and improve its curriculum in the engine department, officials in the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education’s vocational department recently announced revised matrixes designed to help Seafarers advance their careers. Members currently holding any classification QMED 4 through OMED 1 are not impacted by the revised system and do not have to “retrain.” However, if they want to advance from a current classification, they will do so through the new system. The fresh career tracks consist of updated courses along with some old ones. Students may follow the paths all the way from entry ratings to licensed positions in the engine department. “The career path revisions mainly are due to Coast Guard requirements stemming from the STCW convention,” said J.C. Wiegman, Paul Hall Center assistant director of training. “Under STCW, advancement depends on practical demonstrations of skills. The training matrixes reflect those requirements.” Training essentially begins with the equivalent of “phase 3” of the unlicensed apprentice program. After completing the first three modules (and accumulating enough sea time), students may choose from among four avenues leading to certifications as QMED machinist (QMED dayworker), QMED watchstander, QMED pumpman, and QMED electrician, respectively. Simulator training—which will be used to help students in the completion of their assessments— will be a key component of this new career track. Those interested in pursuing an engine department license may continue on another track (“officer in charge of an engineering watch”) culminating in any one or more of several licenses. Simulator training will be a key component of the new career track. Students will utilize the new Haven steam simulator, the Transas electric plant simulator, the Transas slow and medium speed diesel simulator and others to assist them in completing their assessments. More information may be obtained by contacting the admissions department at the school at (301) 994-0010, extension 5202. Union, School Mourn Instructor Larry Malone The SIU and its affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education were saddened when Lawrence Patrick Malone, formerly an instructor at the Southern Maryland school and a highly decorated U.S. Navy officer, died May 26 in California, Md. following a long battle with cancer. He was 65. Malone, who worked at the school from January 1997 until just a few weeks before his death, coordinated many of the Paul Hall Center’s classes in addition to teaching vessel familiarization and other deck department courses. He particularly embraced the challenge of instructing unlicensed apprentices as they first entered the program in Piney Point, Md. He made a powerful, lasting impression on students, school officials and fellow instructors. “He was one of the most unique individuals I ever met,” said Paul Hall Center Vice President Don Nolan. “He was an ex-Navy chief and he didn’t take no [stuff] from anybody. When he handled scheduling classes we never had a problem—ever. He was a great guy, and he had no tolerance for complainers.” J.C. Wiegman, assistant director of training at the school and also a Navy veteran, said he and Malone were friends in addition to colleagues. “Larry and I met each morning at the school and discussed the plan for each day,” he recalled. “Privately, I called him captain and he called me chief. This was a mutual understanding of naval tradition and my respect for him as a mustang commander who earned the distinction of having command at sea (similar to going up the hawsepipe and becoming a ship’s master). We argued, we laughed and we tried to keep our days on an even keel over the last six or seven years. “When he was diagnosed with cancer over a year ago, he was determined to beat it even though he wasn’t given much of a chance,” Wiegman continued. “He fought the battle through many ups and downs. He never forgot the school and came back frequently, as he would say, to check in on us—and finally even to say goodbye. Fair winds and following seas, captain.” Director of Training Bill Eglinton remembered Malone as “not shy. He would tell it like it was. Larry’s main crusade was trying to jump-start or motivate those kids with good potential who wouldn’t engage in class. He did a tremendous job.” Instructor David Martin knew Malone both in the Navy and at Piney Point. “Larry was an amazing man,” he said. “I can remember him when I was 20 years old and he was the gravelly voiced LTJG Bosun on the USS Kiska. We all very much respected Bosun Malone, and I remember how well he took care of his troops—us—even though we had a lot of underway commitments. He was always in my corner. “Twenty-one years later,” Martin added, “I was 6 Seafarers LOG Larry Malone (left) helped students at the Paul Hall Center to stay motivated to do their best. taking a lifeboat class at Piney Point as a retired BMCS (senior chief bosun’s mate), and lo and behold, who walked in to administer the test but Larry Malone…. I always loved working for him, and we all will miss him.” Instructor Jim Shaffer said Malone “was one of a kind, a straight shooter. I think that’s what everybody liked about Larry—he didn’t beat around the bush…. He was proud of his military career, having worked his way up through the ranks, but he wasn’t a braggart.” Shaffer said that although Malone could be demanding of students, he always treated them fairly and was quick to lend support. “If you had a job to do, he expected you to do it right,” Shaffer noted. “But if anyone needed anything, Larry was there for them. He was respected and admired by everyone here at the school and maybe feared by a couple. He’ll be missed by a lot of people.” A native of Dickinson, N.D., Malone served in the Navy for 29 years. Among other honors, he was awarded the Navy Commendation Medal, Navy Achievement Medal, Combat Action Ribbon, Navy Unit Commendation, Meritorious Unit Commendation, Navy “E” Ribbon, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Expeditionary Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, Vietnam Service Medal (two Bronze Stars), Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross, Republic of Vietnam Civil Actions Medal, and Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device. Malone is survived by many family members including his wife, three children, three stepchildren, five siblings and six grandchildren. A memorial Mass was conducted June 2 at St. George’s (Md.) Catholic Church; inurnment followed at Charles Memorial Gardens. Memorial contributions may be made to OPIS, St. Mary’s Hospital, P.O. Box 527, Leonardtown, MD 20650; and/or American Cancer Society, St. Mary’s County Unit, P.O. Box 1032, Lexington Park, MD 20653. Engine department curriculums at the Paul Hall Center have been updated to help students advance their maritime careers while challenging them with the latest technology. Veitch and Richardson Chosen for AOTOS Awards Colin Veitch and Paul F. Richardson have been selected to receive one of the maritime industry’s most prestigious honors, the 2006 Admiral of the Ocean Sea Award (AOTOS). The honorees on May 22 were announced by John Bowers, chairman of the United Seamen’s Service AOTOS Committee and president of the International Longshoremen’s Association. Veitch is president and CEO of SIU-contracted NCL America; Richardson is a container shipping pioneer and president of Paul F. Richardson Associates Inc. They led the field of nominees sought from more than 150 maritime labor, management and government officials. The duo is slated to receive their awards Nov. 3 during an industry dinner and dance in New York City. All proceeds from the event benefit USS community services abroad for the U.S. Merchant Marine and those of other free world countries. The recipients will share the evening with a group of American seafarers who will be honored for specific acts of bravery at sea. “Colin Veitch, in commencing brand new passenger services flying the American flag, has shown a renewed faith in a U.S. presence on the international seas and will provide muchneeded employment for our seafarers,” noted Bowers. “We are saluting his vision and actions. “With this being the 50th anniversary year of containerization, it is significant that we recognize a true pioneer, Paul F. Richardson,” continued Bowers. “He was with Malcolm McLean, the father of containerization, even before this momentous revolution began in 1956 and today remains a vital force and participant on the worldwide transportation scene.” “Our recipients have been selected by those who know them best, international transportation leaders who understand very well the challenges and issues which confront United States shipping and the American seafarers and recognize their leadership in this area,” Bowers added. Under Veitch’s direction, NCL America placed into service the Seafarers-crewed Pride of Aloha, NCL’s first U.S.-flag vessel, in June 2004. It was the first deep sea passenger ship to join the American fleet in 50 years. A year later NCL America welcomed the Pride of America; the Colin Veitch, left, and Paul F. Richardson have been selected to received the 2006 Admiral of the Ocean Sea Award. company’s third U.S.-flag ship, the Pride of Hawaii, entered service last month. As U.S. Secretary of Transportation Norman Mineta said, “Raising the Stars and Stripes over more ships raises our maritime strength and raises jobs.” NCL America’s three U.S.flag ships are expected to generate more than $828 million in U.S. economic activity and 20,400 jobs, according to a PricewaterhouseCoopers study. Besides serving as president and CEO of NCL America and Norwegian Cruise Line, Veitch also is president of Orient Lines and a member of the boards of NCL Holding ASA and Star Cruises, Ltd. Richardson’s experience in transportation has been as a specialist in containerization, company management and labor. He held a key leadership role in the dynamic growth of Sea-Land Service, Inc., forging its development and serving as president and vice chairman of the innovative steamship company. In 1977, he established Paul F. Richardson Associates, Inc., an international maritime and transportation consulting firm serving various segments of the maritime industry including carriers, ports, shipbuilding companies, inland carriers, labor and labor-management groups. Today, Richardson serves on numerous boards, councils and committees including the American Bureau of Shipping, U. S. Coast Guard Foundation, Council of the Americas and other significant government commissions and committees. Established in 1942, the United Seamen’s Service operates centers in nine foreign ports in Europe, Asia, Africa and in the Indian Ocean, and also provides seagoing libraries to American vessels through its affiliate, the American Merchant Marine Library Association. July 2006 �36817p01_02_04_24.qxp 6/27/2006 5:47 AM Page 7 Cape Decision Delivers in High-Profile Mission Brigadier General Bivens Commends Crew, Cites Support and Teamwork An SIU-crewed vessel under the operational jurisdiction of the U.S. Navy’s Military Sealift Command recently completed a high-visibility mission in Poland. The cargo ship Cape Decision from April 19-20 was in Szczecin, Poland, returning combat equipment used by that country’s military forces in Iraq. Seafarers aboard the 681-foot roll-on/roll-off vessel off-loaded more than 49,000 square feet of cargo belonging to members of the Polish army. Off-loaded items included more than 160 trucks, six helicopters, tanks, trailers and in excess of 100 containers of supplies. Brig. Gen. Nolen V. Bivens, in a letter to the Decision crew following its mission, in part said: “Thanks for all you do to support America’s fighting men and women. I look forward to our continued teamwork.” General Bivens is assistant chief of staff, C-3, Coalition Forces Land Component Command, Third U.S. Army. He visited the Cape Decision and its crew in December 2005. SIU-crewed MSC ships have been a familiar sight in Szczecin and other Baltic seaports since 2003 when MSC vessels began using them to load U.S. and coalition force cargo bound for the Middle East and for use in Operation Iraqi Freedom. An important partner in Operation Iraqi Freedom, Polish military forces took part in the 2003 invasion of Iraq. Poland had 2,500 soldiers deployed to the region at the height of its engagement in the newly-democratized country. MSC ships since 2003 have moved nearly 430,000 square feet, or seven-and-a-half football fields’ worth, of combat equipment for these troops. “This is indicative of the enduring relationship the U.S. military has with Poland and our coalition partners in Europe,” said Capt. David K. Wright, Mariners’ Rights Resolution Continued from page 2 Seafarers to maintain a fair and essential freedom of movement in the normal conduct of their profession, while contributing to the maintenance of heightened security norms.” The General Conference of the ILO adopted the revised Convention during its Ninety-first session in June 2003 as C185, but very few countries have ratified it, including the United States, Canada and Great Britain. The SIU joint resolution continues as follows: “Considering the continuous and difficult struggle of both American and Canadian Seafarers to cross the U.S.-Canada border in this era of heightened border security; and given that the barriers have become so great that in numerous instances Seafarers are being completely denied access to the neighboring territory, and this simply because there is no generally accepted and easily available set of identity documents; “Considering that as long as seafarers have gone to sea, shore leave has been a cherished right; that vessels could not be manned should shore leave not be granted; and given that the livelihoods of many American and Canadian seafarers are presently at stake as a result of the absence of an agreed and efficient system of providing identity documents; “Considering that there have been important revisions to passport and visa requirements for Seafarers in North America and elsewhere; that there is not presently an all-encompassing maritime worker identity verification and background check system that is generally recognized by both Governments; and that neither the SIU AGLIWD nor the SIU of Canada is favorable to the present obligation imposed on their members to obtain passports and visas in order to have access to shore leave; “Considering that the Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) may be the solution to the problem of estab- July 2006 lishing generalized and systematized identification criteria; “The Seafarers International Union, representing both its American and Canadian districts, hereby: “RESOLVES through each District to lobby their respective Governments in order to secure the establishment as rapidly as is reasonably possible of uniform North American regulations governing Seafarer identification, whether through the North American implementation of TWIC rules or some similar protocol; that these uniform regulations would involve a collateral agreement between Washington and Ottawa with the objective of permitting Seafarers secure access to North American ports and the territory of both the U.S. and Canada based on this uniform identity documentation; “RESOLVES that whatever form this uniform identity document will take, whether as a TWIC document or otherwise, that it will conform to the following principles: (a) that it be recognized and accepted throughout the United States and Canada; (b) that it establish uniform requirements and conditions for Seafarers, whether based in the U.S. or Canada; (c) that it impose fair and reasonable requirements on Seafarers who seek to obtain the identity document in question; (d) that the document respect, to the extent consistent with security needs, the fundamental rights, liberties and privacy of the holders of such identity document; and (e) that the document in question ensure the freedom of movement, including complete shore leave access to those Seafarers who obtain the documentation in question. “RESOLVES to undertake all actions consistent with the law, to ensure that the maritime union movement takes its proper and essential role in the protection of transport security worldwide and participates fully, together with government and industry in the war on terrorism.” commander, Sealift Logistics Command Europe. SEALOGEUR is MSC’s European area command and is responsible for overseeing the movement of U.S. Navy cargo and logistics ships in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of operations. “It is also a great example of the important role Military Sealift Command plays in the U.S. and coalition forces’ efforts in Iraq.” Since the beginning of the global war on terrorism and operations Enduring and Iraqi Freedom, MSC has moved more than 88.6 million square feet of combat equipment for troops in theater worldwide—with much of it carried on SIU-crewed ships. Seafarers-crewed vessels have also helped deliver more than 8.8 The Seafarers-crewed Cape Decision recently completed a key mission in Poland. billion gallons of fuel. That is enough fuel to fill the Empire State Building nearly 32 times. Operated by Seafarers-con- tracted Marine Personnel and Provisioning, the Cape Decision is 681 long with a beam of 97 feet. It can sail at more than 16 knots. Union Plus Rolls Out Two More Programs No-cost accidental death insurance and voice broadband phone service are the latest offerings in an ever growing list of programs for union members through Union Plus. Because the SIU participates in Union Plus, Seafarers and their family members are eligible for both programs. The insurance program, UnionSecure Accidental Death, is designed to help protect the future of union members’ families and is available at no cost to union members. The Union Plus Voice broadband phone service can help union families save on phone calls—up to $400 per year depending on the plan they choose. Insurance Program Union members can enroll in the no-cost UnionSecure program simply by calling 1-800-3930864, or by visiting www.UnionSecure.com. No medical exams are needed and members are not required to purchase anything, according to Union Plus. By calling the former number or visiting the web site provided, union members’ families can get up to $5,000 worth of coverage in the event of accidental death from covered motor vehicle/ pedestrian accidents, or $1,000 of coverage for death due to any other type of accident at home, at work or while commuting or traveling anywhere in the world. Union members who already have insurance may supplement it with this coverage—at no cost to them. UnionSecure was created through a partnership between the Union Labor Life Insurance Company and Union Privilege, established by the AFL-CIO to provide Union Plus benefits. To help working families gain security, UnionSecure has developed a broad range of insurance plans that union members and retirees can afford. It chose Hartford® to provide the plans because of that company’s outstanding record. All UnionSecure plans are subject to strict oversight by the trustees of the AFLCIO Mutual Benefit Fund, who have a legal obligation to protect the interests of union members. Union Plus Benefits for SIU Members If you are a member or retiree of SIU, you and your family are automatically are eligible for Union Plus benefits associated with the following programs. For more information visit www.unionplus.org or call 1-800-452-9425. Money & Credit „ Credit Card „ Union-Made Checks „ Credit Counseling „ Your Credit Score „ Loans „ Online Tax Service Insurance Deals „ Accident Insurance „ Auto Insurance „ Life Insurance „ Pet Insurance Health & Well Being „ Health Club Discounts „ Health Savings Education Services „ Education Services Phone Service With Union Plus Voice broadband phone service, union members get all the features of normal phone service plus those offered through this program. To use the service, members need broadband internet access through a cable or DSL internet connection. Union Plus Voice offers the following benefits and more, according to promotional material sent to the SIU: „ Save up to 85 percent compared to normal phone bills „ Unlimited calling, one monthly rate „ Quick installation, easy to use Auto Advantages „ Goodyear Tire & Service Discount House & Home „ Mortgage & Real Estate „ Moving Discount „ Home Heating Oil Discounts Everyday Savings „ ConsumerReports.org Discount „ Flower Discount „ Powell’s Bookstore „ Music Discounts „ Clothing Discounts Travel & Recreation „ Entertainment Discounts „ Car Rental Discounts „ Worldwide Vacation Tours „ Cruise Discounts „ Travel Center Computers & Tech „ Broadband Phone Service „ Dell Computer Discounts „ Cingular Wireless Discount „ Internet Service Discount „ No activation fees A variety of plans are available under the program, including unlimited outbound and inbound calling across the 48 contiguous states and Canada for $22.89 per month. Other plans are available for as low as $11.89 per month. Union Plus card holders can get additional savings with unlimited calling for $199 a year or less than $17 a month. Some plans are as low as $8.33 per month and affordable international plans are also available. To sign up visit www.UnionPlus.net/Voice or call 1888-868-6818. Notice SHBP Booklets Posted, Mailed The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) has posted separate, updated booklets on line at www.seafarers.org in the “Member Benefits and Resources” section. One booklet is a “Guide to Benefits” for active Seafarers; the other is a benefits guide for retirees. On the web site, the guides are in PDF format. Printed copies of those same booklets were being mailed last month to eligible members and retirees. The mailings were scheduled to be finished by early July. Seafarers LOG 7 �36817p01_02_04_24.qxp 6/27/2006 5:47 AM Page 8 ALWAYS READy Bosun Lynn Mallis ABOARD THE USNS SODERMAN The men and women aboard the SIU-crewed USNS Soderman continue to stand ready on a daily basis in support of the U.S. military. As one of the Military Sealift Command’s (MSC) large, medium-speed roll-on/roll-off (LMSR) vessels, the Soderman made multiple trips between the United States and the Middle East during the height of Iraqi Freedom to deliver urgently needed combat equipment and later to bring back military materiel that was no longer required in the theater of operations. Operated by Maersk Line Limited, the Soderman is one of the vessels in MSC’s Afloat Prepositioning Ship Squadron Four. The 950-foot Soderman is now forward deployed to Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean, loaded with Army equipment and supplies and ready for a rapid response at any given time. The photos on these two pages were sent to the LOG by Ron VonDrachek, chief engineer aboard the Soderman. The USNS Soderman in Diego Garcia OS German (Max) Maximo QMED Tristum Beeks AB Dale Harrison OS Kosar Iqbal Supply Officer Edwin (Dino) Coleman The photo at left of Chief Steward Kimberly Strate and Chief Cook Efren Matias was taken as the two were preparing for the lagoon-wide “Compsron Two Iron Chef” competition. The fact that the crew won a trophy for “Most Original” didn’t surprise anyone on the Soderman. At right is the “Best of the Best” galley gang. From the left are Chief Cook Matias, Chief Steward Strate, SA Margaret Young and SA Sarah Canon. 8 Seafarers LOG July 2006 �36817p01_02_04_24.qxp 6/27/2006 5:47 AM Page 9 ALWAYS READy ABOARD THE USNS SODERMAN OS Enrique Defendini QMED Rutland Gale checks readings on the #2 A/C chiller. QMED Adnan Nasser and Wiper Nabil Nasser prepare for a lathe project. OS Kyle Hudson Electrician John Hunt does some troubleshooting. AB Timothy Dunn Electrician Ousmane Ka performs preventive maintenance on the generator. AB Nathan Carr AB Terrell Poole July 2006 AB Josh Wilson Seafarers LOG 9 �36817p01_02_04_24.qxp 6/27/2006 5:47 AM Page 10 Seafarer Weil Gets Revved Up About U.S. Merchant Marine Custom Chopper Honors Union, School, Industry When Seafarer Paul Weil decided to help publicize his industry, he did it in style. The QMED-electrician picked an unusual, eye-catching way to raise the profile of the U.S. Merchant Marine when he ordered a custom-built chopper adorned with spectacular artwork promoting the industry in general and the SIU and its affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education specifically. The project took longer than expected and it hasn’t come cheap. By the time Weil adds custom rims and exhaust pipes, the price tag will push $60,000. Nevertheless, Weil, a 1999 graduate of the Paul Hall Center’s unlicensed apprentice program, said he was very pleased with the chopper when he picked it up in late May. He certainly found an appreciative audience at the June membership meeting in Piney Point, Md., where Weil brought the motorcycle to share with fellow members, SIU officials and school staff. “I figured it would help bring attention to the merchant marine,” said the 32-year-old Seafarer. “It’s also a way of giving back to the union and the school,” which together helped him find his niche. In 2003, Weil (pronounced, as he says, “Like wait a while”) sailed for about nine months in Operation Iraqi Freedom aboard the Maersk Constellation. In the following months, he rekindled an old idea for the custom chopper as he met more and more people who knew little or nothing about the U.S. Merchant Marine. A longtime motorcycle enthusiast, Weil said the chopper features a 1500cc Super Sport engine and a hydraulic clutch and brake system that helps maintain “a clean look.” It has Seafarer Paul Weil says the SIU and its affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education helped put him on the right path—a big motivation behind his custombuilt chopper. Instructor Makes Point at Piney Point six gears and—theoretically— would top out at around 160 mph or more. Outlaw Customs of Prince Frederick, Md. built the chopper (topped off with an alligator-skin seat), while Pro Artworks of Upper Marlboro, Md. did the painting. The latter component is breathtaking in its detail. The fuel tank bears the U.S. Merchant Marine slogan, “In Peace and War,” along with the industry seal and a finely illustrated eagle seemingly perched above it. The rear fender carries the SIU motto, “Brotherhood of the Sea.” Beneath the seat is a ship’s wheel with “SIU” and “Class 584,” Weil’s apprentice group. Despite the monetary cost, in many ways the chopper has been a labor of love for Weil, a frequent upgrader at the Paul Hall Center. A quick look at his background helps illuminate his passion for the maritime industry. Weil grew up in a tough part of Washington, D.C. and as a teenager admittedly struggled to find his direction. He earned his GED but didn’t have the time or money for college. Eventually, at the urging of a friend, he enrolled in the apprentice program, a staple of the Paul Hall Center since the school opened in 1967. Piney Point offered new challenges, but Weil eventually settled into the program and made the most of the opportunity. “Shipping was the big key” in helping him onto the right path, he said. “At the school, it all worked out for the best. Since then I’ve never had a bad ship.” As evidenced by the chopper Weil, a frequent upgrader at the Paul Hall Center, plans to sail “forever” even while pursuing other business interests on the beach. The chopper’s finely detailed artwork pays tribute to the SIU, the Paul Hall Center and the industry in general. (Note: Larger, color versions of these photos are available on line at www.seafarers.org, in the Heard at Headquarters section.) project, Weil is ambitious. He operates his own shoreside business (offering catering, construction and cleaning services, among others) and plans to earn a third engineer’s license. “The sky’s the limit, but I plan to sail forever,” stated Weil. “And I already plan to design another custom chopper.” Help Keep America Secure Paul Hall Center Instructor Eric Malzkuhn (standing in top photo and at right) last month accommodated the needs of a hearing-impaired student who enrolled in the school’s EPA refrigeration certification technician course. The student was part of a group of contractors from the nearby Patuxent River Naval Air Test Center. Malzkuhn, a longtime engine department instructor at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md., had previously learned sign language due to family members who also are hearing impaired. 10 Seafarers LOG ATTENTION SEAFARERS: Contribute to the Seafarers Political Action Donation July 2006 �36817p01_02_04_24.qxp 6/27/2006 5:47 AM Page 11 Below: Eli and Alethea Rantanes with their granddaughters Chelsie (right) and Cecily stopped off at the SIU headquarters on their way home to Canton, Ohio, where Eli is on the executive board of the U.S. Merchant Marine Veterans of World War II. Right: Eli, 81, sailed deep sea from 1943-53 and then on the Great Lakes for 29 more years. He shipped with the SIUNA-affiliated MFOW and later with MEBA and AMO in the engine department. He is holding a framed photograph of the WWII Merchant Marine Memorial located in Canton, which he gave to President Michael Sacco to thank him for his support over the years for merchant marine vets. Seafarers and their families: These are some of the images we all look forward to seeing—and sharing with our brothers and sisters of the sea. If you have a family-related photo you would like to be included in the next family photo page, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photos will be returned, if so requested. If e-mailing digital images, please send them to dhirtes@seafarers.org. The higher the resolution, the better. Right: Bosun Kervin Velazquez visits the SIU hall in San Juan with his new baby, Amaury. Right: Feb. 4, 2006 was visitors’ day at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Thomas Hampshire, a member of the unlicensed apprentice program, was visited by his wife, Mary Ellen, and their daughter Chelsea (who put on a uniform just for fun). Michael Thomas and his 12-year-old son, Matt, recently toured “Old Ironsides”—the USS Constitution, docked in the port of Boston. Thomas, who has a second mate ticket, is an SIU hawsepiper and AMO full book member who enjoys reading the LOG. SIU San Juan Port Agent Amancio Crespo joins his family at honors day for daughter Amanda (right) at her school, Christian Military Academy. Next to Crespo is daughter Cristina and wife, Maria de los Angeles. July 2006 Left: QMED Joseph Benavente, who ships out of Guam, recently brought his family to the hall. With him are his wife, Millie, 4-year-old daughter, Shainne, and newest addition, Vinitia, who was born May 17. Right: QMED Christian Rosado and his wife, Melissa, drop by the San Juan hall with daughter Keyshla. Seafarers LOG 11 �36817p01_02_04_24x1.qxp 6/27/2006 8:19 PM Page 12 GERMANY SHIPYARD The ship was floated out on Feb. 19 and then underwent sea trials before sailing for the United States in April. MAKER BALTIMORE PORT of CALL PANAMA CANAL TO MARKET Thou of Ne f Seaf ATLANTIC to PACIFIC Officials from the SIU and its affiliated United Industrial Workers turned out to greet the ship when it sailed through the Panama Canal on May 11. Pictured from left to right are Omar Velarde, José F. Amador, Francisco González, Lidia Gómez, SIU VP At Large René Lioeanjie, Fernando Williams, UIW VP Orlando Diaz, Alcides Ulloa, María E. Vergara and Fernando Duran. 12 Seafarers LOG July 2006 �36817p01_02_04_24x1.qxp 6/27/2006 8:51 PM Page 13 LOS ANGELES CHRISTENING SIU President Michael Sacco was one of the featured speakers at the christening. He noted that the NCL America ships mean thousands of new jobs and a boost to America’s national and economic security. The SIU-crewed Pride of Hawaii, NCL America’s newest cruise ship, traveled an extensive route from the shipyard to its home port in Hawaii, where it arrived May 28. Before its christening May 20 in Los Angeles, the vessel stopped in Baltimore and later transited the Panama Canal (among other stops). Photos from throughout the journey, beginning with the Pride of Hawaii’s construction in Germany (it was floated out on Feb. 19) are shown on these two pages. Extensive coverage of the christening was included in the June issue of the Seafarers LOG and also may be found online at www.seafarers.org. housands New Jobs for eafarers NCL America’s ships—the Pride of Hawaii, Pride of America and Pride of Aloha—offer cruises around the Hawaiian Islands. HAWAII HOME PORT July 2006 Seafarers LOG 13 �36817p01_02_04_24.qxp 6/27/2006 10:04 AM Page 14 Health and Research Groups Trying to Tackle Avian Flu The World Health Organization (WHO) on June 15 confirmed that a young Indonesian girl who died on June 1 was infected with bird flu, taking the country’s total deaths from the virus to 38. The newly confirmed case pushed the cumulative total in Indonesia to 50 including the 38 fatalities. Bird flu has spread rapidly since late 2003 from Asia to Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Earlier last month Djibouti reported its first human case of H5N1, the first confirmed human case in the Horn of Africa. Following are some facts about the H5N1 avian flu virus and its spread around the globe: „ Since the virus re-emerged in Asia in 2003, outbreaks have been confirmed in more than 48 countries and territories, according to data from the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE). „ Since the beginning of January 2006, more than 30 countries have reported out- „ „ „ „ „ breaks, in most cases involving wild birds such as swans. The virus has killed 129 people since 2003, according to the WHO. Countries with confirmed human deaths are: Azerbaijan, Cambodia, China, Egypt, Indonesia, Iraq, Thailand, Turkey and Vietnam. In total, the virus is known to have infected 226 people since 2003, according to the WHO. Many of those who died are children and young adults. Vietnam and Indonesia have the highest number of cases, accounting for 80 of the total deaths. The H5N1 virus is not new to science and was responsible for an outbreak of highly pathogenic avian influenza in Scotland in 1959. Britain confirmed a new case in Scotland on April 6. H5N1 is not the only bird flu virus. There are numerous strains. For example, an outbreak in 2003 of the H7N7 bird flu virus in the Netherlands led to the destruction of more than 30 million birds, around a third of the country’s poultry stock. About 2.7 million were destroyed in Belgium and around 400,000 in Germany. In the Netherlands, 89 people were infected with the H7N7 virus, one of whom (a veterinarian) died. „ The H5N1 virus made the first known jump into humans in Hong Kong in 1997, infecting 18 people and killing six of them. The government ordered the immediate culling of the territory’s entire poultry flock, ending the outbreak. „ Symptoms of bird flu in humans have ranged from typical influenza-like symptoms, such as fever, cough, sore throat and muscle aches, to eye inflammations (conjunctivitis), pneumonia, acute respiratory distress, viral pneumonia, and other severe and life-threatening complications. Meanwhile, the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) early last month announced a $5 million award to support the development of a global network to track avian influenza, with the aim of monitoring the role of migratory birds. According to a USAID release, the Global Avian Influenza Network for Surveillance (GAINS) will enhance international efforts to collect and analyze laboratory samples from wild birds and identify genetic changes in the virus. The entire award package totals $6 million, including a $1 million contribution from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Spearheaded by the Wildlife Conservation Society, GAINS will work in countries situated along key migratory routes to improve the collection, coordination, and laboratory evaluation of samples from wild birds. The goal of this effort is to enhance understanding of the role wild birds play in the movement of the avian flu virus around the world. In addition, GAINS will create, update, and make data available to researchers related to avian influenza surveillance and migratory bird activity. IMPORTANT NOTICE: SEAFARERS HEALTH AND BENEFITS PLAN — COBRA NOTICE HEALTH CARE CONTINUATION Under federal law, a participant and his or her dependents have the right to elect to continue their Plan coverage in the event that they lose their eligibility. This right is granted by the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act, better known as “COBRA.” The COBRA law allows a participant and his or her dependents to temporarily extend their benefits at group rates in certain circumstances where coverage under the Plan would otherwise end. A participant and his or her dependents have a right to choose this continuation coverage if they lose their Plan coverage because the participant failed to meet the Plan’s seatime requirements. In addition, a participant and his or her dependents may have the right to choose continuation coverage if the participant becomes a pensioner ineligible for medical benefits. The participant’s dependents may also elect continuation coverage if they lose coverage under the Plan as the result of the participant’s (1) death; (2) divorce; or (3) Medicare eligibility. A child can also elect COBRA if as the result of his or her age, he or she is no longer a dependent under the Plan rules. If a member and his or her dependents feel that they may qualify, or if they would like more information concerning these rights, they should contact the Plan office at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Since there are important deadlines that apply to COBRA, please contact the Plan as soon as possible to receive a full explanation of the participant’s rights and his or her dependents’ rights. 14 Seafarers LOG “The United States is already supporting efforts to develop animal surveillance and build diagnostic and laboratory capacity in at least 25 countries,” said Dr. Dennis Carroll, director of USAID’s Avian and Pandemic Influenza Response Unit. “The GAINS program is an extension of our important work. The information GAINS produces will feed into systems to warn people about the movement of avian influenza. This network will significantly bolster our ability to support the international community in response to the virus.” The announcement supports the successful outcome of the second meeting of the International Partnership for Avian and Pandemic Influenza, held in Vienna, Austria, June 6-7. The U.S. delegation, headed by Under Secretary of State for Democracy and Global Affairs Dr. Paula J. Dobriansky, also included representatives from USAID, and the U.S. Departments of Agriculture and Health and Human Services. “Leaders must continue to encourage their colleagues at home and abroad to be forthcoming with information critical to global response efforts,” Dobriansky said at the meeting. “Providing accurate information to international partners can significantly limit both the human and economic impacts of an outbreak.” To date, USAID has allocated $158.4 million to fight avian influenza. The agency also collaborates with other U.S. government agencies, international partners, and local governments and organizations to provide support in 46 countries. Vaccine Tested In a related development, several sources on June 14 reported that a laboratory-produced bird flu vaccine protected ferrets against several strains of H5N1 avian influenza during a study. The ferrets were immunized with a vaccine based on an H5N1 avian influenza virus isolated in Hong Kong in 2003. Injections they received protected them against a newer variant of the virus, according to researchers at the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis and the University of Tennessee. The study was published on the web site of the Journal of Infectious Diseases, the sources reported. Vaccine makers may not have to wait until the H5N1 virus evolves to become more contagious among people before producing inoculations for a worldwide outbreak, said the work’s authors, who include Elena Govorkova and Richard Webby. Earlier vaccine production may save lives and reduce the severity of illness, they said. “An effective influenza vaccine is urgently needed as H5N1 viruses continue to spread in Asia, not only causing an increasing number of human infections and high mortality rates, but also showing evidence of probable human-to-human transmission,” the authors wrote. Experts say a pandemic of some kind of influenza is inevitable and that H5N1 looks closer than any other virus to causing such a global wave of disease. A vaccine would provide the best protection. But flu vaccine technology is slow and unwieldy and a new vaccine has to be formulated every year to match the current circulating strains. Vaccine experts fear that they would have to wait until H5N1 changes into a human pandemic strain before they can make a vaccine against it. By then it could have infected millions. SEAFARERS BENEFIT PLANS NOTICE TO PARTICIPANTS Keep the Plan Informed of Your Address Changes It is important that all participants remember to keep the Plan informed of any change of address. Update Your Beneficiary Designations Keep your beneficiary designations up to date. In the event that your beneficiary predeceases you, you must submit a substitute designation. Inform the Plan of Your Divorce In order for your spouse to be eligible to receive continuation coverage (under COBRA) from the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, you or your spouse must inform the Plan at the time of your divorce. Please submit a copy of the divorce decree to the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. Full-time College Students If your dependent child is a full-time college student, you must submit a letter of attendance every semester in order for your child to be covered by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan P.O. Box 380 Piney Point, MD 20674 July 2006 �36817p01_02_04_24x1.qxp 6/27/2006 8:22 PM Page 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea August & September 2006 Membership Meetings MAY 16 — JUNE 15, 2006 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico San Francisco St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Totals All Departments 2 0 7 14 2 7 40 46 2 7 12 40 22 6 0 8 29 2 24 28 298 0 0 5 6 2 7 15 22 0 8 9 18 9 4 3 1 15 0 13 17 154 1 0 2 5 0 11 22 16 1 4 9 20 11 1 4 4 25 1 19 26 4 8 4 22 7 3 29 27 0 12 13 20 18 1 9 10 17 9 29 11 253 1 1 5 7 4 4 11 19 1 7 8 11 12 4 1 2 11 5 20 7 141 1 0 2 7 3 6 5 8 0 5 3 2 15 1 2 2 6 0 5 8 1 2 2 2 2 1 15 9 1 2 3 18 6 1 0 4 2 2 11 9 93 0 0 2 3 1 3 4 6 0 0 0 7 7 3 0 1 3 0 8 3 51 1 0 1 4 0 0 1 1 1 1 1 2 4 1 0 1 2 2 4 3 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C 0 0 4 10 1 4 31 25 1 7 9 16 10 1 1 5 20 0 25 23 193 Trip Reliefs DECK DEPARTMENT 2 3 5 15 3 6 23 15 0 9 3 13 11 2 15 5 11 4 21 9 175 1 2 0 3 1 0 3 1 0 1 1 8 2 0 0 0 1 2 8 7 41 0 1 1 6 0 2 20 22 0 9 3 17 8 0 1 6 11 1 22 11 141 ENGINE DEPARTMENT 0 0 4 3 0 6 7 10 0 6 5 7 4 2 2 2 9 2 13 11 93 1 0 3 8 1 3 7 8 0 5 3 9 5 4 0 2 4 1 18 10 92 0 0 1 2 0 3 5 2 0 0 0 2 4 2 0 1 2 0 3 2 29 1 0 2 4 0 1 7 9 0 3 4 8 4 1 0 3 3 0 6 9 65 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 1 0 3 4 2 4 19 11 0 3 3 12 6 2 1 0 19 0 22 21 182 81 30 133 1 0 0 0 0 3 6 0 0 2 2 5 1 0 1 0 6 0 7 2 0 1 5 6 2 8 19 17 0 5 5 40 13 0 10 5 14 0 17 9 4 2 3 5 1 3 18 19 1 1 4 22 17 1 33 0 7 2 16 14 0 0 0 0 0 1 3 1 0 0 1 2 0 0 0 1 1 0 2 1 1 0 1 6 1 5 3 10 0 4 1 2 10 0 3 2 4 1 4 9 67 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 1 1 0 1 3 0 0 0 2 1 2 1 15 ENTRY DEPARTMENT 0 2 4 5 1 4 10 3 0 3 1 21 6 0 8 1 14 1 10 2 0 0 0 6 4 1 11 6 1 1 2 6 9 0 37 0 5 1 6 2 1 0 2 4 0 1 8 13 0 2 0 4 8 2 0 2 5 1 9 11 **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 2 0 10 18 5 16 76 64 1 22 21 79 30 8 1 15 37 2 51 50 3 3 3 8 5 3 34 18 1 2 9 25 8 2 1 4 4 2 14 16 508 414 165 0 0 6 14 2 10 33 34 0 12 19 32 17 3 4 3 15 0 18 22 2 2 5 10 6 7 18 29 3 13 9 20 26 2 3 6 14 6 28 14 1 0 2 6 1 5 8 11 1 0 1 12 12 2 2 1 3 0 8 9 244 223 85 1 0 5 7 1 18 37 23 1 8 10 41 17 1 8 5 37 2 26 46 0 0 3 8 5 6 12 10 0 4 6 11 18 3 1 2 2 0 7 10 1 0 1 4 0 0 4 4 0 2 2 5 5 1 1 1 1 1 5 8 73 294 108 46 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 5 10 5 0 3 2 8 1 0 0 2 9 0 8 2 2 1 4 6 3 17 32 30 1 10 6 78 19 0 17 6 16 3 27 16 6 5 4 9 3 10 34 37 1 2 7 41 30 1 17 0 13 1 25 24 36 176 173 12 96 98 0 56 294 270 670 651 347 431 430 183 279 1,102 1,039 566 *“Total Registered” means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **“Registered on Beach” means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. July 2006 3 12 9 34 13 6 38 41 4 18 17 37 27 7 11 13 20 12 56 36 Piney Point .............Monday: August 7 ................................Tuesday: September 5* .................................(*change created by Labor Day holiday) Algonac ..................Friday: August 11, September 8 Baltimore ................Thursday: August 10, September 7 Boston.....................Friday: August 11, September 8 Guam ......................Thursday: August 24, September 21 Honolulu .................Friday: August 18, September 15 Houston ..................Monday: August 14, September 11 Jacksonville ............Thursday: August 10, September 7 Joliet .......................Thursday: August 17, September 14 Mobile ....................Wednesday: August 16, September 13 New Orleans ...........Tuesday: August 15, September 12 New York................Tuesday: August 8, September 5 Norfolk ...................Thursday: August 10, September 7 Philadelphia ............Wednesday: August 9, September 6 Port Everglades.......Thursday: August 17, September 14 San Francisco .........Thursday: August 17, September 14 San Juan..................Thursday: August 10, September 7 St. Louis..................Friday: August 18, September 15 Tacoma ...................Friday: August 25, September 22 Wilmington ...........Tuesday: August 22* ..............................Monday: September 18 .................................(*change created by Paul Hall Day holiday) Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals MC&S PICNIC CANCELED David Cunningham, reunion chairperson, would like to announce that this year’s Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) annual reunion has been canceled due to unforeseen circumstances TALAMA MOEGA Please contact John Brown at 1-800-828-1110, ext. 1341. Inland Career Opportunities – Immediate Job Openings The SIU has immediate openings in the inland division. Interested individuals who possess either a 1,600-ton master’s license (with near coastal or ocean endorsements) along with an Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch (OICNW) STCW certificate; or a designated duty engineer (DDE) 5,000 hp or greater license are encouraged to contact Bart Rogers at the union’s manpower office at (301) 994-0010, extension 5317 for additional information. In Texas, the SIU has immediate openings aboard harbor tugs. Interested individuals who possess either a mate or master’s license (inland) greater than 200 GRT, or are licensed as a chief or assistant engineer (6,000 hp or greater) are encouraged to contact Jim McGee at the SIU hall in Houston, (713) 659-5152. Seafarers LOG 15 �36817p01_02_04_24.qxp 6/27/2006 10:04 AM Page 16 Seafarers International Union Directory NMU Monthly Shipping & Registration Report MAY 16 — JUNE 15, 2006 Michael Sacco, President TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Group I Group II Group III 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 Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services René Lioeanjie, Vice President at Large Charles Stewart, Vice President at Large 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 BOSTON Marine Industrial Park/EDIC 27 Drydock Ave., Boston, MA 02210 (617) 261-0790 GUAM P.O. Box 315242, Tamuning, Guam 96931-5242 Cliffline Office Ctr., Bldg. B, Suite 103 422 West O’Brien Dr., Hagatna, Guam 96931 (671) 477-1350 HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St., Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 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 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 832-8767 NORFOLK 115 Third St., Norfolk, VA 23510 (757) 622-1892 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 FRANCISCO 350 Fremont St., San Francisco, CA 94105 (415) 543-5855 Government Services Division: (415) 861-3400 TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Group I Group II Group III Port Trip Reliefs REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Group I Group II Group III DECK DEPARTMENT Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 3 9 2 3 10 0 0 2 29 0 4 2 0 4 1 1 0 12 0 1 1 0 2 1 0 1 6 Port 4 13 3 0 6 0 0 3 29 0 1 2 0 5 1 1 0 10 0 1 1 0 2 2 0 1 7 0 9 3 0 5 2 1 1 21 13 27 1 15 38 0 1 1 96 3 9 2 9 25 0 0 0 48 2 2 0 2 0 0 0 1 7 0 4 1 0 2 0 0 0 7 6 14 0 5 17 0 0 3 45 1 7 0 1 10 0 0 0 19 1 1 1 2 0 0 0 0 5 ENGINE DEPARTMENT Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 2 5 2 0 2 1 0 3 15 0 2 2 0 0 0 0 0 4 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 1 3 Port 2 5 2 0 2 1 0 2 14 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 1 3 STEWARD DEPARTMENT Boston Houston Jacksonville New Orleans New York Norfolk Tacoma Wilmington Totals 2 2 1 1 7 0 1 2 16 1 2 1 0 6 0 1 0 11 0 0 1 0 0 2 0 1 4 2 3 1 1 3 0 0 2 12 1 2 1 0 1 0 1 0 6 0 1 2 0 0 2 0 1 6 0 1 1 0 2 0 0 0 4 4 16 2 4 16 2 1 0 45 1 7 0 2 14 0 0 0 24 1 0 1 2 0 1 0 0 5 Totals All Departments 60 27 13 55 19 16 32 186 91 17 PIC-FROM-THE-PAST This photo was sent to the Seafarers LOG by Pensioner William L. Nihem of Jacksonville, Fla. It was taken in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in 1947 on Sugarloaf Mountain. In a note accompanying the photo, Brother Nihem states that the crew members were on the SIU-contracted Liberty ship James R. Randall, making a five-month trip to four continents. Nihem is on the left; Blackie Smith is in the center. He can’t remember the name of the other shipmate. Brother Nihem joined the SIU in 1945 in the port of New York. Born in Michigan, he retired in 1982 as a chief steward. SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (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) 549-4000 16 Seafarers LOG If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with the LOG readership, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. July 2006 �36817p01_02_04_24.qxp 6/27/2006 10:05 AM Page 17 Welcome Ashore 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 waterways 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. DEEP SEA ANDREW BALASH, 65, joined the union in 1995 in the port of Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Brother Balash, who sailed in the engine department, upgraded on two occasions at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Brother Balash was born in New York but calls Dania Beach, Fla. home. JAMES BLANCHARD, 65, launched his seafaring career in 1964. Brother Blanchard’s first ship was the Commander. The deck department member is a native of Mississippi. Brother Blanchard attended classes on numerous occasions at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He most recently sailed on the USNS Henson. Brother Blanchard lives in Mobile, Ala. RUBEN CASIN JR., 67, embarked on his seafaring career in 1978 in the port of San Francisco. Brother Casin’s first voyage was aboard the Brooks Range. He was born in North Carolina and sailed in the steward department. Brother Casin upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Before retiring, he shipped on the Comet. Brother Casin settled in Nevada. FAUSTINO CASTILLO, 65, was born in Honduras. Brother Castillo started shipping with the Seafarers in 1991. He first worked on the Independence. Brother Castillo attended the Paul Hall Center in 1997, 2000 and 2001. He sailed in the steward department, most recently aboard the P&O Ned Lloyd Buenos Aires. Brother Castillo now makes his home in Houston. HENRY COLAR, 65, became an SIU member in 1963. Brother Colar’s first voyage was aboard the Cathy. He was born in New Orleans and shipped in the deck department. Brother Colar’s last trip to sea was on the Carolina. He is a resident of Marrero, La. CATALINO DIAZ, 65, hails from Puerto Rico. Brother Diaz began shipping with the SIU in July 2006 1970 in New York. He sailed in both the steward and deck departments. Brother Diaz upgraded his seafaring skills on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center. His first ship was the Halcyon Panther; his last was the Horizon Producer. Brother Diaz makes his home in Caguas, PR. FAITH DOWNS, 65, joined the SIU in 1979. Sister Downs first shipped in the inland division aboard a Delta Queen Steamship vessel. She was born in Baltimore and worked in the steward department. Sister Downs was a frequent upgrader at the Piney Point school. Most of her career was spent aboard deep sea vessels such as the Gemini. Sister Downs calls Virginia Beach, Va. home. CHARLES FINCHER, 69, launched his SIU career in 1991. Brother Fincher’s first ship was the Overseas Chicago. The California-born mariner upgraded his seafaring skills in 1996 and 2000 at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Fincher last sailed aboard the Long Lines. He is a resident of Volcano, Hawaii. HOWARD GIBBS, 71, started shipping with the SIU in 1959 in New York. Brother Gibbs first sailed on the Steel Artisan in the deck department. He upgraded his skills on a number of occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Gibbs’ most recent voyage was on the Horizon Spirit. Born in Pennsylvania, he calls Fairfield, Calif. home. RICARDO SEBASTIAN, 65, became an SIU member in 1988. Brother Sebastian worked primarily aboard the Independence in the engine department. Born in the Philippines, Brother Sebastian enhanced his skills at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He currently lives in Honolulu. EDWARD WINNE, 66, is a New York native. Brother Winne began shipping with the SIU in 1968 in the port of Seattle. His first ship was the Santa Mercedes. Brother Winne enhanced his skills often at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. His most recent voyage was aboard the Maersk Arkansas. Brother Winne continues to make his home in New York. Wilmington, N.C., Boatman Todd worked aboard Cape Fear Towing vessels. He continues to make his home in Wilmington. INLAND RUSSELL COGNEVICH, 58, joined the union in 1974. Boatman Cognevich worked primarily aboard Crescent Towing of New Orleans vessels. He upgraded in 1984 at the Paul Hall Center. Boatman Cognevich settled in his native state, Louisiana. LONNIE GAMBLE JR., 62, began sailing with the union in 1967. Boatman Gamble worked in the steward department, sailing in both the deep sea and inland divisions. He most recently worked on the Delta Mariner. Boatman Gamble attended classes on numerous occasions at the Piney Point school. He resides in his native Alabama. JOHN SPARKS, 57, embarked on his seafaring career in 1979 in Piney Point, Md. The deck department member upgraded frequently at the Paul Hall Center. Boatman Sparks was born in South Carolina. He last worked aboard a Crowley Towing and Transportation of Jacksonville vessel. DONALD TODD, 62, became a union member in 1975. Born in GREAT LAKES ALLAN JOHNSON, 64, joined the union in 1963. Brother Johnson worked in the deck department. His first trip to sea was on a Rockport Steamship Company vessel. Brother Johnson enhanced his seafaring abilities on three occasions at the Piney Point school. Born in Frankfort, Mich., he last sailed aboard the Indiana Harbor. He continues to live in Frankfort. Editor’s note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU) and participants in the NMU Pension Trust, recently went on pension. EUSEBIO AMAYA, 70, joined the union in 1982 in Chicago. Brother Amaya was born in Honduras. His first ship was the Amoco Indiana. Brother Amaya worked in the steward department. His final voyage was aboard the Liberator. PAUL BORG, 65, became an NMU member in 1967, initially sailing from the port of San Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG. 1948 The Seafarers International Union rocked the maritime industry this week with the dramatic announcement that the union hiring hall will be retained in its contracts with member companies of the Atlantic and Gulf Ship Operators Association. Agreement between the union and the association, representing nine major companies, came after almost three weeks of negotiations during which the SIU committee firmly refused to discuss any other issue until its demands for retention of the hiring hall had been recognized. With the central issue settled to the union’s satisfaction, discussions on other contractual issues are now in progress. Francisco. Brother Borg was born in San Pedro, Calif. Prior to retiring, he worked aboard the Adm. William Callaghan. LYNN BOYD, 68, hails from Los Angeles. Brother Boyd started sailing with the NMU in 1969 from the port of Seattle. His most recent voyage was on the Chesapeake Bay. KENNETH DELANCEY, 56, joined the NMU in 1968 in San Pedro, Calif. Brother Delancey’s first ship was the Keystone State. The steward department member was born in Torrance, Calif. Brother Delancey’s last trip to sea was on the Fredericksburg. MAHFOUD FAYED, 55, was born in Yemen. Brother Fayed joined the NMU in 1977 in San Pedro, Calif. His first ship was the Texaco Minnesota. Brother Fayed last sailed on the Argonaut. JAIME PABON, 56, began his seafaring career in 1974 in New Orleans. Brother Pabon’s first voyage was on the Baldbutte. He was born in New York. will be in addition to upgrading training to enable working seamen to qualify for promotions after specialized training. 1982 Construction on the SIU’s brand new six-story headquarters building in Camp Springs, Md. is nearing completion. The building is located just minutes by car from downtown Washington, D.C. All of the exterior work has been completed, and interior work is moving along rapidly. The building should be ready for occupation in the next few months. The opening of this structure gives the SIU a very visible presence in Washington, where the fortune of the U.S. maritime industry is decided on a daily basis. This Month In SIU History 1967 In a report to the Atlantic and Gulf membership during the regular July membership meeting at headquarters, President Paul Hall told the members that facilities for the training and upgrading of seamen were being expanded. In addition to local training sites in New York and other outports, the SIU has recently purchased a 28-acre site at Piney Point, Md. to train young men for entry-level jobs aboard American-flag ships. This 1996 Deployed on its first assignment, the SIU-crewed USNS Shughart is operating out of Newport News, Va., where it is participating in a series of military exercises. The U.S. Army support ship, operated by the Navy’s Military Sealift Command (MSC), recently sailed from San Diego to the East Coast. The vessel also will undergo some minor work at Newport News Shipbuilding. Earlier this year, the Shughart was converted in a San Diego shipyard. Seafarers LOG 17 �36817p01_02_04_24.qxp 6/27/2006 10:05 AM Page 18 Final Departures DEEP SEA JOSEPH BILLOTTO Pensioner Joseph Billotto, 77, died March 21. Brother Billotto began sailing with the SIU in 1951. Born in Italy, he initially shipped on the Steel Fabricator as a member of the engine department. Before retiring in 2000, Brother Billotto worked on the Horizon Challenger. He made his home in Mobile, Ala. SALVATORE FRANK JR. Pensioner Salvatore Frank Jr., 84, passed away March 24. Brother Frank began his seafaring career as a charter member in 1939. The deck department member first sailed aboard a Doric Shipping Company vessel. Brother Frank was born in Connecticut. His last voyage was aboard the Independence. Brother Frank went on pension in 1984. He made his home in Barnstable, Mass. ANTULIO GARCIA Pensioner Antulio Garcia, 82, died March 9. Brother Garcia was born in Puerto Rico and joined the SIU in 1966. A member of the engine department, Brother Garcia began sailing aboard a Debardeleben Marine Corporation vessel. His last voyage was on the OMI Charger. Brother Garcia started collecting his pension in 1986. He was a resident of Land O’ Lakes, Fla. RAYMOND O’DOWD Pensioner Raymond O’Dowd, 78, passed away Jan. 6. Brother O’Dowd joined the SIU in 1946 in New Orleans. His earliest trip to sea was aboard an A.H. Bull company vessel. Brother O’Dowd was born in Utica, N.Y. He worked in the deck department and last sailed on the Achiever. He retired in 1992 and lived in Manlius, N.Y. LANIX REED Pensioner Lanix Reed, 89, died Feb. 27. Brother Reed joined the union in 1952. His first ship was the Ft. Hoskins, on which he sailed in the deck department. Brother Reed was born in Louisiana. Prior to retiring in 1982, he shipped on the Over Anchor. Brother Reed called Evangeline, La. home. FRED TIERNEY Pensioner Fred Tierney, 61, died Feb. 21. Brother Tierney joined the SIU in 1968. He first sailed on a Manhattan Tankers Corporation vessel. Brother Tierney was born in New York and shipped in the engine department. His most recent journey was aboard the Gopher State. Brother Tierney, who made his home 18 Seafarers LOG in Brooklyn, N.Y., became a pensioner in 2000. WILLIAM SISTO Pensioner William Sisto, 77, passed away Feb. 13. Brother Sisto became a Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) member in 1973. His maiden voyage was aboard the President Polk. Brother Sisto was a native of Pennsylvania. He worked in the steward department, last sailing on the Kaimoku. He went on pension in 1995 and settled in Torrance, Calif. INLAND CLARENCE LANCASTER Pensioner Clarence Lancaster, 84, passed away Feb. 24. Born in North Carolina, Boatman Lancaster embarked on his seafaring career in 1962. He was first employed aboard vessels operated by Gulf Atlantic Transport. Boatman Lancaster last shipped on an Allied Towing Company vessel. He started collecting compensation for his retirement in 1993. Boatman Lancaster was a resident of his native state. NORMAN SAWYER Pensioner Norman Sawyer, 72, died Feb. 21. Boatman Sawyer began sailing with the SIU in 1956. He shipped in both the deep sea and inland divisions. Boatman Sawyer first worked aboard a Sinclair Oil Corporation vessel. He was born in Virginia but called Harbinger, N.C. home. Boatman Sawyer retired in 1995. GREAT LAKES WILLIS CAMPBELL Pensioner Willis Campbell, 79, passed away March 16. Brother Campbell launched his seafaring career in 1951 in Detroit. He initially sailed aboard a Waterman Steamship Corporation vessel in the deck department. Brother Campbell was born in Michigan. He most recently shipped on the Susan Hannah. Brother Campbell, who went on pension in 1995, lived in Cleveland. GLOUCESTER FISHERMEN SEBASTIAN SCOLA Pensioner Sebastian Scola, 87, died March 17. Born in Massachusetts, Boatman Scola joined the union in 1980. He primarily worked aboard fishing boats in the Gloucester Fisherman’s union. Boatman Scola retired in 1982. He resided in Essex, Mass. Editor’s Note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU) and participants in the NMU Pension Trust, have passed away. RUPERT ALEXIS Pensioner Rupert Alexis, 80, passed away Nov. 21. He joined the NMU in 1947, initially sailing from New Orleans on the St. Mary. Brother Alexis was born in Honduras and worked in the steward department. His last voyage was on the John Lykes. Brother Alexis went on pension in 1987. sailed from New York aboard a Liberty ship. Prior to retiring in 1968, he sailed on the United States. Luckenbach. Brother Niles started receiving his retirement compensation in 1968. CLYDE LANTRIP WALTER POLLARD JOSE APONTE Pensioner Clyde Lantrip, 93, died Nov. 3. Brother Lantrip started his seafaring career in 1937. His first vessel was the Coppename. Brother Lantrip worked in the steward department and was a native of Mississippi. He became a pensioner in 1976. Pensioner Walter Pollard, 71, died Dec. 10. Brother Pollard was born in Newport News, Va. He began sailing in 1955 aboard the James Bowdoin. Brother Pollard shipped as a member of the steward department. He became a pensioner in 1983. HAROLD LUKE JACK RUSSELL Pensioner Jose Aponte, 81, died Dec. 4. Brother Aponte launched his seafaring career in 1945, first sailing from the port of New York on the Nicholas Gilman. Born in Puerto Rico, Brother Aponte was a member of the steward department. His last voyage was aboard the African Rainbow. Brother Aponte began receiving his retirement stipends in 1969. MARIO AYUSO Pensioner Mario Ayuso, 77, passed away Nov. 7. Brother Ayuso donned the NMU colors in 1951 in New York. His first voyage was on the Kettle Creek. Brother Ayuso was born in Puerto Rico and shipped in the steward department. He retired in 1987. TORIBIO BLANCO Pensioner Toribio Blanco, 74, died Dec. 13. Brother Blanco became an NMU member in 1965 in New York. His first ship was the Constitution; his last was the Green Harbor. Brother Blanco was a native of Honduras and sailed in the engine department. He started collecting his pension in 1998. EUGENE CAUVIN Pensioner Eugene Cauvin, 94, passed away Nov. 21. Brother Cauvin began working with the NMU in 1951 in the port of New York. The steward department member last sailed on the Brazil. Brother Cauvin began receiving his retirement compensation in 1971. CHARLES EIFFERT Pensioner Charles Eiffert, 82, died Dec. 14. He initially shipped from the port of New Orleans aboard the Jack Carnes. Brother Eiffert was born in Louisiana and sailed as a member of the engine department. His last voyage was on the Joseph Lykes. Brother Eiffert went on pension in 1967. RESTITUTO GARCIA Pensioner Restituto Garcia, 88, passed away Dec. 24. The Puerto Ricoborn mariner joined the NMU in 1945. Brother Garcia first Pensioner Harold Luke, 78, passed away Nov. 5. Brother Luke embarked on his NMU career in 1964, first shipping from the port of Jacksonville, Fla. The engine department member was born in Florida. Brother Luke’s last voyage was on the Marine Princess. He started collecting his pension in 1989. Pensioner Jack Russell, 82, passed away Dec. 13. Brother Russell became an NMU member in 1942 in the port of Norfolk, Va. He first sailed on the Lewis Luckenbach in the steward department. Brother Russell was a native of Portsmouth, Va. Before retiring in 1995, he sailed aboard the Marine Princess. CONSTANTINOS MENDRINOS EDUARDO SANTANA Pensioner Constantinos Mendrinos, 84, died Dec. 7. Brother Mendrinos joined the NMU ranks in 1943 in New York. His first ship was the Stephen F. Austin. Brother Mendrinos was born in Greece. He began his retirement in 1971. Pensioner Eduardo Santana, 90, died Dec. 4. Brother Santana started shipping with the NMU in 1945. The Puerto Ricoborn mariner worked in the steward department. Brother Santana’s first ship was the Helen Whittier; his last was the Santa Elena. He began his retirement in 1966. RICHARD MONROIG Pensioner Richard Monroig, 88, passed away Oct. 5. Born in Puerto Rico, Brother Monroig began sailing with the NMU in 1951 in the port of New York. He worked in the steward department. Brother Monroig went on pension in 1971. His last voyage was aboard the Argentina. Editor’s Note: In addition to the individuals listed above, the following NMU members, all of whom were pensioners, passed away on the dates indicated. Name Age DOD Alexis, Nelson 75 Apr. 24 Anglada, Carlos 80 May 12 Baker, Robert 68 Apr. 6 Bentick, Ronald 92 Apr. 13 JASPER NICHOLS Cole, Sam 90 Apr. 2 Pensioner Jasper Nichols, 92, died Nov. 3. Brother Nichols began his NMU career in 1937 in New York. His first trip to sea was on the Pennsylvania. Brother Nichols was a steward department member. He last worked aboard the United States. Brother Nichols retired in 1970. Coleman, Curtis 76 May 30 Evans, Aaron 73 May 15 Eylders, Gerritt 82 May 5 Ghany, Solomon 88 May 2 Leggington, John D. 79 May 4 Lemkuil, Norman 81 May 21 McBride, James 88 Mar. 15 Phillips, James 77 May 11 Pope, Rubin 79 May 9 Ritchie, Elmer 79 May 14 Romer, Albert 102 Apr. 6 Rosado, Pablo 80 May 17 Stankewicz, Zigmund 83 Apr. 21 Stewart, Freddie 81 Apr. 24 Turner, Noble 76 May 23 Veino, Robert 75 Apr. 25 Wellington, John 73 Apr. 24 Zuloaga, Lucio 88 May 11 WILLIAM NILES Pensioner William Niles, 86, passed away Dec. 19. Brother Niles joined the NMU in 1946 in the port of New York. His first ship was the Thomas F. Cunningham. A member of the steward department, Brother Niles was born in the Virgin Islands. His last voyage was on the Audrey July 2006 �36817p01_02_04_24.qxp 6/27/2006 10:05 AM Page 19 Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring 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. CAPE KENNEDY (Keystone Shipping), May 1—Chairman Donald Byrd, Secretary Eddie W. Taylor, Educational Director Tran P. Luu, Deck Delegate Leandro A. Cacho, Engine Delegate Joseph Shepard Jr., Steward Delegate Roberto Martinez. Chairman advised all members to keep documents current. “You can’t sail without them.” He also encouraged them to contribute to SPAD for job security. Secretary reminded crew that safety comes first, no matter what the task is. Educational director urged mariners to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Those in need of applications should see the electrician. Beef noted in steward department; no disputed OT. Crew requested new TV antenna system for lounge, 10 fold-away cots and copies of health and pension plans booklets. Vote of thanks given to all three departments for job well done and working well together. Next port: Jacksonville, Fla. COMMITMENT (Maersk Line Limited), May 24—Chairman Edward J. O’Connor, Secretary Thomas W. Milovich, Educational Director Dennis R. Baker, Engine Delegate Keithley L. Andrew. Chairman announced May 28 payoff in Newark, N.J. He asked crew members to clean rooms and see patrolman before departing vessel. Secretary suggested Seafarers clean up after themselves in pantry area and make new pot of coffee if they take the last cup. Educational director informed crew they can renew z-cards up to a year in advance, and it’s a good idea to do so because of the long waiting time. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew was asked to separate old batteries and aerosol cans from plastics. Suggestions made regarding pension plan. Members requested new recliners in crew lounge. Four new mattresses are on order. Recommendation made to reduce seatime needed for pension benefits. Thanks given to steward department for excellent job. DENALI (Alaska Tanker Company), May 8—Chairman Timothy D. Koebel, Secretary Sean O’Malley, Educational Director John C. Henry, Deck Delegate Dee Poitevien, Engine Delegate Corey P. Hann, Steward Delegate Dennis Skretta. Chairman stated he was anticipating new tanker agreement next month; hoping for substantial gains. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Letter from headquarters read and discussed. Suggestion made to eliminate vacation pay and have it incorporated into base pay. Crew members were happy to have Steward O’Malley back aboard ship. They also thanked Chief Cook Skretta for job well done. Request made to keep crew deck doors dogged and not to perform chipping by house from 12 noon to 1 p.m. Clarification requested on whether pumpmen are required to operate winches during mooring operations. Next ports: Valdez, Alaska; Cherry Point and Port Angeles, Wash. EL MORRO (Interocean American Shipping), May 28— Chairman Robert T. Grubbs, Secretary Jerome Jordan, Educational Director Monroe G. Monseur, Deck Delegate Janaro N. Jackson. Chairman announced June 1 payoff in Jacksonville, Fla. He thanked all departments for helping keep ship clean and working safely. Secretary thanked Chief Cook Antonio Mendez, SA Terence Bennett and UA Darrell Taylor for their outstanding work. Educational director urged mariners to keep all documents current and upgrade at SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department given vote of thanks for job well done. Next ports: San Juan, P.R.; Jacksonville. Bosuns on the Brittin Recertified Bosuns Stanley Daranda (left) and Ronald Charles are pictured aboard the USNS Brittin last month in New Orleans. The ship is in ROS status and recently hosted a ceremony conducted by the U.S. Military Sealift Command honoring crew members from several SIU-crewed vessels who sailed in support of hurricane relief operations along the Gulf Coast. July 2006 HORIZON CONSUMER (Horizon Lines), May 21— Chairman Joel G. Miller, Secretary Terry L. Allen, Educational Director Thomas M. Flynn. Chairman announced May 23 payoff after arrival in Oakland, Calif. Secretary asked that everyone clean room before departing vessel; this has been a bit of a problem on past voyages. Educational director advised crew to have documents ready when patrolman boards ship. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members would like information about upcoming contract. Next ports: Oakland; Los Angeles; Honolulu. HORIZON PACIFIC (Horizon Lines), May 15—Chairman Steven L. Bush, Secretary Robert P. Moseley, Educational Director Donald D. Williams Jr., Deck Delegate Augustus C. Udan, Engine Delegate Haven M. Iussig, Steward Delegate Regalado M. Bayan. Bosun informed crew that ship run will change in January. He stressed importance of donating to SPAD and how it will benefit union and membership. Those getting off ship should leave room clean and supplied with linen for next person. Everyone should check with Customs and Immigration and with the patrolman. Secretary advised Seafarers to take advantage of educational opportunities available at Piney Point school. Treasurer stated $291 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Captain thanked crew for great job on sanitary inspection. All crew members were asked to keep noise down while watch stander is sleeping. Thanks given to steward department for good job. Next ports: Tacoma, Wash.; Oakland, Calif.; Hawaii; Guam; Taiwan. HORIZON RELIANCE (Horizon Lines), May 28—Chairman Weldon J. Heblich, Secretary Brenda M. Kamiya, Educational Director Tracy J. Hill, Deck Delegate Wilfredo G. Caidoy, Engine Delegate Rey D. Farinas, Steward Delegate Mercurion Abuan. Chairman announced payoff at sea prior to arrival in Tacoma if there are no beefs or disputed OT. He stated that current contract expires June 15 and that negotiations for new agreement are in process. Educational director urged mariners to upgrade skills at SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. and watch expiration dates on MMDs. He also suggested that those retiring should keep z-cards updated or they’ll eventually lose their ratings if they decide to rejoin. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Treasurer stated $750 in ship’s fund. Footwear issue was discussed: slippers or open toe shoes should only be worn in rooms. Next port: Tacoma. ITB MOBILE (USS Transport), May 14—Chairman Joshua A. Mensah, Secretary Virgilio A. Donghit, Educational Director Jose M. Ramirez, Deck Delegate Carlos A. Arauz, Engine Delegate Adam M. Williams, Steward Delegate Duane K. Washington. Secretary informed mariners of pumpman course available at Piney Point school. He thanked crew members for separating wet and dry garbage. Educational director spoke about the benefits of upgrading skills at the Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested clarification on status of crew. Members also requested written answers to questions about health insurance and deductibles. Next port: Port Everglades, Fla. MAERSK RHODE ISLAND (Maersk Line Limited), May 16— Chairman Stephen J. Argay, Secretary Army L. Leake, Educational Director Christopher J. Kirchhofer, Deck Delegate Seth Ruckwell, Engine Delegate Ronnie L. Day Jr., Steward Delegate Frank D. McCreary. Chairman asked members to keep all doors locked and secured in port at all times. Educational director explained new z-card renewal policy (one can apply 360 days in advance of expiration). No tion made pertaining to medical benefits and union dues. Next ports: Houston; Philadelphia. USNS RICHARD G. MATTHIESEN (Ocean Ships), May 16—Chairman Dana Naze, Secretary Raymond L. Jones, Educational Director Kelly L. Mayo, Deck Delegate Eric A. Kjellberg, Engine Delegate Tracy L. Hanson, Steward Delegate Thomas K. Gingerich. Bosun read letter from company pertaining to 4 percent base wage bonus to members who complete their tours of duty without sickness or injury. Bonus will be added to Lending Their Expertise Seafarers (from left) Gil Manipon, Tom Wybo and Woodrow Brown recently volunteered their services for the Seattle Port Maritime Council’s annual labor-management awards luncheon. The event took place May 18 at the Catholic Seamen’s Club in Seattle. The port council is part of the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department. beefs or disputed OT reported. Clarification requested on travel pay in the U.S.A. or its territories. Members requested new TV and short wave radio for crew lounge. Seafarers were asked to report anything that needs to be repaired to the 1st assistant engineer. Next port: Sasebo, Japan. MAERSK VIRGINIA (Maersk Line Limited), May 14—Chairman Mohammed S. Ahmed, Secretary Douglas A. Hundshamer, Educational Director Randy D. Clark, Deck Delegate Damon Lobel, Engine Delegate Sjamsidar Madjidji, Steward Delegate Alexander Cordero. Chairman announced May 20 payoff in New Jersey. Coast Guard and security checks will take place in Charleston, S.C. May 16. He encouraged gangway watches to stay alert when being questioned on procedures by Coast Guard officials. Secretary reported he was left with a good, organized steward department from previous steward. Remembrance held for late Assistant Vice President Steve Judd. He was an asset to the SIU and will be missed. Condolences went out to his family and friends. Treasurer reported new TVs and DVD players recently purchased for crew. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested new pillows. Vote of thanks given to steward department for job well done. Next ports: Charleston; Norfolk, Va.; Newark, N.J. OCEAN TITAN (Pacific Gulf Marine), May 20—Chairman Kyle F. Schultz, Secretary Norman S. Bush, Deck Delegate Charles B. Collins. Chairman announced May 23 payoff in Houston. He reminded those crew members getting off ship to place dirty linen in laundry bags and clean room for next person. Educational director urged Seafarers to make sure all documents are current. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommenda- vacation check. To receive bonus, crew members must receive form from captain at payoff to be turned in when applying for vacation benefits. Secretary requested clarification on Article V Section 7(e) and Article V Section 12(a) of contract regarding additional personnel aboard ship. Educational director encouraged everyone to contribute to SPAD for job security. He also recommends mariners watch necessary shipping documents for expiration dates. Treasurer stated $135 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested information on how much company is contributing to SMPPP in new contract and whether it will increase over next four years. Bosun reminded crew to sign out DVDs and only take one at a time. Steward department given vote of thanks for great food, especially with 15 extra people aboard. Vessel is scheduled for Operation Pacer Goose in July—the annual resupply mission for Thule, Greenland. Next ports: Wales; Rota and Cartagena, Spain. USNS SAMUEL L. COBB (Ocean Ships), May 14— Chairman Aristeo M. Padua, Secretary Randy A. Stephens, Educational Director James G. Sloan, Deck Delegate Christopher J. Keshlear, Engine Delegate Steven M. Haver, Steward Delegate Randy A. Stephens. Chairman announced May 21 payoff in Houston. He talked about the 4 percent base wage bonus for completing a tour with no injury or illness. Treasurer stated $300 in ship’s fund. Secretary talked about short training course in personal awareness available for which certificates of completion are given. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion made to put 4 percent vacation incentive into next contract. No injuries reported in any department; everyone has been participating in all drills and meetings. Next ports: Houston; Key West, Fla. Seafarers LOG 19 �36817p01_02_04_24.qxp 6/27/2006 10:05 AM Page 20 Letters to the Editor Editor’s note: The Seafarers LOG reserves the right to edit letters for grammar as well as space provisions without changing the writer’s intent. The LOG welcomes letters from members, pensioners, their families and shipmates and will publish them on a timely basis. Former Seafarer Recommends New NCL America Cruise I retired from the SIU and then joined the Masters Mates & Pilots in 1951 after receiving my third mate’s license. As an unlicensed quartermaster, I sailed on the Alcoa Clipper and then as an officer on the Alcoa Corsair. They were good jobs. We carried 98 passengers on 16-day Caribbean cruises. It was such a pleasure for me and my lady friend to take a cruise on the Pride of America last April around the Hawaiian islands. I was able to get acquainted with the captain, officers, crew and other personnel. It Darley C. Bodden included a copy of his SIU retiring card, dated Sept. 27, 1951. was so much different from the foreign-crewed ships I’ve been on since I retired in 1984. I think it is great that NCL America has two ships and another coming soon to cruise the around the Hawaiian islands. I think everyone on the Pride of America is doing a great job, and they all seem to be happy. I would recommend the Pride of America to anyone who would like to take a good cruise. Darley C. Bodden Port Neches, Texas Bon Voyage to the Seafaring Hoggies The last of the “Hoggie” brothers, George Hatgimisios, died May 14, 2006. Kosta (Gus) was the first to start shipping in the 1940s. He was on ships going to Russia and was torpedoed twice. Then “Hoggie” (John) joined and became a union official in Baltimore. Peter shipped as chief steward, and George joined them when he came out of the Army after serving four years in World War II. This was truly a seafaring family. All the brothers were cremated when they passed away, and were buried at sea. Bon voyage to the Hoggie brothers as they sail the celestial seas. Anna (Mrs. George) Hatgimisios Coconut Creek, Fla. Thank you and congratulations on a fine performance. Franklin Gary King President, 3PSC From the left: Peter, John, Gus and George Hatgimisios, taken around 1950. Bravo Zulu for Gordon Transition to FOS I would like to express my personal appreciation to the Seafarers International Union, and particularly to Georg Kenny and Sam Spain in the Norfolk hall for the excellent effort and outstanding performance of the union in the recent activation of the USNS Gordon. The ships were fully crewed and transitioned to FOS about one day early. The ship not only transitioned to FOS timely but also departed the pier on mission before the end of the 96-hour transition period. This outstanding performance demonstrates the union’s dedication to the security and defense of the United States and solidifies the value of the unions to the nation’s security. I would like to thank you and the other members of the SIU leadership team for your outstanding support. Bravo Zulu. Thanks from Scholarship Winner - I My name is Allison Barra and I am a 2002 recipient of the Seafarers scholarship (dependent of Louis D. Barra). I just wanted to express my sincere gratitude to the SIU for all of its help and support over the last four years. I graduated first in my class at the University of Florida a semester early and have been working at a law firm until this August when I will begin Law School at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville. The scholarship money I received from the SIU allowed me to focus on my studies and perform service in my community while in college. I was able to volunteer with many organizations such as the Red Cross, St. Francis Homeless Shelter, Project Mascot Youth Mentoring Programs, Keep Alachua County Beautiful and Domestic Violence Shelters as a Service Ambassador. I also had the opportunity to intern with a circuit court judge as part of my curriculum and write a senior honors thesis. Without the support of this scholarship, I wouldn't have had as much time to truly engage in active citizenship and fully appreciate the “college experience.” I am forever grateful to the generosity of this institution and I hope that this year's recipients are able to fully utilize this resource. Thank you for your time, and I hope that you we will be able to share my thanks through the Seafarers LOG. Sincerely, Allison Barra Thanks from Scholarship Winner - II The support that the Seafarers Union has provided me has allowed me to graduate without having to take out any school loans in four years. On April 29, I received my bachelor of science in cell and molecular biology at Grand Valley State University. I have decided to continue my education and have been accepted into the University of Wisconsin at Madison to pursue a Ph.D. in biochemistry and cancer research. Additionally this summer, I will be interning at a cancer research institute until I attend graduate school this fall. My parents joke that I am a “professional student.” Again, the scholarship has been so helpful in lifting an incredible financial burden, and I am thankful to have been so lucky to have been selected to receive it. Sincerely, Brittany Stropich (2002 scholarship recipient, daughter of Steve L. Stropich) Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the 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 recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU 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 disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval 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 shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively 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 employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers 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 filing 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 SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political pur- 20 Seafarers LOG poses of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful 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 responsibility for Seafarers 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 OBLIGATIONS. 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 headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. MEMBER RIGHTS/LMRDA. The LaborManagement Reporting and Disclosure Act (LMRDA) guarantees certain rights to union members and imposes certain responsibilities on union officers. The Office of Labor-Management Standards (OLMS) enforces many LMRDA provisions while other provisions, such as the bill of rights, may only be enforced by union members through private suit in Federal court. Union Member Rights Bill of Rights: Union members have equal rights to participate in union activities; freedom of speech and assembly; a voice in setting rates of dues, fees and assessments; protection of the right to sue; and safe- guards against improper discipline. Copies of Collective Bargaining Agreements: Union members and nonunion employees have the right to receive or inspect copies of collective bargaining agreements. Reports: Unions are required to file an initial information report (Form LM-1), copies of constitutions and bylaws, and an annual financial report (Form LM-2/3/4) with OLMS. Unions must make the reports available to members and permit members to examine supporting records for just cause. The reports are public information and copies are available from OLMS. Officer Elections: Union members have the right to nominate candidates for office; run for office; cast a secret ballot; and protest the conduct of an election. Officer Removal: Local union members have the right to an adequate procedure for the removal of an elected officer guilty of serious misconduct. Trusteeships: Unions may only be placed in trusteeship by a parent body for the reasons specified in the LMRDA. Prohibition Against Violence: No one may use or threaten to use force or violence to interfere with a union member in the exercise of LMRDA rights. Union Officer Responsibilities Financial Safeguards: Union officers have a duty to manage the funds and property of the union solely for the benefit of the union and its members in accordance with the union’s constitution and bylaws. Union officers or employees who embezzle or steal union funds or other assets commit a Federal crime punishable by a fine and/or imprisonment. Bonding: Union officers or employees who handle union funds or property must be bonded to provide protection against losses if their union has property and annual financial receipts which exceed $5,000. Labor Organization Reports: Union officers must file an initial information report (Form LM-1) and annual financial reports (Forms LM-2/3/4) with OLMS; and retain the records necessary to verify the reports for at least five years. Officer Reports: Union officers and employees must file reports concerning any loans and benefits received from, or certain financial interests in, employers whose employees their unions represent and businesses that deal with their unions. Officer Elections: Unions must hold elections of officers of local unions by secret ballot at least every three years; conduct regular elections in accordance with their constitution and bylaws and preserve all records for one year; mail a notice of election to every member at least 15 days prior to the election; comply with a candidate’s request to distribute campaign material; not use union funds or resources to promote any candidate (nor may employer funds or resources be used); permit candidates to have election observers; and allow candidates to inspect the union’s membership list once within 30 days prior to the election. Restrictions on Holding Office: A person convicted of certain crimes may not serve as a union officer, employee or other representative of a union for up to 13 years. Loans: A union may not have outstanding loans to any one officer or employee that in total exceed $2,000 at any time. Fines: A union may not pay the fine of any officer or employee convicted of any willful violation of the LMRDA. (Note: The above is only a summary of the LMRDA. Full text of the Act, which comprises Sections 401531 of Title 29 of the United States Code, may be found in many public libraries, or by writing the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Labor-Management Standards, 200 Constitution Ave., NW, Room N-5616, Washington, DC 20210, or on the internet at www.dol.gov.) SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further 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 American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect 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 Michael 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. July 2006 �36817p01_02_04_24.qxp 6/27/2006 10:05 AM Page 21 SEAFARERS PAUL HALL CENTER UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. for July through the end of 2006. All programs are geared to improve the job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation’s security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Junior Engineer July 24 October 13 Marine Electrician October 23 December 15 Welding July 17 September 11 October 9 August 4 September 29 October 27 Safety Specialty Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Advanced Fire Fighting* (one week) July 10 August 7 September 25 July 14 August 11 September 29 Basic Safety Training - AB July 3 August 14 September 25 November 6 July 7 August 18 September 29 November 10 Basic Safety Training - FOWT July 24 September 18 November 13 July 28 September 22 November 17 Government Vessels - FOWT July 17 August 7 September 11 September 18 July 21 August 11 September 15 September 22 Tankerman Familiarization/ Assistant Cargo (DL)* July 31 September 18 November 27 August 11 September 29 December 8 August 7 October 16 August 11 October 20 (*must have basic fire fighting) Deck Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Able Seaman July 10 August 21 October 2 November 13 August 4 September 15 October 27 December 8 Automatic Radar Plotting Aids* (ARPA) (*must have radar unlimited) August 21 August 25 Lifeboatman/Water Survival August 7 September 18 October 30 August 18 September 29 November 10 Radar August 7 August 18 Radar Renewal (one day) August 28 (*must have basic fire fighting) Tankerman (PIC) Barge* Steward Upgrading Courses (*must have basic fire fighting) Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations modules start every week. Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward classes start every other week beginning July 3, 2006. Engine Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Basic Auxiliary Plant Ops July 17 September 11 November 13 August 11 October 6 December 8 Fast Rescue Boat July 17 July 21 FOWT July 17 September 11 September 8 November 3 � UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ Telephone _________________________ Deep Sea Member † Lakes Member Date of Birth ______________________ † Inland Waters Member † If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security # ______________________ Book # _________________________ Seniority _____________________________ Department _____________________ U.S. Citizen: Yes † No † Home Port _____________________________ Recertification Bosun October 9 November 6 Steward July 10 August 7 Academic Department Courses General education and college courses are available as needed. In addition, basic vocational support program courses are offered throughout the year, two weeks prior to the beginning of a vocational course. An introduction to computers course will be self-study. With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty (120) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, and qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. All OL, AB, JE and Tanker Assistant (DL) applicants must submit a U.S. Coast Guard fee of $140 with their application. The payment should be made with a money order only, payable to LMSS. COURSE BEGIN DATE END DATE ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held _____________________________________ LAST VESSEL: _____________________________________ Rating: ___________ _____________________________________________________________________ Date On: ___________________________ Date Off: ________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? † Yes † No If yes, class # __________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? † Yes † No If yes, course(s) taken ___________________________________________________ Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? † Yes † No Firefighting: † Yes † No CPR: † Yes † No Primary language spoken ________________________________________________ July 2006 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. 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 students, who are otherwise qualified, of 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. 7/06 Seafarers LOG 21 �36817p01_02_04_24.qxp 6/27/2006 10:06 AM Page 22 Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 674 — Graduating from the water survival course are unlicensed apprentices from class 674. They include (in no specific order) Troy Lord, Billie Marshall, Harlan Alonzo, Hospicio Lupisan Jr., Jose Nieves, Jason Manion, Sean Fletcher, Jeff Cesvet, Jerome Liles Jr., Ernest Britt, Wilbur Torres, Jesse Willard, Jack Hill III, Edwin Pagan II, Michael Donovan, Robert Noble, John Chaney, Stephen McGruder and Sargent Anderson. AB — Receiving certificates for completion of the AB class ending May 12 are (in alphabetical order) Ruben Aguirre, David Bennett, Glenard Chaney Jr., Allan Coloyan, Stephen Cooper, Fred Forsythe, James Gano, Nicole Geideman, Jay Jones, Linsey Knight, Timothy Littles, Marc Maffia, Elmer Marko, Kyle Parson, Renaudo Pierce, Abebe Reda, James Ruffin, Luis Segui, Michael Sherman, Jon Silveira, Alexander Ward and Bruce White. Their instructor, Bernabe Pelingon, is at far right. Lifeboatman/Water Survival — May 25 graduates of the lifeboatman/water survival course include (in alphabetical order) Norman Adler, David Barber, Larry Castaneda, Byron Collins, Isaac Diaz, Jay Jones, Martin Krins, Zlatko Lucic, Malek Mohamed, Juan Palacios, Howard Vick, Eric Vieira and David Warner. Their instructor, Bernabe Pelingon, is at far right. FOWT — Graduating from this course May 19 are (in alphabetical order) Heather Bushey, Hanah Cain, John Cox, Jose Deoferio, Roger Dillinger Jr., Justin Jarmalowicz, Stravon Jordan, Roy Martinez, Jimmy McCall, Mario Moralita, Timothy Johnson Jr, Lloyd Riddick, Franklin Rodgers, Devin Savoie, Harry Smith, Jo-Vanii Sprauve, Drandon Tanton, Sanjay Waidyarachchi, Philandar Walton, Richard Wright and Herman Fleischman. Their instructor, Eric Malzkuhn, is at far right. Welding — Graduation certificates for completion of the welding course were given May 25 to (in alphabetical order) Steven DeLuca, Arthur Marshall, Rudolph Miller and Barbara Trahan. Their instructor, Buzzy Anderew, is in the back. Chief Cook — Under the instruction of Instructor/Chef John Dobson (third from right) are students who completed the course for chief cooks April 20. From the left are Cesar Santos, Arthur Peoples, Marcia Mossbarger, Alfonsa Eligio, Jermaine Robinson, Dobson, Suyapa Marin and Robert Austin. Computer Lab Classes Left: Holding their certificates of achievement for courses completed May 19 in the computer lab at the Paul Hall Center are (from left) John Daniels, Ruben Aguirre and Louis A. Segui. Their instructor, Rick Prucha, stands in the back row. Right: With instructor Rick Prucha (center, back row) are students who completed their computer courses June 2. They are (front row, from left) Arthur Marshall, David A. Warner, (back row) Joh Phillips, Byron A. Collins and Eric Vieira. 22 Seafarers LOG July 2006 �36817p01_02_04_24.qxp 6/27/2006 10:06 AM Page 23 Paul Hall Center Classes Junior Engineer — Upgrading Seafarers who completed the junior engineer course June 23 are (in alphabetical order) Tawrence Abrams, Marcos Almazon, Rigoberto Beata, Felix Johnfinn, Melissa Leon Guerrero, Douglas Lowry, Forrest McGee, Lamont Robinson, Timothy Sexton, David Simpson, Thomas Swayne Jr. and Kelly Woolford. Their instructor, Jay Henderson, is at far right. Government Vessels — Phase III unlicensed apprentices completed the government vesssels course June 2. They are (in no specific order) Algernon Reed, Jesse Willard, Taufiq Wasel, Wayne Altoonian, Greg Simmons, Jeff Cesvet, Stephen McGruder, Gregory Brown, Edwin Pagan, Antoine Best, Henry Callahan, Gregory Brunson Sr., Allan Coloyan, Bruce White, Fred Forsythe and Robert Waren. Tanker Familiarization/ Assistant Cargo (DL) — Another group of Phase III unlicensed apprentices who completed this course May 12 are Morgan Tury, Brendan O’Brien, John Galatioto, Jeffery Novak, Ricardo Former, Scott Bloomfield, Nicholas Gattuso, Jonathan Rodriguez, Gregory Brown, Lawrence Stanley-Dalton, Ronald Byrd, Nicholas Kempker, Orien Nelson, Detrell Lambey, Mathew Alaniz, Aaron Carson and John Chaney. Tanker Familiarization/Assistant Cargo (DL) — Phase III unlicensed apprentices who completed this course May 12 are Jeff Cesvet, Shawana Mills, Antoine Best, Lawanda Thornton, Algernon Reed, Wayne Altoonian, Thomas Jarrett, Lester DeSheers, Claytain Carr, Taufiq Wasel, Jesse Willard, Greg Simmons, Edwin Pagan and Steve McGruder. STCW — STCW — NCL, May 25: Marc Alwine, Sidney Babula, Edna Bactad, Elizabeth Bonanni, Gladys Bostic, Marvais Bowers, David Boyce, Jennifer Boyd, Sharon Boyers, Matthew Bruischat, Jennifer Bulin, Rebecca Burns, Todd Cash, Alfonso Castro, Ricardo CastroRangel, Paulo Choinski, Andrew Christensen, Paul Clinkscales, Fabio Cristiano, Krista Daigle, Jeremy Darling, Candace David, Juan DeLao, Ryan Deese and Eduardo Diaz. STCW — NCL, May 25: Terisa Marinos, Eduardo Martinez, Ashley Mihelich, Randy Milan, Tifani Obaseki, Nathan Ojeda, Stephen Palmer, Matthew Parker, Robert Patman, Karen Pedicini, Julio Perez, Amanda Perez, Rosario Perez, Natasha Pettigrew, Linda Pierce, Bernard Punu, Armando Quindo, Henry Quizon, Desiree Rafel, Joshua Regala, Andrew Reinhardt, Lindsey Reinig and Kimberly Retuyan. July 2006 NCL, May 25: Rodney Dixon, Robert Dougherty, Haley Anne Dunn, Thomas Ettenborough, Amorita Garcia, Andrew Garcia, Edgardo Gonzales, Chanice Guitang, Hebert Gutierrez, Justin Gwaltney, Mary Hays, Joy Hermann, Christine Jacinto, Danniele Johnson, Tara Jones, Melissa King, Jessie Littlejohn, Luz Lopez, Joetta Lopez-Garcia, Kenneth Lutz, Michael Mandigo, Kelly Manley and Abdellatif Marfouk. STCW — NCL, May 25: Jon Perry Corinna Richter, Loni Rosario, Mary Schluck, Kelly Shirey, El Roy Simmons, Melody Sinclair, Jason Skill, Oleg Solovyev, David Taxer, Tifani Thibodeau, Reuben Tobier, Rusty Tolson, Anthony Torres, Filippo Travisany, Andy Wilkerson, Brittany Willard and Donald Zimmerman III. Also included were SIU members Amy Atterbury, Gregory Brunson Sr., Saleh Eladari, Jose Figueroa and Robert Mason. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Seafarers LOG 23 �36817p01_02_04_24.qxp 6/27/2006 10:06 AM Page 24 July 2006 Volume 68, Number 7 HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY JULY 4, 2006 At Home in the Port of San Juan After completing a tour of duty on the Horizon Hawaii, Chief Cook Jorge Salazar is ready for 60 days vacation. Jesse Cintron takes the oath of allegiance to the union and receives his deep sea full book. A general basic awareness course was held in May at the San Juan hall. Conducted by Mitch Oakley, an instructor from the Paul Hall Center, and VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, members found the course material very interesting. Victor Rios (right) shows Port Agent Amancio Crespo his certificate of achievement from a course he took at the Paul Hall Center. Safety First on the Capt. Hagen When not shipping out, the San Juan hall is a great place to stay in touch with fellow Seafarers. From the left are AB Abel Vasquez, AB Larry Castaneda, Bosun Ilya Ledesma, Bosun Jaime Baretty and QMED Armando Garayua. Penn Maritime’s ATB tug Capt. Hagen, with its barge Key West, anchored in the river just north of New Orleans last year after the hurricane. The 6,000 horsepower tug is 123 feet long. Together with its barge, the unit carries petroleum products and has a 140,000 barrel capacity. Juan Rebollo shows off his first inland pension check at the SIU hall in San Juan. With him is Port Agent Amancio Crespo. Receiving their first pension checks from Port Agent Amancio Crespo are . . . . . . Angel Garcia . . . Bosun Wilson Garcia Receiving their books from Port Agent Amancio Crespo are . . . Each crew member had an opportunity to practice handling all the equipment during a recent fire and boat drill. From the left are AB Steve Thompson, Mate Lou Barra (who sent these photos to the LOG) and AB/Tankerman Archie Bodden. . . . Chief Steward Juan Vallejo . . . Bosun Jaime Baretty � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2000-2009 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXII-LXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present, Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource July 2006 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES PRESIDENT PRAISES MARINERS PHILLY TANKERS REACH CONSTRUCTION MILESTONES SIU STATEMENT FOCUSES ON MARINERS’ RIGHTS NEW OAKLAND HALL OPENING SOON STD. FREIGHTSHIP/TANKER CONTRACTS DUE FOR VOTE SIU STUDIES TWIC, MMC RULES PHILLY TANKER UPDATES: KEEL LAID FOR 2ND SHIP, CONSTRUCTION STARTS ON 3RD CREWS OBSERVCE NATIONAL MOMENT OF REMEMBRANCE AFL-CIO ANNOUNCES GULF COAST REVITALIZATION PROGRAM CONTINUED INCREASES IN HEALTH CARE COSTS AFFECT ALL SECTORS OF AMERICAN ECONOMY PENN. WWII MARINERS ELIGIBLE FOR $500 BONUS ENGINE DEPT. TRAINING GETS UPGRADE VEITCH AND RICHARDSON CHOSEN FOR AOTOS AWARDS UNION, SCHOOL MOURN INSTRUCTOR LARRY MALONE CAPE DECISION DELIVERS IN HIGH-PROFILE MISSION UNION PLUS ROLLS OUT TWO MORE PROGRAMS SEAFARERS WEIL GETS REVVED UP ABOUT U.S. MERCHANT MARINE HEALTH AND RESEARCH GROUPS TRYING TO TACKLE AVIAN FLU AT HOME IN THE PORT OF SAN JUAN Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 07/01/2006 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 68, No. 7 2006 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/400b73b44e063f226089aacb1ab00eb4.pdf 59b18beb6948bc45e8681d9ab75e05bf PDF Text Text 43332_p01_9,15,18,19x:3332p0 6/26/2007 4:36 PM Page 1 Volume 69, Number 7 July 2007 Union Welcomes nd 2 OSG Tanker Aker Philadelphia Shipyard Conducts Ceremony for Overseas Long Beach The second of Overseas Shipholding Group’s new tankers being built at Aker Philadelphia Shipyard formally was named the Overseas Long Beach June 16 at the yard. The vessel is pictured above during sea trials a week before the ceremony. At left, shown near the ship just before the event are (from left) SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez, OSG Senior VP Captain Robert Johnston and SIU VP Contracts George Tricker. The photo at right shows ongoing progress at the shipyard, which is building additional tankers to be crewed by Seafarers. Page 3. SIU Boatmen Bike for Charity Seafarers were among an estimated 4,500 people participating in a rally in Washington, D.C. on June 19 urging passage of pro-worker legislation intended to give employees a genuine opportunity to choose union representation. The Employee Free Choice Act, organized labor’s top legislative priority, was headed for a possible Senate vote as this issue of the LOG went to press. Page 5. Seafarer Nickoli Payne (pictured in Austin, Texas) recently led a group of fellow SIU boatmen who took part in a major philanthropic event raising funds for the Lone Star Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. The two-day bike ride generated more than $12 million. Page 6. Thousands Rally in D.C. for Employee Free Choice Act CIGNA News Lakes Photos T-AKE Update Page 4 Page 8 Pages 12-13 �43332_p01_9,15,18,19x:3332p0 6/26/2007 4:33 PM Page 2 California Nurses Assoc. Joins AFL-CIO President’s Report Why We Participate Any Seafarer who cares about his or her job security and the future of our union should understand the importance of grassroots political activities. This is a topic I bring up with some frequency, precisely because it’s so important to all of us. Our livelihoods depend on it. A quick look at this issue of the LOG illustrates my point. (I’ll understand if you first want to turn toward the back pages and check who retired and who crossed the final bar. I do the same thing each Michael Sacco month as I’m approving the pages.) Our lead story is about a new tanker joining the SIU fleet. That ship is part of a large program of new builds, first announced a couple of years ago. Without the Jones Act—a law promoting ships that are crewed, flagged, built and owned American—there would be no new domestic tanker program. And without political efforts to maintain support for pro-maritime laws, the Jones Act undoubtedly would be weakened or wiped out. On the back page, we’re running a photo feature about a vessel that’s enrolled in the U.S. Maritime Security Program. The MSP is an important program that keeps 60 privately owned, militarily useful U.S.-flag ships sailing in the international trades. It took repeated, forceful, bipartisan political action dating back to the early 1990s to make the MSP reality, both in its initial form in 1996 and again when it was renewed two years ago. Without the original enactment of that program and its extension, and without full funding each year to maintain it, I believe most or all of the American-flag international fleet would disappear in no time. Make no mistake, we’ve got a selfish interest in the Jones Act and MSP fleets. Many of those vessels are SIU ships. But as a citizen, I’ve also got a genuine appreciation for what those laws (and others promoting the U.S.-flag fleet) mean to America’s national and economic security. Without a viable U.S. Merchant Marine, it would only be a matter of time before our country found itself an economic hostage to foreign nations. Worse, history shows we cannot and must not exclusively depend on foreign-flag ships to deliver materiel for our armed forces. That’s not just a case of lessons learned; it’s good common sense. Those aren’t the only stories that reflect why we’re politically active. Late last month, the Employee Free Choice Act was headed for possible action by the Senate. As you may know, that legislation is organized labor’s top priority, and for good reason. It would begin the process of leveling the playing field in union organizing drives— finally giving workers a chance to freely choose union representation. That law alone would be a springboard to a better way of life for working families. And then there’s the story that won’t go away: health care. The recent addition of the California Nurses Association to the AFL-CIO is good news in our long fight to secure decent, affordable health care for all Americans. Labor is leading that fight, too. Obviously, this is a subject that impacts every one of us, even if we haven’t been to the doctor lately. Health care costs have been going through the roof for years. That’s the number one subject in practically every contract negotiation from coast to coast, and not just in maritime. There are other examples in this edition (the TWIC unavoidably comes to mind), but hopefully you get the point. We’ve always been politically active, and considering the heavily regulated nature of our industry—and the regular turnover at every level of government— we’ve got no choice but to continue on that path. Rank-and-file grassroots support is critical to our efforts. That’s why we ask you to donate time and contribute to SPAD. Put another way, political action doesn’t necessarily guarantee our success, but lack of participation assures failure. Keep that in mind the next time your port agent asks you to take part in grassroots activities for pro-maritime candidates, or the next time you’re deciding whether to donate to our voluntary political action fund. We’ve got a proven track record of success in this arena, and with full participation there’s no reason we can’t build on that success. Volume 69, Number 7 July 2007 The SIU on line: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 8990675. 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, Deborah A. Hirtes; Associate Editor, Jim Guthrie; Art, Bill Brower; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2007 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD All Rights Reserved. 2 Seafarers LOG Affiliation Should Help Labor’s Health Care Drive Saying nurses are eager to help lead the drive for guaranteed health care for all, 75,000 Registered Nurses became the newest members of the AFL-CIO May 21 as the California Nurses Association and its national arm, the National Nurses Organizing Committee, joined the 10 million member federation (to which the SIU also is affiliated). The national affiliation charter was issued at a meeting of the board of directors of the California Nurses Association/National Nurses Organizing Committee (CNA/NNOC). “Nobody understands better than nurses that health care in our country cries out for reform,” said AFL-CIO President John Sweeney. “CNA has led the drive for reform in California; working together in the AFL-CIO, we have the power to build a broad new national movement that can win change.” “We look forward to engaging in collective work with AFL-CIO unions,” said CNA/NNOC President Deborah Burger, RN. “We believe that the strength of the labor movement coupled with the nurses’ commitment to guaranteeing comprehensive health care coverage through HR 676 will provide the foundation necessary for genuine reform.” H.R. 676— The United States National Health Insurance Act—is one of several approaches currently under consideration in Congress to achieve quality, affordable universal health care. The affiliation unites 325,000 RNs in the federation. CNA/NNOC will join the AFL-CIO RNs Working Together Industry Coordinating Committee and affiliate with all AFL-CIO state and local organizations where it has members. CNA/NNOC nurses join AFL-CIO nurses represented by the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE); American Federation of State, County, Municipal Employees (AFSCME); American Federation of Teachers (AFT); Communications Workers of America (CWA); International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE); International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE); Office and Professional Employees International Union (OPEIU); United Auto Workers (UAW); United American Nurses (UAN); and United Steelworkers (USW). “We look forward to being a part of a federation that has distinguished itself as the national voice of working people in the U.S. and is the leading national champion for all Americans on a broad range of critical issues, including jobs, retirement security, economic opportunity, workplace safety, civil rights, civil liberties, and public safety,” Burger added. The CNA/NNOC affiliation is the latest in a string of AFL-CIO affiliations and partnerships that has significantly strengthened the labor movement. Last December, nearly 50,000 mail handlers with the National Postal Mail Handlers Union returned to the AFL-CIO after having left the federation along with their parent union, the Laborers. The United Transportation Union’s 60,000 members also affiliated with the AFL-CIO late last year. Four National Education Association (NEA) groups have taken advantage of the unique national NEA/AFL-CIO partnership opportunity: Rialto Education Association (California), Seattle Education Association, Beloit Education Association (Wisconsin), and UDC Faculty Association (Washington, D.C.). Two more unions recently have affiliated directly with the national AFL-CIO: the Monarch Electric Blue Collar Union (Ohio) and the Dade County School Maintenance Employee Committee (Florida). In addition, the AFL-CIO has forged innovative new partnerships with the National Day Laborers Organizing Network (NDLON), the nation’s largest day laborer association, and Interfaith Worker Justice, a national coalition of faith-based worker rights groups. Working America, the AFL-CIO’s community affiliate for workers who don’t have a union on the job, continues to gain steam, now counting 1.6 million members nationwide. Earlier this year, the AFL-CIO executive council (on which SIU President Michael Sacco serves) adopted a statement on health care which in part reads, “The time for talking about this crisis is past. All families deserve the security of a universal health care system that guarantees access based on need rather than income. Health care is a fundamental human right and an important measure of social justice…. As a nation, we need to exert the political will to enact comprehensive health care reform nationwide. There is strong evidence the crisis can be solved with tools at hand and at a cost that pales in comparison to the toll in human lives the current system exacts.” Andrasick, Arntzen, Reinhart Selected for AOTOS Awards Executives from three Seafarers-contracted companies recently were chosen to receive the 2007 Admiral of the Ocean Sea (AOTOS) Awards, presented by the United Seamen’s Service (USS). Scheduled to receive the honor Nov. 2 in New York City are James S. Andrasick, president and CEO of Matson Navigation Company; Morten Arntzen, president and CEO of Overseas Shipholding Group; and John F. Reinhart, president and CEO of Maersk Line, Limited. “Without question, all three AOTOS recipients are extremely deserving of this recognition,” stated SIU President Michael Sacco, who is chairing the awards dinner. “Each of them has done exceptional work to promote and grow the American maritime industry as a whole and the U.S. Merchant Marine in particular. I applaud and respect their efforts.” John Bowers, chairman of the USS AOTOS Committee and president of the International Longshoremen’s Association, announced the selections last month. “These three leaders represent a remarkable cross-section of the seagoing sector of our industry,” John Reinhart James Andrasick said Bowers. “Jim Andrasick, Morten Arntzen and John Reinhart all are outstanding leaders in their own areas of liner services, tanker shipping and U.S. Department of Defense support operations—all excellent symbols of the American maritime industry.” Celebrating its 125th anniversary, Matson Navigation is the principal carrier of containerized freight and automobiles between the West Coast and Hawaii, Guam and Mid-Pacific, and is the largest subsidiary of Honolulubased Alexander & Baldwin, Inc. Overseas Shipholding Group (OSG) is the only large tanker company with a significant presence in both the international flag Morten Arntzen and U.S.-flag markets, and it has an established position in the Jones Act product tanker and crude tanker segments. Maersk Line, Limited operates 19 American-flag vessels that are enrolled in the U.S. Maritime Security Program and is a longterm trusted partner with the U.S. Department of Defense, providContinued on page 5 July 2007 �43332_p01_9,15,18,19:3332p0 6/22/2007 5:46 PM Page 3 Overseas Long Beach Christened New Tanker Joining Seafarers-Contracted OSG Fleet The largest domestic vessel order since World War II continued moving forward as the SIUcontracted tanker Overseas Long Beach was christened June 16 at Aker Philadelphia Shipyard. SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez and Vice President Contracts George Tricker attended the ceremony. The Overseas Long Beach is the second ship in an initial 10tanker order by Seafarers-contracted Overseas Shipholding Group (OSG). The vessel was scheduled to enter service in late June, sailing in the Jones Act trades along with sister ship Overseas Houston. During the days leading up to the naming ceremony, the Overseas Long Beach successfully reached several checkpoints. The vessel departed the yard on June 5 and headed down the Delaware River. Once the system and performance tests began, the tanker performed admirably, accomplishing a “clean sweep” of the required assessments, fully demonstrating all systems and achieving all specified performance measures. The tanker returned to the yard on schedule in the early hours of June 9. One week later, hundreds of invited guests along with Aker employees and their families turned out for the ceremony. Delaware Gov. Ruth Ann Minner formally named the ship the Overseas Long Beach. Also addressing the crowd were Eric Smith, OSG’s chief commercial officer; Dave Meehan, president and CEO of Aker American Shipping; Jonathan Whitworth, senior vice president and head of OSG America; and John Ridgway, deputy CEO of BP Shipping. In a message contained in the printed program, OSG President and CEO Morten Arntzen noted that the Overseas Long Beach “underscores OSG’s strong commitment to the Jones Act and to the renewal of the U.S.-flag fleet, indeed in our commitment to America. For it also reflects our commitment to maintain and operate a modern, high-quality, double-hull tanker fleet, which will be built and operated to the highest safety and quality standards.” The newest ship is part of a group called the Veteran Class of tankers. Each vessel in the series will be slightly longer than 600 feet and capable of transporting more than 332,000 barrels of petroleum products. Each vessel will weigh 46,000 deadweight tons, have a beam of about 105 feet and travel at a “cruising speed” of 14.6 knots. All 10 product tankers in the series will be owned by American Shipping Corporation, a subsidiary of Aker American Shipping, and chartered to OSG. To Photos above, below and at left show different views of the Overseas Long Beach and an overview of the shipyard, where additional tankers are under construction. date, nine of the 10 tankers in the build program are under signed time charter, with agreements in place between OSG and Shell, BP and Tesoro. Earlier this year, the yard announced an agreement in principal pursuant to which Aker Philadelphia Shipyard will construct up to six additional Veteran Class MT-46 Jones Act product tankers (three fixed plus three options), beyond the initial 10- ship order. The delivery schedule for the eight vessels remaining in the first order is as follows: Overseas Los Angeles, November 2007; Overseas New York, April 2008; Overseas Texas City, October 2008; Overseas Boston, March 2009; Overseas Nikiski, May 2009; Overseas Tampa, October 2009; Overseas Port Arthur, March 2010; and Overseas Jacksonville, July 2010. Crowley Welcomes ATB Gulf Reliance Seafarers already had been sailing aboard Crowley Maritime Corporation’s ATB Gulf Reliance for a few weeks, but the new articulated tug and barge formally was welcomed into the fleet May 23 at a ceremony in Long Beach, Calif. SIU members and officials were on hand for the pier-side event, including Seafarers Bruce Comiskey, Charlie Carlson, Robert Hoffman Jr., Ardale Crim, Kenneth Graybill, Christopher Farmer, Ronald Poole and Rick Cristofano and Wilmington Port Agent John Cox. Altogether, more than 125 people attended the christening. The Gulf Reliance (and its accompanying barge 650-2) is the second in a series of 10 new ATBs being constructed for Crowley by VT Halter Marine at facilities in Pascagoula and Moss Point, Miss. The first, the Pacific Reliance/650-1, was christened in March 2006. The newest tug was christened for customer Shell Trading U.S. by Shell Representative Amy McDonald and Crowley Technical Services Senior Vice President and General Manager Steve Collar. The barge was christened by Shell Representative Jan Chilelli and Crowley Petroleum Services Vice President of Bulk Petroleum and Chemical Transportation Bill Taylor. The ATB is powered by twin, low-emissions Caterpillar diesels producing over 9,000 horsepower. Each tugboat in the Reliance Class of ATBs measures 127 feet long and 42 feet wide, with a depth of 24 feet and a draft of 19 feet. Each barge is approximately 587 feet long and 74 feet wide and has a capacity of 185,000 barrels. According to the company, “The Reliance/650 Class ATBs incorporate the latest advances in environmental safety along with improvements in hull design to deliver the most advanced and efficient tug barge combinations currently available. Making use of an articulated connection system, the tug mates into a specially designed notch in the stern of the barge. The sophisticated connection allows the tug and barge to move fluidly as one unit in the most adverse seas, thereby providing increased service reliability not achievable with a conventional tug and barge. With the barge’s advanced hull shape and articulated connection system, the unit is able to achieve a service speed of 12 knots.” Crowley further notes that the barges are double-hulled and tugs double-sided “for maximum protection and safety. The barges were built, documented and Barge 650-2 works in conjunction with the Gulf Reliance. Please be advised the SIU headquarters and all SIU hiring halls will be closed on Wednesday, July 4 for the observance of Independence Day (unless an emergency arises). Normal business hours will resume the following workday. July 2007 Pictured aboard the tug early last month are (from left) Vessel Utility Bill Foley, Utility Cook Jimmy Saloom and Captain Brad Burkart. The Gulf Reliance is part of Crowley’s newest ATB. maintained to the stringent requirements of American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) SafeHull. They have sophisticated inert gas generating systems, vapor recovery systems, fully redundant ballast systems, flexible and highly efficient cargo systems, closed radar tank gauging systems, and advanced mooring systems. “Tugs meet all SOLAS (Safety Of Life At Sea) and ABS criteria, and have foam capable fire monitors; twin fuel efficient, low emission electronic diesel engines; noise reduction packages as well as other upgrades to increase performance and ensure safe, reliable operation. The tugs and barges carry communication and navigation equipment that is among the most technologically advanced in the industry today.” When the last of the new tugbarge units is delivered—scheduled to take place in 2010— Crowley’s ATB fleet will number 14, consisting of four 155,000barrel and ten 185,000-barrel ATBs. Seafarers LOG 3 �43332_p01_9,15,18,19:3332p0 6/22/2007 6:36 PM Page 4 Port Personnel Complete Workshop in Piney Point Considerable Time Devoted to New Health Network More than 20 administrative specialists from various SIU ports last month converged on the Seafarers-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education to attend a workshop covering changes members can expect under the union’s new health services provider. Union secretaries, administrative assistants and two port agents participated in the June 3-5 sessions that took place on the grounds of the spacious Piney Point, Md.-based training facility. In addition to receiving instruction on the intricacies associated with the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan’s new provider— CIGNA HealthCare Network— conference participants toured the Piney Point campus including simulator facilities; met with colleagues and management team members at the union’s claims office and visited with officials and staff members at SIU headquarters in Camp Springs, Md. Additionally, they visited the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School and went on an orientation voyage aboard a sailing vessel on the St. Mary’s River. “It was a highly productive three days for all of the participants,” said SIU Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen. “We had a lot of important information to pass on to them about imminent as well as future changes under the Plan. It was crucial that we got everyone aware and up to speed on the CIGNA HealthCare Network, because many of our rank-and-file members will have questions about the change from First Health and how it affects them. “Everyone who participated in the training was very enthusiastic and receptive toward the information we provided,” Bowen concluded. “I’m confident that our administrative folks now will be Following the June 4 membership meeting in Piney Point, Md., SIU and SHBP officials are pictured with administrative specialists from various union halls across the country. able to effectively deal with any concerns the members may have.” The blocks of training which covered changes to the union’s benefit plan provider were conducted by CIGNA Representatives Mike Davis, Meg Guessford and Reunka Bahadursingh. Instruction in other areas was provided by Bowen and staffers in the claims office and the fire fighting school, respectively. Two of the administrative assistants shared their views on the training conference and commented on their overall Piney Point experience. “I found the training very educational,” said Lisa Clark from the port of Baltimore, who also attended the 2000 training conference. “It was nice to meet the people we will be talking to in reference to claims and to learn about the new way members will have to submit their claims. It was also great to meet the other administrative assistants, like myself, whom I talk to all the time by phone. I now have faces to match the voices.” Clark said the visit to the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School was especially useful, noting, “I learned some very interesting information about fire safety which I plan to use. It’s the little things you take for granted about safety plans that could make all of the difference. “All in all, the training was great,” she said. “I had a wonderful time and it was nice that I could bring my 5-year old son, Netre, along. He had a great time as well and was named captain on the boat ride we took…. I look forward to my next visit to Piney Point. The school is great and our members should be proud of it.” Benita Evans from the port of New Orleans concurred with Clark’s assessment of the workshop’s value. “The training provided information that—once disseminated—should put the collective minds of Plan participants at ease,” Evans said. “Active Seafarers, pensioners and the respective family members of Engine Dept. Training at Paul Hall Center These photos were taken last month as students successfully completed the marine refrigerated containers advanced maintenance course at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md. Richard Huffman, Douglas Lowry, Andrew Linares Robert Norris, Rigoberto Beata, Rahul Bagchi, Hector Solis 4 Seafarers LOG Richard Huffman both now will have to worry a lot less regarding their out-of-pocket expenses by using CIGNA.” In addition to Clark and Evans, others who participated in the training and their respective ports were: Amber Akana (Hawaii); Judy Benton (Mobile); Brenda Flesner (Tacoma); Janice Hunicke (Houston); Mary Jenkins (Algonac); Linda Kluska (Philadelphia); Larayne Koide (Hawaii); Donna Massucco (Boston); Terry Montgomery (New York); Tracey Moore (Oakland); Samantha Partridge (Joliet); Clara Rampersadsingh (Ft. Lauderdale); Maria Sanchez (Puerto Rico); Myka Schwagmeier (Lawrenceburg); Karen Shuford (Jacksonville); Betty Wierschem (St. Louis) and James Ott (Tacoma). SIU Port Agents Georg Kenny (Norfolk, Va.) and John Cox (Wilmington, Calif.) also participated in the training. Participating in the CIGNA training only (all from the SIU claims department) were Pat Benoit, Lori Fessette, Kenda Parker, Linda Everett, Jenell Gandy and Lisa Russell. SIU headquarters staff members who took part in the CIGNA-only training were Bowen, Kitty Eno, and Teresa Zelko. The last training conference for union administrative specialists was conducted in August 2000. “About five or six of the people who participated in that initial training conference were back for this version,” said Paul Hall Center Vice President Don Nolan. “It was nice to see them again—they were an exceptionally good group.” CIGNA Move Takes Effect CIGNA HealthCare is now the medical and dental network service provider for the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP). The change to CIGNA from the First Health Network became effective July 1, according to SIU Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen. As reported earlier in the Seafarers LOG, participants were sent correspondence from the SHBP Board of Trustees in May, which spelled out the details of the change. In June, along with additional letters, all participants were sent new medical and dental cards. The letters are available on the SIU web site (www.seafarers.org) in the “Member Benefits and Resources” section. This change to CIGNA is a very positive one for the participants and the Plan, Bowen said. The medical benefits and benefit levels remain the same, while reducing Plan deductibles as of January 1, 2008. Eligible participants, as defined in the Rules and Regulations of the Plan, who use a provider or hospital within the CIGNA HealthCare Network will incur no balance billing; however, claims will still continue to be processed and paid in accordance with the Rules and Regulations of the Plan. If a provider or facility is not in the CIGNA HealthCare network, then claims will be processed as non-network claims as they have in the past. Those eligible to receive benefits under the SHBP were sent new CIGNA I.D cards last month so that providers could readily identify them as participants in the CIGNA network. In addition to other pertinent data, these new credentials contain important benefits and claims submission information for CIGNA hospital and medical providers. Effective July 1, these new cards must be used for all medical services rendered. Plan officials stressed that the old First Health Network Medical I.D. cards should be destroyed as they are no longer valid for use. Individuals who have not received these new cards but believe that they are entitled to benefits under this Plan should contact the Seafarers Claims Department at 1-800-252-4674. Like the Plan’s previous provider, the new CIGNA program has inand out-of-network benefits. Under the CIGNA network, participants do not need to select primary care physicians or require referrals to see specialists. Participants still enjoy the same freedom of provider choice options under the CIGNA network which were available to them under the previous provider. Also, plan participants and their family members may: Contact CareAllies (CIGNA) at 1-800-768-4695 to obtain provider information. Visit the CIGNA HealthCare web site at: www.cigna.com/SA-PPO2 to determine if their current provider is in the CIGNA network. CIGNA has different networks within its organization, so the entire web address listed should be used rather than going to the CIGNA home page. The CIGNA link also may be accesed through: www.seafarers.org/members. Request a provider nomination form from the Seafarers Claims Department (at 1-800-252-4674) if their doctor/provider is not in the CIGNA network and they would like CIGNA to contact them. Log on to www.myCareAllies.com (password Seafarers) for other services. This includes an online health library, health risk assessment tools, as well as preventive care tips and tools for a healthier lifestyle. Contact the 24-Hour “NurseLine.” This program provides toll-free telephone access to medical care professionals 24 hours a day and 365 days a year. The number is 1-800-768-4695. July 2007 �43332_p01_9,15,18,19:3332p0 6/22/2007 5:46 PM Page 5 Senate Vote Imminent on Free Choice Act D.C. Rally Calls Attention to Historic, Vital Pro-Worker Legislation Seafarers, including a contingent of unlicensed apprentices from the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., were among the thousands of AFL-CIO union members who on June 19 rallied in Washington, D.C. to urge the passage of proworker legislation intended to give employees a genuine opportunity to choose union representation. The legislation, the Employee Free Choice Act (S. 1041), at the time of the rally was being debated in the Senate where a vote was imminent when this issue of the Seafarers LOG went to press. The House by a 241-185 margin passed the bill March 1. If enacted, the Employee Free Choice Act would help enable workers to decide how they want to choose a union. Specifically, according to the AFL-CIO, the bill would give workers the option to use majority sign-up, which is much faster than the management-controlled representation election process and leaves less time for employers to harass and intimidate workers to discourage them from joining unions. Under current law, an employer can insist on a secretballot election, even after a majority sign-up. AFL-CIO President John Sweeney told the crowd that the Employee Free Choice Act is nothing short of vital. “Momentum is building and history is being made because the Employee Free Choice Act is the most important legislation helping workers economically in AFL-CIO President John Sweeney (above) told rally participants that momentum is building for passage of the Employee Free Choice Act. many, many years,” Sweeney said. “It’s the most important link to good living standards and a strong middle class. That’s why grassroots support is rippling across our nation. And today, thousands of union members and our allies are speaking to our senators with one powerful voice, asking: Are you going to join us on the right side of history?” The Capitol Hill rally was one of more than 100 demonstrations that took place across the country during the week of June 17 demanding that Congress restore the fundamental freedom to join a union and bargain for a better life. According to the AFL-CIO, mid- dle-class Americans have generated 50,000 telephone calls to the Senate, 156,000 faxes and emails, and 220,000 postcards, including 120,000 which were delivered to the Senate during the rally. Further, more than 1,200 elected officials in all 50 states have voted in support of resolutions calling on Congress to pass the bill. Fourteen Democratic governors also have signed a statement in support of the legislation. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) told the cheering crowd that the Senate will vote on the Employee Free Choice Act soon, but he did not specify a date. The senator also added, “Last year, the top three hedge funds earned $4.4 billion in profits, and the ex-CEO of Exxon got a $400 million golden parachute. Today, hourly wages are down while the number of uninsured is up. Today, household income is down, while the average CEO makes 411 times more than the average worker. Today, for far too many Americans, that New Deal has become a raw deal. It’s time to give working families a square deal … a square deal that honors workers and their families by giving them a real chance for a better life.” Sen. Edward Kennedy (DMass.), the bill’s sponsor and longtime champion, assured the crowd the bill will pass when the roll is called. Kennedy opened debate on the Senate floor and described the connection between the nation’s shrinking middle class and the decline in union 3 Executives Selected for AOTOS Awards Continued from page 2 ing various maritime support services in addition to ship operations. Andrasick, Arntzen and Reinhart led the field of nominees for the award, solicited by the USS from more than 150 maritime management, labor and government officials. All proceeds from the event benefit USS community services abroad for the U.S. Merchant Marine and other international seafarers. The recipients will share the evening with a group of American mariners who will be honored for specific acts of bravery at sea. James Andrasick was named president and chief executive officer of Matson on July 18, 2003. He joined Alexander & Baldwin, Inc., the parent company of Matson, in June 2000 as senior vice president, chief financial officer and treasurer. On April 25, 2002, he was appointed to additional duties as president and chief executive officer of Matson on an interim basis. Andrasick serves as a trustee and is on the National Executive Committee of the U.S. Coast Guard Foundation, and is a director of the Pacific Maritime Association. He also is a trustee of Mills College, the United Seamen’s Service and of the San Francisco National Maritime July 2007 Park Association. He is a graduate of the U.S. Coast Guard Academy, where he received a bachelor’s degree in engineering. He also holds a master’s degree in management science from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Morten Arntzen was appointed president and chief executive officer of OSG in January 2004. He has been an OSG board member since 2004. Prior to joining OSG, he was chief executive officer of American Marine Advisors Inc., a U.S.-based merchant banking firm specializing in maritime industry merger and acquisition advisory work and corporate restructuring for a global client base. Arntzen is a board member of the Seamen’s Church Institute in New York and New Jersey and is active with the American Bureau of Shipping and the American Maritime Association. He is presiding director of Chiquita Brands International, Inc., where he is chairman of the nominating and governance committee and a member of the audit committee. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Ohio Wesleyan University and a master of international affairs degree from Columbia University. John Reinhart was named chief executive officer of Maersk Line, Limited on Aug. 1, 2000 and president in April 2004. He joined Maersk Inc. in 1991 in human resources. In 1992, he began his career in Universal Maritime Services working his way up to president. He returned to Maersk in 1996 as a regional director and then as senior vice president. Reinhart is a member of the American Bureau of Shipping, Association of the United States Army, National Defense Industrial Association, United States Naval Institute Foundation, National Defense Transportation Association, Navy League, United Seamen’s Service and The Propeller Club of the United States. He also serves as a member of Maersk’s North American Container Business Council. Reinhart received his B.A. in political science from Ohio University and completed the executive MBA program at the University of Michigan in 1997. The USS provides community services for the U.S. Merchant Marine, American Armed Forces, and mariners of the world. It is a non-profit agency established in 1942, and operates centers in nine foreign ports in Europe, Asia, Africa and in the Indian Ocean. The USS also provides seagoing libraries to American vessels through its affiliate, the American Merchant Marine Library Association. membership, which has occurred in large part because of the unjust difficulty workers face in forming unions. Sen. Richard Durbin (D-Ill.) said unions can bring back the country to the prosperous days after World War II when returning soldiers joined unions and built the strongest middle class in history. “We’re going to give workers across this nation the same chance they had after that war,” Durbin said, “to be treated with dignity, to organize in the workplace, to stand up and fight for things that count like a decent living wage, health insurance that covers everything a family needs and pension benefits that you won’t lose in the next merger or bankruptcy.” Other speakers of note at the rally included presidential candidates Sens. Hillary Rodham Clinton (D-N.Y.), Joseph Biden (D-Del.) and Rep. Dennis Kucinich (D-Ohio); Sens. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) and Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.); Rep. George Miller (DCalif.); AFSCME President Gerald McEntee; Communications Workers of America President Larry Cohen; Mineworkers President Cecil Roberts; UAW Secretary-Treasurer Elizabeth Bunn; James Hoffa, president of the unaffiliated Teamsters; Joseph Hansen, president of the unaffiliated United Food and Commercial Workers; Roger Hickey, co-director of Campaign for America’s Future; U.S. Action President William McNary; Wade Henderson, president of the Leadership Conference on Civil Rights; American Rights at Work Executive Director Mary Beth Maxwell; and Eric Perry, AFGE’s transportation security officer. Optimism Fades in Grocery Talks Contract talks between Southern California’s major supermarket chains and the union representing some 65,000 of their workers continue to stall, raising the possibility of a repeat of the region’s 141-day lockout and strike of 2003-2004. As this edition of the LOG went to press, representatives of both the United Food and Commercial Workers Union (UFCW) and the three chains—Vons, Ralphs and Albertsons, which account for more than 50 percent of the grocery business in Southern California—were firm in their assessments that it was unlikely the two sides would make a union-imposed deadline of June 21 to agree on the provisions of a new contract. Union officials said they set the deadline simply to prevent the talks from dragging on indefinitely, rather than as provocation. Among other issues, the union and grocers primarily are at odds over regular health insurance contributions to be made by workers and the grocers, as well as how much to tap from a joint reserve trust fund of about $480 million to help offset health care costs. The union says it is willing to use around $240 million, while the grocers seek to use up to $350 million. Negotiators from seven UFCW locals have been involved in the contract talks with negotiators from the supermarket chains for nearly six months, and as of last month were some 90 days past the expiration of their original contract. Union health care funding experts have determined that the supermarket employers’ plan falls far short of the commitment needed to keep the health plan solvent through the life of the contract. In at least six other contracts around the country, supermarket employers have under-funded health care plans, according to the UFCW, forcing benefit cuts or premium increases to avoid bankruptcy. Union representatives contend that same scenario could play out in Southern California as well. SIU President Addresses AMMV Convention SIU President Michael Sacco (left) was a featured speaker May 17 at the American Merchant Marine Veterans (AMMV) convention, which took place at the Maritime Institute of Technology and Graduate Studies (MITAGS) in Linthicum, Md. He is pictured at the convention with Ian Allison, co-chairman of AMMV’s Just Compensation Committee, and AMMV Office Manager Cindy Raymond. Sacco conveyed the SIU’s ongoing support for the “Belated Thank You” legislation spearheaded by the AMMV. He also touched on the U.S. Merchant Marine’s history and some key current events affecting the industry. Seafarers LOG 5 �43332_p01_9,15,18,19x:3332p0 6/26/2007 4:35 PM Page 6 G&H Boatmen Cycle for Charity Successful Fund-Raiser Targets a Crippling Disease When six SIU boatmen from the Houston area decided earlier this year to help raise money for charity, one could say they went the extra mile—again and again. The Seafarers were among an estimated 12,000 people who participated in a 180-mile bike ride starting in Houston and ending in Austin, Texas. The twoday event raised more than $12 million for the Lone Star Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society—a new record. It took place April 21-22 under the title sponsorship of BP. The SIU contingent in the 23rd annual ride, all employed by G&H Towing, included Relief Masters Nickoli Payne and Blake Morgan, Mates Clay Buckley, Billy Kern and Travis Parker and Mate-in-Training Todd Keith. Together, they raised several thousand dollars through pledges, including donations from the SIU, G&H and others. (Although the ride itself is finished, pledges are accepted through September.) “I think the participation says a lot about each one of those members,” stated SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey. “There’s obviously nothing wrong with simply making a donation, but they did so much more. They devoted a lot of time and energy to this worthwhile cause.” Payne, the only experienced cyclist among the group of Seafarers, also biked in the 2006 Boatman Nickoli Payne, an experienced cyclist, encouraged fellow members to ride in the MS event. ride. He encouraged his fellow boatmen to participate this year as part of a larger team organized by the port of Houston. “The other guys have shown interest in cycling from time to time,” Payne noted. “I’d loan them a bike and that’s usually all it takes to get hooked on the sport. We went on training rides together in the months leading up to the MS event…. “I’ve raced (competitively) many times for myself,” added Payne, who joined the union right out of high school in the late 1980s. “I thought this time I ought to race for somebody else for a change, whether I’m helping an individual or a group. The fund-raising part was easy, since the port of Houston put together the team.” Payne, whose father is SIU retiree Jimmy “Indiana” Payne, noted that the MS fundraiser was split with 100 miles of riding the first day, an overnight stay in La Grange and 80 miles on the second day. Much of the course went through small towns. While the times naturally varied with each rider, it generally took about five hours to complete the first leg and three-anda-half hours for the second. “When you pull into Austin, it’s a feeling of joy,” concluded Payne. “It’s a lot like the bike races you see on television. People are cheering at the finish line, and that wipes away all the pain from the ride. You realize you’re riding for people who can’t ride, and all of a sudden it’s all good.” Kern said the experience was “great. I loved it. Especially on the second day, the scenery was amazing. It kind of kept you going when you were tired. I definitely plan on doing it again.” Like Payne, Kern also men- St. Louis Port Council Honors 4 From left, Mate Travis Parker, Relief Master Nickoli Payne and Mate-inTraining Todd Keith were part of the SIU contingent participating in the fund-raiser. tioned getting a boost from the audience. “Coming into Austin was nice, with all the people cheering. It made us feel good,” he said. “This was my first time participating in anything like this—I had just gotten into cycling and it so happened that this event was coming up. I was curious to see if I could do it. Of course, it was an opportunity to help out the MS Society, also.” The Lone Star Chapter of the National MS Society serves 141 counties in Texas and assists an estimated 17,000 individuals with MS. Multiple sclerosis is a disease of the central nervous system which often disables its victims. It interrupts the flow of information from the brain to the body. Symptoms range from numbness and tingling to blindness and paralysis. According to the National MS Society, most people with MS are diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 50, with more than twice as many women as men being diagnosed with the disease. MS affects more than 400,000 people in the U.S., and 2.5 million worldwide. Relief Master Blake Morgan Crescent Crews Commend Contracts As reported last month, SIU boatmen working aboard Crescent Towing tugs in three southern states recently voted in favor of new threeyear contracts that boost wages and maintain benefits. More than 150 SIU members are covered by the agreements, with most based in New Orleans and Savannah, Ga. and the rest operating from the Mobile, Ala. area. The two contracts (which are virtually identical) were approved by overwhelming majorities and were praised by numerous members. A few of the boatmen are pictured here along with SIU officials. Deckhand J.D. Spencer Four pro-worker, pro-maritime individuals were recognized May 12 during the annual dinner hosted by the St. Louis Port Maritime Council, affiliated with the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO. Pictured in the group photo are (from left) Dick Mantia, port council president; Jack Martorelli, port council vice president; the Honorable Robin Carnahan, Missouri secretary of state (the council’s “Able Helmsman” honoree); Leonard Dino Jr., president and CEO, LDI Pharmacy Benefit Services (Management Man of the Year); Roger Poole, directing business representative for Machinists District 9 (Labor Man of the Year); General Norton Schwartz, commander, U.S. Transportation Command (who as a surprise received a ship’s wheel for his support of the U.S. Merchant Marine); Jerry Feldhaus, executive secretary-treasurer of the St. Louis Building and Construction Trades Council; and Michael Sacco, MTD and SIU president. At left, President Sacco presents the wheel to General Schwartz. This was the port council’s 27th annual awards dinner. 6 Seafarers LOG Deckhand James Horton, Deckhand Norman Usey, AMO Captain Danny Robichaux, SIU Port Agent Chris Westbrook Juggo Barletto, Captain/Deckhand Joe Carson, SIU VP Dean Corgey July 2007 �43332_p01_9,15,18,19x:3332p0 6/26/2007 5:35 PM Page 7 SIU Joins in Maritime Day Ceremonies in Calif., Texas Congressman Cummings Honors Mariners with Supportive Declaration While a large contingent of SIU headquarters officials, rankand-file members and unlicensed apprentices from the Seafarersaffiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education honored the service of merchant mariners during three Washington, D.C.-area National Maritime Day ceremonies May 22, their brothers and sisters in several ports around the country were busy paying their own respects. Seafarers and SIU officials participated in observances in the ports of Oakland and Wilmington in Calif., as well as at the Apostleship of the Sea of the United States of America in Port Arthur, Texas. While different in structure and program theme, each of the observances had a common objective: paying tribute to the service and accomplishments of our nation’s merchant mariners and the maritime industry as a whole. SIU Assistant Vice President Government Services Chester Wheeler represented the union during a service and wreath laying ceremony aboard the SS Jeremiah O’Brien in Oakland while Wilmington Port Agent John Cox, Dispatcher Nick Rios and Patrolman Abdul Al Omari attended on behalf of the union during a National Maritime Day observance and memorial service in San Pedro, Calif. Deputy U.S. Maritime Administrator Julie Nelson served as the event’s keynote speaker. This ceremony was conducted at the American Merchant Marine Veterans Memorial. In Port Arthur, Texas, the SIU’s Father Sinclair K. Oubre welcomed those who attended the community’s 20th Annual Maritime Memorial Service. Conducted at the Seamen’s Memorial Sundial, this event honored the Texas Maritime Academy at A&M Galveston and alumni. It also commemorated mariners and fishermen who have passed away during the last year. Rear Adm. Allen Worley, superintendent of Texas Maritime Academy, received the honor and delivered a moving speech on the importance of the maritime industry and the need for more of the country’s youth to become mariners. The Sabine Pilots laid the wreath in the water from their newest vessel. Wilmington Port Agent John Cox, right, Dispatcher Nick Rios, center, and Patrolman Abdul Al Omari represented the union during a National Maritime Day observance and memorial service in San Pedro, Calif. Elsewhere, U.S. Rep. Elijah E. Cummings (D-Md.), chairman of the Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, released an official statement in honor of National Maritime Day. The congressman’s statement read in part, “I am honored to take the opportunity afforded by National Maritime Day to pay tribute to our nation’s merchant mariners and to the entire maritime industry…. In 1933, the United States first honored our merchant marine by authorizing the designation of May 22 as National Maritime Day. Seventyfour years later, I particularly want to remember the estimated 250,000 Americans who served in the War Shipping Admin istration moving 95 percent of the goods and materiel used by the Allies during World War II. “Some 20,000 of these merchant mariners were killed or wounded in that war—yielding among the U.S. Merchant Marine the highest casualty rate of any service according to the U.S. Maritime Service Veterans. Despite their service, U.S. Mer chant Mariners still lack many of the benefits given to those who served in the other U.S. military forces engaged in World War II. “Not until 1988 were World War II-era Merchant Mariners made eligible for services from the Veterans Administration. Not until 1998 were they made eligible for burial and cemetery benefits. “U.S. Merchant Mariners have still never been made eligible for the GI Bill, or for the housing, educational or unemployment benefits that the Bill provided for other U.S. veterans…. I urge that the experience of these mariners be a lesson to ensure that we will never again deny any veteran who has served the United States any of the benefits he or she has earned. “I also honor today the vital role that our Merchant Marine continues to play in responding to our nation’s emergencies. Most recently, U.S. Merchant Mariners helped evacuate an estimated 160,000 people from Manhattan on September 11, 2001, and provided aid and emergency assistance along the Gulf Coast to the victims of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. “Merchant mariners also continue to provide the sealift capacity that keeps our armed forces equipped to fight the global war on terrorism. More than 8,000 merchant mariners serve in the Military Sealift Command, and … civilian-crewed military support ships have moved some 79 million square feet of cargo to U.S. troops in Iraq and throughout the world. “Unfortunately, despite their significant contribution to our national defense and to our economy, our merchant mariners and our maritime industries are almost invisible in our nation…. “While the industry may not be visible, the cargo it moves is certainly visible. If every person takes the time to look at the labels on their clothes or on the furnishings in their offices or homes, they are likely to find that these items arrived on a ship from a foreign destination. Were this commerce to be interrupted, our nation’s economy could be devastated. “And our reliance on our maritime industry is only going to grow. The U.S. Maritime Administration estimates that the total volume of trade handled by U.S. ports will double in the next 15 years—but we are not ready to meet the challenges this growth will bring. Our nation needs to build new port capacity. We also urgently need to support the growth of short sea shipping so that cargo can be economically moved between domestic ports and so that we can help get trucks off of our increasingly congested highways. At the same time, we must also ensure that our maritime resources are protected from further degradation—and we must move aggressively to combat the introduction of invasive species through ballast water. “Further, we need to ensure that our domestic maritime industry is poised to be a continuing part of the growth in the worldwide maritime industry. According to the Maritime Administration, in 2005, the U.S.-flag ocean-going fleet numbered fewer than 200 vessels, of which 106 ships were Jones Act vessels—meaning that fewer than 100 ocean-going vessels engaged in international trade bore the flag of the United States. As a result, 97 percent of the cargo transported to the United States is carried on foreignflagged ships. “In my capacity as the Chairman of the Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, I will continue to support the development of a comprehensive maritime policy that will protect the integrity of the Jones Act, that will support the Maritime Security Program, and that will promote the growth of the U.S.-flagged fleet competing in our foreign trade.” The SIU donated this wreath for the ceremony aboard the SS Jeremiah O’Brien in Oakland, Calif. SIU Assistant VP Government Services Division Chester Wheeler comes to attention behind the wreath as the Colors approach to signal the ceremony’s commencement. National Day of Remembrance Crew members aboard the M/V Liberty (left) on May 29 proudly paid tribute to those who have served America during times of war. As part of their National Day of Remembrance ceremony, the crew rang the ship’s bell. Participating in the event were (from left) AB Atanacio Bernardez, Steward Irina Shubov, AB Paul McDonell, Deck Cadet Tiegh Francois and Engine Cadet James Roe. The crew from the M/V Cape Taylor, (right) also conducted a ceremony in honor of the National Day of Remembrance. A member of the U.S. Coast Guard stands at attention on shore near the American Flag as the wreath laying fleet of vessels approaches on the waterfront in Port Arthur, Texas. July 2007 Seafarers LOG 7 �43332_p01_9,15,18,19x:3332p0 6/26/2007 4:39 PM Page 8 Ceremony Conducted for 6th T-AKE Ship New tonnage and additional jobs became visible on the horizon May 30 for the SIU Government Services Division when General Dynamics NASSCO held a keel-laying ceremony for the sixth ship in the U.S. Navy’s T-AKE program. A shipbuilding tradition, a keel-laying ceremony represents a signpost in the birth of a new ship—the start of its full-scale production. In recognition of that milestone, Darlene Costello, event honoree, welded her initials into the keel. Costello is the deputy director for Naval Warfare in the office of under secretary of defense for Acquisition, Technology and Logistics. This new platform, according to a May 29 announcement by the Navy, will be named USNS Amelia Earhart, in honor of the first woman to fly solo, non-stop across the Atlantic and (years later) Pacific oceans. The Amelia Earhart is scheduled to be delivered to the Navy’s Military Sealift Command (MSC) in the fall of 2008 at which point it will be crewed by SIU CIVMARS. The ship will be 689 feet long and displace about 41,000 metric tons when fully loaded. The Amelia Earhart’s primary mission will be to deliver food, ammunition, fuel and other provisions to combat ships at sea. Like the other ships in the T-AKE class, it will have a sailing speed Photo courtesy General Dynamics NASSCO The fifth T-AKE ship, the USNS Robert Peary, is under construction and scheduled for delivery in 2008. of 20 knots. In addition to conducting the May 30 keel laying ceremony for the USNS Amelia Earhart, NASSCO on the same day announced the start of construction on the seventh dry cargoammunition ship in the U.S. Navy’s T-AKE program. The ship is scheduled to be delivered to the Navy in the first quarter of 2009. Since June 2006, the USNS Lewis and Clark (T-AKE 1) and USNS Sacagawea (T-AKE 2) have been delivered to MSC and crewed up by CIVMARS. The third ship of the class, USNS Alan Shepard, and the recently- launched USNS Richard E. Byrd will also be delivered to the Navy by the end of 2007. The fifth TAKE vessel, the USNS Robert Peary, is slated for delivery in 2008. The T-AKE class is expected to include 11 ships for the Military Sealift Command fleet. USNS Henson Sails to Finland The SIU-crewed USNS Henson recently became the first U.S. Navy vessel in two years to tie up in Finland. A U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) oceanographic survey ship operated by Seafarers-contracted Horizon Lines, the Henson on May 28 called on the port of Turku, Finland. The vessel and its crew were charged with a dual mission: act as a catalyst for enhancing the United States’ partnership with the Scandinavian country, and foster increased cooperation between U.S. and Finnish naval forces. “Henson’s visit to Turku is a wonderful opportunity for our navies to collaborate and to build on the already strong friendship between our two countries,” said Capt. Nick Holman, commander, Task Force 63/Sealift Logistics Command Europe. Captain Holman oversees all of the U.S. Navy noncombatant and logistics ships and aircraft operating in Europe and Africa. “Henson is a truly unique ship with a big mission—to help us learn more about the world’s vast oceans,” continued Holman. “It is a privilege to be here sharing that mission with our neighbors in Finland.” The USNS Henson is also unique because as a noncombatant ship, it is operated by MSC for the Naval Meteorology and Oceanography Command. In addition to its merchant marine crew, the vessel can carry up to 27 civilian surveyors from the Naval Oceanographic Office that carry out the vessel’s survey mission. While in Turku, the Henson will host tours for high school science students. In addition, the vessel will conduct an underway survey demonstration with Finnish sailors and scientists. Oceanographic survey ships like the Henson examine the world’s oceans using a variety of sonar systems and other oceanographic equipment to collect environmental data in either coastal or deep sea waters. The information gathered is used to develop accurate maritime charts and models of the ocean. Survey ships are also used in special situations to locate downed aircraft or chart wrecks that pose hazards to safe ship navigation. Gulf Boatmen Receive Wage Increases Apprentices March in DC Memorial Day Parade Unlicensed apprentices from the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (above) marched in the National Memorial Day Parade on May 28 in Washington, D.C., where they helped represent the U.S. Merchant Marine. The grand marshals were a contingent of wounded heroes from each branch of the services from Operations Enduring and Iraqi Freedom, some of whom are pictured below, left. Among the parade’s estimated 160 elements were marching bands, youth groups, veterans groups from every conflict since World War I and re-enactors representing veterans from earlier wars (below, right). Several thousand people turned out for the event, primarily sponsored by the American Veterans Center, in association with the White House Commission on Remembrance. 8 Seafarers LOG Gulf Coast SIU boatmen employed by Seabulk Towing and Moran Towing, respectively, recently received significant wage increases thanks to SIU contracts that were reopened. Some of the Seabulk crews are pictured here along with SIU officials Assistant VP Jim McGee (far left, top photo) and Patrolman Michael Russo (second from left, bottom photo). The other two photos show two of Seabulk’s newest tugboats—the Energy Hercules and Energy Zeus— which joined the fleet earlier this year. July 2007 �43332_p01_9,15,18,19:3332p0 6/22/2007 6:46 PM Page 9 Hospital Ship USNS Comfort Deploys The U.S. Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Comfort, crewed by members of the SIU Government Services Division, departed Naval Station Norfolk (Va.) June 15 for a fourmonth humanitarian assistance mission to Latin America and the Caribbean. According to the agency, this is the Comfort’s first deployment since returning from the U.S. Gulf Coast in October 2005 where the ship spent more than a month providing medical assistance in the wake of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. The Comfort is scheduled to visit Belize, Colombia, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Nicaragua, Panama, Peru, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago. At each stop, U.S. military doctors and nurses from the ship’s medical treatment facility will work with a variety of embarked governmental and non-governmental agencies as well as medical professionals from host nations to treat about 1,000 patients per day, providing medical care including immunizations, general and specialty surgeries, dental care and vision services. An embarked naval construction force of Seabees is slated to join the Comfort’s CIVMARs to provide engineering support at each location including medical facility repairs and minor construction projects. The Comfort’s mission, part of U.S. Southern Command’s Partnership for the Americas, is modeled in part on the humanitarian assistance deployment that the vessel’s sister ship, the Seafarers-crewed USNS Mercy, conducted last year to Southeast Asia and the Western Pacific. On that mission, the Mercy’s medical team treated more than 60,000 patients. In announcing the Comfort’s current deployment, MSC said that the work of CIVMARs aboard the vessel “will be pivotal to the mission.” Where the Comfort cannot pull into port due to the ship’s deep draft, CIVMARs will operate two 33-foot utility boats to transport patients and mission personnel between ship and shore. Painted white with red crosses and named Hospitality 1 and Hospitality 2, these boats can transfer as many as five times the number of patients as the Comfort’s two embarked helicopters. “I have been with MSC for 10 years, and of the many missions that I have been on, this is going to be one of the most challenging,” said AB Mario Geonzon. “This is going to be a great run.” “America is the most generous nation in the world, and this mission is our way of showing that,” said Capt. Ed Nanartowich, the ship’s civil service master. “This is a great opportunity for the Navy and our mariners to show the compassionate side of our workforce. “The number one role of Photo by Bill Cook, Military Sealift Command The Seafarers-crewed USNS Comfort departs Norfolk, Va. June 15 on a four-month humanitarian mission to Latin America and the Caribbean. CIVMARs on this mission is the navigation and operation of the ship—making sure that we get from point A to point B safely and running the engineering plant that supplies the hospital with water and electricity. The ship’s crew and I are looking forward to being part of a productive and highly rewarding mission.” MSC Says ‘Happy Birthday’ to U.S. Merchant Marine Merchant mariners from the U.S. Military Sealift Command on June 12 helped celebrate the 232nd “birthday” of the U.S. Merchant Marine at a ceremony hosted by the U.S. Navy Memorial Foundation in Washington, D.C. “On this, the birthday of the U.S. Merchant Marine, we pause to honor the incredible contributions mariners make every day to ensure our nation remains strong in an increasingly competitive global economy,” said Navy Rear Adm. Robert D. Reilly Jr., in a message read at the ceremony by retired Navy Rear Adm. Richard Buchanan, president and CEO of the memorial foundation. Reilly is the commander of MSC, the global U.S. Navy command responsible for sea transport of combat equipment and supplies for the Department of Defense. MSC is the largest single employer of U.S. Merchant Mariners in the world (with almost 7,000 American seamen serving around the globe, according to the agency). “Now more than ever, we are a maritime nation, relying on the flow of goods to and from our shores to sustain our way of life, guarantee our prosperity and extend opportunities for a better way of life to every citizen on this planet. From Portland, Maine, to captain, spent nearly a year at the helm of MSC Office, Kuwait. That office coordinated the arrival and departure of American-flag cargo ships delivering combat equipment and supplies to U.S. and coalition forces in the Central Command area of operations. “In the global war on terror- ism, the strength and capabilities of the U.S. Merchant Marine are more important than ever to our national security and survival,” said Delong. “It’s fitting that we pay tribute to the generations of merchant mariners who have served our nation so valiantly. We owe them a tremendous debt of gratitude.” Attention Seafarers Help SPAD Help You! U.S. Navy photos The commemoration for the U.S. Merchant Marine took place in Washington, D.C. at the U.S. Navy Memorial (pictured above from a bird’s eye view during a different event). Among many other elements, the monument includes the Lone Sailor statue (below). Port Everglades, Florida; down the muddy Mississippi to Galveston; from San Diego to Seattle and to the trade windswept waters off Honolulu, America’s mariners steadfastly continue to go down to the sea in ships,” said Reilly. “May we always admire their courage, determination and patriotism.” During the ceremony at Navy Memorial Plaza, a wreath was laid at the foot of the Lone Sailor statue, paying tribute to more than two centuries of U.S. Merchant Mariners and their service to the nation. Steve Delong, a licensed master in the U.S. Merchant Marine and senior staff member at MSC headquarters, was one of the spectators at the ceremony. Delong, also a U.S. Navy Reserve The Navy Memorial also features this bronze relief depicting a U.S. Merchant Marine convoy under attack while en route to Murmansk during World War II. July 2007 Seafarers LOG 9 �43332_p10_14,16,17,20_24x:332p0 6/26/2007 4:43 PM Page 10 At Sea and Ashore With the SIU At a recent membership meeting in the port of Mobile, Port Agent Ed Kelly (left) reads the oath to steward department member Leo Battiste, who received his full book. In photo at right, Battiste and Kelly are joined by SIU Gulf Coast VP Dean Corgey. The crew aboard the Maersk Nevada QMED Walt “Wilder” Filleman is a pump repairman on the USNS Gordon. This photo was taken last year aboard the vessel, which was en route to Kuwait. The crew aboard Allied Towing’s tug Heron pose for a photo, taken in New York in March. This snapshot was taken in May at the Baltimore hall. From the left are Lisa Clark (secretary), Port Agent Dennis Metz, retired inland Capt. Gerard Cifarelli, Arthur Petitpas (ITF inpsector) and retired Recertified Bosun “Snake” Williams. Working aboard the Maersk Maine are (from left) AB Alan Green, AB Phil Robinson and Bosun Conrad Burke. Eufemiano Gomes, above, is an electrician aboard the Maersk Maine. At left, Chief Cook Edna Torres checks out the latest Seafarers LOG on the Maersk Maine. 10 Seafarers LOG From Captain Forsberg comes this photo of the Horizon Falcon arriving in the port of Tacoma May 18 on her maiden U.S. voyage. July 2007 �43332_p06,10_14,16,17,20_24:2007-May July 2007 6/19/2007 6:06 PM Page 11 Seafarers LOG 11 �43332_p06,10_14,16,17,20_24:2007-May 6/19/2007 6:07 PM Page 12 In and Around t AB/Wheelsman James Smith helps unload the American Republic in Detroit. GUDE Asker Abubaker Aboard the American Republic Bosun Jeff Eckhart, AB Brian Gauntt and GUDE Mohamed Sailan Bosun Jeff Eckhart QMED/Conveyorman Jeffery Frankovich in the tunnel 12 Seafarers LOG July 2007 �43332_p10_14,16,17,20_24x:332p0 6/26/2007 5:28 PM Page 13 the Great Lakes A meeting was held recently in Williamsville, N.Y. for bosuns and relief bosuns working aboard American Steamship Company (ASC) vessels. SIU Algonac Port Agent Todd Brdak and Safety Rep Monte Burgett represented the SIU. Jerry Welsch, president of American Steamship Company, gave a “State of the Company” address to the bosuns. Also in attendance were ASC Vice President Kevin McMonagle and the human resources department, including Kathy Elinski, Mary Banks and Matthew Fish. A number of issues were covered and reviewed, ranging from safety and rotations to the economic status of the company. In the group picture at left are (clockwise from the bottom left) Bosun Mike Keogh, Port Agent Todd Brdak, Bosuns Paul Gohs, Jeff Eckhart, David Greig, Mike Schaff, Leeroy Cochrane, Robert Timmons, Jared Smith, Tim Burke, Dave Poree, Scott Gallagher and Bill Mulcahy. Bosun Mike Keogh A number of important issues were covered during the meeting. Aboard the H. Lee White Bosun Mike Schaff In the Algonac Hall SIU Algonac Port Agent Todd Brdak (above left) chats with Bill Mulcahy, bosun aboard the H. Lee White, during a servicing visit on that vessel. Left: GUDE Mohamed Ahmed proudly shows the full book he received while on board the H. Lee White. July 2007 Earl Hicks (center) is an SIU pensioner and U.S. military veteran. He recently came into the Algonac hall to share another award he received. With him are Safety Director Monte Burgett (left) and Union Rep Don Thornton. Seafarers LOG 13 �43332_p06,10_14,16,17,20_24:332p0 6/19/2007 6:09 PM Page 14 Recollections of the Merchant Marine in World War II Editor’s note: The first three installments of retired Seafarer Albert Stimac’s experiences in the merchant marine appeared in the April, May and June Seafarers LOGs, respectively. He wrote about his training, his first ship, joining the SIU, the responsibilities of a member of the black gang, and traveling in a convoy during World War II. The last article left off in LeHavre, where the Red Cross took the crew members’ coffee and doughnuts back because the men were civilians and the Red Cross only gave to servicemen in uniform. These are the best recollections of his training and sea time from the end of 1943 to late 1946, so any inaccuracies in the details need not be brought to his attention. T his [having to give back the coffee and doughnuts] did not sit well with us. We passed this story around the ship when we went back up the gangplank. The Red Cross made it a practice to try and get aboard the ship when we were paid off after a trip. A table would be set up for payday on the ship. It would include the company men, purser and captain, with the chief engineer and chief mate to identify us as crew. Sometimes, a woman in a Red Cross full dress uniform would sit next to the captain, who handled the money. We got cash, not checks. Then, as the captain gave us our money, he would look over at the Red Cross woman and ask if we would like to donate to her cause. After the refusal of coffee and doughnuts in LeHavre fresh in our minds, we did not contribute. Of course, the captain felt very slighted because his men did not donate, or if they did, it was $5 or $10 instead of the $50 he wanted us to give. A lot of servicemen thought we made too much money and resented merchant seamen. This was ironic because in England and in the rest of Europe, we were rated at the top. Without us, these people would have no food, fuel or war materials. So if one was out for three or four months, their pay might be $500 or $600 cash. One time I had $511 due me. I got paid with one $500 bill, a $10 bill and a $1 bill. I had a hard time cashing a $500 bill in New York so that I could get a hotel room for the night. When they woke the manager up and I showed him my seamen’s papers, he finally changed it, but on one condition: It stayed in their safe until the day manager showed up. The next day I went down to the union hall and signed up for my card and paid my union dues. I turned in the minutes of the meeting I had held aboard ship. The dispatcher took me over to the side of the counter and thanked me for my efforts. He also noted in my union dues book that I had been a union rep on a ship. The last trip had been a relatively short one, so I hung around New York for only a few days. New York was too expensive, and one’s money disappeared pretty fast. One thing I forgot to note previously about money: When you left port in the United States, you did not have regular pay days. If you needed stuff off the ship’s supply, like clothes or candy and cigarettes, you could charge it. If you hit a port and they gave you shore leave, it was the captain’s option as to how much to give each man. We usually got around $10 or $15. When you got back to the States, they subtracted all you owed and paid you in one lump sum in cash for the balance. A short trip of a month or two might net you $200 or $300. So you would sign on again or go ashore and grab another ship as soon as you could. On a long trip of four or five months, your pay would be much higher if you happened to get in a war zone with actual fighting in the area. So if I was getting $90 a month as an oiler, I would get $180 a month, figured on time spent in a certain war zone. Then one could get $600 or $800 cash after all deductions. It sounded like a lot, but we had to pay all our own costs once we signed off a ship: room, board, travel, clothes, etc. So one could not stay ashore too long. I decided to go down to the union hall and see how things were going and look for a better ship. I was a fast learner on what to throw my card in for and which ship was best to sail on. I spotted a ship I liked and threw my card down for an oiler’s job. Fortunately, when I showed my card and union book, it was the same dispatcher I had talked with a couple days before. He finished looking at all the cards for that ship and asked me to stick around a minute. Then he came over and said there was an opening coming up for a junior engineer and would I like it. I said I didn’t have my papers for that rating. No problem, I had enough experience and they needed a junior engineer right now. So he gave me the pier number and away I went. I was a happy man. This meant a step up the short way—and more money. When I saw the ship, I thought I had really struck gold. It was a brand new C-3 class and just out of the shipyard and on its first trip. I was the last junior engineer signed in, so I got the top bunk. That meant I would be on the 12-4 watch. This was a high-pressure turbine that operated at 600 pounds steam pressure. It also signified that this ship could travel at 15 or 16 knots with no problems. It was also apparent that at 1720 miles per hour, we would travel alone and not in a convoy. On this ship, the fireman, oiler and junior engineer worked on the lower deck or grating, and the third engineer would be on the top grating by all the controls. We left New York the next morning and headed up toward Nova Scotia and Greenland. This would mean lots of fog, which was good for safety and for submarines not seeing us. But no sub could catch us at our speed, so we felt pretty safe. Everything went fine during the shakedown of the ship. Everything worked well, and we were all happy. I figured this would be one fine trip. I never did find out what kind of cargo we were carrying, but I heard that we had a dozen or so Jewish passengers on board going to England. On the third day, I went down for my 12-4 watch, relieved the junior engineer and checked out the pumps, generators and turbine gearing. Everything looked good and sounded good. The turbine ran around 6,000 rpm and really screamed. It was very hard to talk and be heard. We had to shout in each other’s faces. Everything went fine for about 10 minutes This is the building at the Merchant Marine Academy in Sheepshead Bay (in Brooklyn, N.Y.) where Stimac trained in 1943 for a career as a member of the engine department. 14 Seafarers LOG and then the fireman/watertender came running over pointing to the starboard boiler and up at the water gauge glass. This showed how much water was in the boiler. I hadn’t talked to him before and couldn’t understand in what tongue he spoke. He sounded just like on my first trip when the fireman/watertender I relieved was Portuguese. When I looked at the glass, I couldn’t tell if it was full of steam, full of water or empty. I turned open the valve to drain the gauge glass but still could not determine its status. I made the judgment that the boiler was dry or low on water and if we continued to keep the fires burning, it would blow up. I hollered for the third Albert Stimac (left) and a fellow shipmate sit amid the bombed out ruins in Bremerhaven, Germany in 1944. engineer to come down and look at the boiler and confirm my conclusion. He didn’t know what to do. It was his first trip as a third engineer, so I told him to go and shut the steam out of the starboard boiler as I was going to have the fireman cut the burners out of it and shut it down. In his haste or confusion, he opened the wrong valve and bled all the steam out of the good port boiler. With no steam to operate the ship, the turbine died down, the pumps and generators quit and we were dead in the water. We were in total darkness, and then all hell broke loose. The chief engineer and the first and second engineers came charging down with big flashlights. I spoke to them and they flashed their lights on me. They were up between the two boilers and I was beneath them. I told the chief that the starboard boiler was dry and told the third engineer to shut that system off. He ordered the fireman to blow down the boiler for him. Which he did, two or three times. One still couldn’t really tell if it had water. He then said it was too full and ordered me to have the fireman light up the port boiler, which had no steam left with which to operate the fuel pumps for the boilers. So the engineers had to come down and pump oil manually to the port boiler, which was now isolated from the starboard boiler. It took a lot of hard, manual labor to pump pressure oil to the burners. Finally, we got one burner lit and then managed to get the other three lit and build up steam to operate the pumps and generators. We were still dead in the water. This area was known for its submarine saturation, easy to pick off ships going to England. After we got everything running once again, the chief hollered down to me to light up the starboard boiler. I said I couldn’t see any water in it, it all looked like steam. I refused two times until he threatened me with a Coast Guard hearing when we got back and would yank my sailing papers. So I told the fireman to light up. He did OK on the first one, but I still didn’t like it. I left in a hurry and jumped behind the large gear transfer case and crouched down. Just in time! Evidently, I was correct in assuming the boiler was dry. The fireman had the third burner lit out of four when the chief told him to put water into the boiler. When that cold water hit those empty water tubes that were cherry red, the boiler blew. The chief and two other engineers were on the upper grate near the top of the boilers at the time. Fortunately, it only had steam enough to blow the tubes and bulge out the boiler, and lots of soot formed by the burners. There was lots of hollering and runing around, but eventually we secured everything and got underway with one boiler and headed back to New York. We could only make about seven or eight knots, so it took seven days to get back to New York. In the meantime, the Jewish refugees were all excited and eventually were allowed to walk on deck. It didn’t take long for a deckhand to spot a young 18 year-old girl. Soon everybody knew who the pasengers were: male, female, young, old, married and single. It was funny that as we limped back to New York with a disabled new ship, the officers never talked to us about this incident. Common sense told me that somebody was in big trouble, especially the chief engineer and my third engineer. One’s papers could easily get yanked for this. When we docked, we got news that we could go ashore and would be given some cash. This would be deducted from what cash we had coming. The captain was the complete master over everything. I believe we got about $10 and were told to make sure we were aboard by 9:00 the next morning. Of course this meant a night on the town. Some drank, perhaps a little more than they could handle. We got called up to the captain’s quarters for a meeting. It included only the engineers and our watch. The company had two lawyers there, so the lawyers did all the talking. They told the chief engineer to go through the evidence of the boiler blowing up. They would correct him on certain ways of saying things or correct usage of words. So we all were sharp enough to catch on quickly as to what to say so that we all told the same story and nobody would be held responsible and get their papers yanked. It went along fine until we got to my oiler, a young fellow of about 19 years who had had too much to drink the night before. Very bleary eyed and hung over, he just couldn’t grab the gist of the fabricated story the lawyers were trying to promote. He kept insisting he was next to me when the chief ordered me to light up and I wouldn’t. That is until he threatened me. Finally, he came around, and his story was that he was on the other side of the machinery, oiling and checking equipment. That afternoon, we went for a Coast Guard hearing. The officers went in first and were there a very long time. It seemed pretty cut-and-dried when we went in and told our stories about what happened. It didn’t take long for the court to reach a decision, and all the blame was put on shipyard workmanship and poor rundown inspection. We were all blameless, and the shipping company had no fiscal responsibility. The company wasted no time in assigning us to another ship. Brother Stimac’s wartime recollections will continue in a future edition of the Seafarers LOG. July 2007 �43332_p01_9,15,18,19:3332p0 6/22/2007 5:48 PM Page 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea August & September 2007 Membership Meetings MAY 16 — JUNE 15, 2007 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Totals Totals DECK DEPARTMENT 2 0 2 4 1 2 8 8 1 0 4 3 9 2 2 0 1 2 6 6 2 1 0 12 0 5 33 32 1 10 12 32 12 27 4 3 8 1 40 18 1 3 4 12 2 3 24 17 1 6 5 17 16 11 6 13 5 5 23 17 1 0 1 3 3 1 3 3 1 0 1 2 2 0 1 0 0 1 3 1 0 0 2 9 0 3 26 17 0 8 4 32 7 14 0 2 7 2 15 20 5 1 8 21 5 21 62 59 2 19 24 85 22 32 8 2 16 2 52 57 5 12 10 26 10 16 49 37 3 17 13 50 14 19 7 9 16 7 60 23 5 1 2 7 2 2 12 13 0 3 5 8 14 4 3 1 1 1 12 14 311 244 63 253 191 27 168 503 403 110 1 0 5 6 1 9 12 14 0 9 9 19 8 17 4 1 3 1 5 5 4 4 5 9 3 3 9 20 3 1 7 10 15 6 2 4 5 3 15 11 0 0 0 0 0 2 3 1 0 0 1 1 3 1 1 0 1 3 4 5 0 0 4 4 0 8 14 12 0 5 5 12 12 12 2 0 2 1 7 6 1 1 1 6 3 0 13 22 1 4 4 8 11 7 3 1 5 1 15 8 0 0 0 2 0 0 4 2 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 3 2 0 0 2 4 0 3 10 5 0 2 4 3 5 2 0 1 5 0 8 7 1 0 10 7 1 11 26 25 0 12 14 34 9 20 5 3 5 2 16 19 3 4 7 12 8 9 14 27 3 5 8 28 17 11 2 6 5 4 28 13 1 1 0 4 2 3 2 2 0 0 1 6 3 3 1 0 2 3 3 12 129 139 26 106 115 16 63 220 214 49 2 0 4 7 2 10 30 10 0 5 8 22 10 24 4 1 1 1 23 24 1 0 0 9 1 6 14 7 1 4 4 6 15 4 2 2 3 0 7 11 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 1 3 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 1 0 0 1 7 2 9 14 22 0 7 5 17 2 20 1 1 1 2 25 18 1 0 0 4 0 4 9 7 0 1 2 4 7 7 1 1 3 0 10 8 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 1 0 1 1 2 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 4 0 3 10 6 0 2 4 10 3 10 2 1 1 0 11 12 3 0 9 7 1 21 44 19 0 7 10 36 16 37 5 2 2 1 28 37 1 0 0 20 1 13 14 11 1 6 6 13 19 4 3 4 2 2 9 15 3 0 1 1 0 0 0 2 0 2 1 4 3 0 1 0 0 0 4 2 188 97 11 154 69 9 79 285 144 24 0 0 0 0 0 3 3 1 0 0 3 9 1 4 0 0 0 0 4 3 2 5 2 5 2 7 14 21 2 5 3 36 16 21 1 7 1 3 17 10 5 0 1 10 1 5 11 13 2 0 6 13 14 14 2 16 1 2 10 4 0 0 0 0 0 2 4 5 0 1 1 6 1 4 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 2 0 3 0 1 16 7 0 2 3 9 10 11 1 11 1 1 14 12 0 0 1 6 0 4 4 7 0 0 1 3 8 8 1 12 0 0 4 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 3 4 5 0 0 5 14 0 11 0 0 0 0 6 3 2 6 5 12 4 17 35 35 3 9 8 90 22 25 1 5 2 2 28 15 7 0 2 13 3 12 20 23 3 2 10 32 15 14 3 12 4 3 19 9 31 180 130 26 104 62 0 52 326 206 659 660 230 539 479 114 310 1,060 1,087 389 ENGINE DEPARTMENT STEWARD DEPARTMENT Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Totals All Departments **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C 4 4 4 12 3 7 33 24 3 8 12 26 11 18 4 6 10 3 34 18 Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Trip Reliefs 3 1 5 13 3 11 37 34 1 14 14 51 13 23 5 3 12 1 38 29 Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C ENTRY DEPARTMENT *“Total Registered” means the number of Seafarers who actually registered for shipping at the port. **“Registered on Beach” means the total number of Seafarers registered at the port. July 2007 Piney Point ...........Monday: August 6 ..............................Tuesday: September 4* ..............................(*change created by Labor Day Holiday) Algonac ................Friday: August 10, September 7 Baltimore..............Thursday: August 9, September 6 Boston ..................Friday: August 10, September 7 Guam ....................Thursday: August 23, September 20 Honolulu...............Friday: August 17, September 14 Houston ................Monday: August 13, September 10 Jacksonville ..........Thursday: August 9, September 6 Joliet .....................Thursday: August 16, September 13 Mobile ..................Wednesday: August 15, September 12 New Orleans.........Tuesday: August 14, September 11 New York .............Tuesday: August 7, September 4 Norfolk .................Thursday: August 9, September 6 Oakland ................Thursday: August 16, September 13 Philadelphia..........Wednesday: August 8, September 5 Port Everglades ....Thursday: August 16, September 13 San Juan ...............Thursday: August 9, September 6 St. Louis ...............Friday: August 17, September 14 Tacoma .................Friday: August 24, September 21 Wilmington...........Monday: August 20, September 17 Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personals FRIENDS OF PRESTON BROUSSARD The family of Preston D. Broussard of Port Arthur, Texas and Cecilla, La. (who died March 21, 2006) would like to hear from friends of Mr. Broussard. Please call Mike at (409) 8388720. THE MARINE ELECTRIC The Marine Electric sank off the coast of Virginia in 1983. Anyone with photos or videos of the ship, please contact Gregory Scott at (312) 601-8350; or e-mail gregory. scott@towersproductions.com. Inland Career Opportunities: Immediate Job Openings The SIU has immediate openings in the inland division. Interested individuals who possess either a 1,600-ton master’s license (with near coastal or ocean endorsements) along with an Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch (OICNW) STCW certificate; or a designated duty engineer (DDE) 5,000 hp or greater license are encouraged to contact Bart Rogers at the union’s manpower office at (301) 994-0010, extension 5317 for additional information. TWIC Updates The Transportation Security Administration around May 1 published a list of 131 U.S. cities and territories that have been tapped as locations for Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) fixed enrollment centers. Since then, there has been a dearth of formal announcements concerning the program, although last month numerous published reports quoted TSA officials as acknowledging delays that will push initial TWIC issuance back until this fall. The SIU will publicize information on the TWIC and its related merchant mariner qualification credential (MMC) as it is released by the various agencies involved. Meanwhile, the phone number for the TSA’s TWIC help desk is 877-687-2243, and the TSA’s TWIC web site is located at www.tsa.gov/twic. The union continues to post updates at www.seafarers.org, normally in the “Heard at Headquarters” and Seafarers LOG sections. Seafarers also are encouraged to check with their port agent from time to time for updates. Seafarers LOG 15 �43332_p06,10_14,16,17,20_24:332p0 6/19/2007 6:10 PM Page 16 Seafarers International Union Directory SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR SIU PACIFIC DISTRICT PENSION PLAN Michael Sacco, President This is a summary of the annual report for the SIU Pacific District Pension Plan, 94-6061923 for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2006. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). 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 Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services René Lioeanjie, Vice President at Large Charles Stewart, Vice President at Large 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 BOSTON Marine Industrial Park/EDIC 5 Drydock Ave., Boston, MA 02210 (617) 261-0790 GUAM P.O. Box 315242, Tamuning, Guam 96931-5242 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 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St., Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 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 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 499-6600 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 Basic Financial Statement Benefits under the plan are provided by the Trust. Plan expenses were $10,555,326. These expenses included $970,320 in administrative expenses and $9,585,006 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 3,226 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all these persons had yet earned the right to receive benefits. The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $130,406,267 as of July 31, 2006, compared to $138,101,966 as of August 1, 2005. During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $7,695,699. This decrease includes unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year or the cost of assets acquired during the year. The plan had a total income of $2,859,627, including employer contributions of $37,367, losses of $413,641 from the sale of assets, earnings from investments of $3,233,717 and other income of $2,184. Minimum Funding Standards An actuary's statement shows that enough money was contributed to the plan to keep it funded in accordance with the minimum funding standards of ERISA. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report. 1. An accountant’s report; 2. Financial information and information on payments to service providers; 3. Assets held for investment; 4. Transactions in excess of 5 percent of plan assets; and 5. Actuarial information regarding the funding of the plan. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of the SIU Pacific District Pension Plan, which is the administrator, 730 Harrison Street, Suite 400, San Francisco, CA 94107; tel. (415) 764-4990. The charge to cover copying costs will be $17 for the full annual report, or $0.25 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan, 730 Harrison Street, Suite 400, San Francisco, CA 94107 and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, Room N1513, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20210. SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR SIU PACIFIC DISTRICT SUPPLEMENTAL BENEFITS FUNDS, INC. This is a summary of the annual report of the SIU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc., EIN 94-1431246 for the year ended July 31, 2006. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Benefits under the plan are provided by the SIU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc., a Trust Fund. Basic Financial Statement The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan was $996,980 as of July 31, 2006, compared to $1,282,960 as of August 1, 2005. During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $285,980. This decrease includes unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year or the cost of assets acquired during the year. During the plan year, the plan had a total income of $7,552,155, including employer contributions of $7,465,751, losses of $429 from the sale of assets, earnings from investments of $86,896 and other losses of $63. Plan expenses were $7,838,135. These expenses included $452,291 in administrative expenses and $7,385,844 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report. 1. An accountant’s report; 2. Financial information and information on payments to ser vice providers; 3. Assets held for investment; and 4. Transactions in excess of 5 percent of plan assets. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of the SIU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc. at 730 Harrison Street, Suite 400, San Francisco, CA 94107; tel. (415) 764-4990. The charge to cover copying costs will be $6 for the full annual report, or $0.25 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan, 730 Harrison Street, Suite 400, San Francisco, CA 94107 and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, D.C., or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, Room N1513, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20210. PIC-FROM-THE-PAST This photo was sent to the Seafarers LOG by Bruce E. Knight of Chesapeake, Va. Brother Knight was involved in organizing the Isthmian Steamship Company’s S.S. Horace Wells for the SIU in 1946. The picture shows the men on board the ship “the day we voted for the SIU.” He has drawn a circle around himself and indicated an arrow pointing to the bosun, Blackie Martin. Following that organizing run from Norfolk, Va. to Charleston, S.C., Knight was drafted into the U.S. Army. He served for four years and one month in both Japan and Germany. Following his military stint, he returned to sailing with the SIU. PORT EVERGLADES 1221 S. Andrews Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33316 (954) 522-7984 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (787) 721-4033 A copy of his certificate of discharge, shows that Brother Knight worked as an acting AB aboard the S.S. Horace Wells in 1946. 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) 549-4000 16 Seafarers LOG If anyone has a vintage union-related photograph he or she would like to share with the LOG readership, please send it to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Photographs will be returned, if so requested. July 2007 �43332_p06,10_14,16,17,20_24:332p0 6/19/2007 6:11 PM Page 17 Welcome Ashore 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 waterways 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. DEEP SEA JAMES BADGETT, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1972 in the port of Houston. Brother Badgett’s first voyage was aboard the Overseas Aleutian. The engine department member, who was born in Texas, was a frequent upgrader at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Brother Badgett last sailed on the Commitment. He calls Bonham, Texas home. JOHN CAIN, 71, first sailed with the SIU in 1953 aboard the Alcoa Pegasus. He was born in Mobile, Ala. and worked in the deck dpeartment. His most recent ship was the Overseas Natalie. Brother Cain lives in LaPorte, Texas. RICKEY CAVENDER, 50, launched his SIU career in 1970. Brother Cavender first shipped aboard a Michigan Tankers Inc. vessel. A native of Indianapolis, Brother Cavender upgraded his skills often at the Piney Point school. He was member of the engine department. Brother Cavender’s most recent voyage was aboard the Thompson Pass. He is a resident of Wilmington, Calif. MICHAEL CLAPSHAW, 65, joined the SIU in 1978. Brother Clapshaw first sailed on the Overseas Anchorage as a member of the engine department. He was born in Port Angeles, Wash. and upgraded on numerous occasions at the unionaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Clapshaw most recently sailed aboard the Tacoma. He continues to reside in the state of Washington. JOHN GEHRING, 65, was born in Colorado. Brother Gehring became a union member in 1987. He first sailed on the USNS Silas Bent. Brother Gehring worked in the steward department. In 2000 and 2001, he attended classes at the Paul Hall Center to upgrade his seafaring skills. Brother Gehring’s most recent trip to sea was aboard the Calvin P. Titus. He makes his home in Ronan, Mont. July 2007 TOMMY LISTER, 65, started shipping with the union in 1963 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Brother Lister, who was born in Mississippi, sailed in the deck department. His first ship was the TransIndiana; his last the USNS Bellatrix. Brother Lister settled in Neely, Miss. EARL MACOM, 63, joined the SIU in 1965, first sailing on the Topa Topa. The Missouri native worked in the engine department, most recently aboard the USNS Chesapeake. He calls Morrill, Maine home. JOHN MIRANDA, 56, commenced his seafaring career in 1971. Brother Miranda’s first voyage was on the Dauntless. The engine department member, who was born in New York, most recently sailed aboard the Prince William Sound. He lives in Bush, La. THOMAS PAPPAS, 65, began sailing with the union in 1991. Brother Pappas first sailed with the MC&S Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) on the Northern Light. He was born in Virginia. Before retiring, Brother Pappas shipped aboard the USNS Soderman. He continues to reside in Virginia. LINTON REYNOLDS JR., 65, is a native of Clinton, Iowa. Brother Reynolds joined the SIU in 1967 in the port of San Francisco, first sailing on an ISCO Inc. vessel. He last worked in the engine department aboard the Overseas Marilyn. Brother Reynolds is a resident of Dayton, Texas. HERMAN RHODES, 66, began his seafaring career in 1999 in the port of Mobile, Ala. Born in Graysville, Ala., Brother Rhodes sailed in the engine department, working primarily on vessels operated by Maersk Line Limited, including the USNS Sisler and the USNS Watson. Brother Rhodes makes his home in Mobile, Ala. INLAND JAMES ADDINGTON, 63, launched his seafaring career in 1986 in the port of New Orleans. Boatman Addington initially shipped aboard Red Circle Transport Co. vessels. The deck department member most recently worked on Crowley Towing & Transportation vessels. Boatman Addington settled in Portland, Tenn. WALLACE CUMBEST, 56, joined the union in 1977. Boatman Cumbest, who was born in Georgia, sailed primarily aboard Crowley Towing Co. vessels. Boatman Cumbest attended classes on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center. He resides in Oldtown, Fla. ARTURO MARTINEZ, 62, began shipping with the SIU in 1987 from the port of St. Louis. Boatman Martinez initially worked aboard a Delta Queen Steamship Co. vessel. He is a native of Honduras. Boatman Martinez most recently sailed on the Mississippi Queen. He calls Houston home. WILLIAM MATHEWS, 61, embarked on his seafaring career in 1967. Boatman Mathews first sailed in the deep sea division on the Coeur d’Alene. He upgraded frequently at the Piney Point school. Boatman Mathews’ most recent voyage was aboard a Penn Maritime vessel. He makes his home in Aydlett, N.C. ROSA MEZO, 63, became a union member in 1994. Sister Mezo sailed primarily aboard Orgulf Transport Co. vessels. She was a member of the steward department. Sister Mezo is a resident of Dix, Ill. Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG. 1945 When Brother Richard Lewis left New York in January 1941 on the City of Alma, a Waterman ship bound for Santos, he never thought the voyage would eventually take him to Shanghai, Manila and the infamous death march of Bataan. But the sequence of unforeseen events did that to this SIU seaman and, recently arrived back in the States, he told a thrilling story of his experiences in the intervening four years…. When it became impossible to leave Manila (where he had been hospitalized), Lewis offered his services to the Army, along with a number of other merchant seamen and was put to work moving supplies from Manila to Corregidor…. Following the surrender on April 9, 1942, Lewis and several other merchant seamen were put in a stockade with Philippine civilians and troops for about a week, after which they were started on the Death March of Bataan. His memories of this experience include the sight of hundreds of Filipino women being raped by foreign soldiers, of soldiers and civilians shot as they tried to get water, of men abandoned by the road to die or be bayoneted by the guards as the procession trudged along. The only food during seven days of the march was what furtive Filipinos managed to pass them along the route…. Brother Lewis himself was lined up for burial, but crawled away before the burial squad did its gruesome work. ROLAND SIMMS, 64, was born in Lewes, Del. Boatman Simms first sailed in 1977 on an IBC Co. vessel and most recently worked on an Interstate Oil Transport Co. vessel. Boatman Simms resides in Georgetown, Del. MELVIN WILLIS, 66, commenced his SIU career in 1962. Boatman Willis joined the Seafarers in 1962. Prior to retiring, he sailed with Steuart Transportation Company. Boatman Willis settled in Marshallberg, N.C. GREAT LAKES MAYNARD BAKER, 66, joined the union in 1960 in the port of Detroit. Brother Baker, who was born in Michigan, first sailed on an American Steamship Co. vessel. He worked in both the engine and deck departments. Brother Baker last shipped aboard the St. Clair. He lives in Marine City, Mich. Continued on page 20 any aspect of the program. Three headquarters officials of the union are working full time on administration of the seniority system to assure smooth operation. They are Keith Terpe, director of organization, who is handling seniority matters for the district; A “French” Michelet, chief dispatcher at headquarters; and Freddie Stewart, working with Michelet as dispatcher. The seniority system was negotiated by the union with the shipowners in March and has been incorporated into the contract along with other membership-approved shipping rules. This Month In SIU History 1955 In effect for four months, the SIU’s seniority shipping system has been operating smoothly in all ports. No major hitches have developed in 1965 The Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO, has charged that the efforts to resolve the current collective bargaining dispute in maritime which has immobilized more than 100 vessels is “being thwarted by a handful of willful shipping company officials, representing just eight companies, who have refused to conclude agreements with any of the maritime unions whose contracts are now open for renegotiation.” MTD President Paul Hall said in a statement forwarded from Amsterdam, Holland, where he had been attending the International Confederation of Free Trade Union Congress as an AFL-CIO delegate, that “this situation is of grave concern to the Maritime Trades Department, which represents hundreds of thousands of workers who are dependent upon the maritime industry for their livelihoods. It is of particular concern at this time when a tripartite effort on the part of maritime labor, management and the government is being made to find ways and means of strengthening and improving the American-flag merchant fleet.” Seafarers LOG 17 �43332_p01_9,15,18,19x:3332p0 6/26/2007 4:41 PM Page 18 Final Departures DEEP SEA JULIO ARZU Brother Julio Arzu, 38, passed away Nov. 28. He became an SIU member in 1991. Brother Arzu, who was born in Honduras, first sailed aboard the Independence. He most recently worked on the Tyco Decisive. Brother Arzu lived in Houston. BENJAMIN BALERIO Pensioner Benjamin Balerio, 72, died Nov. 28. Brother Balerio joined the union in 1968. His first ship was the Midlake; his last was the Overseas Alaska. Brother Balerio, who went on pension in 1999, continued to reside in his native Texas. PETER BATAYIAS Pensioner Peter Batayias, 83, passed away Nov. 23. Brother Batayias began his seafaring career in 1964. His first voyage was aboard a vessel operated by Waterman Steamship Corp. Brother Batayias was a member of the steward department. He last sailed on the Horizon Mayaquez. Brother Batayias retired in 1993. He was a resident of Savannah, Ga. DAVID BOARD Pensioner David Board, 84, died Nov. 28. Brother Board began shipping with the SIU in 1967. The deck department member, who was born in Cuba, first worked aboard the USNS Potomac. Prior to retiring in 1989, he sailed on the Seattle. Brother Board made his home in Jacksonville, Fla. ROBERT BROWN Pensioner Robert Brown, 76, passed away Nov. 28. Brother Brown joined the union in 1956. His first voyage was aboard the Louis Emery Jr. Brother Brown sailed in the deck department. His last voyage was on the Horizon Kodiak. Brother Brown called Elma, Wash. home. He started collecting his pension in 1996. MAURICE DUET Pensioner Maurice Duet, 79, died Nov. 15. Brother Duet began his seafaring career in 1945, first sailing aboard a Delta Steamship Lines vessel. Born in Crown Point, La., Brother Duet worked in the deck department most recently on the Cape Farewell. He settled in Maurice, La. Brother Duet became a pensioner in 1990. JOHN FLUNKER Pensioner John Flunker, 87, passed away Nov. 23. Brother Flunker joined the Marine Cooks & Stewards (MC&S) in 1954 in the port of San Francisco. He first shipped aboard the Del Oro as a member of the steward department. Brother 18 Seafarers LOG Flunker’s last voyage was on the President Jackson. He was born in the Philippines and made Seattle his home. Brother Flunker retired in 1985. FRANK FROMM Pensioner Frank Fromm, 88, died Nov. 13. Brother Fromm first sailed with the SIU in 1951 from the port of Mobile, Ala. His first ship was the Steel Architect; his last was the Connecticut. Brother Fromm, who was born in New Jersey, worked in the deck department. He went on pension in 1981. Brother Fromm was a resident of Lindenhurst, N.Y. WILFREDO GATEMAN Brother Wilfredo Gateman, 51, passed away Nov. 20. He became an SIU member in 1997 in Piney Point, Md. Brother Gateman was born in the Philippines and shipped in the deck department. His most recent voyage was aboard the Alaskan Navigator. Brother Gateman lived in Hawaii. CARLOS GOMEZ Pensioner Carlos Gomez, 79, died Nov. 14. Brother Gomez joined the Seafarers in 1951. He initially shipped on the Strathmore in the engine department. Brother Gomez was a native of Argentina. Before retiring in 1988, he sailed aboard the Steel Voyager. Brother Gomez called Winter Park, Fla. home. ERNEST KOLENOVSKY Pensioner Ernest Kolenovsky, 85, passed away Nov. 11. Brother Kolenovsky began his SIU career in 1947. The deck department member first sailed on the Walter Tyler Page. Brother Kolenovsky, who was born in Texas, last worked aboard the Connecticut. He settled in Galveston, Texas and started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1981. NICHOLAS LOMAS Pensioner Nicholas Lomas, 78, died Nov. 10. Brother Lomas embarked on his seafaring career in 1946. His first voyage was on the Fort Bridge. Brother Lomas, who was born in Galveston, Texas, worked in the deck department. He last sailed aboard the Horizon Discovery. Brother Lomas retired in 1992 and resided in Tampa, Fla. JESSE LUSIAN Brother Jesse Lusian, 25, passed away Sept. 2. Born in Santa Rosa, Calif., Brother Lusian joined the SIU in 2003 in Piney Point, Md. He initially sailed on the USNS Pomeroy. Brother Lusian’s most recent voyage was aboard the USNS Red Cloud. He made his home in Hemet, Calif. FELIX VITO Pensioner Felix Vito, 83, died Oct. 13. Brother Vito launched his seafaring career in 1945. His earliest trip to sea was aboard a Bloomfield Steamship Co. vessel. Brother Vito last worked on the Oakland. He became a pensioner in 1984 and called Reno, Nev. home. INLAND JOSEPH LONG Pensioner Joseph Long, 75, passed away Oct. 4. Boatman Long joined the union in 1968. He first worked aboard Gulf Atlantic Transportation Corp. vessels. Boatman Long, who was born in Baltimore, last sailed on a Piney Point Transportation vessel. Boatman Long started collecting his pension in 1996. He was a resident of Newport, N.C. JAMES MARTIN SR. Pensioner James Martin Sr., 79, died Oct. 8. Boatman Martin joined the SIU in 1974. He first worked aboard a Moran Towing of Virginia vessel. Boatman Martin was an Ohio native. He last sailed on McAllister Towing boats. Boatman Martin, who retired in 1989, lived in Norfolk, Va. RICHARD MOSS Pensioner Richard Moss, 57, passed away Nov. 20. Boatman Moss became a union member in 1968. He sailed in the deck department in both the inland and deep sea divisions. Boatman Moss first shipped aboard a Texas City Refining Inc. vessel and last worked aboard G&H Towing Co. vessels. He resided in Texas and went on pension in 1998. home in his native state of Minnesota. Boatman Sweeney started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1988. Editor’s note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU) and participants in the NMU Pension Trust have passed away. AMBLER BRANHAM Pensioner Ambler Branham, 98, passed away Aug. 11. Brother Branham joined the NMU in 1967, first sailing from the port of Beaumont, Texas aboard the Margaret Lykes. Born in Amhurst, Va., he worked on the Gulf Knight before retiring in 1978. Pensioner Joseph Self, 76, died Oct. 3. Boatman Self was born in Hemphill, Texas and began sailing with the union in 1962. He worked primarily aboard National Marine Service vessels. Boatman Self, who called Jasper, Texas home, went on pension in 1994. GREAT LAKES JACK SWEENEY Pensioner Jack Sweeney, 83, passed away Nov. 22. Brother Sweeney began his seafaring career in 1970, initially shipping aboard a Michigan Tankers Inc. vessel. He was a member of the steward department. Brother Sweeney last sailed on the Seniority Men. He made his Pensioner Julio Rocca, 85, died Aug. 4. Brother Rocca joined the NMU in 1946 in the port of New York. He first shipped aboard the Clevelander. Brother Rocca was born in Montevideo, Uruguay. His last voyage was on the Cape Hudson. Brother Rocca became a pensioner in 1971. THEODORE WADDELL Pensioner Theodore Waddell, 76, passed away Aug. 18. Brother Waddell joined the NMU ranks in 1968 in the port of Baltimore. He initially worked in the steward department of the Rio. Brother Waddell was born in Maryland. He retired in 1987. SECUNDINO CARRION Pensioner Secundino Carrion, 83, died Aug. 23. Brother Carrion became an NMU member in 1961 in the port of New York. The Puerto Rico-born mariner shipped in the steward department. Brother Carrion’s first vessel was the Atlantic; his last was the American Liberty. He started collecting his pension in 1986. JOHN CLARK Pensioner John Clark, 78, passed away Sept. 20. Brother Clark joined the NMU in 1945 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. Born in Kansas City, Kan., he last sailed aboard the Zoella Lykes. Brother Clark began his retirement in 1987. ROGELIO COLON JOSEPH SELF JULIO ROCCA Pensioner Rogelio Colon, 81, died Sept. 6. Brother Colon began his seafaring career in 1962 in the port of San Francisco, Calif. He initially worked on the Garden State as a member of the steward department. Brother Colon was born in Puerto Rico. His last boyage was on board the Marine Duval. Brother Colon retired in 1992. MICHAEL LEYDON Pensioner Michael Leydon, 82, passed away Aug. 1. Brother Leydon was born in Sligo, Ireland. He started sailing with the union in 1946 from the port of New York. Brother Leydon first sailed on the Sea Porpoise as a member of the deck department. Brother Leydon’s last voyage was on the Chestnut Hill. He went on pension in 1991. EGBERT WALCOTT Pensioner Egbert Walcott, 88, died Aug. 19. Brother Walcott joined the NMU in 1943 in the port of Mobile, Ala. His first ship was the Winding Gulf. Brother Walcott was a native of Barbados, W.I. The steward department member most recently sailed aboard the Austral Ensign. Brother Walcott began receiving his retirement compensation in 1981. MILTON WALTERS Pensioner Milton Walters, 76, passed away Aug. 30. Brother Walters began his seafaring career in 1951 in the port of Norfolk, Va. His first voyage was on the Pan Pennsylvania. Brother Walters shipped in the engine department. He last sailed on the Tillie Lykes. Brother Walters went on pension in 1995. ROBERT WALTHALL Pensioner Robert Walthall, 81, died Aug. 12. Brother Walthall joined the union in 1947 while in Galveston, Texas. His first ship was the Pan Massachusetts. Brother Walthall was born in Kirven, Texas and sailed as a member of the engine department. He last worked on the Texaco New Jersey. Brother Walthall became a pensioner in 1973. CHARLES WILLIAMS Pensioner Charles Williams, 89, passed away Aug. 3. Brother Williams first sailed aboard the African Neptune in 1939. Born in Jacksonville, Fla., he worked in the steward department. Prior to retiring in 1981, Brother Williams sailed on a vessel operated by Farrell Lines. July 2007 �43332_p01_9,15,18,19:3332p0 6/22/2007 5:48 PM Page 19 Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring 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. HORIZON ENTERPRISE (Horizon Lines), April 5—Chairman George B. Khan, Secretary William E. Bryley, Educational Director Michael J. Wells, Engine Delegate John E. Coleman, Steward Delegate Soriano S. Grande. Chairman reported ship paid off today after making final run to Guam and Hong Kong. Next voyage will start “Pineapple” run (Tacoma, Oakland, Honolulu). Secretary reminded departing crew members to clean rooms and leave fresh linen for next members. Educational director advised crew to check document expiration dates and, if necessary, renew early. He also reminded them to read the Seafarers LOG to stay current on what’s happening in union and in maritime industry and encouraged them to upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew advised to keep an eye on clothes that are in dryer. Chief engineer to be notified about possible repair. Suggestions were made regarding medical plan. Crew thanked steward department for great St. Patrick’s Day barbecue. HORIZON TACOMA (Horizon Lines), April 1—Chairman Joseph Artis, Secretary Lincoln E. Pinn Jr., Educational Director Mohamed N. Ahlsinai. Chairman announced April 3 payoff upon arrival in Tacoma, Wash. He urged everyone to keep dues paid up and support SPAD for increased job security. Crew members were thanked for helping clean ship. Educational director encouraged mariners to take advantage of upgrading opportunities offered at Piney Point facility. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew expressed gratitude to steward department for job well done. Next port: Tacoma, Wash. HORIZON TRADER (Horizon Lines), April 15—Chairman Amante V. Gumiran, Secretary Kevin M. Dougherty, Educational Director Thomas M. Flynn, Deck Delegate Mohsin A. Ali, Engine Delegate Mohamed M. Abdulla. Bosun announced April 21 payoff to take place prior to arrival in Tacoma, Wash. He stated ship is then scheduled for dry dock in China on June 17. Educational director encouraged crew members to attend classes at SIU-affiliated school to upgrade seafaring skills. Treasurer noted $860 in crew fund and $1,000 in satellite TV fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Seafarers requested new radio with DVD player for crew lounge and made suggestions for next contract. Next ports: Tacoma; Oakland, Calif.; Honolulu; Hong Kong. JEAN ANNE (Interocean American Shipping), April 22—Chairman Daniel Davenport, Secretary Samuel P. Sinclair, Educational Director David F. Cutro, Deck Delegate Vince Ippolito, Steward Delegate Mary L. Maddox. Chairman thanked all departments for outstanding work July 2007 and dedication during recent voyages. Secretary went over eligibility issues. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Engine delegate expressed crew’s gratitude to bosun for his support during journey. Next port: San Diego. LOUIS J. HAUGE JR. (Maersk Line Limited), April 23—Chair- Paul Hall Center. Treasurer stated $1,962 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. President’s report and communication from VP George Tricker concerning retirement and pension were read. Crew members were reminded to clean rooms and supply fresh linen for reliefs. Thanks given to steward department for “excellent job.” GLOBAL SENTINEL (Transoceanic Cable Ship), May 29— Chairman Lee Hardman, Secretary Shawn R. Fujiwara, Educational Director Vladimir G. Tkachev, Deck Delegate David L. Parks, Engine Delegate Johnny W. Carson, Steward Delegate Robert J. Haggerty. Chairman reviewed new health care information and encouraged members to check Seafarers LOG of May 2007 or carrier web site for further information. He stated that vessel will load cable next week for pro- report any problems immediately. He announced May 11 arrival in Tacoma, Wash. Treasurer stated $250 in ship’s fund and an additional $2,000 with captain. Suggestion made to use ship fund money to reimburse crew members who personally bought converters. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Captain has posted sign stating that gym equipment will be furnished each trip. Volunteers are needed to purchase more equipment. They will be reimbursed. Requests made for steam table, grill/griddle and additional refrigerator for galley. Clarification requested regarding medical benefits. Crew is encouraged to read and check out web site on STCW renewal. HORIZON PRODUCER (Horizon Lines), May 23—Chairman Joel A. Lechel, Secretary Alexander Banky III, Educational Celebrating Flag Day on the Obregon Flag Day—June 14—was welcomed aboard the Pfc Eugene A. Obregon with a special menu and, of course, lots of flags! The ship’s steward department put forth their best efforts in showing the pride held by the crew members for the flag of the United States of America. The Obregon’s steward department consists of (from the left, standing) Chief Steward Patrick D. Helton, Assistant Cook/Utility Rod Jackson and Steward Assistant Timoteo Nunez. Kneeling are Chief Cook Eric Hernandez and Steward Assistant René Alfaro. Chief Cook Eric Hernanez (left) and Chief Steward Patrick Helton display their American flag cake. Thanks to Helton for sending these photos to the Seafarers LOG. man Paul C. Johnson, Secretary George J. Borromeo, Educational Director Arthur J. Kately III, Deck Delegate George McClendon, Steward Delegate Salvatore P. Gotti. Chairman talked about TWIC and how it affects SIU members. He also went over new company policy concerning a preboarding physical. Educational director urged members to take advantage of educational opportunities at Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Communication from headquarters was read and discussed. Next port: Saipan. MAERSK VIRGINIA (Maersk Line Limited), April 15—Chairman Mohamed S. Ahmed, Secretary Hugh E. Wildermuth, Educational Director Donald M. Christian, Deck Delegate Roberto Flores, Engine Delegate Sjamsidar Madjidji. Chairman reported smooth trip with great crew and announced April 23 payoff in Newark, N.J. Secretary thanked crew for help and support in making this a good trip. Educational director stressed importance of upgrading skills at Steward Assistant René Alfaro stands at the decorated salad bar. ject for fall of 2007 and to remember that ship is on a 24-hour standby status. Pertaining to SMPPP, he reminded crew to keep track of their sea days and make sure beneficiary forms are filled out; they are not the same as union beneficiary forms. He noted that ship is awaiting a bid for repair of crew lounge furniture. Crew was asked to return movies to movie locker when done watching them and to report any water seen on deck to chairman. Request was made for copies of current Tyco-SIU contract and manning scale for various cable operations. Educational director urged mariners to make an appointment, if necessary, with Coast Guard to renew shipping documents. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendation made regarding work rotations and lower retirement age. HORIZON HUNTER (Horizon Lines), May 6—Chairman Larry E. Watson, Secretary Jennifer K. Kim, Educational Director Joe Eagan, Deck Delegate George W. Mazzola. Chairman reminded crew members not to wait for a meeting to report safety issues; Director Jeffrey D. Levie, Steward Delegate Fernando L. Vega Mercado. Bosun thanked crew for helping keep ship clean and congratulated them on successful Coast Guard inspection. He noted continuing need for help in separating plastic items from other trash. Secretary reported great voyage and thanked crew for helping with Captain Cocozza’s (“the best captain ever”) retirement barbecue. Educational director encouraged Seafarers to be aware of expiration dates on MMDs and upgrade skills at Paul Hall Center. Treasurer stated $4,156 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions made concerning pension plan and addition for web site. Vote of thanks given to steward department for good meals and clean galley. HOUSTON (U.S.S. Transport), May 20—Chairman John R. Lamprecht, Secretary Robert E. Wilcox, Educational Director Scott S. Fuller, Deck Delegate Sunday Nwankwo, Engine Delegate Hugh Morrison, Steward Delegate David Gibson. Chairman stressed the importance of shipboard meetings as a valuable way to keep the union and its members strong and informed. He also led discussion on possibility of increasing size of steward department due to large number of crew, cadets and other riders. Secretary asked crew to make sure doors to house are closed tightly so air conditioning will perform properly. He also thanked them for helping keep lounge and common areas clean. Educational director advised all members to stay informed about TWIC issue and read Seafarers LOG for any new developments. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew expressed gratitude to steward department for good food and hard work. Next ports: Philadelphia, Pa.; Bayonne, N.J.; Port Canaveral and Port Everglades, Fla. ITB NEW YORK (U.S.S. Transport), May 13—Chairman Calvin M. Miles, Secretary Milton M. Yournett, Educational Director Jimmie E. Thomas, Deck Delegate Hussein M. Mohamed. Chairman reported May 16 payoff upon arrival in Houston. Departing crew reminded to clean rooms and leave keys and fresh linen for next mariner. Educational director urged members to check expiration dates on z-card and passports. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendations made regarding pension and medical plan. Vote of thanks given to steward department for job well done. Next port: Houston. PRIDE (Maersk Line Limited), May 6—Chairman Omaha S. Redda, Secretary Osvaldo J. Castagnino, Educational Director Matthew P. Ditullio, Engine Delegate Bruce M. Koete, Steward Delegate Obencio M. Espinoza. Chairman announced May 7 payoff at sea and thanked crew for their cooperation during voyage. Secretary asked mariners getting off to leave rooms clean and take dirty towels/sheets to linen locker. He thanked crew for helping keep messhall clean. Educational director encouraged crew members to take advantage of opportunity to attend classes at union-affiliated school in Piney Point. No beefs; disputed OT reported in steward department. Clarification requested on calling of standbys. Everyone expressed gratitude to steward department for excellent food. Next ports: Charleston, S.C.; Houston; Norfolk, Va. QUALITY (Maersk Line Limited), May 12—Chairman William M. Richard, Secretary Franklin J. Cordero, Educational Director Timothy E. Pillsworth, Deck Delegate Robert S. Vazquez. Chairman thanked all departments for smooth, safe voyage. Secretary expressed his gratitude to fellow members for helping keep ship’s house clean. Educational director encouraged everyone to keep documents current and upgrade at Paul Hall Center whenever possible. Treasurer stated $2,000 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Clarification requested as to why company cut back on certain food items. They also discussed the way incoming mail should be handled. Members requested new chair and e-mail hook-up for crew lounge. Vote of thanks was given to steward department for job well done. Of special note, AB Joseph Archer was given a wristwatch from Maersk from the captain for helping prevent an oil spill during a stowaway search. Seafarers LOG 19 �43332_p06,10_14,16,17,20_24:332p0 6/19/2007 6:13 PM Page 20 Letters to the Editor Editor’s note: The Seafarers LOG reserves the right to edit letters for grammar as well as space provisions without changing the writer’s intent. The LOG welcomes letters from members, pensioners, their families and shipmates and will publish them on a timely basis. Credit for Job Well Done Bill Eglinton’s retirement from the Paul Hall Center will be a loss. I met Bill in 1976 when he was an instructor at the school and I was an engine department upgrader. I especially valued a course that Bill taught, diesel for unlicensed engine department members. It differed from many other courses for upgraders because it did not lead directly to an MMD endorsement. But it provided a special opportunity for those of us who were without officer academy training. It was clear that Bill really enjoyed teaching this course, and most of us in the class picked up on his enthusiasm. I still use material presented in the course. I was Pensioners Continued from page 17 LAWRENCE CURNOW, 65, became a union member in 1966. Brother Curnow first worked aboard a Great Lakes Associates Inc. vessel. Born in Duluth, Minn., Brother Curnow’s most recent voyage was on the John Boland. He continues to call Duluth home. pleased when Bill remained at the school because I knew he would be an asset. Among the contributions that should be attributed to him, at least in part, was the school’s transition from teaching traditional shipboard department basics and specializations into the present multi-program curriculums. I remember that Bill was among the first at the school to see the need for ongoing changes. He had observed that worldwide developments were occurring for mariners’ qualifications, and the American maritime industry as we knew it was in jeopardy. He also knew that changes which would assure our membership’s security and mobility would be difficult. At that time, the school was just starting to enjoy membership acceptance, and it would have been easier to ride things out hoping for the best. Bill was one of the major players in aggressive developments at the school that followed, and his leadership was a key factor that helped provide for and lead to the programs and resources we have available today. In my view the membership Lindemuth joined the SIU in 1978, first working on a Michigan Interstate Railway vessel in the deck department. Brother Lindemuth most recently sailed aboard the Alpena. He lives in Pellston, Mich. and the American maritime industry as a whole have been served well during Bill’s tenure at the school. He was the right person there at the right time. Eric Sager Martinsburg, West Virginia Relief Fund A Big Help Because of Hurricane Katrina, I had a lot of damage to my home and had to replace the roof, among other things. I also had to replace a shed out back and a freezer in the garage, which was flooded. Three trees were downed and there was an awful lot of yard cleanup—just a lot of damage due to wind and water. Many others had it far worse, but I’m still trying to get it all back together. The assistance I received through the Seafarers Disaster Relief Fund (SDRF) was a big help and I truly appreciate it. I want to say thank you to all of our officials and members. I wish you fair winds and following seas. Gene Wilson Saraland, Alabama McCarthy. In 2003, he attended the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. to upgrade his skills. Brother Nassir most recently sailed aboard the St. Mary’s Challenger. Born in Yemen, he makes his home in Detroit. SAID NASSIR, 66, joined the SIU in 1988. Brother Nassir’s earliest trip to sea was on the Walter J. ROLAND LINDEMUTH, 60, was born in Michigan. Brother Know Your Rights THE SLOP CHEST Items are available via the slop chest link on our web site at: Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers Appeals Board. www.seafarers.org or e-mail corrections to kclements@seafarers.org 7/07 (Please Print) Name: ___________________________________________________________________________ Phone No.: _______________________________________________________________________ Address: _________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________ Social Security No.: ________ / ________ / ________ Active SIU Pensioner Book No.: ___________________ Other _______________________________________ This will be my permanent address for all official union mailings. This address should remain in the union file unless otherwise changed by me personally. 20 Seafarers LOG SHIPPING RIGHTS. A member’s shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively 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 employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals 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 be mailed (unless otherwise specified). If you are getting more than one copy of the LOG delivered to you, if you have changed your address, or if your name or address is misprinted or incomplete, please fill out the form and send it to: Seafarers International Union Address Correction Dept. 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 HOME ADDRESS FORM TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU 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 disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval by a majority of the trustees. All trust fund financial records are available at the headquarters of the various trust funds. The exclusive online source for Seafarers International Union merchandise. Are You Receiving All Your Important Mail? In order to help ensure that each active SIU member and pensioner receives a copy of the Seafarers LOG every month—as well as other important mail such as W-2 forms, pension and health insurance checks and bulletins or notices—a correct home address must be on file with the union. If you have moved recently or feel that you are not getting your union mail, please use the form on this page to update your home address. Your home address is your permanent address, and this is where all official union documents will FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the 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 recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. CONTRACTS. Copies of all SIU contracts are available in all SIU halls. These contracts specify the wages and conditions under which an SIU member works and lives aboard a ship or boat. Members should know their contract rights, as well as their obligations, such as filing 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 SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful 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 responsibility for Seafarers 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 OBLIGATIONS. 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 headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect 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 Michael 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. July 2007 �43332_p06,10_14,16,17,20_24:332p0 6/19/2007 6:13 PM Page 21 SEAFARERS PAUL HALL CENTER UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. for most of 2007. All programs are geared to improve the job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation’s security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Deck Upgrading Courses FOWT August 13 October 8 September 7 November 2 Junior Engineer July 16 September 7 Machinist July 9 July 27 Marine Electrician September 24 November 16 Pumpman* July 9 July 20 July 30 August 10 August 6 October 1 October 29 August 24 October 19 November 16 (*must have tankerman familiarization/ assistant cargo (DL) AND machinist) Welding Safety Specialty Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Advanced Fire Fighting July 9 July 20 July 27 August 31 Start Date Date of Completion July 9 August 20 October 1 August 3 September 14 October 26 Fast Rescue Boat July 23 August 27 Basic Safety Training Classes are conducted weekly Automatic Radar Plotting Aids* (ARPA) (*must have radar unlimited) October 22 October 26 Government Vessels Celestial Navigation July 9 August 3 GMDSS August 13 August 24 July 16 August 6 September 17 November 5 July 20 August 10 September 21 November 9 Lifeboatman/Water Survival August 6 September 17 October 29 August 17 September 28 November 9 Medical Care Provider July 23 July 27 Tankerman Familiarization/ Assistant Cargo (DL)* September 24 October 5 November 26 December 7 Radar October 8 October 19 Radar Renewal (one day) October 29 August 13 August 17 Course Able Seaman (*must have basic fire fighting) Tankerman (PIC) Barge* (*must have basic fire fighting) Steward Upgrading Courses Recertification Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations modules start every week. Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward classes start every other week beginning July 9, 2007. Bosun October 8 November 5 Steward July 9 August 6 Academic Department Courses Engine Upgrading Courses Course Basic Auxiliary Plant Ops Start Date Date of Completion July 16 September 10 August 10 October 5 General education and college courses are available as needed. In addition, basic vocational support program courses are offered throughout the year, two weeks prior to the beginning of a vocational course. An introduction to computers course will be self-study. UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ Telephone _________________________ Date of Birth ______________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twentyfive (125) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, and qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. All OL, AB, JE and Tanker Assistant (DL) applicants must submit a U.S. Coast Guard fee of $140 with their application. The payment should be made with a money order only, payable to LMSS. BEGIN DATE COURSE END DATE ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ Seniority _____________________________ Department _____________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ U.S. Citizen: ____________________________ _______________ _______________ Deep Sea Member Lakes Member Inland Waters Member If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security # ______________________ Book # _________________________ Yes No Home Port _____________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held _____________________________________ LAST VESSEL: _____________________________________ Rating: ___________ _____________________________________________________________________ Date On: ___________________________ Date Off: ________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? Yes No If yes, class # __________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? Yes No If yes, course(s) taken ___________________________________________________ Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? Yes No Firefighting: Yes No CPR: Yes No Primary language spoken ________________________________________________ July 2007 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. 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 students, who are otherwise qualified, of 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. 7/07 Seafarers LOG 21 �43332_p06,10_14,16,17,20_24:332p0 6/19/2007 6:14 PM Page 22 Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 686 — Graduating from the water survival course are unlicensed apprentices from class 686. They include (in alphabetical order) Charles Brown Jr., Mark Brownell, Jean Cardona-Santiago, Mario Cruz, Cleveland Foy, Preston Grant, Daniel Irizarry, Stanley Jackson Jr., Dawn Johnson, Dontae Jones, Demond Lindsey, Sabrina Long, Peter McNeal, Pierre Norwood, Trevor Rowe, Christopher Ruggiero, Arvid Rutledge, Bobby Turner, Robert Watson, Ryanne Wheeler, Melody White, Falando Williams and Benjamin Wright. AB — With instructor Bernabe Pelingon (far left) are upgraders who completed the AB course May 11. They are (in no specific order) David Stavron, Daniel Stavron, Parris Mancuso, Darnell Taylor, Johnny Starnes, Larry Castaneda-Mercado, Gabe Williamson, Nicholas Kempker, Omar Madrid, Robert Freeman Jr., Jamar Allen, Daniel Dale, Scott Stilwell, Orien Nelson, Daron Tinney, Scott Bloomfield, Clifford Cronan, Jeffrey Gronotte Jr., Robert Morrison, Kevin Wimbley and Michael Stilwell. Advanced Fire Fighting — Graduating from this course May 4 are MTLX boatmen (in no specific order) Adam Emanual, Robert Stone, Tacek Sawicki, Kesse Kesse, Clyde McNatt, Darrel Koonce Jr., Brandon Raney, Jay Templet, Philip Wright, David Lane II, Joseph Lupton Jr., Scott Chew, Richard Serwat and Frederick Mayo. Their instructor, Mark Cates, is at far right. (Note: not all are pictured.) FOWT — Upgrading seafarers who completed this course May 18 are (in no specific order) DeWayne Jacobs, Furman Watson, Carmelo Collazo, Kamion Kearney, Patrick Devlin, Jesse Tornabene, Kevin Lewis, Daniel McFarland, Gustavo Costas, Antoine Best, Aaron Larson, Scott Smith, Michael Iverson, Philip Rhule, Melvin Ratcliff, Travis Green, Billy Duenas, Peter Rubio, Kareim Wright, Mark Sawyer, Ronald Sease and David Ruggirello. Computer Lab Classes With instructor Rick Prucha in each photo are students who recently completed computer classes at the Paul Hall Center. Showing their certificates of achievement are (top row, from left) Clifford Cronan, Abdmutaali Muhammad and Rafael Chow, (bottom row, from left) Robeson Carrier and Jeff Hawkins and Elrick Archer and Rudy Oliva. Marine Electrician — Students who completed the marine electrician course May 4 are (in no specific order) Greg Alvarez, Wendell Brown, Joseph Sam, Al Dixon, Joseph Krajnik, David Rushing, Husain Ali, Chris Schneider, Jeff Hawkins, Bryan Fletcher, David James and James Donohue. (Note: not all are pictured.) Any student who has registered for a class and finds—for whatever reason—that he or she cannot attend, please inform the admissions department so that another student may take that place. 22 Seafarers LOG July 2007 �43332_p10_14,16,17,20_24x2:332p0 6/27/2007 10:35 AM Page 23 Paul Hall Center Classes Medical Care Provider — Upgrading seafarers who completed the medical care provider course May 4 under the instruction of Mark Cates are (in no specific order) Sellers Brooks, Vincent Mull, Samuel Levecque, Khaled Alsayed, Steven Blair, Timothy Fogg, John Collins, Michael Morita and Sean Grace. Bridge Resource Management — MTLX boatmen completing this refresher course May 4 are (in no specific order) Aron Morgan, Robert Bronzan, Michael Santini, Jeff Brown, Elliott Talbot, Stephen McGavock, Scott Melton and Howard Clark. Their instructor, Herb Walling, is at far left. Welding — Graduating from the welding class May 25 are (in no specific order) Bryan Fletcher, Tawrence Abrams, Forrest McGee, Michael Morita, Tim Johnson II and Stravon Jordan. Their instructor, Buzzy Andrews, is second from right. Refrigeration Engineer — Jay Henderson (far left) taught the refrigeration engineer course that ended June 1. Included in this class were (in no specific order) Andrew Linares, Douglas Lowry, Rigoberto Beata and Rahul Bagchi. Tanker Familiarization/Assistant Cargo (DL) — Two classes of Phase III apprentices graduated May 11 from tankerman assistant courses. They are (in no specific order) Cornelius Smith, Falando Williams, Charles Brown, Darren Hall, Cleveland Foy, Chris Caporale, J.K. Borden, Jonathan Luna, Diego Barbosa, Mark Brownell, Stanley Jackson Jr., Kieran Green, Preston Grant, Pierre Norwood, Daniel Irizarry, Felix De Armas, John Anson, Melody White, Arvid Rutledge Sr., Benjamin Wright, Ryanne Wheeler, Bobby Turner, Iker Urruchi, Michael Chapman, Arthur Jones, Rovena Cornelius, Tabethia Twine, Darein Matthews, Dawn Johnson, Ravon Moore, Demetrius Green, Alvin Hansley, Trevor Rowe, Mario Cruz, Joseph Maltese, Jesse Mixon, Enrique Velez, Paul Hart, Sabrina Long and Dwight Hunt. Fast Rescue Boat — Graduating from the fast rescue boat course May 4 are MTLX boatmen (in no specific order) Bill Marti, Gabor Gardonyi, Kerry Noble, Chris Mavbaum, Glenn Lane, Darrell Corgatelli, Mitchel Gordon, Mike Meriweather and Patrick Harrington III. Their instructors were Stan Beck (far left) and Tom Truitt (far right). July 2007 Fast Rescue Boat — Along with their instructor, Tom Truitt (standing at left), are May 25 graduates of the fast rescue boat class. They are (in no specific order) Frank Campos, Clifford Cronan, Jay Dillon, Marc Everell, Paul Kucan, Sergey Kurchenko, Nebojsa Milosevic and Paul Riggs. Seafarers LOG 23 �43332_p06,10_14,16,17,20_24:332p0 6/19/2007 6:16 PM Page 24 Volume 69, Number 7 July 2007 Summary Annual Reports for SIU PACIFIC DISTRICT PENSION PLAN and SIU PACIFIC DISTRICT SUPPLEMENTAL BENEFITS FUNDS, INC. —page 16 SL Achiever Returns from Voyage to North Atlantic A recent voyage to the North Atlantic provided Recertified Bosun Robert Lindsay with some incredible views of the SL Achiever covered in ice and other shots of fellow crew members at work during milder temperatures. The SL Achiever, operated by Maersk Line, Limited, is one of 13 additional ships gained under the Maritime Administration’s expanded Maritime Security Program (MSP) which runs from October 2005 until 2016. The MSP is a vital component of America’s national defense capabilities. The ships in the program contribute to the operation of a commercial U.S.-flag, U.S.-crewed fleet engaged in the international trade, thus ensuring the government’s access to these vessels during times of war or national emergency. Above: AB Aubrey “Red” Davis preps a void space for closing. At right: Using a skyclimber, AB Richard Gathers prepares the front of the house for painting. ABs Sherman Hudson (right) and Aubrey Davis are at work on the deck of the SL Achiever. Closing access to the SL Achiever’s ballast tank is AB Richard Gathers. AB Dave Steele cuts old handles from a damper wire. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2000-2009 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXII-LXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present, Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource July 2007 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES CALIFORNIA NURSES ASSOC. JOINS AFL-CIO ANDRASICK, ARNTZEN, REINHART SELECTED FOR AOTOS AWARDS OVERSEAS LONG BEACH CHRISTENED CROWLEY WELCOMES ATB GULF RELIANCE PORT PERSONNEL COMPLETE WORKSHOP IN PINEY POINT SENATE VOTE IMMINENT ON FREE CHOICE ACT OPTIMISM FADES IN GROCERY TALKS G&H BOATMEN CYCLE FOR CHARITY SIU JOINS IN MARITIME DAY CEREMONIES IN CALIF., TEXAS CONGRESSMAN CUMMINGS HONORS MARINERS WITH SUPPORTIVE DECLARATION CEREMONY CONDUCTED FOR 6TH T-AKE SHIP USNS HENSON SAILS TO FINLAND HOSPITAL SHIP USNS COMFORT DEPLOYS MSC SAYS ‘HAPPY BIRTHDAY’ TO U.S. MERCHANT MARINE RECOLLECTIONS OF THE MERCHANT MARINE IN WORLD WAR II SL ACHIEVER RETURNS FROM VOYAGETO NORTH ATLANTIC Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 07/01/2007 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 69, No. 7 2007 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/92de6d835da91cfde8fe6d9beadd797a.pdf 811d528a2e30c37b6d6782d811c7ec2d PDF Text Text 49311_p01_24:9311p0 6/27/2008 11:11 AM Page 1 Volume 70, Number 7 July 2008 Hawaii goes SIU! The SIU-contracted fleet now includes Hawaii Superferry’s Alakai (below), a high-speed vessel offering interisland service in the Hawaiian Islands. After a challenging debut, things are running smoothly aboard the 349-foot vessel, which has a service speed of 35 knots. Pictured at right aboard the ferry are (from left) AB Calvin Kaawa, SIU Asst. VP Bryan Powell and AB Tony Miana. Page 3. Maritime Day Events Focus on Merchant Marine’s Key Role During National Maritime Day ceremonies in Washington, D.C., representatives of the military and the administration credited the U.S. Merchant Marine for its dependability throughout American history, including in Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. The SIU participated in events hosted by (respectively) the U.S. Maritime Administration, U.S. Military Sealift Command, and the Propeller Club of Washington and Kings Point Alumni Association. Pictured in the group photo above (from left) following the MarAd ceremony are AMO President Tom Bethel, Maritime Administrator Sean Connaughton, SIU President Michael Sacco, U.S. Secretary of Transportation Mary Peters, SIU of Canada President Roman Gralewicz, Rhode Island State Senator Leonidas Raptakis, MSC Commander Rear Adm. Robert Reilly Jr. and U.S. Coast Guard Rear Admiral James Watson. At left, Secretary Peters greets unlicensed apprentices from the Paul Hall Center who attended the ceremonies. At right, Unlicensed Apprentice Rickey Yancey carries the U.S. Merchant Marine wreath as part of MSC’s remembrance. Among those standing in the background is General Norton Schwartz (dark uniform), commander, U.S. Transportation Command, who served as keynote speaker. Coverage of the D.C. ceremonies appears on pages 12-13. SIU Contract News Page 4 TWIC Deadline: April 15, 2009 Page 10 �49311_p01_24:9311p0 6/27/2008 11:11 AM Page 2 Seafarers’ Safety Training Proves Vital In Chemical Trader Emergency Incident President’s Report TWIC Concerns I will leave it to others to debate whether problems were inevitable with implementing the Transportation Worker Identification Credential program, better known as TWIC. What I know based on personal experience along with feedback from rank-and-file Seafarers, and based on internal industry communications and public media reports, is that the program is off to a rough start. Since long before the TWIC final rule was issued, the SIU has been proactive in trying to Michael Sacco help make the program as effective and as user-friendly as possible. We are continuing those efforts today and will do so in the months and years ahead – working cooperatively with other maritime unions and other stakeholders, and participating in key industry groups like the Department of Homeland Security’s National Maritime Security Advisory Committee, abbreviated as NMSAC. Still, it’s ultimately up to the responsible agencies, particularly the Transportation Security Administration, and their contractors to make sure the program works properly. So far, there’s a lot of room for improvement. Recently, it became known that two-thirds of the machines used to produce the actual TWIC cards are broken. Through various communications including face-to-face feedback, we’ve learned that mariners sometimes aren’t being notified when their cards are ready for pickup. In other cases, they’re being told their TWICs are ready, only to travel back to the enrollment center and find out that’s not the case. (I can personally relate to that last example.) There have been problems with long waits on the toll-free TWIC telephone hotline and with computer crashes at the enrollment centers. Sometimes the fingerprint machines don’t work. Cards have been issued with incorrect expiration dates. In some cases, employees at the enrollment centers haven’t verified receipt of all the necessary paperwork with certain applications. In some port areas, the enrollment centers are located a long way from the facilities they’re designed to serve. Those are just some of what I’d call the basic problems the program has run into so far. There also are a number of fairly complex technical and procedural issues still unresolved. By the way, I haven’t even mentioned the card readers – which probably is a topic better reserved for another day, anyway. None of this is intended to ridicule the program, or to toss out criticism for the sake of criticism. The SIU, as we’ve done all along, supports the goals of the TWIC program. And again, we’re trying to be part of the solution as much as possible. What I’m saying is, apply now. Don’t wait. We have no choice but to secure our TWICs – it’s the law, and the April 2009 deadline will arrive soon enough. As the saying goes, however, forewarned is forearmed. Register and Vote SIU members have long understood that grassroots political activities are vital to helping maintain a strong U.S.-flag fleet. In fact, political action is nothing short of a necessity. At every level, we’ve got to remain politically involved. That’s true all the time, but it’s probably more apparent these days, since it’s a presidential election year. In any case, I urge all Seafarers, pensioners and their families to make the most of this election season. Be active. Make sure you are registered to vote (and if you’re not, please register). Read up on the issues and back the candidates who will support the U.S. Merchant Marine. We have an important message – namely, that America is best-served by a strong, vibrant U.S. Merchant Marine. We can all help ensure that our message is heard in November and beyond. Volume 70, Number 7 SIU Members Praised for ‘Awesome Response’ The fast action of SIU members and officers saved lives along with the integrated tug and barge (ITB) SMT Chemical Trader, more than 10 million gallons of gasoline and possibly a petroleum terminal during offloading of the “liquid gold” on May 22 in Tampa, Fla. Ninety percent of the mariners who were aboard the Intrepid Personnel & Provisioning ITB were asleep when, at 1:50 a.m., a minor onboard explosion occurred along with a fire. “I saw a small fire on deck and grabbed an extinguisher,” said Bosun Victor Cooper, who was one of the mariners on watch. “The fire was coming from a machinery space and I sounded the alarms.” In a commendation letter to the crew from the ship’s Master Jeffrey Ritter, he noted that despite the incident occurring so early in the morning with most of the crew asleep, they responded quickly and had the fire out in 12 minutes. “In this time,” explained the captain, “the crew managed to muster, suit up, run out the hoses, commence bulkhead cooling, secure the ventilation and, upon the captain’s order, release the CO2.” Ritter said everyone aboard “responded in a quick, effective and professional manner.” A tug mate reportedly received second-degree burns Some of the SIU crew members from the Chemical Trader are pictured in the aftermath of their speedy, efficient response to a shipboard emergency. Seafarers’ actions arguably prevented a catastrophe. from the heat in the machinery space but was quickly rescued by the crew that got him ashore for medical treatment. According to the bosun, he’s recovering well. The investigation into the cause of the incident is ongoing. “The response of the crew was awesome,” said the bosun. “The training really paid off.” Cooper was referring to the STWC and fire fighting training all of the unlicensed crew members have received at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education and the weekly onboard drills that take place NASSCO Delivers USNS Peary to MSC Newer tonnage continued to enter the union’s Government Services Division fleet last month as the U.S. Military Sealift Command took delivery of the dry cargo/ammunition ship USNS Robert E. Peary in San Diego. The agency accepted the ship June 5 at the General Dynamics NASSCO Shipyard, where the vessel was built. Named in honor of Navy Rear Adm. Robert E. Peary, leader of the first expedition to the North Pole, the ship is the fifth in the Lewis and Clark class of underway replenishment ships, with the designation T-AKE 5. The ships’ primary mission is to deliver ammunition, provisions, stores, spare parts, potable water and petroleum products to the Navy’s underway carrier and expeditionary strike groups, allowing them to stay at sea for extended periods of time. July 2008 The SIU on line: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, AFL-CIO; 5201 Auth Way; Camp Springs, MD 20746. Telephone (301) 899-0675. Periodicals postage paid at Southern Maryland 207909998. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Seafarers LOG, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Communications Director, Jordan Biscardo; Managing Editor/Production, Jim Guthrie; Associate Editor, Mark Bowman; Photographer, Mike Hickey; Art, Bill Brower; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2008 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD All Rights Reserved. 2 Seafarers LOG aboard the Intrepid ITB. “Our folks were excellent,” added Cooper. “Even the Coast Guard members on the scene praised us for averting what could have been a very serious incident.” The other SIU members who were aboard the Chemical Trader on May 22 were ABs Philip Gallagher, Anthony Moore Jr., Brian Gauntt, Ronald Webb, and Donald Clotter, QMED Troy Banks, GUDE Jose EncarnacionRivera, Engine Utility Florian Turcios, Steward/Baker Josue Iglesia and Chief Cook Manes Sainvil. The USNS Peary, pictured recently in San Diego, is the newest addition to the SIU’s Government Services Division fleet. The T-AKEs are replacing some of MSC’s aging, single-mission ships such as Kilauea-class ammunition ships and Mars- and Sirius-class combat stores ships that are nearing the end of their service lives. At the end of July, the 689-foot Peary is scheduled to go on a short shakedown cruise where the ship’s crew will test a range of shipboard operations. By the end of the summer, the Peary is expected to depart for its home port in Norfolk, Va., from where it will soon deploy on its first operational mission. The Peary has a crew of civil service mariners working for MSC as well as a military detachment of 11 sailors who provide operational support and supply coordination. When needed, the Peary can also carry a helicopter detachment. MSC operates approximately 110 noncombatant, merchant mariner-crewed ships that replenish U.S. Navy ships, conduct specialized missions, strategically preposition combat cargo at sea around the world and move military cargo and supplies used by deployed U.S. forces and coalition partners. July 2008 �49311_p01_24:9311p0 6/27/2008 11:11 AM Page 3 The Alakai, whose stern is shown above, is equipped with state-of-the-art safety and navigational equipment along with lots of amenities for passengers. The vessel also has a service speed of 35 knots which it partially shows off in the photo at right. Alakai Joins SIU-Contracted Fleet One of the newest additions to the Seafarers-contracted fleet is also one of the most distinctive vessels carrying an SIU crew. Following certification of the SIU as the collective bargaining representative for employees sailing aboard Hawaii Superferry’s Alakai, a four-year contract took effect earlier this year. The agreement brought numerous gains for crew members, including immediate, substantial wage increases followed by additional wage gains in each year of the pact. The contract also added vacation and holiday pay, medical benefits (including dental and vision), participation in the Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan and more. Built at Austal USA in Mobile, Ala., the Alakai carries a crew of 25. The 349-foot, aluminum-hull ferry provides interisland, round-trip service from Honolulu to Maui seven days a week. According to the company, the vessel, operated for Hawaii Superferry by Hornblower Marine, can transport 866 passengers and 282 cars. At least once, the Alakai, which has a service speed of 35 knots, carried cargo for the U.S. military. As of mid-June, the Alakai (which means “ocean path”) was offering two round trips per day, four days per week; and a single daily trip on the other three days. One round trip takes approximately 10 hours, counting about six hours of sailing time. “This vessel represents the SIU’s progress as we enter a new era in marine passenger and vehicle transportation,” said SIU Vice President West Coast Nick Marrone. “Coupled with national concerns of cleaner air and high fuel costs, this vessel signals the gateway to future travel and commuting options nationwide. Once again, the SIU is in the forefront.” SIU Assistant Vice President Bryan Powell, who led the union’s organizing drive, added, “The organizing and recognition phases of this project were certainly some of the most lengthy, complex and challenging efforts that we’ve seen in recent times, but the results were very positive. This operation’s success is a product of the hard work and persistence of all stakeholders. “I am proud of what we have achieved so far and we absolutely recognize the hard work and commitment of the crew members who hung in there through all the trials and tribulations,” Powell continued. “We all look forward to the expected delivery of the second vessel in 2009 and the continued growth and prosperity of the Hawaii Superferry project.” The ferry is equipped with state-of-the-art safety and navigational equipment, and its design incorporates the latest in environmentally responsible maritime technology. For example, the ferry’s water-jet propulsion system has no exposed propellers. According to the company, “One of the most important fea- Crew members participate in fire fighting exercises at the Seafarersaffiliated safety school in Hawaii. July 2008 tures is the ferry’s catamaran design, which enables family friendly, high-speed transport over Hawaii’s open ocean waters. Modern catamarans have revolutionized high-speed sea transport along European shores, linking Great Britain to Ireland and joining isolated communities along the Norwegian coast, and our ships will accomplish the same here.” The Alakai has satellite navigation systems that track the vessel’s position at all times. Automatic fire control systems are situated throughout, and all passenger and crew spaces incorporate fireproof and fire-resistant materials. The vessel’s two catamaran hulls include eight watertight compartments, and the Alakai has the most advanced evacuation and life-raft systems available. Finally, the Alakai boasts plenty of passenger amenities. Among them are a passenger deck engineered for clear viewing; big-screen entertainment QMED Orlando Pajarillo choices; video games; educational and Hawaiian-themed programming; and three dining areas, all with appealing menus. Chief Engineer Jay Long Cabin Steward Faith Abang This meeting took place as part of the process of verifying union representation aboard the ferry. Pictured from left to right are SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone; SIU Asst. VP Bryan Powell; Dr. Bill Puette, director of the University of Hawaii’s Center for Labor Education and Research (here serving as a neutral party); Robert Katz, Esq., legal counsel for the company; and Cynthia Ramsey, human resources coordinator for Hawaii Superferry. Seafarers LOG 3 �49311_p01_24X:9311p0 6/30/2008 2:17 PM Page 4 VP Dean Corgey (standing in photo at left) and VP Nick Marrone (seated in photo above) answer Seafarers’ questions about the new pact. Seafarers check out some of the gains contained in the new agreement with Intrepid Personnel & Provisioning. Negotiating Teams Secure Good Contracts in ‘Tough Times’ Several SIU contracts recently have been ratified. Following are summaries of each. Joiner and Murphy. AB/Tankerman Bruce 3-Year Pact Inked with Penn 3-Year Agreement Signed with Maritime Intrepid More than 100 SIU members recently SIU boatmen unanimously ratified a contract covering more than 100 Seafarers employed by Intrepid Personnel & Provisioning. The three-year agreement includes wage and subsistence increases along with increases in maintenance and cure, missing-man wages and reimbursement for lodging. It also maintains Core Plus medical benefits and a 401(k) plan. Pension credit rates will be maintained. Intrepid Personnel & Provisioning moves petroleum products back and forth from the West Coast and the Gulf of Mexico. Intrepid has a total of six ATBs and ITBs under SIU contract with more on the way. The SIU negotiating team included SIU Vice President West Coast Nick Marrone, SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey and members Capt. George Sadler, Chief Engineer Robert Paul overwhelmingly approved a three-year contract with Penn Maritime Inc. Penn Maritime operates barges and tugs and is the largest coastal transporter of heated asphalt products. Contract highlights include annual wage increases, maintaining Core Plus health benefits, increases in “longevity pay,” participation and company contributions in the 401(k) plan, and an additional holiday. The agreement also calls for shortand long-term disability, an increase in maintenance and cure, and bereavement involving maternal and paternal grandparents. The negotiating committee included SIU Atlantic Coast Vice President Joseph Soresi, SIU Patrolman Joe Baselice and members John Harvard (representing mates), Jeff Rydza (engineers) and Teddy Crockett (ABs). tions to the Seafarers Health and Benefit Plan to maintain the top level of benefits and the necessary company contributions into the pension plan to maintain days of credit for days worked. Nothing Petty for Seafarers at Petty’s Island More than 50 SIU members at Petty’s Island agreed to a three-year pact with Crowley. Petty’s Island is located in the Delaware River between Pennsylvania and New Jersey. The members there work with roll-on/roll-off ships and perform mechanical work on barges at Crowley’s facility. Some of the highlights of the “no loss” contract include pay increases over each of the three years, one additional personal day off at the beginning of the third year of the contract, three days off for the death of a grandparent and/or grandchild and compensation for sick leave not used by the end of any contract period (to be paid out at the hourly rate at which it was accrued). Members will now be able to participate in the Seafarers 401(k) through payroll deduction, and the company is increasing its contribution to the separate Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan. The union also secured from the company the necessary contribution to maintain medical benefits at the top Core Plus level. Finally, the union secured company contributions into the pension plan to maintain days of credit for days worked. St. Louis Port Council Honors 3 3 More Years with OSG Inland SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone (left) and SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey review Intrepid contract highlights with members aboard the Coastal Reliance. SIU boatmen working for Overseas Shipholding Group, Inc. inland operations in Philadelphia overwhelmingly ratified a three-year contract calling for wage increases and other gains. The agreement covers nearly 100 Seafarers who operate tugs and barges primarily between Philadelphia and the Gulf Coast. The contract includes gains in travel compensation, an increase in overtime pay rates and additional compensation for ABs on lightering vessels and Cooks/Ordinary Seamen who complete a mutually agreed upon class at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, based in Piney Point, Md. It also includes the addition of the Seafarers Money Purchase Plan at company expense, necessary company contribu- Important Notice To All Seafarers Earlier this year, the St. Louis Port Council, affiliated with the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department, honored three individuals who live up to labor’s ideals and who support America’s working families. Pictured above at the April 5 event are (from left) SIU and MTD President Michael Sacco; Port Council VP Jack Martorelli; St. Louis Chief of Police Col. Joseph Mokwa, management man of the year; Circuit Attorney Jennifer Joyce, “able helmsman” award winner; Painters District Council No. 2 Business Manager Kevin Kenny, labor man of the year; St. Louis Building and Construction Trades Council Executive Secretary-Treasurer Jerry Feldhaus; and Port Council President Dick Mantia. Pictured below are U.S. Rep. Russ Carnahan (D-Mo.), Feldhaus, Martorelli, Sacco, former U.S. Rep. Dick Gephardt and SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez. Trustees Announce Timely News About Changes To Eligibility Rules Covering Members’ SHBP Benefits As reported at the June membership meetings and on the SIU web site, the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Trustees, at a recent board meeting, have decided to change the eligibility rules. Beginning January 1, 2008, to be eligible for benefits, Seafarers must have 125 days of covered employment in calendar year 2007. The one (1) day in six (6) months rule is still in effect. This change is a result of many factors. The Plan’s financial situation is no longer critical because of the benefit changes instituted in 2005, the use of a 4 Seafarers LOG medical and dental network and the stabilization of medical costs. The Trustees also took into consideration the appeals that participants have made indicating that due to shipping rotations they were unable to achieve the 150 days needed to maintain their eligibility. If a Seafarer had at least 125 days of covered employment during 2007 and had claims denied due to lack of eligibility, please resubmit them to the claims office. If members have any questions, please call 1-800-252-4674. July 2008 �49311_p01_24:9311p0 6/30/2008 11:56 AM Page 5 Report Outlines Steps to Boost U.S.-Flag Fleet Organization Cites Critical Need for Strong U.S. Merchant Marine The ability to utilize U.S.-flag commercial ships and American crews is essential to U.S. national and economic security interests, according to a report by the Navy League of the United States. The Navy League is a non-profit organization of more than 65,000 members (including the SIU) dedicated to nonpartisan, enhanced public understanding of the missions and challenges facing today’s Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and U.S. Merchant Marine, as well as advocating for the wellbeing of the men and women of each service. Much of the league’s advocacy takes place on Capitol Hill, the Pentagon, in ports and communities. The organization annually publishes its maritime policy through which it conducts research on the industry and makes recommendations. This year’s report, titled “Preserving Sea Power – A National Imperative,” gives details to why sealift capability, U.S. mariners and American-flag ships are vital to the U.S. both commercially and for defense. According to the Navy League, 95 percent of the equipment and supplies required to deploy U.S. armed forces overseas is delivered by ship. U.S.-flag commercial and government-owned vessels, manned by U.S. citizen mariners, continue to play a significant and indispensable role in strategic sealift support for Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. Such reliance on American-flag sealift will continue, the report concludes. Additionally, the report explains even as the United States’ need for reliable and efficient marine transportation continues to grow in domestic and international trade, the base of skilled U.S. citizen mariners is shrinking in proportion to the declining numbers of U.S.flag commercial ships. This diminishing pool of mariners presents a crisis that threatens the nation’s ability to project timely military power, said the report. Following are some of the actions the Navy League supports to achieve the goals of maintaining and increasing the number of U.S.-flag ships and mariners. ■ Utilize budgetary and legislative measures — including capital and operationsrelated changes in U.S. tax and maritime regulations — needed to maintain a viable U.S.flag Merchant Marine. ■ Completely fund the 60-ship Maritime Security Program. To replicate the lift capacity of this fleet would cost DOD $8 billion in capital outlay. ■ Maintain the Jones Act and Passenger Vessel Services Act. Oppose any legislative initiatives or trade agreements that would weaken these vital industry support mechanisms. ■ Provide funding for the Title XI Ship Construction Loan Guarantee Program for the U.S. commercial industry, for both economic and national security reasons. ■ Provide funding for the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy and federal programs at the state maritime colleges and maritime union/industry training facilities to ensure that sufficient numbers of licensed and unlicensed mariners are available to serve the nation’s needs. ■ Build upon efforts by the U.S. Coast Guard to expedite the licensing and documentation of U.S. Merchant Mariners while striking a balance between national security and maritime commercial interests. ■ Enact legislation for the Department of Veterans Affairs to treat U.S. Merchant Marine veterans of action in World War II as they do all other veterans. Marine Transportation System The Navy League also echoes the Maritime Administration’s call for improvements to a marine highway system. The league’s report says the U.S. marine transportation system (MTS) consists of waterways, ports and their intermodal connections, vessels and vehicles that are crucial to the U.S. economy. As the world’s trade leader, the United States requires a technologically advanced, secure, efficient and environmentally sound MTS, explains the league. The MTS annually moves through 300 public and private ports and 25,000 miles of navigable waterways more than 2.3 billion tons of domestic and international cargo worth $2 trillion; imports 3.3 billion barrels of oil to meet energy demands; and transports 180 million passengers by ferry and more than seven million cruise ship passengers. An estimated 13 million people are employed in this industry. Roughly one quarter of the world’s trade flows through U.S. ports. The league states U.S. economic prosperity is dependent on international trade, of which 95 percent by volume moves by sea. Any disruption in this global supply chain would have a serious and immediate impact on the U.S. economy and, consequently, national security. International and domestic trade is expected to double in volume by 2020, according to government research, creating greater congestion on overburdened land, port, water and freight delivery systems. Only a truly seamless, integrated, multimodal transportation system with an expanded marine highway system (sometimes called short-sea shipping) will meet the nation’s growing needs. Some initiatives the league supports include: ■ Efforts to ensure that the MTS is, and remains, adequate and safe to conduct maritime commerce and U.S. military deployments. ■ America’s marine highway initiatives such as an exemption of waterborne cargo trans-shipped between U.S. ports from the Harbor Maintenance Tax. This double tax is a major disincentive for increased waterborne transport. ■ Dredging and marking river and harbor channels that connect U.S. ports to the rest of the world. ■ Modernization of locks and dams to regulate water flow and facilitate commerce. ■ Revitalization of the Title XI section of the Merchant Marine Act of 1936 to support replacement of existing Jones Act liner tonnage and support the investment required for short-sea shipping, including infrastructure in both large and small ports; and support for the needs of the shipyards that will have to efficiently build replace- ment Jones Act vessels and those to be used to accommodate short-sea shipping. The Big Picture: The U.S. Industrial Base The Navy League and other prominent industry organizations have raised concerns about the deteriorating health of the nation’s industrial base. The league’s report cites examples of the difficulties in several prominent ship acquisition and construction programs which are a direct result of this weakened industrial base. The report explains the base has diminished over the past few decades and a concerted effort must be made to recover. Historically, says the league, seafaring nations which at one time possessed a strong navy providing sea control wherever they desired, were shown to have lost that power when the nation allowed the industrial base to falter and finally wither to ineffectiveness. With several countries striving to become near-peer competitors in sea control, the U.S. must have a strong industrial base, according to the report. The report points to shortages of skilled personnel and production as the key problems. Some of what the league urges includes: ■ Government develop and institute an effective industrial base policy that addresses critical issues to ensure the capability to build and maintain an affordable fleet capable of surge to meet demands in a crisis. ■ A stable and increased level of predictable funding for the ships. ■ Capital investments in the existing infrastructure to allow industry to stay abreast of the latest technical advances, attract the best young engineers and skilled workers, and ensure it has the capability and capacity to surge repair, production and construction of the nation’s fleet in a time of crisis. ■ All parties (government and industry) to spend more funds to train and educate the workforce and endeavor to improve retention. For the Navy League of the United States’ full report and other maritime advocacy efforts, go to: www.navyleague.org. ITF Inspectors Hone Strategies For Advancing Mariners’ Rights A dozen inspectors from the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) met last month at the Seafarers-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, where they collaborated on methods for promoting mariners’ wellbeing around the globe. The inspectors discuss regulations affecting shore leave for vessel personnel. July 2008 Convening in Piney Point, Md., the inspectors discussed shore leave for seafarers; the federation’s campaign against flag-of-convenience or runway-flag shipping; the benefits of ITF contracts, and more. They also briefly met with SIU President Michael Sacco and SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, who is first vice chair of the ITF Seafarers’ Section. A few of the inspectors traveled from overseas, while the rest are based in the U.S. Attending the meeting June 10-11 were Fabrizio Barcellona, Dwayne Boudreaux, Stefan Dombois, Jeff Engels, Ricky Esopa, Martin Larson, Enrique Lozano, Arthur Petitpas, Tony Sacco, Tony Sasso, Shwe Tun Aung and Shoji Yamashita. The ITF is a global federation of 681 transport trade unions (including the SIU) which collectively represent 4.5 million workers in 148 countries. A runaway-flag or so-called flag-ofconvenience (FOC) ship is one that flies the flag of a country other than the country of ownership. According to the ITF, “FOCs provide a means of avoiding labor regulation in the country of owner- These ITF inspectors met last month in Piney Point, Md. ship, and become a vehicle for paying low wages and forcing long hours of work and unsafe working conditions. Since FOC ships have no real nationality, they are beyond the reach of any single national seafarers’ trade union. “The ITF has therefore been obliged to take on internationally the role traditionally exercised by national trade unions – to organize and negotiate on behalf of FOC crews. For 50 years the ITF, through its affiliated seafarers’ and dockers’ unions, has been waging a vigorous campaign against shipowners who abandon the flag of their own country in search of the cheapest possible crews and the lowest possible training and safety standards for their ships.” Seafarers LOG 5 �49311_p01_24X:9311p0 6/30/2008 2:17 PM Page 6 Some of the exercise participants make their way up the USNS Soderman’s side port ramp. Soderman crew members (above) worked hand in hand with soldiers during the exercise to ensure that they became famiiar with the vessel’s cargo handling capabilities and on-board gear. SIU-Crewed Soderman Assists in Military Exercise SIU members sailing aboard the USNS Soderman recently participated in Operation Spearhead Strike, a U.S. Army Logistics-Over-The-Shore training exercise in Virginia. Conducted on the beaches of Fort Story in Virginia Beach, Va., the training (which took place May 5-9) was in preparation for Operation Pacific Strike, a larger military Joint Logistics-Over-The-Shore (JLOTS) exercise slated to take place later this summer in Camp Pendleton, Calif. During Operation Spearhead, some 700 soldiers from units attached to the U.S. Army’s 7th Sustainment Brigade came together to hone their cargo handling skills aboard a large, medium-speed, roll-on/roll-off ship (LMSR). The Soderman, one of the Military Sealift Command’s (MSC) 19 LMSRs, was used during the execution phase of the exercise. With the aid of the Soderman crew, soldiers gained valuable experience by practicing roll-on/roll-off and lift-on/lift-off procedures—the two cargo movements on an LMSR—in a real world environment. According to Soderman Chief Mate Samaro Bannister, few of the brigade’s personnel had any hands-on experience cargo handling, not to mention the specifics of working with an LMSR, so the exposure and lessons learned during the exercise were invaluable. Throughout the training, teams rotated through the various cargo handling options specific to the LMSRs, Bannister said. The crew deployed the Soderman’s side-port ramp, which is connected to a platform on its uppermost continuous deck, he noted. This ramp was then lowered to an RRDF, a barge-like floating dock made of interlocking sections. Smaller vessels, including landing craft utilities and logistic support vessels, then docked along side the RRDF and deployed a rolling stock of vehicles that ranged from Humvees to tractors. These vehicles drove off the smaller vessels onto the RRDF and continued aboard the vessel via the deployed ramp. The vehicles were then staged at different locations throughout the vessel. At the same time that roll-on/roll-off maneuvers were being conducted, the Soderman’s hatches were opened via its cargo crane so that soldiers could practice lift-on/lift-off operations between multiple decks, Bannister said. Additional lifton/lift-off operations took place on the Soderman’s weather deck, lifting and lowering containers and vehicles from smaller vessels and floating platforms on the opposite side of the vessel. Soldiers who participated in this exercise were able to experiment, practice and become familiar with the various configurations and loading options unique to The USNS Soderman’s side port ramp (right portion of photo above) is deployed so that an RRDF, the barge-like floating dock in the foreground, could be used during the training exercise. LMSRs to optimize loading efficiency, Bannister concluded. Soderman crew members worked hand in hand with the soldiers throughout the exercise. Along the way, they explained the vessel’s capabilities and the gear she carries. They also encouraged safe but innovative problem solving to overcome possible setbacks and snares that arise during these operations. Seafarers aboard the Soderman during Operation Spearhead included: Bosun James D. Orlando; ABs Jackson B. CIVMARS Tow Decommissioned Submarine Two SIU-crewed Military Sealift Command vessels earlier this year were involved in the successful tow of decommissioned nuclear submarine USS Hyman G. Rickover from Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in Kittery, Maine, to Puget Sound Naval Shipyard and Intermediate Maintenance Facility in Bremerton, Wash. The 255-foot rescue and salvage ship USNS Grapple and the 226-foot ocean tug USNS Sioux played key roles in the 10,000-mile relocation of the decommissioned Los Angeles-class attack submarine to the Pacific Northwest. According to the Military Sealift Command (MSC), the journey began April 8 when the USNS Grapple departed Kittery with the Rickover in tow. The Grapple and Rickover traveled 3,600 miles to the Panama Canal where, in accordance with Panamanian law, a canal pilot and tugboats guided the Rickover through the locks April 24-25. Then, the Grapple escorted the Rickover through the canal to the Pacific Ocean where the Sioux resumed the submarine tow and continued the journey to Bremerton. The Sioux and Rickover stopped in San Diego May 13-23. The U.S. Navy guided missile frigate USS Carr, guided missile destroyer USS Pickney and guided missile frigate USS Rodney M. Davis provided force protection escorts from Maine to Panama, from Panama to San Diego and from San Diego to Bremerton, respectively. “We really enjoy towing submarines,” Capt. Brad Smith, the Sioux’s civil service master, told the agency. “When it came to Rickover, it was a pleasant tow. There was good weather, and [the tow] was uneventful, which is everything you hope for when doing a mission like this.” The Sioux and Grapple are both crewed by SIU civil service mariners working for MSC – 20 aboard Sioux and 24 aboard the Grapple. The Grapple also carries a small military detachment. For the tow, a seven-person crew of Navy submariners also rode the MSC ships to monitor the Rickover and respond to any tow-related problems. The Rickover is the 22nd of the U.S. Los Angelesclass attack submarines and the only one not named after a U.S. city. The submarine was commissioned on July 21, 1984, commenced inactivation March 1, 2007 and was decommissioned Dec. 17, 2007. The vessel’s reactor was de-fueled at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. Named in honor of Hyman G. Rickover, the father of the nuclear Navy, the Rickover played an instrumental roll in submarine operations during the height of the Cold War. While in Bremerton, the Rickover will go through a dismantling program overseen by the Navy. The submarine will remain moored at the shipyard until it is drydocked for dismantling and disposal, which is currently scheduled for 2016. The Grapple is one of MSC’s four rescue and salvage ships, and the Sioux is one of four fleet ocean tugs. These ships tow other ships, lift heavy objects like downed aircraft and deploy divers for rescue and salvage operations. The USNS Grapple (above right) tows the USS Hyman G. Rickover. 6 Seafarers LOG Cagle, Richard L. Trovillo, Jesus H. Olbes, Henry Brown Jr., and Godofredo Milabo III; Ordinary Seamen Isaac M. Diaz, Antonio G. Mitchell and John T. Williams Jr.; and QMEDs Richard L. Abbott, Robert J. Brown, Antuan M. Barnes and Kevin Quinlan. Also aboard were Wiper Ivan N. Perez, Chief Steward Kimberly B. Strate, Chief Cook Efren Matias, SA Linda Rotter, SA Marco A. Cayetano and Storekeeper William J. Fortner. Attention Seafarers Another New Ship! SPAD Works For You! July 2008 �49311_p01_24:9311p0 6/27/2008 11:11 AM Page 7 8 Bosuns Graduate from Recertification Course Eight Seafarers last month completed the bosun recertification course at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. The three-week class is considered the school’s top curriculum for deck department mariners. Graduating from the course were Mike Brewley, Paul Cadran, Jerry Costello, Carl Davis, James Darden, Zeki Karaahmet, Mark Lance and James Saunders. Like most other Paul Hall Center classes, bosun recertification blends practical training with classroom instruction. Students tackled numerous topics including fire fighting and other safety training, sealift operations, small arms, computer skills, water survival and more. They also met with representatives from the Seafarers Plans and various SIU departments. Near the end of the schedule, they met with officials from the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department in Washington, D.C. In keeping with tradition, the bosuns briefly addressed fellow members, unlicensed apprentices and SIU officials upon graduation – in this case, during the June membership meeting in Piney Point, Md. They complimented the school personnel, thanked the union’s top leadership for their support and advised the trainees to take advantage of the opportunities available through the SIU and the Paul Hall Center. (Though successfully completing the Bosuns, family members and SIU officials are pictured last month at the Paul Hall Center. course, Brother Brewley couldn’t attend the meeting due to an urgent family matter.) Darden was the first to the podium. “I heard (SIU President) Mike Sacco say years ago that we’re a family,” he said. “This union has not only been a family to me, but a family to my children. For that, I’m grateful.” Darden pointed out to the apprentices that the Paul Hall Center offers not only vocational training, but also academic support and a college degree program. He urged them to check into the various offerings. Karaahmet, formerly an NMU member, hadn’t attended the school prior to recertification, but he said the Paul Hall Center made a very positive impression on him. “I fell in love with this school – the beauty of the campus, the excellent fire fighting school,” he noted. “It’s all made possible by dedicated instructors. And to the union officials, you’re awesome. I thank you a million times for a job well done.” A native of Turkey, Karaahmet noted that he formerly had sailed on foreign-flag ships where he only earned about $500 per month. “Now, I’m part of this SIU family that provides me an opportunity.” He credited Sacco for “24/7” dedication to the organization, and also advised the apprentices to carry themselves appropriately both aboard ship and ashore. Cadran graduated from the trainee program in 1989. He told the current class of apprentices, “Stick with it. At the ship, leave your ego and attitude at the gangway. Remember that and you’ll be all right.” Lance, a 1974 graduate of the trainee program, said the recertification class will help him do a better job aboard ship. He said Seafarers “have a lot to be proud of ” and encouraged fellow members “to work more for the common good.” Reflecting on his career, Lance added, “It’s been great seeing the world and making money, but the best is being on a ship with a good crew. That’s what I wish for you all.” Davis noted that SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker (then a port official) helped him join the SIU in 1991 “and it has been a wonderful 18 years. It’s been a long, good run. The travel has been great.” He commended the instructors, staff and facilities at Piney Point, noting in particular the “top-notch” quality of the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School, which includes a smallarms range. Addressing the apprentices, Davis said, “On board, a lot of us have been doing this for a long time. Come aboard to learn, and we’ll teach you.” Saunders said the school and union “have done everything in the world for me. If you back the SIU, they’re going to back you. We have the best organization in the world.” He encouraged the trainees to “stick with it. It works, and the officials stick behind you all the time.” Costello said he benefited from the various safety training and also renewed his appreciation for how politics affects not only the SIU but the whole American maritime industry. With that in mind, he emphasized “how important it is to support SPAD,” the union’s voluntary political action fund. He said that visiting the Maritime Trades Department, housed at AFL-CIO headquarters, “provides good background on where we came from and how it all comes together through the MTD. Strength in numbers gives you a voice in Washington.” Safety training is a key component of the recertification course. Among the subjects covered are CPR (photo above), small-arms training (photo below) and fire fighting (photo at bottom right) The bosuns praised the Paul Hall Center’s Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School, where this photo (above) was taken. July 2008 Seafarers LOG 7 �49311_p01_24X:9311p0 6/30/2008 2:18 PM Page 8 SIU-Affiliated Institution Offers Career Advancement Members of the review team and school officials are pictured on the Paul Hall Center campus. ACE Approves Paul Hall Center Courses The American Council on Education (ACE) recently completed a successful review of 26 courses offered at the Paul Hall Center. The review was conducted by a team composed of eight educators with expertise in culinary arts, health and safety, deck and engine courses. The review team examined 15 courses that had been previously approved and required renewed approval, and 11 new courses being offered, or courses that had never been submitted to ACE for approval. The American Council on Education is a college credit-recommending service. What this means for Paul Hall Center students is, for example, unlicensed apprentices earn up to 13 college credits for Phase I of their training which can be used in the future toward a degree. Courses submitted to ACE are reviewed and are recommended for college credit. There are two degrees that students (depending on their shipboard department) may earn at the SIU-affiliated school: Associate of Applied Science in Nautical Science Technology, and Associate of Applied Science in Marine Engineering Technology. Mariners may transfer these credits to higher learning institutions for consideration in pursuing their degree. For more than 30 years the Paul Hall Center has utilized the benefits provided by the ACE College Credit Recommendation Service. Generally, this involves having ACE assess new or rewritten curriculums at the school as they become available. It has long been the policy of ACE that learning outside the classroom can be measured for college credit. For instance, since 1945, ACE’s Military Evaluation Program has assessed formal military courses in terms of academic credit. In 1974, the College Credit Recommendation Service was created to evaluate learning in business and industry settings. The Paul Hall Center called upon ACE in those early years to begin evaluating its courses in order to provide additional educational and training opportunities for its students and to verify the quality of the courses offered to the mariners. Since this initial collaboration with ACE, the College Credit Recommendation Service has saved mariners thousands of dollars in college tuition as students have submitted their course work from the Paul Hall Center to meet college course requirements. Colleges and universities have also been well-served by the program, because qualified adults from the workforce have been motivated to complete their postsecondary education knowing that their previous studies and life experiences can convert into college credits. It is important to note that each college or university determines which of the courses approved by ACE will be accepted toward a certificate or a degree. Students planning to use their Paul Hall Center courses for credit, or wanting information on how ACE-recommended credits could assist them with their continuing education, should contact the academic department at the Paul Hall Center prior to submitting their transcript. At the closing presentation of the most recent ACE approval, a team member evaluating the courses (a professor at a maritime university) stated the courses he reviewed were as good as the courses taught at his university, said Paul Hall Center Director of Training J.C. Wiegman. “For the instructors, management, and support staff to hear those words makes everyone very proud to work at the Paul Hall Center.” Members of the ACE review team included Dr. Clay Warren, Depew professor of communications, George Washington University, Washington, D.C.; Dr. Dori Finley, professor of nutrition and hospitality management, East Carolina University; Dr. Robert Dawkins, American Military University; Dr. Polly Buchanan, associate dean and coordinator of technology, Eastern Michigan University; Warren Whitley, battalion chief/deputy fire marshal, Prince William County, Va.; Dr. James R. Sherrard, professor/chairman, engineering technology, Three Rivers Community College, Norwich, Conn.; Dr. Frank Warnakulasuriya, senior lecturer and lead department head, marine engineering technology, Texas Agriculture and Mechanical University; and Dr. Malcolm Allen, career and technology division, Community College of Baltimore County. The following courses were reevaluated and approved: Galley Familiarization, Galley Operations, Certified Chief Cook, Advanced Galley Operations, Certified Chief Steward, Basic Fire Fighting (35 hours), First Aid/CPR (21 hours), Basic/Advanced Fire Fighting Combined (46 hours), Water Survival (60 hours), Tankerman Assistant Cargo (63 hours), Basic Safety Training STCW (40 hours), Automatic Radar Plotting Aids (ARPA), Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS), Bridge Resource Management (Limited) (26 hours), and Welding (105 hours). The newly approved courses are Pumpman (70 hours), Basic Meteorology (40 hours), Magnetic and Gyro Compasses (20 hours), Terrestrial and Coastal Navigation (80 hours), Cargo Handling (Operational Level) (66 hours), Ship Construction and Basic Stability (40 hours), Emergency Procedures (Operational Level) (21 hours), Search and Rescue (Operational Level) (16 hours), Electronic Navigation (40 hours), Basic Shiphandling and Steering Control System (40 hours), and Watchkeeping (Operational Level) (80 hours). The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., offers the most U.S. Coast Guardapproved courses of any maritime school in the nation. The center features top-notch training from experienced instructors and state-of-theart equipment and facilities. The school offers courses for mariners sailing in the deck, engine and steward departments. Below is a quick look at one of those classes. For more information about the center and its courses, contact the Admissions Office, Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075; call (301) 994-0010; or visit the Paul Hall Center section of www.seafarers.org. Course dates are listed on page 21 of this issue of the LOG and also are carried on the web site. Steward Department Course Spotlight Certified Chief Cook—This course consists of six twoweek, stand-alone modules totaling 12 weeks. This structure allows eligible upgraders to enroll at the start of any module. The objective of the Certified Chief Cook Course (FSM 203) is to provide steward department personnel with an understanding and knowledge of sanitation, nutrition, and the preparation and service of soups, sauces, meats, poultry, and seafood. Prerequisites: Galley Operations and 180 days’ sea time School Opens Keystone Conference Center Ready for the ceremonial ribbon cutting are (from left) SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, Paul Hall Center VP Don Nolan, SIU President Michael Sacco, Keystone Shipping Executive VP Phil Fisher, Paul Hall Center Trustee Tony Naccarato and Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen. 8 Seafarers LOG The Seafarers-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education received an upgrade May 21 with the formal opening of the Keystone Conference Center – a nicely equipped, state-ofthe-art meeting room located in the Paul Hall Memorial Library. As noted on a plaque just outside the room, the Keystone Conference Center would not have been possible without a very generous contribution from the P.W.J. Fisher & Family Charitable Fund, an endeavor led by Keystone Shipping Executive VP Phillip W.J. Fisher. Suzanne Fisher (photo at left), wife of Phil Fisher, helps formally open the new conference room. The room (above) features the latest media for presentations and a tranquil view of the lake outside the library. July 2008 �49311_p01_24:9311p0 6/27/2008 11:11 AM Page 9 Chamber of Shipping Honors SIU-Contracted Companies A number of Seafarers-contracted companies received recognition June 5 in Houston as the Chamber of Shipping of America (CSA) conducted its annual safety awards luncheon. The CSA represents 31 U.S.-based companies that own, operate or charter oceangoing tankers, containerships and other merchant vessels engaged in both the domestic and international trades. The CSA also represents other entities that maintain a commercial interest in the operation of such oceangoing vessels. Among the honors presented last month were the Jones F. Devlin awards, which were given to companies that have operated ships for at least two years without a mariner involved in a lost-time injury. Recipients included Alaska Tanker Company; Crescent Towing; Crowley Maritime Corporation; Crowley Petroleum Services; E.N. Bisso & Son, Inc.; American Overseas Marine; Horizon Lines; Interocean American Shipping Corporation; American Roll-on-Roll-off Carrier; Sea Star Line; Totem Ocean Trailer Express; Keystone Shipping; Maersk Line, Limited; Ocean Retired Seafarer Foley’s Book Illustrates Plight of Lighthouses To highlight the troubles of the nation’s lighthouses, retired Great Lakes Seafarer John Foley has published a picture book titled, “Shine On Lighthouses.” According to the author, who sailed with the SIU for 18 years, “This book touches on the beginning and the growth of lighthouses, to the shape they are in today. A colorful storyline brings to life some of our best-known lighthouses from around the country and how they converge on our nation’s capital for a rally to support the lighthouses that are now on in need of rebuilding.” The book is intended for third-to fifth-grade students and all lighthouse enthusiasts. According to Foley, “Many lighthouses have played a vital role in the history of our country. We as Americans need to play a vital role to keep our lighthouses from becoming extinct.” The glossy book or a hardcover version may be purchased online at www.xlibris.com by clicking on the bookstore link and searching using the book’s title and author’s name. Shipholdings; OSG Ship Management; Seabulk Tankers; Seabulk Towing; and U.S. Shipping Partners. Individual SIU-crewed vessels receiving honors included the Horizon Falcon, Brenton Reef, Green Bay, Santa Cruz, USNS Lawrence Gianella, Overseas Long Beach and R.J. Pfeiffer. Joseph Cox, CSA president, said the awards program’s growth since inception in the mid-1950s is a credit to “the professionalism of our seafarers and the dedication of shore-based company personnel to safe operation.” He added, “CSA’s involvement in safety is longstanding. We continue to represent the industry, domestically and internationally, on safety issues encompassing every facet of ship operations. It is therefore only fitting that an industry so focused on safety, publicly recognizes the skills and dedication of the women and men who are responsible for actions in keeping with the highest traditions of the sea – aid to those in peril.” More than 240 people attended the awards luncheon, including representatives of the SIU. Photos from the Wilson OMU Sherwin Frank submitted the snapshot at right of a recent voyage aboard the SS Wilson, operated by Sealift, Inc. The vessel itself is shown above in a U.S. Navy file photo. Frank described a happily uneventful trip in which the Seafarers-crewed vessel delivered grain overseas – although, the Wilson was delayed near Mozambique when another vessel became stuck in a channel. Pictured in the group photo (left to right) are Chief Steward Arturo Rodriguez, Frank, and Unlicensed Apprentices Ashley Carmichael and Travis Odom. SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR SIU PACIFIC DISTRICT PENSION PLAN Notice/Reminder SEAFARERS APPEALS BOARD ACTION #435 Effective March 1, 2007, Seafarers Appeals Board Action #435 amended the shipping rules to mandate seamen permanently employed must complete the specialty course for their specific rating in order to retain their permanent position. Specialty courses required for the ratings of Chief Electrician, QMED Electrician, QMED/Electrician relief, Electrician, and Engine Maintenance/ Electrician Relief are affected by this Action as follows. 1. The specialty courses required for the ratings of Chief Electrician, QMED Electrician, QMED/Electrician Relief, Electrician, and Engine Maintenance/Electrician Relief shall be defined as Marine Electrical Maintenance and Refrigerator Container Advancement Maintenance Specialty Course. 2. Effective March 1, 2007, seamen awarded any of the above mentioned positions must have successfully completed (at any time) these specialty courses in order to be considered in compliance with this Rule. 3. Seamen currently employed in any of the above mentioned ratings in a permanent capacity shall be required to have successfully completed the specialty courses identified above by July 1, 2009 in order to retain their permanent assignment, provided such courses are offered. July 2008 This is a summary of the annual report for SIU Pacific District Pension Plan, 94-6061923 for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2007. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Basic Financial Statement Benefits under the plan are provided by the Trust. Plan expenses were $10,037,089. These expenses included $994,954 in administrative expenses and $9,042,135 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. A total of 2,927 persons were participants in or beneficiaries of the plan at the end of the plan year, although not all these persons had yet earned the right to receive benefits. The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $130,306,177 as of July 31, 2007, compared to $130,406,267 as of August 1, 2006. During the plan year the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $100,090. This decrease includes unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets that is, the difference between the value of the Plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year or the cost of assets acquired during the year. The plan had total income of $9,936,999, including employer contributions of $35,386, losses of $2,206,746 from the sale of assets, earnings from investments of $12,105,614 and other income of $2,745. Minimum Funding Standards An actuary’s statement shows that enough money was contributed to the plan to keep it funded in accordance with the minimum funding standards of ERISA. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report. ■ An accountant’s report; ■ Financial information and information on payments to service providers; ■ Assets held for investment; ■ Transactions in excess of 5% of plan assets; and ■ Actuarial information regarding the funding of the plan. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of SIU Pacific District Pension Plan, who is the administrator, 730 Harrison Street, Suite 400, San Francisco CA 94107, (415) 764-4990. The charge to cover copying costs will be $17.25 for the full annual report, or $0.25 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan, 730 Harrison Street, Suite 400, San Francisco, CA 94107 and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, DC, or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, Room N1513, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20210. Seafarers LOG 9 �49311_p01_24:9311p0 6/27/2008 11:11 AM Page 10 Rep. Thompson Displeased with TWIC Delays Seafarer’s Experience Points out Additional Considerations when Applying for Credential The Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) program made another unwanted headline last month as the chairman of the U.S. House Committee on Homeland Security strongly questioned the 66 percent failure rate of the machines being used to produce the new cards. Meanwhile, an SIU member from the northeast had an unsettling post-enrollment experience which, while likely to be satisfactorily resolved, points out some considerations for mariners as they secure their TWICs before the federally mandated deadline of April 15, 2009. U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson, chairman of the committee, wrote to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Michael Chertoff on June 10. Thompson noted, “It has come to my attention that eight of the 12 machines used to make TWIC cards have been returned to the manufacturers for repairs and system upgrades. Due to this machinery malfunction, the previous one-day time frame for card production has increased to a 10-day time period. It is my understanding that card production will not return to normal operational capacity for several weeks. “At this juncture,” he continued, “it is difficult to determine which is more astonishing – the fact that the facility producing these cards is experiencing a 66 percent machine failure rate or the fact that this machine failure rate has resulted in a tenfold increase in the card production schedule. As you know, over one million men and women are required to obtain TWICs prior to the April 15, 2009 deadline. Needless to say, every production delay increased the likelihood that this deadline will not be met. It would be both unfortunate and unfair if the necessary activities of these employees and their respective employers are hampered due to avoidable delay in card production.” Thompson went on to ask Chertoff several questions about the machines, the status of their repair, the contract to produce the cards, and related issues. The aforementioned case of the SIU member unfolded as follows. The Seafarer enrolled for his TWIC and then caught a ship shortly thereafter. A port call allowed the member to briefly return home and pick up his mail – whereupon he discovered a letter from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requesting additional documentation to support his application, due within 60 days. The TSA communication is called an Initial Determination of Security Threat Assessment (IDTA) letter. That letter explained the additional documentation that was required and also alerted the member that his options included filing an appeal on the initial determination itself; requesting an extension of the 60-day window identified by the agency; or seeking a waiver. Since he was quickly returning to the ship, the member requested an extension. However, as asked by the Seafarer in a communication to SIU headquarters, what if he hadn’t returned home before the 60 days had expired? In that case, according to the IDTA letter, his application would have been rejected and “you will not be permitted to obtain a TWIC card.” Fortunately, according to a DHS employee who handles TWIC appeals and waiver and extension requests, the final TWIC rule allows for applicants (under reasonable circumstances) to get an extension even after the 60 days have expired. The DHS representative told the Seafarers LOG that the agency is very willing to work cooperatively with mariners and is sympathetic to scenarios like the one described here. It’s also worth noting that the workers at the enrollment centers (technically called “trusted agents”) are supposed to verify that each applicant has submitted all required paperwork before forwarding the applications for approval. So, in this case, the trusted agent should have notified the SIU member immediately that another piece of documentation was needed. The union recommends that when Seafarers enroll for their TWICs, they should ask the trusted agents to examine the application and confirm that nothing is missing. Seafarers also should keep in mind that even if they receive IDTA letters after the 60-day window (because, for example, they were at sea for three months), that doesn’t preclude them from seeking an extension. Seafarers should check with their port agents and/or utilize the TSA contact information that follows for the latest information on the TWIC program, including the “TWIC Quarterly Deployment Plan,” which is a list of cities where TWIC enrollment centers are or will be located. Updates also periodically appear on the SIU web site (www.seafarers.org, normally in the “Heard at Headquarters” section). The TSA TWIC web site now includes a link where individuals may check the status of their card and/or schedule a time to pick it up. For More Information ■ On the web: www.tsa.gov/twic ■ By phone: TWIC Program Help Desk, 1-866-DHS-TWIC (1-866-347-8942) ■ By email: credentialing@dhs.gov Step-By-Step Instructions ■ Pre-Enroll - This can save time at the enrollment center itself. To pre-enroll, individuals must first register for an ID starting at https://twicprogram.tsa.dhs.gov/T WICWebApp/ Applicants will need to supply basic information including their name, date of birth and country of birth. ■ Gather Documentation - As part of the TWIC application process, individual applicants must supply documentation verifying their identity. A list of acceptable documents was printed on page 4 of the January edition of the Seafarers LOG and is available on the TSA’s TWIC web site. ■ Enroll - Applicants may enroll at any of the agency’s enrollment centers, at which time they must pay the TWIC fee of $132.50 (or the reduced fee of $105.25, if applying for a TWIC that expires in conjunction with a merchant mariner document). Applicants will provide fingerprints and be photographed as well as provide personal information. ■ Pick up TWIC - Applicants must return to the same enrollment center to pick up their credential. They will be notified by email or phone (as specified during enrollment) when the card is ready. The individual TWIC will be activated, and the card-holder will select a corresponding PIN number. Seafarers and company officials are pictured at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center, site of last month’s Maersk Line, Limited safety “boot camp.” SIU Maersk Crews Complete Safety ‘Boot Camp’ at SIU-Affiliated School In an ongoing effort to improve safety, health and the environment, SIU-contracted Maersk Line, Limited (MLL) has established a “Drive to Zero” program, as reported in the June issue of the LOG. This endeavor is a hands-on initiative aimed at assisting employees, from mariners to management, in focusing on safety, communication and cooperation aimed at maximizing workplace wellbeing. An integral step in Drive to Zero occurred when MLL partnered with the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education to provide unlicensed mariners a two-day safety course called “Safety Boot Camps.” The agenda typically focuses on leadership and effective communication as well as more tech- nical topics such as job safety analysis and prevention of electric shocks. A two-day boot camp took place at the Paul Hall Center on June 3-4. Participants said the agenda was very appropriate and the content heightened their understanding of Maersk’s safety values. SIU members successfully completing the session were as follows, with their most recent vessels, respectively, listed after each name: AB Joemar Abagat (Intrepid), AB Jonathan Brown (Altair), Bosun William Card (Performance), Steward Earl Castain (Algol), AB Angel Centeno (Observation Island), Steward Javier Deloreyes (Pomeroy), Bosun Robert Hall (Bonnyman), Steward Michele Hopper (Victorious), Electrician Herbert Hyde (Alliance St. Louis), Bosun Mustafa Malik (Impeccable), AB Patrick McCarthy (Anderson), Bosun Haywood Pettway (Able), AB Paul Pitcher Jr. (Victorious), Electrician Chester Preston (Observation Island), Bosun Edwin Rivera (Carter), Electrician Alan Rogers (Algol), Steward Donna Taylor (Pride), Bosun Wayne Venison (Bellatrix), Steward Glenn Williams (Performance) and Steward James Zavatsky (Victorious). Boot camps are open to SIU mariners sailing aboard MLL’s government and commercial vessels with an MLL work history of at least three years. Any mariner interested in attending one of these boot camps may email kpretto@mllnet.com. The next boot camp at Piney Point is slated for August 1213. SIU Electrician Earns Safety Kudos Aboard Maersk-Operated Pomeroy Tim Chestnut, an SIU member and Maersk electrician aboard the U.S. Military Sealift Command’s USNS Pomeroy, recently received recognition for his excellence in maintaining MSC-mandated maintenance standards aboard ship using a system called Shipboard Automated Maintenance Management (SAMM). That system is an important tool used aboard MSC vessels for preventive maintenance. SAMM is an automated system for documenting accomplishment of onboard maintenance tasks and for configuration control. SAMM uses the latest technologies in database and application software to bring together (in a single integrated 10 Seafarers LOG environment) the advanced tools needed by a ship’s crew to maintain the shipboard machinery in the highest state of readiness. Besides tools for maintenance scheduling and machinery history record keeping, SAMM integrates machinery vibration monitoring, used lube oil analysis, electronic watchkeeping data collection, and diesel engine combustion analysis into a single program. In a letter of recognition, Pomeroy Chief Engineer Thomas Vanderbilt wrote that while Chestnut was using the SAMM system, “During a check of one of the cargo hold fan motor controllers, Mr. Chestnut observed one of the main leads to the start contactor showing signs of overheating. The lead and contactor were changed out and the controller tested. If left unattended, this controller could have caused a major fire in this group control center. These preventative maintenance procedures are exactly the design of the SAMM program and for your positive attitude you are being recognized by USNS Pomeroy and Maersk Line, Limited.” See Page 9 for a reprint of SAB concerning specialty courses for engine department mariners July 2008 �49311_p01_24X:9311p0 6/30/2008 2:18 PM Page 11 USS Announces 2008 AOTOS Honorees The United Seamen’s Service (USS) 2008 Admiral of the Ocean Sea Awards will be presented to James A. Capo, chairman and CEO of U.S. Maritime Alliance, Ltd., and Michael D. Garvey, a founding partner and past chairman of Saltchuk Resources, Inc., USS announced in late May. A special AOTOS award will be presented to General Norton Schwartz, commander of the United States Transportation Command. The awards are scheduled to be presented Nov. 7 in New York City. John Bowers, chairman of the USS AOTOS Committee and president emeritus of the International Longshoremen’s Association, AFL-CIO, made the announcement on National Maritime Day: May 22, 2008. “We have an impressive group of honorees this year,” said Bowers. “Jim Capo has been a friend and colleague across the negotiating table for many years and his leadership skills command respect by all who know him.” Bowers continued, “As one of the founders of Saltchuk, Mr. Garvey has helped to build one of America’s leading maritime shipping organizations, including Totem Ocean Trailer Express and Sea Star Line, that continues to employ many U.S. seafarers. General Schwartz has led TRANSCOM through a difficult time with amazing operational results and he deserves a very special recognition.” Bowers noted that the recipients were selected by more than 150 international transportation industry and government leaders “who understand the challenges and issues that confront United States shipping and the American seafarer and who recognize the honorees’ leadership in this area.” All proceeds from the AOTOS event benefit USS community services abroad for the U.S. Merchant Marine and those of other free world countries. The recipients will share the evening with a group of American seafarers who will be honored for specific acts of bravery at sea. Since the formation of the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) in 1996, Capo has served as a lead negotiator on behalf of management interests during coast-wide master contract negotiations with U.S. maritime labor unions and as chief negotiator of the current six-year master contract. Prior to his role as chairman/CEO, Capo served as president. As a formal alliance of carriers, stevedores and port associations in the East Coast and Gulf Coast regions, USMX’s mission is to preserve and protect the interests of the management groups in labor relations issues concerning containerization and James Capo Michael Garvey General Norton Schwartz automation in the longshore and related maritime fields. Capo has led this mission in a determined yet balanced manner that has earned him respect from the entire industry. Since founding Saltchuk in 1982, Garvey has helped grow the organization’s family of businesses to over 20 independent operating companies. These include Sea Star Line, Totem Ocean Trailer Express, American Shipping Group, Interocean American Shipping, Foss Maritime Company and American Cargo Transport. Through his leadership, Garvey has helped to foster the Saltchuk mission to create a work environment where people would want their families to work. In addition to being a founding partner and chairman of Saltchuk, Garvey is a founding partner of Garvey, Schubert & Barer, a multi-service law firm with offices in Seattle, Washington, D.C., Portland, Ore., and New York. His public service includes the Foundation Board of the University of Washington, Zion Preparatory Academy Foundation and PeaceHealth. As commander of TRANSCOM, General Schwartz oversees the single management organization for global air, land and sea transportation for the entire U.S. Department of Defense. He leads an organization with $10 billion in annual revenue, 100-plus ships, several hundred aircraft, ocean terminal operators, and manages programs providing access to the entire commercial transportation industry for additional capability. He is a strong supporter of the U.S. Merchant Marine, promoting and championing the programs that help ensure jobs for mariners (including the Maritime Security Program) and retention of a strong and viable U.S.-flag fleet. The USS, a non-profit agency established in 1942, operates centers in eight foreign ports in Europe, Asia, Africa and in the Indian Ocean, and also provides seagoing libraries to American vessels through its affiliate, the American Merchant Marine Library Association. Congratulations to Seafarer’s Son The Angus R. Cooper (photo at left), the GEN Oglethorp and the Florida (photo above) are among the tugs in the Crescent fleet. Looking in on Crescent Towing SIU Assistant Vice President Contracts Archie Ware and Port of Jacksonville Safety Director Karl Leiter recently visited with SIU members and company officials at Savannah, Gabased and union-contracted Crescent Towing. They sent the photos appearing in this space for publication in the Seafarers LOG. The boatmen above are crew members aboard SIU-contracted tugs belonging to Crescent Towing Co. in Savannah, Ga. Pictured (in no particular order) are Derek Dragon, James Howe, Jesse Schumpert, Mike Crouch, David Watford and Dustin Schaaf. July 2008 SIU Asst. VP Contracts Archie Ware (above, right) chatted with AB Kelly Stanford (left in same photo), while Jacksonville Safety Director Karl Leiter (left in photo at left) met with W. Hays Clark, assistant port manager in Savannah, Ga. Jacksonvile Safety Director Karl Leiter (above, second from right) discussed safety issues with union members during his recent visit to Savannah, Ga. Pictured above (in no particular order) are Christoper Siles, Travis Morgan, James Howe, Banjamin Murphy and Randy Sikes. SIU Atlantic Coast VP Joseph Soresi (right) congratulates FOWT John Wozunk on the news that Wozunk’s son, Christopher, recently was awarded a scholarship through the annual program run by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. As reported last month, Christopher Wozunk is a graduate of Highland Regional High School in New Jersey and plans to continue his education at Drexel University. Inland member John Wozunk works for Crowley. Share your ideas for news and feature items for publication in the Seafarers LOG by calling (301) 899-0675. Simply ask the operator for the Communications Department. E-mailed items may be sent to webmaster@seafarers.org Seafarers LOG 11 �49311_p01_24:9311p0 6/27/2008 11:12 AM Page 12 National Maritime Day Ceremonies Reflect U Washington, D.C. Events also Pa American mariners past and present were honored May 22 in Washington, D.C., during that city’s traditional National Maritime Day ceremonies. Seafarers International Union President Michael Sacco led an SIU delegation that included Executive Vice President Augie Tellez and students from the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. SIU of Canada President Roman Gralewicz and Executive Vice President Michel Desjardins also attended the ceremonies, along with hundreds of other guests and dignitaries. The events (in order) included an observance at the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial sponsored by the U.S. Maritime Administration; a luncheon hosted by the Propeller Club of Washington and the Kings Point Alumni Association; and a ceremony at the Washington Navy Yard conducted by the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC). Featured speakers at the respective events were as follows: at the MarAd ceremony, U.S. Secretary of Transportation Mary Peters and Rhode Island State Senator Leonidas Raptakis; at the Propeller Club luncheon (which also took place at the Navy Yard), U.S. Maritime Administrator Sean Connaughton; and at the MSC ceremony, General Norton Schwartz, commander, U.S. Transportation Command. Always Ready Peters recalled the long history of the U.S. Merchant Marine, in particular pointing out its “central role” in defending America during the War of 1812. “America’s story could not be to the many, many sacrifices and cont of merchant mariners,” she stated. “ early ships brought the settlers, pos and goods that helped build the nat the ground up. Their spirit of enterp staked out a place for the United St global commerce that continues as of American prosperity to this day. valor has ensured that our troops ha supplies and equipment they need – how far from America’s shores they to defend our freedom and way of l “From the War of 1812, to the Libe of World War II, to today’s global w ror, every time our nation’s military called to protect U.S. interests, Ame merchant mariners sailed alongside behind,” Peters continued. “These s brave the natural dangers of the sea as the perils of war, so that our figh have the food, fuel, ammunition, an to get the job done and return home She noted that many mariners ha the ultimate sacrifice in defense of try, and specifically pointed out tha Merchant Marine in World War II s casualty rate second only to that of Marine Corps. (More than 1,200 SI bers gave their lives in World War I Addressing the merchant marine ve the audience, she said, “On behalf o President Bush, Vice President Che grateful nation, I want to extend a s welcome to you all and to express o appreciation for your service and yo fice.” Peters further pointed out that th Unlicensed Apprentice Jeremy Paschke rings “eight bells” as part of the MarAd observance. National Maritime Day, 2008 A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America On National Maritime Day, America honors our highly skilled mariners who sail the high seas, support those on the front lines of the war on terror, and promote commerce around the world. Since 1775, the United States Merchant Marine has served our country, helping America become a great maritime power. During the Second World War, courageous mariners were among those who suffered greatly – hundreds of ships were lost to enemy action, and many mariners made the ultimate sacrifice. We pay tribute to these heroes who answered the call to serve when our Nation needed them most. Today, our merchant mariners continue to protect our homeland, including by supporting our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan. In times of peace and war, these brave patriots help keep our Nation safe and strengthen our economy. By transporting American goods across the oceans, merchant mariners facilitate commerce and advance trade. These Americans honor the noble traditions of seafarers and enrich our country’s maritime heritage. In recognition of the importance of the U.S. Merchant Marine, the Congress, by joint resolution approved on May 20, 1933, as amended, has designated May 22 of each year as “National Maritime Day,” and has authorized and requested that the President issue an annual proclamation calling for its appropriate observance. NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 22, 2008, as National Maritime Day. I call upon the people of the United States to mark this observance by honoring the service of merchant mariners and by displaying the flag of the United States at their homes and in their communities. I also request that all ships sailing under the American flag dress ship on that day. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-first day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand eight, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-second. GEORGE W. BUSH 12 Seafarers LOG General Norton Schwartz Commander U.S. TRANSCOM Sean Connaughton U.S. Maritime Administrator Rear Adm. Robert Commande Military Sealift Co The FDR Memorial was the site of the Maritime Administration’s National Maritime Day eve July 2008 �49311_p01_24:9311p0 6/27/2008 11:12 AM Page 13 U.S. Merchant Marine’s Ongoing Importance Pay Tribute to Mariners’ Proud, Vital History be told without contributions ted. “Their , possessions, e nation from nterprise ed States in s as a mainstay day. And their ps have the eed – no matter they must go y of life. Liberty ships bal war on terlitary has been America’s gside or close ese seafarers e sea, as well fighting forces n, and supplies home safely.” rs have made e of our count that the U.S. r II suffered a at of the U.S. 00 SIU memWar II.) ne veterans in half of Cheney, and a d a special ress our deep nd your sacriat the vast obert Reilly Jr. mander ft Command y event. majority of cargo moved to support our troops now in the Middle East travels aboard U.S.-flag commercial vessels. She concluded, “Thankfully, in every generation, America has been blessed with men and women willing to face the difficulties of life at sea in order to safeguard our national security and promote our economic prosperity. Today is no exception… As Theodore Roosevelt said in his final message to Congress, ‘To the spread of our trade in peace and the defense of our flag in war a great and prosperous merchant marine is indispensable.’ Those words ring as true today as they did a century earlier. So, as we commemorate Maritime Day 2008, I join Americans everywhere in saluting you for your indispensable service.” Raptakis credited American seamen for always answering the call to duty. “In every military conflict and time of challenge, the U.S. Merchant Marine has been there,” he said. “The U.S. Merchant Marine plays a vital role today as it did 75 years ago (when National Maritime Day first was declared by Congress), whether keeping the seas safe for commerce or defending our shores from terrorism.” He added, “I’m pleased to honor all of our merchant mariners. All of you are what FDR called the crucial, decisive factor in our ability to remain a free people.” Opportunities for Growth Connaughton, who sailed in both the merchant marine and U.S. Coast Guard, touched on the nation’s maritime history and thanked mariners for their dedicated service. He then focused on modern-day challenges and opportunities facing the industry. “Marine transportation is the critical link in today’s economy and will be into the future as 95 percent of America’s trade is moved by ship,” he said. “This means steadily growing cargo volumes for ships, barges, ports and the labor, shipyards and service industries that support them. With such a large nationalinternational market as this, America and Americans are in a unique position to be strong and robust competitors and to reap the economic benefits from the increased demand for transportation. “The U.S. maritime industry should be and must be a major participant our international trade,” Connaughton continued. “Not only for purely economic reasons. We need to have the capacity to move the trade essential to our economy in times of peace and national emergency. To talk about the benefits of the global economy and to ignore the vulnerabilities in the transportation system necessary to make it work is to invite potential disaster.” He listed numerous objectives that would benefit the industry as a whole, including promoting U.S. ship and barge building and repair facilities; advancing a highly skilled maritime workforce; making better use of the nation’s ports and marine highways; freeing the industry of regulatory and tax burdens that inhibit competitiveness; and promoting the use of American mariners and managers “in every aspect of transportation operations.” Connaughton called for cooperation from throughout the industry to “make these goals a reality. Existing industry partnerships must be revitalized. Strong new ones must be formed that will support, not inhibit, a robust maritime industry. All parties, including federal, state and local governments, ports, shipyards, labor, carriers, shippers, operators and ultimately, consumers must recognize that the marine industry is critical to the economic future of the United States and their future wellbeing.” ‘Heritage of Service’ In his welcoming remarks, Rear Admiral Robert Reilly Jr., MSC commander, acknowledged the Paul Hall Center apprentices and said they “represent the future.” He described the merchant marine as “a crucial part of our prosperity and security – an unbroken circle of heroes. Their service has never left any doubt that they’ll deliver.” Schwartz called SIU President Sacco “a great friend, a great mentor,” and recognized some others in the crowd. He talked about the merchant marine of World War II and reminded everyone that victory in that conflict “was far from a foregone conclusion.” He paid tribute to civilian mariners’ “heritage of service and accomplishment, often under extreme pressure. That is what we honor today. It is an understatement to say we count on you.” Schwartz said that today’s mariners “are the people who ensure that the promises we’ve made to our service men and women are and always will be promises kept.” He also said the U.S. Merchant Marine is “the linchpin of our wartime and peacetime sealift capability” and the “backbone of our ability to project sea power wherever and whenever needed.” The general pledged his continued support to the industry and said of U.S. mariners, “Their labor is priceless.” Also at the heart of the ceremony was the placing of three wreaths to commemorate the sacrifices that generations of mariners have made in service to the nation. The solemn occasion drew to a close with a 21-gun salute by a seven-person firing party positioned on the Anacostia River waterfront just outside Navy Yard’s Cold War Museum. Following the ceremony, the wreaths were transferred to the U.S. Merchant Marine bronze relief sculpture on the East Wall of the Navy Memorial in Washington. SIU President Michael Sacco (left) and Executive VP Augie Tellez (right) greet AB Robert Hayes prior to the MSC ceremony. Hayes most recently sailed aboard the USNS Seay. July 2008 Mary Peters U.S. Transportation Secretary Rhode Island State Senator Leonidas Raptakis Hanafi Rustandi (second from right), president of the Indonesian Seafarers Union and coordinator for Indonesia for the International Transport Workers’ Federation, took in the ceremony hosted by MarAd. Pictured with him are (from left) SIU of Canada Executive VP Michel Desjardins and President Roman Gralewicz, and SIU President Michael Sacco. Unlicensed Apprentice Rickey Yancey represents mariners during MSC’s service. Seafarers LOG 13 �49311_p01_24:9311p0 6/27/2008 11:12 AM Page 14 OMU Adam Hansen (right in photo at top right) carries the wreath presented during a May 17 remembrance ceremony for American merchant mariners aboard the Jeremiah O’Brien in San Francisco. California Ceremonies Honor American Merchant Mariners The SIU recently participated in National Maritime Day ceremonies in California. Pictured above are four Seafarers who attended the observance and memorial service May 22 at the American Merchant Marine Veterans Memorial in San Pedro, Calif.: GUDE Jason Stutes and ABs Rick Barnhart, Ruben Manalansan and R.J. Sagadraca. On May 17, Seafarers and other union members took part in the remembrance aboard the Jeremiah O’Brien in San Francisco. Pictured aboard the World War II-era ship are (from left) OMU Adam Hansen, 1st Assistant Engineer Steve Converse, Chief Engineer Bob Cheramie, Port Engineer Tim Tralongo and SIU Patrolman Greg Stone. SEAFARERS HEALTH AND BENEFITS PLAN — COBRA NOTICE Are You Receiving All Your Important Mail? To help ensure that each active SIU member and pensioner receives the Seafarers LOG—as well as other important mail—monthly, correct home addresses must be on file with the union. Those who recently have moved or feel that they are not getting their union mail, should use the form at right to update their home addresses. An individual’s home address is his/her permanent address. Unless otherwise specified, this is where all official union documents will be sent. Individuals receiving more than one copy of the LOG, those who have changed their address and those whose names or addresses are misprinted or incomplete, should fill out the form and send it to: Seafarers International Union, Address Correction Dept., 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Corrections via e-mail should be sent to kclements@seafarers.org 14 Seafarers LOG HOME ADDRESS FORM (Please Print) Name: ____________________________________________________________ Phone No.: ________________________________________________________ Address: __________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________ Social Security No.: ________ / ________ / ________ Book No.: _________ Active SIU Pensioner Other ________________________ This will be my permanent address for all official union mailings. This address should remain in the union file unless otherwise changed by me personally. 7/08 Under federal law, a participant and his or her dependents have the right to elect to continue their Plan coverage in the event that they lose their eligibility. This right is granted by the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act, better known as “COBRA.” The COBRA law allows a participant and his or her dependents to temporarily extend their benefits at group rates in certain circumstances where coverage under the Plan would otherwise end. A participant and his or her dependents have a right to choose this continuation coverage if they lose their Plan coverage because the participant failed to meet the Plan’s seatime requirements. In addition, a participant and his or her dependents may have the right to choose continuation coverage if the participant becomes a pensioner ineligible for medical benefits. The participant’s dependents may also elect continuation coverage if they lose coverage under the Plan as the result of the participant’s (1) death; (2) divorce; or (3) Medicare eligibility. A child can also elect COBRA if as the result of his or her age, he or she is no longer a dependent under the Plan rules. If a member and his or her dependents feel that they may qualify, or if they would like more information concerning these rights, they should contact the Plan office at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. Since there are important deadlines that apply to COBRA, please contact the Plan as soon as possible to receive a full explanation of the participant’s rights and his or her dependents’ rights. July 2008 �49311_p01_24:9311p0 6/27/2008 11:12 AM Page 15 Inland Career Opportunities – Immediate Job Openings The SIU has immediate openings in the inland division. Interested individuals who possess either a 1,600-ton master’s or mate’s license (with near coastal or ocean endorsements) along with an Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch (OICNW) STCW certificate; or a designated duty engineer (DDE) 5,000 hp or greater license are encouraged to contact Bart Rogers at the union’s manpower office at (301) 994-0010, extension 5317 for additional information. In Texas, the SIU has immediate openings aboard harbor tugs. Interested individuals who possess either a mate or master’s license (inland) greater than 500 GRT with either a master or mate or harbor towing endorsement, or are licensed as a chief or assistant engineer (6,000 hp or greater), or are rated as a DDE, QMED or Oiler are encouraged to contact Jim McGee or Mike Russo at the SIU hall in Houston, (713) 659-5152. August & September 2008 Membership Meetings Piney Point.....................Monday: August 4, September 8 Algonac ............................Friday: August 8, September 12 Baltimore.......................Thursday: August 7, September 11 Boston ................................Friday: August 8, September 12 Guam...........................Thursday: August 21, September 25 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea May 15, 2008 — June 15, 2008 *TOTAL REGISTERED All Groups Class A Class B Class C Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Honolulu ..........................Friday: August 15, September 19 Totals Houston .........................Monday: August 11, September 15 Port Jacksonville...................Thursday: August 7, September 11 Joliet............................Thursday: August 14, September 18 Mobile.....................Wednesday: August 13, September 17 New Orleans .................Tuesday: August 12, September 16 New York ..........................Tuesday: August 5, September 9 Norfolk..........................Thursday: August 7, September 11 Oakland .......................Thursday: August 14, September 18 Philadelphia................Wednesday: August 6, September 10 Port Everglades ...........Thursday: August 14, September 18 San Juan ........................Thursday: August 7, September 11 St. Louis ...........................Friday: August 15, September 19 Tacoma.............................Friday: August 22, September 26 Wilmington........................Monday: August 18, September 22 Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. SUMMARY ANNUAL REPORT FOR SIU PACIFIC DISTRICT SUPPLEMENTAL BENEFITS FUND, INC This is a summary of the annual report of the SIU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc., EIN 94-1431246 for the year ended July 31, 2007. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Benefits under the Plan are provided by the SIU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc., a Trust Fund. Basic Financial Statement The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan was $677,570 as of July 31, 2007, compared to $996,980 as of August 1, 2006. During the plan year the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $319,410. This decrease includes unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year or the cost of assets acquired during the year. During the plan year, the plan had total income of $7,361,938, including employer contributions of $7,253,946, gains of $12,756 from the sale of assets, earnings from investments of $94,883 and other income of $353. Plan expenses were $7,681,348. These expenses included $465,281 in administrative expenses, and $7,216,067 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report. ■ An accountant’s report; ■ Financial information and information on payments to service providers; ■ Assets held for investment; and ■ Transactions in excess of 5% of plan assets. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of SIU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc., at 730 Harrison Street, Suite 400, San Francisco, CA 94107, telephone number (415) 764-4990. The charge to cover copying costs will be $10.25 for the full annual report, or $0.25 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and the accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and the accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan at 730 Harrison Street, Suite 400, San Francisco, CA 94107, and at the U. S. Department of Labor in Washington, DC, or to obtain a copy from the U. S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to Public Disclosure Room, Room N1513, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N. W., Washington, D.C. 20210. July 2008 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington Totals Totals Trip Reliefs **REGISTERED ON BEACH All Groups Class A Class B Class C DECK DEPARTMENT 1 2 4 14 1 7 34 39 0 12 17 42 9 32 5 0 2 4 41 21 1 6 6 9 9 7 41 21 4 7 9 21 22 14 4 13 4 5 32 16 1 0 0 2 2 0 4 3 1 0 0 3 3 2 5 0 0 0 4 2 0 0 5 10 1 9 38 31 1 8 12 29 9 25 2 1 6 1 24 21 0 3 5 12 3 9 25 3 0 6 2 26 13 10 5 12 3 4 22 12 1 1 0 2 1 2 1 1 0 0 2 2 3 0 2 0 1 0 3 2 0 0 3 13 6 2 27 14 0 6 9 23 4 14 1 1 2 0 17 8 3 2 8 20 2 15 63 55 1 21 22 82 17 36 7 1 7 4 67 42 9 7 6 22 11 15 66 48 7 14 15 47 35 18 4 7 15 6 49 30 3 0 0 7 2 1 8 6 3 0 1 5 7 3 4 0 1 1 8 9 287 251 32 233 185 24 144 475 431 69 0 0 5 9 0 7 25 14 1 10 6 18 13 12 1 2 1 0 12 8 4 2 3 10 3 6 11 18 0 6 2 9 15 10 5 2 6 5 12 8 0 0 1 0 2 2 1 2 0 1 0 2 3 1 1 0 0 0 4 2 144 137 22 ENGINE DEPARTMENT Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington TOTAL SHIPPED All Groups Class A Class B Class C 0 0 2 6 0 3 13 9 0 5 5 9 7 10 1 1 3 0 9 8 0 0 6 4 1 2 7 14 0 3 2 6 9 7 2 0 4 1 11 7 0 0 1 1 3 0 1 2 0 0 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 2 2 0 0 3 3 0 2 12 7 0 2 2 7 3 5 3 0 4 0 9 3 0 0 1 4 0 19 29 29 1 13 11 34 16 11 3 3 3 2 23 16 6 5 10 7 6 9 25 34 1 7 6 19 24 14 7 4 6 7 21 15 1 0 2 2 2 3 1 2 1 2 0 6 5 4 0 0 1 0 5 8 91 86 15 65 228 237 46 STEWARD DEPARTMENT 0 0 2 8 3 11 23 18 0 8 10 23 6 16 2 6 3 1 24 18 1 0 2 6 1 5 4 4 0 8 2 9 19 4 0 0 1 1 5 7 0 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 1 1 0 182 79 7 Port 1 0 0 4 1 10 21 16 0 2 3 15 4 22 1 1 3 0 19 11 1 0 0 5 0 3 6 5 0 1 4 5 13 1 1 0 0 2 6 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 7 0 1 11 11 0 1 3 8 4 7 1 0 2 1 10 8 1 0 7 12 5 14 30 27 0 11 13 39 9 33 4 8 5 4 28 40 3 2 4 11 2 5 13 12 0 11 5 12 19 8 0 0 2 1 9 9 0 0 1 0 0 1 1 1 0 1 1 2 3 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 134 58 4 75 290 128 13 ENTRY DEPARTMENT Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico St. Louis Tacoma Wilmington 1 0 0 1 0 0 4 2 0 0 1 7 0 9 0 11 0 0 5 2 2 0 2 6 1 6 16 12 0 4 6 31 13 15 1 11 3 2 15 7 2 0 0 9 1 4 6 13 0 1 2 5 10 8 0 21 2 1 4 7 0 0 0 0 0 2 5 1 0 0 0 6 0 3 0 0 0 0 7 2 1 0 0 2 0 3 12 10 0 2 1 11 6 15 1 9 2 0 5 5 0 0 0 2 0 1 5 2 0 1 0 0 5 10 0 15 0 0 3 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 1 8 5 0 1 2 11 0 10 0 1 0 0 4 3 6 3 7 10 3 10 32 30 0 6 10 60 27 29 2 5 4 2 32 21 6 0 1 14 2 20 15 33 2 0 5 19 20 21 1 6 3 3 11 20 Totals 33 153 96 26 85 48 0 48 299 199 646 620 157 484 414 91 284 1041 1095 327 Totals All Departments Seafarers LOG 15 �49311_p01_24:9311p0 6/30/2008 12:01 PM Page 16 Seafarers International Union Directory Procedure For Obtaining SIU Absentee Ballots 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 Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services René Lioeanjie, Vice President at Large Charles Stewart, Vice President at Large 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 BOSTON Marine Industrial Park/EDIC 5 Drydock Ave., Boston, MA 02210 (617) 261-0790 GUAM P.O. Box 315242, Tamuning, Guam 96931-5242 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 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St., Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 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 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 499-6600 The Arthur M. Huddell is one of the more than 2,700 Liberty ships built during WWII. Vintage Liberty Ship Plots Its Final Course for Greece World War II-Era Vessel Arthur M. Huddell Could Be Destined to Become Museum The last Liberty ship in the U.S. Maritime Administration’s fleet, the Arthur M. Huddell, soon will be on its way to Greece, thanks to a recent agreement between that nation’s government and MarAd. The vessel is expected to be used as a museum. “It is great to be able to save a bit of history from both our nations,” said U.S. Maritime Administrator Sean Connaughton. “This ship is a symbol of the friendship as well as mutual maritime interests linking Greece and the United States.” American shipyards built 2,751 Liberty ships during World War II, in the largest shipbuilding effort in history. Liberty ships crewed by merchant mariners carried troops and military cargo all over the world. The building and sailing of the Liberty ships, and their successors, the Victory ships, were overseen by the U.S. Maritime Commission and the War Shipping Agency, both predecessor agencies of today’s Maritime Administration. After World War II, Greek shipowners purchased many Liberty ships to build up their fleet. Two other Liberty ships formerly in the Maritime Administration’s National Defense Reserve Fleet, the John W. Brown and the Jeremiah O’Brien, are currently operating as museum ships. While other redesigned and repurposed Liberty ships remain in service, none remain in service in the form they had in World War II. Nonetheless, their use was once so common that the term “Libertysize cargo,” meaning 10,000 tons, may still be heard in the shipping business. Elections for the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU are scheduled for later this year. As in past SIU election years, a comprehensive guide will be published in the Seafarers LOG prior to the balloting. In the case of members eligible to vote who believe they will be at sea during the Nov. 1 through Dec. 31, 2008 voting period, absentee ballots will be available. The SIU constitution ensures that members who are eligible to vote and who find themselves in this situation may vote. Procedures are established in the SIU constitution to safeguard the secret ballot election, including the absentee ballot process. Here is the procedure to follow when requesting an absentee ballot: 1. Make the request in writing to the SIU office of the secretary-treasurer, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 2. Include in the request the correct address where the absentee ballot should be mailed. 3. Send the request for an absentee ballot by registered or certified mail. 4. The registered or certified mail envelope must be postmarked no later than midnight, Nov. 15, 2008 and must be received at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 no later than Nov. 25, 2008. 5. The secretary-treasurer, after confirming eligibility, will send by registered mail, return receipt requested, to the address designated in the request, a ballot, together with an envelope marked “Ballot” and a mailing envelope no later than Nov. 30, 2008. 6. Upon receiving the ballot and envelope, vote by marking the ballot. After voting the ballot, place the ballot in the envelope marked “Ballot.” Do not write on the “Ballot” envelope. 7. Place the envelope marked “Ballot” in the mailing envelope which is imprinted with the mailing address of the bank depository where all ballots are sent. 8. Sign the mailing envelope on the first line of the upper left-hand corner. Print name and book number on the second line. The mailing envelope is selfaddressed and stamped. 9. The mailing envelope must be postmarked no later than midnight, Dec. 31, 2008 and received by the bank depository no later than Jan. 5, 2009. PIC-FROM-THE PAST 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 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (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) 549-4000 16 Seafarers LOG The photo above, taken in 1971 and sent to the LOG by an unknown source, shows two merchant vessels navigating the Siagon River near Siagon, the Republic of Vietnam. The vessel on the left is the SS Raphael Semmes and the one on the right is the SS Seatrain Puerto Rico. The Semmes is headed up river to off-load its cargo while the Puerto Rico is headed down river en route to the open sea. Seafarers who sailed on the Siagon River during those days in support of our troops during the Vietnam War will recall that the waterway contained numerous sharp zig-zags and extremely sticky bends which kept masters on their toes. Swift currents also tested their nerves on a continuing basis. 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 July 2008 �49311_p01_24:9311p0 6/27/2008 11:12 AM Page 17 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 waterways 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 DEEP SEA CARLOS BONEFONT Brother Carlos Bonefont, 66, was born in Puerto Rico. He joined the union in 1960 while in the port of New York. Brother Bonefont first shipped aboard the Evelyn. The engine department member upgraded his skills on three occasions at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Brother Bonefont’s last vessel was the Horizon Hawaii. He lives in Brooklyn, N.Y. RAYFIELD CRAWFORD Brother Rayfield Crawford, 65, became an SIU member in 1967. He initially sailed on the Chatham. Brother Crawford was born in Maryland and worked in the steward department. He enhanced his seafaring abilities often at the Piney Point school. Brother Crawford’s most recent voyage was aboard the USNS Wright. He makes his home in Baltimore. aboard the Richard G. Matthiesen. Brother Jones enhanced his seafaring abilities on numerous occasions at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point. He calls Jacksonville home. WILLIAM LOWRY JR. Brother William Lowry Jr., 67, was born in Maryland. He began his seafaring career in 1966 in the port of New York. Brother Lowry’s first trip was on the Penn Transport. He worked in the deck department and upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Lowry was last employed aboard the Maersk Carolina. He settled in York, Pa. CARL THOMPSON Brother Carl Thompson, 65, joined the union in 1960. He initially shipped on the Ogden Challenger. Brother Thompson was a member of the deck department. He was born in Alabama. Brother Thompson’s final trip to sea was aboard the Seabulk Power. He lives in Mobile, Ala. ROBERT TRAINOR LOUIS DIAZ Brother Louis Diaz, 66, signed on with the MC&S (Marine Cooks & Stewards) in 1978. His earliest trip to sea was on the Santa Mercedes, where he shipped as a member of the steward department. Brother Diaz is a native of Rockwood, Texas. His final voyage was aboard an APL ship. Brother Diaz frequently took advantage of educational opportunities offered at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point. He is a resident of Artesia, Calif. ERDWIN FUENTES Brother Erdwin Fuentes, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1973 in the port of New Orleans. He originally shipped on the Erna Elizabeth. Brother Fuentes was born in Mexico and worked in the engine department. In 1981 and 1983, Brother Fuentes attended classes at the maritime training center in Piney Point. He last sailed aboard the Robert E. Lee. Brother Fuentes resides in New Orleans. RAYMOND JONES Brother Raymond Jones, 60, first went to sea in 1969 from the port of Jacksonville, Fla. His initial trip was on an Alcoa Steamship Company vessel. Brother Jones was born in Florida and sailed in the steward department. He most recently sailed July 2008 Brother Robert Trainor, 60, signed on with the SIU in 1970. He originally sailed with Bay Tankers Inc. as a member of the deck department. Brother Trainor was a frequent upgrader at the maritime training center in Piney Point. He resides in Reno, Nev. MICHAEL WILLIS Brother Michael Willis, 58, became a Seafarer in 1967. The Seattle native worked in the deck department. Brother Willis’ first ship was the Alice Brown; his last was the Great Land. He enhanced his seafaring abilities on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Willis makes his home in Rosburg, Wash. INLAND WAYNE BERRY Boatman Wayne Berry, 52, began sailing with the union in 1987. He was primarily employed with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Wilmington. Boatman Berry was born in California and shipped in the deck department. He visited the Piney Point school in 2001 and 2002 to upgrade his skills. Boatman Berry is a resident of Phoenix, Ariz. CLYDE EVANS Boatman Clyde Evans, 65, joined the SIU in 1980 while in Piney Point. His earliest trip to sea was with American Towing & Transportation. Boatman Evans was born in Maryland. He last worked in the engine department of a Penn Maritime vessel. Boatman Evans calls Tangier, Va., home. LOWELL JONES Boatman Lowell Jones, 62, was born in Florida. He became an SIU member in 1965. Boatman Jones first sailed aboard a Coyle Lines Inc. vessel. The deck department member was born in Florida. On three occasions, Boatman Jones upgraded his seafaring abilities at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point. Before his retirement, he worked with G&H Towing Company. Boatman Jones continues to live in his native state. resides in Leland, N.C. WILLIAM PRIVETTE Boatman William Privette, 55, donned the SIU colors in 1971. He initially shipped with Victory Carriers Inc. as a member of the deck department. Boatman Privette frequently took advantage of educational opportunities offered at the Seafarers-affiliated school. He was born in San Diego. Boatman Privette most recently sailed aboard a vessel operated by Crowley Towing & Transportation of Wilmington. He settled in Elmira, Ore. GREAT LAKES ANDREW EGRESSY WILLIAM PHILLIPS Boatman William Phillips, 62, joined the union in 1973. He originally shipped on a Stone Towing Line vessel. Boatman Phillips was a member of the deck department. His final trip was with Cape Fear Towing. Boatman Phillips Brother Andrew Egressy, 70, signed on with the union in 1999 while in Detroit. His first ship was the Sam Laud; his last was the St. Mary’s Challenger. Brother Egressy was born in Concord, N.Y., and worked in the engine department. He enhanced his seafaring abilities in 2002 at the Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG. 1959 Seafarers on the cement carrier Florida State were caught in the crossfire stirred by an attempted revolt in the Dominican Republic, but all escaped unhurt. The SIUmanned ship was strafed by planes and stopped by gunboats several times off the Dominican coast before returning to Port Everglades, Fla. The latest incidents occurred a few hours before an alleged “invasion force” in two armed launches was stopped on the coast by Dominican government forces. The “invaders” had reportedly been based in Cuba. SIU-affiliated school. Brother Egressy makes his home in East Concord, N.Y. CHARLES NEIGEBAUER Brother Charles Neigebauer, 65, was born in Michigan. He began his seafaring career in 1969. Brother Neigebauer initially shipped with American Steamship Company as a member of the deck department. His last trip to sea was on the St. Clair. Brother Neigebauer is a resident of Sterling Heights, Mich. MICHAEL SCHAFF Brother Michael Schaff, 55, joined the SIU in 1971. He originally sailed on an American Steamship Company vessel. Brother Schaff worked in both the engine and deck departments. His most recent trip was aboard the Walter J. McCarthy. Brother Schaff continues to reside in his native state of Wisconsin. to let them leave the ship. After three weeks of food and water rationing, the crew was finally released and flown home. 1980 For more than two weeks, 185 Indochinese boatpeople lived a nightmare adrift in the South China Sea. The mostly Vietnamese men, women and babies had tried to flag down 120 passing ships. But none would stop to aid them. The nightmare ended for the refugees when the SIU-crewed LNG Virgo, working in tandem with the Navy tanker USNS Sealift Antarctic, pulled the boatpeople to safety. Relieved and grateful to the ships’ crews, many of the refugees knelt and kissed the deck. The boatpeople were unaware that the ships’ crews had something to celebrate as well. They performed the rescue in the finest tradition of their country the day before the Fourth of July. This Month In SIU History 1967 Isolated for 21 days and nights aboard the SIU-contracted tanker Observer in the Suez Canal, 39 seafarers were caught in lines of gunfire from the Arab-Israeli War and witnessed at close range the combat of the two opposing armies. The Observer was India-bound with a cargo of grain and about to clear the Suez Canal when the Middle East war exploded and the canal was blocked with debris of sunken ships, preventing passage. Seafarers aboard the Observer report there was almost constant gunfire day and night that would light up the night sky. They also report Arab and Israeli low-flying dogfights during which two planes were downed. Back home, the SIU and Marine Carriers, the ship’s operator, were working to have the crew flown home only to have efforts thwarted by the United Arab Republic that refused 1994 SIU members in the Port of San Juan, P.R., helped pull a grounded oil tanker to safety without spilling any of the 13 million gallons of fuel oil the runaway-flag vessel was carrying. Seafarers aboard tugs operated by Crowley Maritime moved the Greekflagged, Liberian-owned Mantinia safely into Guayanilla Bay. The 749-foot ship had been grounded in sand. Other SIU members were standing by with oil containment booms and skimming equipment in case of a spill. SIU tankermen were also standing by in case the load needed to be lightened. Seafarers LOG 17 �49311_p01_24:9311p0 6/27/2008 11:13 AM Page 18 Final Departures DEEP SEA MIGUEL AGUIRE Pensioner Miguel Aguire, 85, passed away March 3. Brother Aguire joined the union in 1967. He first sailed aboard the Milwaukee Clipper. Brother Aguire was born in Mexico and shipped in the steward department. His final voyage was on the Venture. In 1987, Brother Aguire started collecting his retirement compensation. He resided in Spicewood, Texas. PERRY BOYD JR Brother Perry Boyd Jr., 54, died Feb. 14. He began sailing with the Seafarers in 1990. Brother Boyd initially shipped aboard the Arecibo. He was born in Louisiana and worked in the engine department. Brother Boyd’s last trip was on the USNS Bellatrix. He continued to live in his native state. ROBERT BRIGHT Pensioner Robert Bright, 74, passed away March 10. He donned the SIU colors in 1959. Brother Bright first sailed on the John B. Waterman; his last vessel was the Cape Ray. He was born in Virginia and worked in the steward department. Brother Bright went on pension in 1997. He was a resident of Norfolk, Va. MICHAEL BRUCK Brother Michael Bruck, 46, died Feb. 10. He joined the Seafarers in 1999 in the port of Wilmington, Calif. Brother Bruck’s earliest voyage was aboard the Jeb Stuart. He was born in Suchumi, Russia, and shipped in the steward department. Brother Bruck was last employed on the Global Patriot. He made his home in Mentone, Calif. RICHARD BRUMAGE Pensioner Richard Brumage, 79, passed away Feb. 11. Brother Brumage became an SIU member in 1973 while in Honolulu. He originally sailed aboard the Santa Mariana as a member of the steward department. Brother Brumage was born in Waynesburg, Pa. His final trip to sea was on the Courier. Brother Brumage retired in 1994 and settled in Clarkesville, Pa. ERNEST BRYAN Pensioner Ernest Bryan, 79, died Feb. 8. He started his seafaring profession in 1951 in the port of New York. Brother Bryan was born in Freeport, Texas. The deck department member initially shipped aboard an American Dredging Company vessel. 18 Seafarers LOG Brother Bryan’s last journey was on the Overseas Alice. He began receiving his pension in 1993. Brother Bryan called Seguin, Texas, home. ALFREDO CANITES Pensioner Alfredo Canites, 73, passed away Feb. 20. Brother Canites was born in the Philippines. He launched his career with the MC&S (Marine Cooks & Stewards) in 1980 while in the port of San Francisco. Brother Canites’ first voyage was aboard the Santa Magdalena. Before retiring in 2001, he sailed on the Lihue. Brother Canites made his home in San Francisco. EGON CHRISTENSEN Pensioner Egon Christensen, 79, died Feb. 13. Brother Christensen signed on with the SIU in 1964, initially shipping aboard an ISCO Inc. vessel. He was a born in Denmark and worked in the deck department. Brother Christensen’s final trip to sea was on the Endurance. He became a pensioner in 1987 and resided in Santa Rosa, Calif. GREGORY FULLER Brother Gregory Fuller, 58, passed away Feb. 7. He donned the SIU colors in 1970 while in the port of New York. Brother Fuller originally sailed aboard the Trans Champ. The engine department member most recently shipped on the Capricorn. Brother Fuller lived in California. JESUS GARCIA Pensioner Jesus Garcia, 90, died Feb. 11. Brother Garcia began sailing with the Seafarers in 1948 in the port of New York. His earliest voyage was aboard the Jefferson City Victory. Brother Garcia was a Texas native. He sailed as a member of the engine department. Brother Garcia’s last ship was the Borinquen. He was a resident of Norwood, N.J., and went on pension in 1981. YUNG HO Pensioner Yung Ho, 87, passed away Feb. 17. Brother Ho was born in China. He launched his SIU career in 1951 in the port of New York. Brother Ho first sailed in the steward department of the Steel Apprentice. His final trip to sea was on the Innovator. Brother Ho retired in 1982 and called San Francisco home. PATRICK KERNS Brother Patrick Kerns, 43, died Feb. 5. He joined the union in 1990 while in the port of Seattle. Brother Kerns’ first voyage was aboard the Sealift Arctic. He was born in Seattle. Brother Kerns last worked on the Global Patriot. Brother Kerns sailed in the deck department. He settled in Bellevue, Wash. JAMES LONG Pensioner James Long, 64, passed away Feb. 26. Brother Long became an SIU member in 1969, initially sailing aboard the Sea Ohio. He was born in West Chester, Pa., and shipped in the engine department. Brother Long’s most recent trip to sea was on the Horizon Anchorage. He started collecting his retirement compensation in 2006 and continued to live in Pennsylvania. DONALD MCFARLAND Pensioner Donald McFarland, 79, died Feb. 14. Brother McFarland began shipping with the Seafarers in 1972. The deck department member was born in Washington State. Brother McFarland originally sailed aboard the Eagle Voyage. His final journey was on the Horizon Trader. Brother McFarland became a pensioner in 1994 and made his home in Lynnwood, Wash. ROBERT MUNROE Pensioner Robert Munroe, 67, passed away Feb. 8. Brother Munroe donned the SIU colors in 1961. His first ship was the Cantigny; his last was the Taurus. Brother Munroe was born in Ludlow, Mass., and worked as a member of the deck department. He went on pension in 1995 and resided in Springfield, Mass. VERBON NASH Pensioner Verbon Nash, 83, passed away Feb. 3. Brother Nash joined the union in 1944. He initially shipped with Alcoa Steamship Company as a deck department member. Brother Nash was born in Mississippi. His final journey was aboard the Montpelier Victory. In 1983, Brother Nash retired and settled in Alabama. JIMMIE RUSSELL Pensioner Jimmie Russell, 70, died March 3. Brother Russell signed on with the Seafarers in 1967. His earliest trip to sea was aboard the Del Alba. Brother Russell sailed in the steward department. He was most recently employed on the Horizon Producer. Brother Russell was born in Birmingham, Ala., but called San Antonio, Texas, home. He began receiving his pension in 1996. FRANK STRATES Pensioner Frank Strates, 90, died March 8. Brother Strates started his seafaring career in 1961. His first voyage was on a Colonial Steamship Company vessel. Brother Strates was born in Greece. The engine department member most recently sailed aboard the Horizon Producer. Brother Strates became a pensioner in 1982 and made his home in Deltona, Fla. BERTRAND WRIGHT Pensioner Bertrand Wright, 71, passed away Feb. 17. Brother Wright became a Seafarer in 1958, initially shipping with Waterman Steamship Corporation. He was born in Alabama and worked in the steward department. Before his retirement in 1998, Brother Wright sailed on the Cape Jacob. He continued to live in his native state. INLAND EDWARD HATTAWAY Pensioner Edward Hattaway, 82, died Feb. 13. Boatman Hattaway donned the SIU colors in 1956 in the port of New York. He was originally employed aboard an Interocean American Shipping vessel. Boatman Hattaway was born in Georgia. He last worked in the deck department of a vessel operated by Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jacksonville. Boatman Hattaway went on pension in 1991 and resided in Twin City, Ga. MILES IRELAND Boatman Miles Ireland, 60, passed away April 23. He was born in Lowland, N.C. Boatman Miles joined the union in 1972. He first sailed on a Plymouth Towing Company vessel. Boatman Ireland shipped in the deck department. His final trip took place aboard the Russell B. Murray. Boatman Ireland was a Leland, N.C., resident. SAMUEL MORMANDO Pensioner Samuel Mormando, 74, died Feb. 28. Boatman Mormando started sailing with the SIU in 1973 from the port of Norfolk, Va. The New Jersey native primarily worked with McAllister Towing of Virginia. Boatman Mormando made his home in Virginia. He began receiving compensation for his retirement in 1995. ED MORRIS Pensioner Ed Morris, 79, passed away Feb. 1. Boatman Morris signed on with the Seafarers in 1962. He mainly sailed on vessels operated by G&H Towing Company. Boatman Morris was born in Altus, Okla., and shipped in the engine department. In 1991, he started collecting his pension. Boatman Morris settled in Corpus Christi, Texas. GREAT LAKES JOHN ANTICH Pensioner John Antich, 79, died Feb. 10. Brother Antich began his seafaring profession in 1962. He was born in Chicago. Brother Antich primarily worked with Great Lakes Towing Company as a member of the deck department. He retired in 1991 and called Plainfield, Ill., home. MICHAEL KORNMEIER Pensioner Michael Kornmeier, 62, passed away March 2. Brother Kornmeier became a union member in 1967 while in Detroit. His earliest trip to sea was aboard an American Steamship Company vessel. Brother Kornmeier resided in his native state of Ohio. Prior to his retirement in 2001, he sailed with Great Lakes Towing Company. MOHAMED OBAID Pensioner Mohamed Obaid, 67, died Feb. 8. Brother Obaid joined the SIU in 1970. His first vessel was the Otto Reiss; his last was the Sam Laud. Brother Obaid was born in Arabia and sailed in the engine department. He went on pension in 1992 and lived in Hamtramck, Mich. RICHARD ROUSSIN Pensioner Richard Roussin, 54, passed away Feb. 1. Brother Roussin was born in Michigan. He donned the SIU colors in 1972. Brother Roussin’s first voyage was on the Ben Calvin. The deck department member’s final trip to sea was aboard the Buffalo. Brother Roussin was a resident of Oakland, Wisc. He became a pensioner in 2005. July 2008 �49311_p01_24:9311p0 6/27/2008 11:13 AM Page 19 Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings ALLIANCE NORFOLK (Maersk Line Limited), April 6 – Chairman Albert C. Williams, Secretary Luis A. Caballero, Educational Director Edley M. Foster. Chairman encouraged crew members to take advantage of Union Plus benefits and gave them advice when going for physical exams. Secretary asked members not to use towels as rags and try to keep linen in good condition. Educational director urged Seafarers to enhance skills at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Motion was made concerning requirements for running for office. Crew requested refrigerators in rooms. Steward department was thanked for a job well done and great service. CHARGER (Maersk Line Limited), April 20 – Chairman Robert Pagan Jr., Secretary Louis Nicoud, Educational Director Edgardo S. Barrios, Engine Delegate Yahya A. Mohamed, Steward Delegate Jimmy L. Williams. Chairman announced payoff April 23 upon arrival in Los Angeles. He asked all crew members to separate trash and keep laundry room/public areas clean. Secretary requested that mariners ensure that exterior doors are locked in port at all times. Educational director suggested that crew check out upgrading courses available at Piney Point school. Treasurer reported $700 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendations were made to increase vacation and pension benefits. A vote of thanks was given to the steward department for keeping ship clean and for good food. Next ports: Los Angeles, Okinawa, Yokohama, and Kolbe, Japan. CLEVELAND (Sealift Inc.), April 12 – Chairman Fareed A. Khan, Secretary Denis W. Burke, Deck Delegate Richard Johnson, Engine Delegate Greg Davis, Steward Delegate Rocky D. Dupraw. Chairman reported best crew to sail with in recent memory. Secretary asked crew to sougee staterooms prior to arrival and payoff in Houston. He also reminded crew to wipe off work boots prior to entering house. Steward department is to provide clean linen and toiletries. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew members expressed gratitude to steward department for keeping ship clean and painting galley decks and bulkheads. Next ports: Panama, Houston, Beirut and Libya. GALENA BAY (OSG Ship Management), April 2 – Chairman Elkanah B. Ladia, Secretary Fausta D. Aranda, Educational Director Stanley M. Sporna, Steward Delegate Frederick L. Saffo. Chairman discussed the importance of participating in shipboard meetings. Secretary asked Seafarers to help keep TV room clean and return dirty dishes to the galley. Educational director urged crew to upgrade when possible at the SIU-affiliated school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Motion July 2008 The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring 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. With Seafarers Aboard the Keystone Texas Clearly, these guys (above) are serious about reading the Seafarers LOG. Pictured in the crew mess after a meeting are (from left) Chief Cook Orlando Suazo, GUDE Fabian Palacios, Chief Steward Roderick Oree and Recertified Bosun Edward McLean. AB Chris Pope (above, right) stands watch while the vessel is docked in Tampa. In photo at immediate right, AB Dragan Petrovic rigs boxes that will be lifted aboard the ship. Chief Cook Orlando Suazo (photo at far right) prepares tempting ribs for dinner. These photos were submitted to the Seafarers LOG by SIU Ft. Lauderdale Safety Director Kevin Marchand. was made to give pensioners cost of living raises. Next port: Tampa, Fla. HORIZON TACOMA (Horizon Lines), April 6 – Chairman Joseph Artis, Secretary Lincoln E. Pinn Jr., Educational Director Shawn L. Clark, Steward Delegate Jioia Deleon. Chairman stated payoff would take place upon arrival in Tacoma. He urged members to keep dues current and support SPAD (Seafarers Political Activity Donation). Educational director encouraged crew to take advantage of upgrading and training offered in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Questions were asked regarding workmen’s compensation. Next port: Tacoma. INDIANA HARBOR (American Steamship Company), April 20 – Chairman Timothy H. Burke, Educational Director Daryl W. Overby, Deck Delegate Robert R. Hedine. Chairman advised mariners to keep necessary seafaring documents up-to-date. Educational director recommended everyone attend classes at the Paul Hall Center to enhance job skills. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requested further information pertaining to 401(k) plan, SPAD T-shirts and changes to medical plan. INTREPID (Maersk Line Limited), April 8 – Chairman Ahmed A. Mihakel, Secretary Michael J. Gramer, Educational Director Elwyn L. Ford. Bosun announced payoff in Long Beach, Calif., on April 12 after patrolman arrives. He thanked members for a safe voyage and reminded them to take personal trash to the incinerator room. Secretary reported that new reefers for crew mess will arrive on the West Coast. Educational director reiterated the importance of checking document expiration dates. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendation was made to lower sea time requirements in order to qualify for medical benefits. Seafarers requested new furniture for crew lounge. Next ports: Long Beach, Calif., Oakland, Calif., Dutch Harbor, Alaska and Yokohoma, Japan. JOHN J. BOLAND (American Steamship Company), April 13 – Chairman Paul S. Gohs, Secretary Khaled M. Alasaadi, Educational Director Donald R. Jaegle, Steward Delegate Khaled M. Alasaadi. Chairman read and posted information in ship’s packet. He encouraged members to continue contributing to SPAD and purchase MDLs. He reminded everyone to enroll for TWIC as soon as possible. Educational director noted that information regarding upgrading classes offered at the Seafarers-affiliated school was posted in the rec room. Treasurer reported $2,100 in satellite TV fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Several safety reminders were discussed. Mariners were reminded to wear proper gloves when line handling and if unsure of procedures to ask experienced crew members. Next port: Conneaut, Ohio. MAERSK CAROLINA (Maersk Line Limited), April 20 – Chairman Brian K. Fountain, Secretary Osvaldo Ramos, Educational Director Kevin M. Cooper, Deck Delegate Mario Ordonez. Chairman stated payoff to take place on April 28 in Newark, N.J. He thanked crew for another safe trip and reminded those departing vessel to clean rooms and turn keys in. Secretary expressed gratitude for help keeping ship clean. Educational director urged everyone to check expiration dates on seafaring documents and upgrade skills at the Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions were made pertaining to vacation, medical and pension benefits. Crew members would like new mattresses. Next ports: Newark, N.J., Norfolk, Va., Charleston, S.C., and Algeciras, Spain. SAM LAUD (American Steamship Company), April 2 – Chairman Scott E. Krajniak, Secretary Darlene M. Weymouth, Educational Director Timothy Orban, Deck Delegate Kevin R. Stehlik, Engine Delegate Timothy Orban. Chairman discussed chain of command and the importance of following it. He encouraged crew members to support SPAD and stressed how their donations benefit their way of life. Secretary encouraged mariners to participate in 401(k) plan. Educational director informed members that forms were available in rec room cabinet. He also advised them to register at their local union hall within 72 hours of departing vessel. Deck delegate talked about the importance of safety while performing their duties. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port: Cleveland. SEABULK ENERGY (Seabulk Tanker), April 6 – Chairman Ronald L. Paradise, Secretary Loicy M. Jones, Educational Director Wendell M. Wilmoth, Steward Delegate Kenneth L. McHellen. Bosun thanked ABs for work done on deck and painting the stairs. He congratulated the crew on working well together. Secretary expressed gratitude for help keeping ship clean. Educational director urged crew to upgrade when possible at the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request was made for four more satellite boxes for the rest of crew. ST. CLAIR (American Steamship Company), April 7 – Chairman Joel A. Lechel, Secretary Kathryn S. Hansen, Educational Director Terrance A. Pyrlik, Deck Delegate Joseph B. Hance, Engine Delegate Bryan D. Clark, Steward Delegate James R. Beaudry. Chairman thanked crew for all the help bringing ship out of layup and getting her going. He talked about internal department working relationships and how it benefits everyone aboard when they work together. Members were urged to contribute the SPAD. Educational director recommended upgrading at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. No beefs or disputed OT reported. It was noted that additional safety gear had arrived and was available for all. Crew was asked to wash dirty clothes in washer in the engine room. Vote of thanks was given to steward department for a super clean galley and great meals. Next ports: Two Harbors, Minn., and Indiana Harbor, Ind. Seafarers LOG 19 �49311_p01_24:9311p0 6/27/2008 11:13 AM Page 20 Letters to the Editor Editor’s Note: The Seafarers LOG reserves the right to edit letters for grammar as well as space provisions without changing the writer’s intent. The LOG welcomes letters from members, pensioners, their families and shipmates and will publish them on a timely basis. Australian Ceremony Honors U.S. Mariners On May 9, 2008, at the Battle of the Coral Sea memorial service – which is conducted every year by the Australian American Association – I had the great and proud honor to lay a floral wreath on behalf of both Mr. A.J. Wichita, president of the American Merchant Marine Veterans and also Mr. Ian Allison, cochairman of the Just Compensation Committee. This was done in memory of all U.S. Merchant Mariners who gave their lives in World War II for our tomorrow. The ceremony took place at the Fremantle War Memorial. It included remarks by the governor of Western Australia (Dr. Ken Michael) and messages from both Australia Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and President Bush. As noted in the printed program, the Battle of the Coral Sea was fought May 5-8, 1942. Australia was a key to Japanese war plans in the Pacific, because it was a base for land, air and sea operations against them. The Japanese High Command reached out to capture Port Moresby; confronting them in the Coral Sea was an allied naval task force that included the aircraft carriers USS Lexington and USS Yorktown with cruisers USS Chicago, HMAS Hobart, Flag Ship HMAS Australia and destroyer escorts. At great loss, the advancing Japanese naval The letter writer (second from right) is pictured with U.S. Navy personnel at the ceremony. Helman constructed this wreath and laid it along with others that were utilized for the annual remembrance of those mariners who made the ultimate sacrifice. strike force was stopped. This battle set the scene for the decisive defeat of the Japanese navy by the U.S. at the Battle of Midway shortly after. As a merchant seaman who served from 1939-45 on allied merchant ships and specifically on four U.S.-flag ships in 1944 and 1945, I met and sailed with so many U.S. shipmates. We had fun times and also sad times. May God bless America, may God bless Australia, and may we always be allied shipmates. John E. Helman Hamilton Hill, Western Australia Recalling Sacrifices Of WWII Mariners I am the son of a U.S. Merchant Mariner who sailed during World War II, and I am also a military veteran of Vietnam. I’m writing this letter to honor the job performed during WWII by the mariners of our country. They served honorably and took on losses due to enemy fire with little or not protection, yet they never stopped or complained of the danger involved. Instead, they showed a “must do” attitude to deliver supplies in spite of the dangers. I speak of this because I can remember my father describing voyages and the cargo they carried. They had a strong desire to move that cargo to the men in the field, who were so desperate to bring victory to our country. Dad was too young to volunteer in the military like his brothers, so he became a mariner to do what he could do for his country. Dad emphasized that his shipmates had the same attitude and were proud of what they were doing, in spite of the losses they took on. What my father may not have realized was that he had instilled his standards into me, and I also wanted to serve this country. How can anyone not give these men their due? They not only served abroad but they also brought back to this country much-needed supplies from overseas. The efforts of the U.S. Merchant Marine were twofold: take care of our men abroad and take care of the needs of our country from abroad. That is a mission even we as soldiers could not top, as some of these men made the ultimate sacrifice without receiving recognition of the importance of their mission during a critical time. I hope that these comments are not taken as disrespectful to our armed forces, but only as factual as this writer sees them concerning our “unarmed forces,” the U.S. Merchant Marine. Anibal Colon Menendez Kansas City, Missouri Fighting the treacherous foe Heave Ho! My lads, Heave Ho! Let the sea roll high or low We can cross any ocean, sail any river Give us the goods and we’ll deliver Damn the submarine! We’re the men of the Merchant Marine! This is the official song of the U.S. Maritime Service, written in 1943 by Jack Lawrence. It would be nice to put this in the LOG around National Maritime Day each year. Bruce E. Knight Chesapeake, Virginia Sharing Rediscovered Poems I recently came across a number of my old poems that were published years ago in the NMU Pilot and wanted to share them with the membership and my fellow retirees. Here is one from 1983: The Lookout The moon is up over the ocean And I can see for miles by its light Don’t Forget Our Song I sometimes wonder why we never hear a song about the U.S. Merchant Marine. It would be especially fitting to hear such a song on National Maritime Day. When I went to Sheepshead Bay, N.Y., for maritime training in 1944, they taught us a song. But, since leaving the school, not one time have I heard that song again. Anyway, the verse and chorus went like this: Give us the oil, give us the gas Give us the shells, give us the guns We’ll be the ones to see them thru Give us the tanks, give us the planes Give us the parts, give us a ship Give us a hip hoo-ray! And we’ll be on our way Heave Ho! My Lads, Heave Ho! It’s a long, long way to go It’s a long, long pull with our hatches full Braving the wind, braving the sea The horizon is not blinking With other ships this night And the sky is clear but changing With the clouds that dwell up there While the stars all tell their ancient stories Of times when gods walked down here And the sea, she tells me stories, too Of her many victories And how she beat many men Who sailed against her pleas “The ships that lost were careless, Their crews not fit for me “But of all the crew I’d blame the most, ’Twas the lookout – if you please” Retired AB Harold Brown Orlando, Florida Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the 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 recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU 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 disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval 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 shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively 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 employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers 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 filing 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 SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful 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 responsibility for Seafarers 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. 20 Seafarers LOG 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 OBLIGATIONS. 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 headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect 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 Michael 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. July 2008 �49311_p01_24:9311p0 6/27/2008 11:13 AM Page 21 SEAFARERS PAUL HALL CENTER UPGRADING COURSE SCHEDULE The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., for the next few months of 2008. All programs are geared to improving the job skills of Seafarers and to promote the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation’s security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Deck Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Marine Refrigeration Technician July 21 August 29 Pumpman August 11 August 22 Welding September 8 October 6 November 3 December 6 September 26 October 23 November 21 December 19 Safety Specialty Courses Advanced Fire Fighting (must have basic fire fighting) August 2 August 8 Basic Fire Fighting/STCW July 21 July 25 Fast Rescue Boat July 14 August 18 September 8 July 18 August 22 September 12 Medical Care Provider July 14 September 8 July 18 September 12 Tanker Assistant (DL) September 22 November 10 September 6 October 3 November 21 September 12 Start Date Date of Completion August 18 September 29 November 10 September 12 October 23 December 5 Automatic Radar Plotting Aids (ARPA) (must have radar unlimited) October 6 November 17 October 10 November 21 Celestial Navigation October 20 November 24 November 14 December 19 GMDSS September 1 September 12 Lifeboatman/Water Survival August 4 September 15 October 27 August 15 September 26 November 7 Radar September 22 November 3 October 3 November 14 Radar Renewal (one day) October 27 December 8 October 27 December 8 Academic Department Courses Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman (STOS) August 25 October 20 September 5 October 31 General education and college courses are available as needed. In addition, basic vocational support program courses are offered throughout the year, two weeks prior to the beginning of a vocational course. An introduction to computers course will be self-study. Bosun Recertification Course October 14 November 3 Course Able Seaman Tankerman (PIC) Barge Steward Upgrading Courses Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward These classes start every other Monday. The most recent class began June 23. Steward Recertification Course July 14 August 4 August 18 September 8 Online “Distance Learning” Courses Engine Upgrading Courses Advanced Container Maintenance (Refer) September 1 November 10 September 26 December 5 Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations (BAPO) September 15 November 10 October 10 December 5 Firemen/Watertender/Oiler (FOWT) August 18 October 13 September 12 November 6 Junior Engineer August 30 October 24 Machinist July 21 August 8 Marine Electrician October 27 December 19 UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________ Address_______________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ Telephone _________________________ Deep Sea Member Lakes Member Date of Birth ______________________ Social Security # ______________________ Book # _________________________ Seniority _____ Department ___________ E-mail ____________________________ Yes No With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, and qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested. All OL, AB, JE and Tanker Assistant (DL) applicants must submit a U.S. Coast Guard fee of $140 with their application. The payment should be made with a money order only, payable to LMSS. COURSE BEGIN DATE END DATE ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ Inland Waters Member If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. U.S. Citizen: In addition to the foregoing courses, the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education currently is offering the following internet-based courses: Environmental Awareness; Hazardous Material Control and Management; Hearing Conservation; Heat Stress Management; Shipboard Pest Management; Respiratory Protection, and Shipboard Water Sanitation. The courses are free to mariners covered by SIU contracts. To register, complete the regular upgrading application located on the bottom left portion of this page, and mail it to: Admissions Office, Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, P.O. Box 75, Piney Point, MD 20674-0075. Applicants will receive user account information from the center via e-mail. They are therefore urged to provide their e-mail addresses in the space provided on the application. Applicants should also include the word “online” when listing the courses they wish to take. Home Port _____________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held _____________________________________ LAST VESSEL: _____________________________________ Rating: ___________ _____________________________________________________________________ Date On: ___________________________ Date Off: ________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? Yes No If yes, class # __________________________________________________________ Yes Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? No If yes, course(s) taken ___________________________________________________ Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? Yes No Firefighting: Yes No CPR: Yes No Primary language spoken ________________________________________________ July 2008 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. 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 students, who are otherwise qualified, of 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. 7/08 Seafarers LOG 21 �49311_p01_24:9311p0 6/27/2008 11:13 AM Page 22 Paul Hall Center Classes Computer Classes Four Seafarers, each of whom was undergoing upgrade training at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., recently completed computer courses. The four joined instructor Rich Prucha (center in photos above and below) to pose with the certificates they earned for their accomplishments. Displaying their certificates in photo above are Joseph Yamson (left) and Roberto Silva. Dawn Johnson and Sergey Kurchenko show off their credentials in photo below. Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 702 – Unlicensed apprentices from Class 702 recently graduated from the water survival course. Those graduating from the course (above, in alphabetical order) were Jeremy Birchfield, Dustin Brantley, David Burciage, Daryl Corbett, Jack Corn, James East, Kevin England, Darrell Goggins, William Gosse, Richard Howard, Brian Jackson, James Jackson, Jorge Lanas Jr., Hezikiah Lawe, Robin Majette, John Menley, Teresa Robin, Ignacio Santos, Keith Scott, Mark Turner, Timothy Van Pelt II, Oshema Watson, Michael Washington, Jovan Williams and Igor Yakunkov. Marine Engineer – Eight mariners on May 23 graduated from this course. Completing the course (above, in alphabetical order) were Keithley Andrew, Nicholas Collins, Roger Dillinger Jr., Daniel Gaffney, Joseph Letang, Douglas Lowry, Wade Rudolph and Michael Voda. Their instructor, Jay Henderson, is third from left, seated. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Welding - The following individuals (in alphabetical order) graduated from this course May 23: Gary Hirsch, Anthony Pace, Jerome Dooms, Vadym Gutara, Dana Wilks, Roger Nesbeth and Angelo Schiraldi. Buzzy Andrews, their instructor, is standing third from left. Fast Rescue Boat - Three upgraders on May 16 graduated from this course. They are William Smith (seated), Paul Starvish (back row, second from left) and Michael Freeman. Their, instructor, Stan Beck, is standing at left. Tank Ship Familiarization DL – Two classes of Phase III apprentices on May 9 completed this 63-hour course. Those completing the course (in alphabetical order) were Scott Accardi, Jeffrey Amestoy, Tristin Brand, Aaron Chiusano, DeMorris Duggins, Wilson Franks, Kabir Garcia, Kyle Gibson, Tonya Gist, Brandy Griffin, Tsawang Gyurme, Austen Hess, Spencer Hiruko, Gabriel Izquierdo, Enchantress Johnson, Kenneth LeDeoux, Larry Locke, Cintron Maldonado, Tony Martin, Matthew Martinson, Daniel McDougald, Mark Merenda, Frederick Nyarko, Algernon Ramseur, Christopher Shivalier, Steven Sidler and Frank Smith. 22 Seafarers LOG July 2008 �49311_p01_24:9311p0 6/27/2008 11:13 AM Page 23 Paul Hall Center Classes STCW (Hawaii) – The students shown in the top left photo recently completed this course at the Seafarers Training Center at Barber’s Point, Hawaii. Graduating from the class (in alphabetical order) were Oscar Awa, Phillip Barretto, Guillermo Tluzek, Sharitta Givens, Mary Galdwell, Tony Hayes, Darrel Nelson, Leslie Parks, Erin Peacy, Nathan Penoyer, Whitney Pyles, Shane Riley, Neyshalee Pomales, Berny Travilla, Jose Torres, Brett Wisniewski and Krista Young. STCW (Hawaii) – The following students (above right, in no particular order) on May 19 completed this course at the Seafarers Training Center in Hawaii: Jorge Arais, Jane Birkinbine, Alaina Brown, Andrew Drummond, Morgan Erickson-Davis, Wendell Fugate, Daniel Huang, Peter Kraska, James Lobdell, Shea Miller, Jeffrey Orchard, John Putegnat, Francis Smith and Joseph Sullivan STCW (Hawaii) – Eight students recently completed the STCW course at the Barbers Point, Hawaiibased Seafarers Training Center. Completing the course (photo at left, in no particular order) were Laura McFadden, Adam Landis, Kathleen Warwick, Molly Ulka, Ashlee Thelen, Lauren Borkowski, Samantha Webster and Jeremy Denton. Radar (G&H Towing) – Three G&H Towing Boatmen on May 23 completed this course. Those graduating (above, starting second from left) were Michael Shanks, Terry Hale and Bryan Albrecht. The class instructor, Stacey Harris, is at left. FOWT – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) on May 16 completed this course: Ben Anderson, Glen Arnold, Gavin Benckert, Christopher Carrier, Ortiz Castillio, Brandon Fields, Thomas Jones, Damien Lae, Jesse Lewis, James McEntire, Robert Puckett, Cornelius Smith, John Szeibert, David Turley, Jason Young and Frank Zoumakpe. Their instructor, Tim Achorn, is third from right. STCW – The following upgraders (above, from left to right) on May 16 completed this course: Kirk Moffett, Seddik Ali, Jeff Van Slanbrock, Ali Sailar, Avis Hawkins and Carl Robinson. Also completing the course, but not pictured were William Grow and Mustafa Malik. Important Notice Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover—for whatever reason—that they cannot attend should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. July 2008 Water Survival - Nine upgraders completed this course May 23. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Desmond Baptiste, Shanita Daniel, Raphael Dewberry, Curtrina Duck, Anthony Kpodovia, Wilfredo Lansangan, Sandy Santiago, Christopher Sikes and Karen Suzuki. Bernabe Pelingon, their instructor, is standing far right. Seafarers LOG 23 �49311_p01_24X:9311p0 6/30/2008 2:19 PM Page 24 Volume 70, Number 7 July 2008 Mariners Need TWIC by April 15, 2009 - Page 10 With the Fourth Arm of Defense in Norfolk The photos on this page recently were submitted by personnel from the SIU hall in Norfolk, Va. The pictures include SIU members aboard the USNS Gordon. The Gordon is a government-owned large, medium-speed, roll-on/roll-off ship, abbreviated as LMSR. The ship is operated by SIU-contracted Interocean American Shipping Co. and is named after Army Master Sergeant Gary Gordon who received the Medal of Honor posthumously. He died in service in Mogadishu, Somalia, in 1993. The Gordon was activated in early May in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. JE Hashiem Pittman QMED Antoine Rainey Wiper Ruden Perez, QMED Edward Galbis, SA Eduardo Merigliano SA Nina Phelps (left), Chief Cook Martha Williams Recertified Steward Rod Bright (left) and SA Eduardo Merigliano AB Tim Kacer AB Augustin Manzo-Sandoval, Recertified Steward Rod Bright OS Jonathon Walker, 3rd Mate Adena Kenny, Chief Mate Al White Pictured from left to right, ACU Dave Parker, SA John Canson, Chief Cook “Fats” Belcher, AB Lou Colbert and SA Bebe Eason fire up the grills. Among those enjoying a recent cookout at the Norfolk hall were SIU VP Government Services Kermett Mangram (third from right, holding water bottle), SIU Government Services Division Representative Maurice Cokes (standing third from left) and Seafarers Wiper Rick Langley, AB Mike Warren, ACU Dave Parker, AB Elmo Davis, AB Laurentis Colbert, AB Bennie Spencer and Chief Cook William Belcher. Clockwise from lower left, Bosun Marc Marcus prepares to position cargo aboard the USNS Gordon using a forklift while AB Pete Hokenson and Recertified Steward Rod Bright take a short break on the vessel’s deck. Chief Storekeeper Renee Clayton discusses stores delivery issues with “Joe the truck driver” while Oiler Carmelo Collazo, AB Mike Sykes and QMED Emilio Ordaniel receive their full SIU books during a membership meeting. Once each of the crew members had completed their duties and each assigned task successfully had been accomplished, the large, medium-speed, roll-on/roll-off Gordon takes to the open seas. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2000-2009 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXII-LXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present, Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource July 2008 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES SEAFARERS’ SAFETY TRAINING PROVES VITAL IN CHEMICAL TRADER EMERGENCY INCIDENT NASSCO DELIVERS USNS PEARY TO MSC ALAKAI JOINS SIU-CONTRACTED FLEET NEGOTIATING TEAMS SECURE GOOD CONTRACTS IN ‘TOUGH TIMES’ REPORT OUTLINES STEPS TO BOOST U.S.-FLAG FLEET ITF INSPECTORS HONE STRATEGIES FOR ADVANCING MARINERS’ RIGHTS SIU-CREWED SODERMAN ASSISTS IN MILITARY EXERCISE CIVMARS TOW DECOMMISSIONED SUBMARINE ACE APPROVES PAUL HALL CENTER COURSES CHAMBER OF SHIPPING HONORS SIU-CONTRACTED COMPANIES RETIRED SEAFARER FOLEY’S BOOK ILLUSTRATES PLIGHT OF LIGHTHOUSES REP. THOMPSON DISPLEASED WITH TWIC DELAYS SIU MAERSK CREWS COMPLETE SAFETY ‘BOOT CAMP’ AT SIU-AFFILIATED SCHOOL SIU ELECTRICIAN EARNS SAFETY KUDOS ABOARD MAERSK-OPERATED POMEROY USS ANNOUNCES 2008 AOTOS HONOREES NATIONAL MARITIME DAY CEREMONIES REFLECT U.S. MERCANT MARINE’S ONGOING IMPORTANCE VINTAGE LIBERTY SHIP PLOTS ITS FINAL COURSE FOR GREECE WORLD WAR II-ERA VESSEL ARTHUR M. HUDDELL COULD BE DESTINED TO BECOME MUSEUM Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 07/01/2008 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 70, No. 7 2008 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/a7508c77c58349fea266e72b32cf3a3c.PDF 1764e6a4cc248f990f4c0bebbc5ed48f PDF Text Text 54775_P01_24:January 08 6/25/2009 7:09 PM Page 1 Volume 71, Number 7 July 2009 Maersk Completes Fleet Upgrade Newer Vessels Reflag U.S., Enroll in Maritime Security Program SIU-contracted Maersk Line, Limited recently announced it has completed a project which saw the company reflag nine ships under the Stars and Stripes. According to Maersk, the effort involved an investment of nearly $400 million. The nine ships replace nine older vessels, and all of the newer ones are enrolled in the U.S. Maritime Security Program. Pictured directly above, the Maersk Kentucky is one of the newly reflagged ships; at left, the American flag is raised aboard the Maersk Utah; top photo, QMED Olson Thorne (left) and OMU Ruben Haynes report a “good and safe” voyage aboard the Maersk Wisconsin. Page 3. Seafarers-contracted Crowley Maritime Corporation on June 5 christened the tugboat Commitment (inset, left) and its accompanying barge, 650-6. Together, the new tonnage forms the sixth of 10 new 185,000-barrel ATBs that the company is scheduled to receive by the end of 2010. In the group photo, SIU members are joined by union officials and Crowley President and CEO Tom Crowley Jr. Page 3. Texas Tug Crews Ratify Contracts Crowley Maritime’s Commitment Displayed In More Ways Than One New State-of-Art ATB Joins Fleet By overwhelming margins, SIU boatmen from Moran Towing of Texas and Seabulk Towing, respectively, recently approved new three-year contracts that maintain benefits while increasing wages. Pictured above are some of the members of the union’s negotiating committee for the Moran contract (from left): Mate Glenn Dupree, Patrolman Mike Russo, Chief Engineer Cliff Champagne and AB Paul Paszkiewicz. Page 4. Union Endorses Rich Trumka Page 2 Great Lakes Photos Galore Pages 12, 13, 24 �54775_P01_24:January 08 6/25/2009 8:05 PM Page 2 President’s Repor t Health Care, Front and Center As the first days of summer arrived, much of the country’s attention was focused on health care and how our current system might change. That was definitely the case in the nation’s capital, where new health care legislation had been introduced late last month, and where several different plans still are being debated. Additionally, at press time, Seafarers were scheduled to participate in a massive Capitol Hill rally for health care reform. Although it has been a long time since I’ve written about the out-of-control costs of health care, those expenses are a big part of a problem that hasn’t gone away. In fact, it has become worse – reaching the point where the question no longer is whether the country needs reform, but rather, what’s the best new approach? Obviously it’s a very complicated issue. But some basic facts put a spotlight on just how severe and far-reaching the problem is. Michael Sacco The other day, I heard a news report that projected a nine percent cost increase this year for employer health insurance premiums. That would be on top of a five percent increase that happened in 2008 – and that’s actually a slowdown, if you can believe it. With this topic, there is always a danger of getting lost in too many statistics. I think there are a few numbers that really have to be considered in order to understand the problem, though. For one, going back over the last 10 years, job-based health insurance premiums have increased by 120 percent. No, that’s not a typo. But it is four times greater than overall wage growth in that same stretch, and it’s almost three times greater than inflation. Not surprisingly, companies can’t afford to bear all of those increases. Some of the costs get passed on to workers, as anyone who has served on a contract negotiating committee will tell you. We remain fortunate in the SIU, in that our members don’t have to pay just to maintain their coverage. But the vast majority of Americans with health insurance do have to pay at least part of their employer-sponsored premiums, and for those people, their costs have more than doubled since the start of this decade. Nationwide, on average, the same holds true for individual out-of-pocket costs for deductibles, co-payments for medications, and co-insurance for office and hospital visits. Again, within the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan we have been fortunate compared to many others, but it has required serious choices and sacrifices to maintain our coverage. Like I said, that’s just the tip of the iceberg, but those figures alone help explain many related problems. The latest studies and media reports say that health care costs often are a factor in personal bankruptcies. Roughly one of every four people struggles to pay for health care. Tens of millions remain without any health coverage or are underinsured. Then there are those who keep their coverage up-to-date, follow the rules – and get dropped anyway. This issue came to light last month at congressional hearings which followed a government investigation. Turns out some insurers have dropped thousands and thousands of people from their policies simply because those individuals had the nerve to actually get sick. The companies made excuses, but it was obvious they had cancelled certain policies in order to avoid paying for expensive treatments. With all of those factors in mind, it is good to see the subject of health care getting the attention it needs. And it is good to see President Obama identifying the health care crisis as something that must be addressed now. For our part, the SIU’s goals remain the same as those of the labor movement as a whole where health care is concerned. Our nation must control rising and unreasonable costs. We must ensure that quality health care is available to all. We must give every family the opportunity for preventive care. We must fight to make certain that employersponsored health care isn’t taxed. Not to be overlooked is the fact that organized labor wants to preserve the right to choose one’s own doctor. People on talk radio and elsewhere have tried to scare the public into believing otherwise, just as they’ve painted reform as automatically meaning the U.S. would adopt the worst health care problems faced in other nations. That’s nonsense. We want to build on what is best about American health care while drawing from what works best in other countries. In short, we want more fairness, efficiency and affordability. How we get there has yet to be determined, but for the sake of working families all across the land, we’d better get there soon. Volume 71, Number 7 SIU Endorses Trumka For AFL-CIO President The SIU last month announced its support for Richard L. Trumka in his bid to win election as president of the AFL-CIO. Trumka has served as secretary-treasurer of the federation since 1995. The next president of the AFL-CIO will be elected at the federation’s convention in Pittsburgh in September. John Sweeney, who has held that post since 1995, has announced he plans to retire. SIU President Michael Sacco, a member of the AFL-CIO executive council, has worked with Trumka for more than 30 years. “Rich is the right man for the job,” Sacco stated. “He’s got big shoes to fill, because John Sweeney has done fantastic work for our movement, but Rich is up to the task. I really believe he will do a great job leading the labor movement.” Sacco noted Trumka’s effectiveness during last year’s presidential campaign, when the former United Mine Workers president carried a powerful pro-worker message across the nation. Trumka’s outreach to working families gained prominence through an internet video, where his no-nonsense, dynamic speaking style and compelling ideas appealed to broad audiences. “But that’s the same Rich Trumka we in the labor movement have known for decades,” Sacco added. “Rich has always been a great advocate for workers. He is one of the most accessible, hardest-working people I’ve ever known, and his record of accomplishment is second-to-none when it comes to advancing workers’ rights. Whether it’s job safety or retirement security or employee-employer communications or any SIU President Michael Sacco (right) and AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Rich Trumka are pictured at Maritime Trades Department meetings early last year. Trumka has supported maritime labor for many years. other issue, Rich is always pushing for fair treatment and equitable gains. “The SIU is proud to support him, just as he has supported us over the years.” A third-generation coal miner, Trumka came up through the ranks of the UMWA. He started working in the mines at age 19. Years later, after finishing law school and returning to work for the union at the local and district levels, he was elected UMWA president in 1982. He led the Mine Workers through difficult strikes which preserved the membership’s strength and livelihoods. Vice Adm. Harnitchek Appointed TRANSCOM Deputy Commander Vice Admiral Mark D. Harnitchek recently was appointed as the deputy commander of the United States Transportation Command (TRANSCOM), Scott Air Force Base, Ill. Vice Admiral Harnitchek replaces longtime SIU friend Vice Admiral Ann Rondeau. Vice Admiral Harnitchek will serve as a principal advisor and assistant to the commander of TRANSCOM, General Duncan McNabb. TRANSCOM is the single manager for global air, land and sea transportation for the Department of Defense. One of the agencies it oversees is the U.S. Military Sealift Command. Vice Admiral Harnitchek, a native of Philadelphia, received a bachelor of arts degree from Penn State University in 1977 and was commissioned an ensign in the Navy through the ROTC Program. In 1987, he earned a master’s degree in management from the Naval Postgraduate School, Monterey, Calif. He has served in a variety of sea tours including aboard two submarines, the USS Will Rogers and USS Buffalo; two surface ships, the USS Holland and USS Proteus; and the aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt. On shore, his tours include commander Task Force 74 in Yokosuka Japan, Navy Ships Parts Control Center, commanding officer Naval Inventory Control Point, Naval Air Station Oceana, and the chief of naval operations staff. Vice Adm. Harnitchek most recently served as TRANSCOM’s director of strategy, policy, programs and logistics. He also served as the United States Central Command Deployment and Distribution director in Operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom from June 2007 to January 2008. July 2009 The SIU on line: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, AFLCIO; 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; Associate Editor, Mark Bowman; Photographer, Mike Hickey; Art, Bill Brower; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2009 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD. All Rights Reserved. 2 Seafarers LOG Vice Admiral Mark D. Harnitchek is the new deputy commander of the U.S. Transportation Command. Past Deputy Commander of TRANSCOM Vice Admiral Ann Rondeau visited the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Education and Training. July 2009 �54775_P01_24:January 08 6/25/2009 7:36 PM Page 3 The Sealand Mercury (above) and the Maersk Idaho (right) signify newer tonnage for the Seafarers-contracted fleet. Both ships are enrolled in the U.S. Maritime Security Program. Maersk Line Completes Flag-In of 9 Ships SIU-contracted Maersk Line, Limited (MLL) last month announced that the company has completed a “recapitalization” of its U.S.-flag container fleet. The effort involved an investment of nearly $400 million for the purchase and reflagging of nine ships into the U.S. registry. Announcing the milestone on June 1, the company noted, “In keeping with its commitment to provide world-class U.S.-flag transportation services, MLL’s recapitalization plan called for the company to remove nine older, smaller ships from its U.S. fleet and replace them with larger, faster and more modern U.S.-flag tonnage. All nine of the reflagged ships are enrolled in the U.S. Maritime Security Program.” “This additional capacity and capability, paired with the optimization and expansion of our U.S.-flag network, will enable us to provide even more reliable, timely and flexible service to our government customers,” said Bill Kenwell, MLL’s chief commercial officer. The SIU-contracted ships joining MLL’s fleet include the Maersk Kentucky, Maersk Idaho, Maersk Utah, Maersk Wisconsin, Maersk Wyoming, Sealand Champion, Sealand Eagle, Sealand Mercury and Sealand Racer. According to the company, these ships feature an average capacity of more than 4,000 TEU and an average age of just 10 years, while the nine ships they replace had an average capacity of 3,400 TEU and an average age of 23 years. “The newer tonnage is good news for the SIU and good news for America’s national and economic security,” stated SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker. “Maersk deserves credit and recognition for its ongoing, solid commitment to the American-flag fleet and to the U.S. Merchant Marine.” MLL’s Technical Organization and its Maritime Technical Services business unit, which develops and applies advanced operating, maintenance and lifecycle strategies for maritime customers, are managing the sale and recycling of the nine older U.S.-flag ships. “Moving a total of 18 vessels into and out of the U.S. fleet is a complex challenge,” said Bob Bowers, MLL’s senior director of maritime technical services, “but our close working relationship with the U.S. Coast Guard, the class societies and other regulatory agencies allows us to keep the project on schedule and minimize downtime for the ships.” Ships being removed from MLL’s U.S.-flag fleet include the Maersk Arizona, Sealand Achiever, Sealand Atlantic, Sealand Commitment, Sealand Florida, Sealand Motivator, Sealand Performance, Sealand Pride and Sealand Quality. All ships selected for recycling will be recycled using environmentally sound practices. In addition, the size and efficiency of the newer ships will result in reduced fuel consumption and emissions, both of which are key components of the Maersk environmental strategy. The deck gang on the Maersk Wisconsin includes (from left) AB Sherman Hudson, AB Bill Baker and AB Ferdinand Viniegra Capably manning the galley aboard the Maersk Wisconsin are (from left) SA Ariel Lopez, Recertified Steward Edward Porter and Chief Cook Ali Hydera Pictured from left to right aboard the Sealand Mercury are AB Aubrey Davis, DEU John Cooper and UA Jeremy Farlow. Union-Contracted Crowley Maritime Christens ATB Seafarers-contracted Crowley Maritime Corporation on June 5 christened the sixth of 10 new 185,000-barrel articulated tug-barge (ATB) tank vessels that the compa- ny will take delivery of by the end of 2010. Seafarers and SIU officials attended the ceremony, which took place in Long Beach, Calif. Paula The new tug Commitment (left) and barge 650-6 (right) are part of a large fleet of new Crowley ATBs. July 2009 Taylor, wife of Bill Taylor, Crowley vice president, bulk petroleum and chemical transportation, christened the 9,280 HP-tug Commitment, while Brenda Lawrence, wife of Bill Lawrence, chartering specialist for BP Shipping USA, christened barge 650-6. SIU officials in attendance included Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, Vice President West Coast Nick Marrone and Wilmington, Calif., Port Agent Jeff Turkus. The company pointed out that, as of the christening date, Crowley’s existing Seafarers-crewed ATB fleet had carried approximately 193,432,788 barrels without a spill. The new vessels were designed and built by Crowley’s technical services group at VT Halter Marine and are being operated by Crowley’s petroleum services group. Crowley already has nine ATBs in operation and has Enjoying the ceremony are (from left) Paula Taylor, Crowley President and CEO Tom Crowley Jr. and Brenda Lawrence. announced plans to build three larger 750-series (330,000-barrel capacity) ATBs for delivery by the middle of 2012. Once all vessels are received, the fleet will stand at 17, according to the company. Seafarers LOG 3 �54775_P01_24:January 08 6/25/2009 7:15 PM Page 4 Texas Boatmen Approve Two Contracts It wasn’t easy, but SIU boatmen from Moran Towing of Texas and Seabulk Towing, respectively, recently secured new three-year contracts that maintain benefits while boosting wages. The agreements are separate, but they also are nearly identical. Both are retroactive to June 1. For the Seabulk agreement, which covers more than 70 SIU members, voting took place in Port Arthur and Beaumont, Texas, and in Lake Charles, La. Nearly 90 percent of the votes were cast in favor of the contract. Voting on the Moran contract took place in Port Arthur, where approximately 94 percent Patrolman Mike Russo (left) and Captain Chad LaGrappe helped secure a new three-year contract, as did the other bargaining committee members. of the votes were affirmative. SIU Assistant Vice President Jim McGee and Patrolman Mike Russo served on both negotiating committees. In the Moran negotiations, they were joined by rank-and-file delegates Chief Engineer Cliff Champagne, Mate Glenn Dupree and AB Paul Paszkiewicz. For the Seabulk negotiations, delegates Chief Engineer Michael Hoffpauir, AB Dewayne Guillory, Mate Donald Nutt and Captain Chad LaGrappe rounded out the SIU group. Both companies are based in Port Arthur. They offer harbor-docking services. McGee said the negotiations were “long and arduous, but the delegates stood fast and we came out okay. I give our delegates a lot of credit. They did a great job.” The rank-and-file delegates from both committees offered a largely uniform view of the outcomes. They said that while it is human nature to always want a little bit more, they also understand today’s difficult economic climate. Especially in that light, the contracts are solid achievements, they noted. Both agreements call for wage increases in two of the three years. They maintain top-ofthe-line medical coverage through the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, and they continue participation in the Seafarers Pension Plan. “I think it went well,” said Champagne. “It’s so hard these days with the economy the way it is, to push these companies too much. The big picture is we got a three-year contract and kept our benefits and our pension. I think we did well. Your benefits – all that stuff costs Retired Seafarers Dave Wright (left) and Richard Dobbyn stand next to the new U.S. Merchant Marine monument located at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery. money. You have to give and take.” Champagne specifically pointed to the constantly escalating cost of health care as “really making it difficult to negotiate much of a wage increase. I’m sure everybody’s having the same trouble.” Indeed, officials and members from many different unions across the nation in recent years have unequivocally said health care routinely is the top issue in contract negotiations. That is one reason why organized labor is pushing for good, affordable health care for all citizens. Dupree said the negotiations went “pretty good, I thought. The contract is okay by me, and everybody seems fine with it.” Paszkiewicz mentioned that the committee regularly kept in touch with fellow members to update them on the negotiations. “We’re satisfied,” he stated. “We kept our pension and our health and benefits plans. The company wanted to take that away from us but we really wanted to stay with it.” Paszkiewicz said that he previously has served on bargaining committees, and the most recent negotiations reflected tough times. He added that he appreciated the support from the SIU: “Being in the union, you’ve got somebody to back you.” Speaking about the Seabulk contract, LaGrappe said, “I think most people were expecting a little more, but at the same time, we did get a couple of raises. We understand the situation. In the company’s eyes, the uncertainty of the economy is what they focused on. We’re glad we’re not getting a pay cut and we still have jobs.” SIU delegates on the Seabulk negotiating committee included Mike Hoffpauir (left) and Dewayne Guillory. This was LaGrappe’s first time serving on a negotiating committee. “It was good to see what it’s all about and what it’s like on the other side,” he noted. “It opens your eyes to a lot of things – it did mine, anyway. I enjoyed it and I thought it was a good experience.” Hoffpauir stated, “Overall, it could have been better but it could have been a lot worse, too. It’s hard to please everyone, but everybody understands that in today’s economy, a lot of other people are out of work. We’re not laying up any boats and we still have jobs. The wage increase – that’s a plus right there.” Among those pictured near the American Merchant Marine Veterans Memorial in San Pedro, Calif., are active and retired Seafarers and officials George Siegel, Ron Johnson, Rick Bernhardt, Jason Stutes, Jeff Turkus, Bob Flesey, Mary Lou Lopez and Jesse Solis. Seafarers Help Honor Mariners, Other Veterans Across Nation Active and retired Seafarers and SIU officials across the country recently helped honor veterans, including U.S. Merchant Mariners who sailed in World War II. In addition to participating in the traditional National Maritime Day ceremonies in the nation’s capital (reported SIU Guam Port Agent John Hoskins (third from left in photo above and far right in photo below) represents the union at a National Maritime Day ceremony aboard a U.S. Coast Guard vessel. Also pictured are (from left) USN Commander Delbert Yordy, United Seamen’s Service Center Director John Nelson and USN Captain Michael Uva. Wearing a U.S. Merchant Marine cap, SIU member Todd Curry (front) participates in a Memorial Day observance in Alton, Ill. 4 Seafarers LOG in the June edition), SIU contingents turned out for National Maritime Day and Memorial Day events, respectively, in places including San Pedro, Calif.; Alton, Ill.; Boscowen, N.H.; and Guam. The Guam ceremony took place May 22 (National Maritime Day) aboard the U.S. Coast Guard cutter Washington. SIU Port Agent John Hoskins represented the union and participated in a ceremonial wreath-laying. Members, retirees and officials also were on hand May 22 in San Pedro for the annual ceremony and luncheon hosted at the American Merchant Marine Veterans Memorial. SIU crew members from the nearby Cape Inscription and Cape Isabel were among the attendees, as was SIU Wilmington, Calif. Port Agent Jeff Turkus. U.S. Rep. Dana Rohrabacher (R-Calif.) was a featured speaker. Eight days later, retirees Richard Dobbyn and Dave Wright attended the U.S. Merchant Marine monument dedication at the New Hampshire State Veterans Cemetery in Boscowen. The dedication was followed another cere- mony for Memorial Day which drew more than 4,000 people, including New Hampshire Governor John Lynch, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), U.S. Rep. Paul Hodes (D-N.H.) and U.S. Rep. Carol Shea-Porter (D-N.H.). Dobbyn, who sailed as a recertified bosun, said both ceremonies were “really something nice. At the monument dedication, a couple of U.S. Merchant Marine veterans from World War II described the Murmansk Run and spoke about how they weren’t officially considered veterans for a long time. One of the speakers from the military said we couldn’t have won the war without the merchant marine.” In Illinois, Assistant Cook/Utility Todd M. Curry participated in a Memorial Day remembrance at the Alton National Cemetery. “We must never forget those who have gone before us, or those who have made the ultimate sacrifice,” Curry noted. “May God grace us with the wisdom, strength and knowledge to continue answering freedom’s cry when this nation calls upon us.” July 2009 �54775_P01_24:January 08 6/25/2009 7:16 PM Page 5 Study Finds U.S. Employers Becoming More Aggressive to Keep Out Unions Threats, intimidation and stall tactics increasingly are being used by employers to thwart the will of workers who simply want a better way of life, says a study called “No Holds Barred, The Intensification of Employers’ Opposition to Organizing.” The study, completed by American Rights at Work, the Economic Policy Institute and noted analyst Kate Bronfenbrenner, is an examination of National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) campaigns and surveys from 1999 to 2003. The study shows private-sector employer opposition to workers seeking their legal right to union representation has intensified. Compared to the 1990s, employers are more than twice as likely to use 10 or more tactics in their anti-union campaigns, with a greater focus on more coercive and punitive tactics designed to intensely monitor and punish union activity. It has become standard practice for workers to be subjected by corporations to threats, interrogation, harassment, surveillance, and retaliation for supporting a union. The analysis shows that: ■ 63 percent of employers interrogate workers in mandatory one-on-one meetings with their supervisors about support for the union; ■ 54 percent of employers threaten workers in such meetings; ■ 57 percent of employers threaten to close the worksite; ■ 47 percent of employers threaten to cut wages and benefits; and ■ 34 percent of employers fire workers. Employers have increased their use of more punitive tactics such as plant closing threats and actual plant closings, discharges, harassment, disciplinary actions, surveillance, and alteration of benefits and conditions. According to the AFL-CIO, the national federation of trade unions (to which the SIU is affiliated), employers routinely go to extremes to obstruct and ultimately derail workers’ rights to make free and fair decisions on joining or forming unions. Although labor law prohibits such tactics, the government often has been unwilling to step in and protect workers’ basic rights in the workplace. As a result, the federation contends, working families are paying a huge price for this interference, because unions play an essential role in society, and the rights of workers to organize them are crucial. Union representation is a vehicle to help earn a decent wage, encourage profit sharing between owners and workers, provide health care and pension benefits for families, improve health and safety in the workplace, advocate economic and social policies that support all workers, and offer workers a role in workplace decisions. Recent polls show that as many as 60 million workers would be willing to join a union, but most believe that current laws and workplace situations are stacked against them. That is why union members and others across the country are working with Democratic and Republican members of Congress to pass the Employee Free Choice Act. The Employee Free Choice Act has three major provisions: First, it calls for certification of a union as the bargaining unit if the NLRB finds that a majority of employees in an appropriate unit have signed authorizations designating the union to be their representative. Basically, the act would make majority sign-up or card-check organizing campaigns the law of the land. Second, it would put and end to delaying tactics to prevent negotiations for a first contract that have been used by many businesses to the detriment of workers. Instead, the measure would allow either party involved in the talks to reach out to the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS) after 90 days. If the FMCS cannot resolve the dispute within 30 days, it may be referred to arbitration whose results would be binding for two years. Third, just as the NLRB must seek a federal court injunction against unions whenever there is a reasonable cause to believe that the unions have violated secondary boycott provisions, the legislation would call upon the NLRB to do the same if there is reasonable cause against an employer who has discharged or discriminated against workers or engaged in action that interferes with employee rights to organize or negotiate a first contract. The act also provides penalties. The AFL-CIO states that there’s little doubt in the labor community that the Employee Free Choice Act will help fix the flawed process through which workers currently form unions. This important legislation would make sure workers have a fair chance to exercise their democratic right to choose a union. If Congress passes the measure, stronger enforcements instantly would be in place to deter violations of labor law and help workers reach contracts quickly and fairly. St. Louis Port Council Hosts Annual Event Three individuals were honored by the Maritime Trades Department’s St. Louis Port Council on June 6, during the organization’s annual dinner-dance. This year’s honorees were Lewis E. Reed, president, St. Louis Board of Aldermen; Vincent Todt, business manager for Elevator Constructors Local 3; and Michael S. Kelley, founder of The Kelley Group, a communications company. Pictured in the group photo (from left) are Port Council President Dick Mantia, SIU St. Louis Port Agent and Port Council Secretary-Treasurer Becky Sleeper, Kelley, Todt, Reed, Port Council VP Jack Martorelli and SIU President Michael Sacco. In the other photo, Sacco introduces Reed. July 2009 Keystone’s Kurz, NOL’s Widdows Selected as 2009 AOTOS Recipients ` The United Seamen’s Service (USS) last month announced the honorees for the organization’s 40th annual Admiral of the Ocean Sea Awards (AOTOS), to be presented later this year in New York. This year’s recipients are Donald Kurz, president and CEO of SIU-contracted Keystone Shipping Co., headquartered in Philadelphia, and Ronald Widdows, group president and CEO of NOL (Neptune Orient Lines) of Singapore, parent company of Seafarers-contracted American President Lines (APL). A Special AOTOS Award also will be presented to the United States Coast Guard. The event is scheduled to take place Nov. 13 in New York City. Richard Hughes, chairman of the USS AOTOS Committee and president of the International Longshoremen’s Association, made the announcement June 22 on the occasion of the USS Annual meeting. “The Keystone Shipping portfolio has one of the largest fleets under the U. S. flag and we are fortunate to honor Donald Kurz and his maritime-committed family for their roles in America’s commercial shipping legacy,” said Hughes. “At the same time, Ron Widdows has been instrumental in innovative programs at APL that have allowed the company to grow and prosper in highly competitive trade lanes.” Hughes added, “It is also our honor to present a muchdeserved AOTOS to the Coast Guard, whose diligence to duty and incredible role in these times of uncertainty, terror and ongoing search, rescue and recovery missions. With a manpower force smaller than the New York police department, their significant roles worldwide is daunting and compelling.” All proceeds from the AOTOS event benefit USS community services abroad for the U.S. Merchant Marine and those of other free world countries. The recipients will share the evening with a group of American mariners who will be honored for specific acts of bravery at sea, including the crews of both the Maersk Alabama and Liberty Sun for their actions in the face of piracy at sea. Kurz began his maritime career as a tanker broker in London in 1973. Since he joined Keystone in 1974, the company has transformed from a traditional tanker owner/operator to the operator of the diversified fleet portfolio that exists today. Under Kurz’s leadership, Keystone established a major presence in the liquid and dry bulk storage and pipeline business in the Port of Los Angeles. Together with partners British Petroleum and OSG, Kurz helped to create the Alaska Tanker Company, and he has led the diversification of Keystone’s operating fleet. Keystone Shipping and the Kurz Group of Companies have participated in U.S. maritime transportation services for more than 100 years, when its founder, Charles Kurz, began working in the ship agency business and with the transportation and storage of salt. Today, Keystone operates six fleets of vessels, including tankers, dry bulk carriers, tug barges, roll-on/roll-off and special purpose military vessels. Kurz is the recipient of more than a dozen awards involving shipping and various philanthropic endeavors. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Franklin & Marshall College and a Master of Business in Finance from New York University. Widdows joined the NOL Board in July 2008 upon being appointed group president and chief executive officer. Since 2003 he has been the CEO of NOL’s container shipping business, APL. Prior to that, he was executive vice president, Global Operations and Network, where he was responsible for APL’s day-to-day operations including the line-haul and feeder fleets, global equipment management, procurement, terminals and alliance relationships. He has tracked the container shipping industry from port-toport services to today’s end-to-end supply chain management. His innovative style has led to the introduction of liner trains and “stack train” services, post-Panamax ships and leadership in the evolution of carrier alliances that have created worldwide service networks. He has also been a leading voice on public policy issues and an advocate on the importance of improved transportation infrastructure. Widdows has worked in the shipping industry for more than four decades and joined APL in 1980. He has held senior executive roles in Asia, the United States and Canada. Widdows is chairman of the World Shipping Council and of the Transpacific Stabilization Agreement and Westbound Transpacific Stabilization Agreement research and discussion groups. He is on the advisory boards of the International Transport Forum and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. Hughes noted, “The U.S. Coast Guard’s mission is to protect the public, the environment, and U.S. economic interests — in the nation’s ports and waterways, along the coast, on international waters, or in any maritime region as required to support national security. No small part of this is their commitment to placing their own lives at risk while endeavoring to save the lives of others is distressful situations at sea. Truly an arm of U.S. Defense, this special AOTOS recognizes their thousands of successful missions.” For AOTOS 2009, Michael Sacco, president of the Seafarers International Union, is dinner chairman. Tony Naccarato of Crowley Maritime Corporation and Samuel B. Nemirow will be serving as national committee co-chairmen. Other committee members and chairmanships will be announced shortly. The USS continues to provide community services for the U.S. Merchant Marine, the American Armed Forces, and seafarers of the world. A non-profit agency established in 1942, the USS operates centers in eight foreign ports in Europe, Asia, and Africa and in the Indian Ocean. Seafarers LOG 5 �54775_p1_24x2:January 08 6/29/2009 6:10 AM Page 6 Maersk Missouri Rescues Yachtsman When Italian yachtsmen Gianfranco Tortolani’s boat, the S/V Citta di Salerno, capsized and its mast broke June 21 off the coast of Nova Scotia, the crew of the Seafarerscontracted containership Maersk Missouri swung into action to rescue him. The yacht’s pilot was alone on his boat, participating in a transatlantic race from Portsmouth, England to Rhode Island when he called in an SOS via satellite phone that was relayed to the Joint Rescue Coordination Center in Halifax, Nova Scotia. In turn, the rescue coordination center contacted an affiliated unit in Norfolk, Va., requesting assistance because rescue planes and helicopters couldn’t get to the stranded pilot due to high winds and low visibility. Responding to the distress call, the Missouri, which was headed for Newark, N.J., turned around and steamed 130 miles to a point approximately 160 miles south of Sable Island, Nova Scotia, where the rescue took place. On rolling seas, the Missouri crew rescued the pilot using life rings and brought him safely aboard. John M. Coleman, master of the Maersk Missouri, described the crew’s efforts as “true heroism at sea.” Involved in the rescue were (left to right) CM Mark Rhodes, rescued mariner Gianfranco Tortolani, SIU member AB Nabassin Adedouawongobou and 2E Mark Jones. The capsized S/V Citta di Salerno (photo at left) drifts in the waters off of Nova Scotia. In the photo above, Yachtsman Gianfranco Tortolani was plucked from the sea by Maersk Missouri crewmembers. Road Sign Memorializes Joseph Sacco Paul Hall Center Course Spotlight The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, based in Piney Point, Md., offers a wide variety of vocational and academic courses. Classes are available to upgraders and entrylevel students. The following is a brief description of a course offered at the school, which opened in 1967. Turn to page 21 for a list of upcoming course dates. Additional course descriptions were published in the January 2009 edition of the Seafarers LOG; they also are available on the web at www.seafarers.org/phc The road leading to the union-affiliated fire fighting and safety school in Piney Point, Md., finally has a name, as shown in photos above and below. Recently, after securing the appropriate permissions from the local government, school personnel posted the new “Joey’s Way” sign on the road leading to the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School, which is part of the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. Both the safety school and the road are named in memory of Joseph Sacco, who passed away in 1996. Affectionately known as Joey, he came up through the ranks and was serving as the union’s executive vice president at the time of his death. The road leading to the safety school had been, in essence, an unnamed farm road. Pictured from left to right in the photo above are instructor Bobby Dean, SIU President Michael Sacco, Paul Hall Center VP Don Nolan and Paul Hall Center Safety Director Jim Hanson. Below, Hanson puts the finishing touches on posting the street sign. Machinist This is a 102-hour class. Upon successful completion of the course, which is part of the pumpman program, the student will have the practical skills and the knowledge to be certified as a machinist with the qualified member of the engine department (QMED) certification by being able to read blueprints, operate and maintain a lathe, use a grinding wheel, select drill sizes and series, and conduct metal fabrication in a work-safe machine ship environments. Major topics in this course include the fundamentals of metallurgy, machine shop safety, linear measurement and measurement instrumentation, machine thread fasteners, blueprint reading, basic repairs, sawing, grinding, drilling, basic lathe operations, and fabrications. Methods of instruction include classroom lectures, audio-visual materials, extensive machine shop practical exercises with assessments and proctored final examination and practical assessments. 6 Seafarers LOG July 2009 �54775_p1_24x2:January 08 6/29/2009 6:10 AM Page 7 SIU-Contracted Companies Honored for Rescues, Safety Numerous SIU-contracted companies were among those honored June 4 in Houston as the Chamber of Shipping of America (CSA) hosted its yearly safety awards luncheon. The CSA represents 33 U.S.-based companies that own, operate or charter oceangoing tankers, containerships, and other merchant vessels engaged in both the domestic and international trades. The association also represents other entities that maintain a commercial interest in the operation of such oceangoing vessels. As is its custom, the CSA presented Jones F. Devlin Awards to companies that have operated ships for at least two years without any lost-time injuries. Recipients included Alaska Tanker Company, American Roll-On Roll-Off Carrier, Crescent Towing, Crowley Petroleum Services, E.N. Bisso & Son, American Overseas Marine, Higman Barge Lines, Horizon Lines, Interocean American Shipping Corporation, Keystone Shipping Co., Maersk Line Limited, Moran Towing, Ocean Shipholdings, OSG Ship Management, Sea Star Line, Seabulk Tankers, Seabulk Towing, and Totem Ocean Trailer Express. Additionally, SIU-crewed vessels and Seafarers-contracted companies were recognized through the association’s Ship Safety Achievement Award program, which is part of the same event. Those awards are reserved for “outstanding feats of safety that contribute to saving a life, a ship or other property,” according to the CSA. This year, the “Highest Honors” went to the USNS Fred W. Stockham of the Military Sealift Command, operated by Keystone Shipping Co. The award was based on the crew’s “extraordinary courage and superior seamanship without regard to their personal safety in adverse weather conditions on June 21, 2008 when they successfully assisted with the rescue of 43 Manila passengers on the Princess of the Stars vessel when it capsized and sank off of Romblon Island in the Sibuyan Sea with great loss of life during the sudden onslaught of Typhoon Fengshen. Their actions exemplified the devotion to duty and skills inherent in the professional mariner,” the association reported. The M/V Courage of American RollOn Roll-Off Carrier received a citation of merit for the crew’s alertness and good seamanship in responding to a situation on June 8, 2008 when they were diverted by the U.S. Coast Guard to evacuate three people from the French racing sailboat SV Motus, located northwest of the Azores. “Their professional seafaring skills, excellent ship handling and attention to detail led to a successful rescue,” the CSA noted. The M/V Patriot (operated by American Roll-On Roll-Off Carrier), USNS Seay (operated by American Overseas Marine), M/V Presque Isle (operated by Keylakes, Inc.) and several other vessels were awarded letters of commendation. In opening remarks, Joseph J. Cox, CSA president, said, “CSA’s involvement in safety is longstanding. We continue to represent the industry, domestically and internationally, on safety issues encompassing every facet of ship operations. It is therefore only fitting that an industry so focused on safety, publicly recognizes the skills and dedication of the women and men who are responsible for actions in keeping with the highest traditions of the sea – aid to those in peril.” He pointed out that the association has sponsored safety awards since the mid1950s. He said that the number of awards presented this year reflects an “extraordinary record attributable to the professionalism of our seafarers and the dedication of shore-based company personnel to safe operation.” The new tanker is shown while under construction (photo at left) at NASSCO in November 2008. In photo above, the Pelican State in mid-May sailed on its sea trials. Tanker Pelican State Christened SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez (second from right) represented the union at the christening ceremony in San Diego. Also pictured are members of the SIUNA-affiliated American Maritime Officers, AMO Secretary-Treasurer José Leonard (left), AMO National Executive Board Member Danny Shea (right) and ship sponsor Carolyn Evans. The AMO members are Second Assistant Engineer Evan Dub, First A.E. Mike Mooney, Capt. Stephen Byrnes, Capt. Peter Whiting and Chief Mate Ben Story. The tanker’s christening party included (from left) Fred Harris, Carolyn Evans, Veronica Rojas, Ron O’Kelley and Kevin Mooney. July 2009 The Pelican State – the second in what has become a planned series of five new double-hulled tankers – recently was delivered by General Dynamics NASSCO following the vessel’s christening on May 30. A few days later, it was reported that SIU-contracted Crowley will operate all five ships: the Pelican State, sister ship Golden State and the remaining three tankers, all of which are under construction (Sunshine State, Empire State and Evergreen State). That announcement followed the dissolution of a partnership between U.S. Shipping Partners and the Blackstone Group. As noted last month in a communication to all SIU halls, U.S. Shipping will continue to operate the Chemical Pioneer along with two ITBs and two ATBs. The Pelican State (state nickname of Louisiana), like the other tankers in the series, is slightly longer than 600 feet and has a cargo capacity of 331,000 barrels. It will be used to transport petroleum and chemical products in the Jones Act trades (between U.S. ports). Construction of the vessel started at NASSCO, a union shipyard, in August 2007. SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez represented the union at the christening. “Completed more than eight months ahead of our original schedule, under budget, and in substantially fewer manhours than the lead ship of the class, the Pelican State reflects NASSCO’s high performance in product carrier construction,” said Fred Harris, president of General Dynamics NASSCO (and a former union mariner). “We look forward to obtaining additional shipbuilding production and cost efficiencies during the build-out of this ship class.” The Sunshine State is expected to be delivered later this year, while the Empire State and Evergreen State are slated for delivery in 2010. NASSCO, located in San Diego, also is building a series of dry cargo/ammunitions ships that are crewed by members of the SIU Government Services Division. Ship Sponsor Mrs. Carolyn Evans christens the Pelican State as NASSCO President Fred Harris looks on. Seafarers LOG 7 �54775_p1_24x:January 08 6/25/2009 11:23 PM AB John Barnard III (right) stands a cargo watch with a military stevedore. Page 8 Pictured from left to right are (standing) Unlicensed Apprentice Kevin Kelly, AB John Barnard III, GSU Yolanda Martinez, Unlicensed Apprentice Rosalind Sparrow, AB Steven Roquemore, AB Christopher Brady, AB Daryl Spicer, Recertified Steward Theodore Quammie, AB Sacarias Suazo, GUDE Oheneba-Francis Ackon, Recertified Bosun Elkanah Ladia, (kneeling) Chief Cook Alphonzo Berry and GUDE Vincent Turner. Alliance New York Mariners Honor Crew Member’s Milestone Seafarers and officers aboard Liberty Maritime’s Alliance New York recently took a few moments to honor a professional milestone reached by AB Christopher Brady. In a written message to the Seafarers LOG, Capt. Costas Balomenos, master of the vessel, noted that on May 6, Brady “hit the milestone of having enough years to retire. That doesn’t mean he wants to or will retire, but it probably is a nice feeling for him to know he could. A small ceremony was held on the bridge, where he was congratulated by his fellow SIU brothers and sisters along with the MEBA mates and engineers on board.” Brady, who ships out of the Philadelphia hall, first sailed with the SIU in 1969, aboard the Seatrain Louisiana. Balomenos added, “It really is good to have someone like AB Brady on board any time, but an honor that he reached this milestone while on the Alliance New York.” The captain also described the unlicensed mariners on the ship as “once again a hard-working, good group of SIU members. It will be nice for them to get some recognition.” During the recent voyage, the vessel was transporting U.S. military vehicles from the United Arab Emirates, to Jacksonville, Fla. Those vehicles had been utilized by American troops in Afghanistan. Military equipment being returned from Afghanistan through a port in the United Arab Emirates is loaded on board from a security compound built with containers. AB Sacarias Suazo (left in photo above) and GSU Yolanda Martinez enjoy a meal. In photo at right, Unlicensed Apprentice Rosalind Sparrow helps serve food to honor U.S. military personnel during a shipboard reception conducted in their honor. Retired Seafarer’s Daughter Wins Union Plus Scholarship Like so many other parents, retired SIU QMED James O’Meara of Chester, Md., scrambled to find education funding to send his daughter to college. While looking, O’Meara turned to his union roots and suggested to his daughter Margot she apply for an AFL-CIO Union Plus scholarship. The effort recently paid off with a $1,000 scholarship award. The program offers a total of $150,000 in scholarships annually to union members, their spouses and dependents and is sponsored by the 8 Seafarers LOG Union Plus Education Foundation, an arm of Union Privilege, which provides consumer benefits to members and retirees of participating unions. Active and retired SIU members and their families are eligible to apply. Margot takes her studies and future seriously. She is a member of the National Honor Society and, with the help from the scholarship, she plans to attend St. Mary’s College in St. Mary’s City, Md. She plans to major in political science and eventually to attend law school. She says she missed her father during his seafaring career, but he was always a good provider. She plans to spend a lot more time with him now that he’s retired. “I’m so thankful for what the union has done for my family and what Union Plus is doing for me,” Margot notes. “We really do take care of our own and I’m proud to be part of the union family.” For more information about the program, go to: www.UnionPlus.org/Scholarships. Union Plus scholarship recipient Margot O’Meara and her father retired SIU member James. July 2009 �54775_p1_24x:January 08 6/26/2009 1:24 AM Page 9 At Sea & Ashore With the SIU CHECKING IN FROM BLUE RIDGE – SA Lezlie Vehikite reports smooth sailing aboard the Blue Ridge, evidenced in part by these recent snapshots. ABOARD THE USNS MAJ. STEPHEN W. PLESS IN GUAM – SIU Guam Port Agent John Hoskins (right in both photos) recently submitted these images, taken in May aboard the Waterman-operated USNS Maj. Stephen W. Pless. In the photo above, Seafarer Jesselo Unabia receives his full book. In the photo below, the port agent greets an SIU member he knows better than most: QMED Steven M. Hoskins, his brother. Pictured from left to right are GUDE Agustin Clotter, QMED Rodolfo Opinaldo, QEP Nestor Martinez and AB Liberato Viray. SA Vehikite proudly describes the ship’s galley as “the cleanest and shiniest in all the Gulf Coast!” Pictured with the spotless evidence (photo above) are SREC Brown (left) and Chief Cook Sierra. Pictured at left are Recertified Bosun Ken McLamb, Chief Cook Carlos Sierra and Recertified Steward Danny Brown. SHIPBOARD MEETING IN BALTIMORE – Quickly gathering for this photo aboard the Honor in Baltimore after a recent shipboard meeting are (seated, from left) Chief Steward Patty Sullivan, SIU Baltimore Port Agent Elizabeth Brown, STOS Carlos Dominguez, (standing, from left) AB Donald Desir, SA Ron Byrd, Chief Cook Allen Van Buren, Interocean American Shipping VP Bob Rogers, Bosun Billy Hill and SIU VP Contracts George Tricker. COMET CREW – Recertified Bosun Jeff Libby sent this picture of mariners aboard the Sealand Comet, which is one of the vessels enrolled in the U.S. Maritime Security Program. The MSP helps ensure that U.S.-flag vessels and well-trained American crews are available to the U.S. military during times of crisis. It also gives the military access to a modern, technologically advanced intermodal network that spans the globe. JACKSONVILLE COOKOUT – SIU Asst. VP Archie Ware said members from the Jacksonville, Fla., hall did a great job putting together a recent cookout, where these photos were taken. Pictured from left to right above are OMU Anjwar Brooks, ACU Anthony Rutland, AB Janaro Jackson, OMU Anthony Jones, OMU Degrick McLendon, AB Jackie Jones, AB Darnell Goggins, GUDE Justin Ravnell, AB Christopher Cash and ACU Duane Washington. ‘JAWS’ THEME NOT INCLUDED - Demonstrating both AB Janaro Jackson, AB Jackie Jones, AB Roosevelt Clark, SIU Representative Brian Guiry July 2009 AB Randell Porter a sense of humor and an artistic touch, Bosun Carl Pedersen painted a shark inside the swimming pool aboard the Independence II. This photo was taken June 1 while the vessel was docked in Baltimore. Seafarers LOG 9 �54775_p1_24x:January 08 6/25/2009 11:29 PM Page 10 Bosun LBJ Tanoa QMED Phillip Greenwell Pictured in the engine room are (left to right) GVA Mohamed Mohamed, Bosun LBJ Tanoa, QMED Phillip Greenwell and QMED Greg Abalos. Government cargo is loaded onto the SIU-crewed vessel. With Seafarers Aboard The SS Cape Intrepid SREC Eric Manley (right) serves up dinner onboard the SS Cape Intrepid. The photos on this page show crew members aboard the Seattle-based SS Cape Intrepid. The Cape Intrepid is a roll-on/roll-off ship owned by the U.S. government. The unlicensed mariners are SIU members under contract with Crowley Maritime. It is part of the Ready Reserve Force (RRF) and is 685 feet long, with a beam of 102 feet. GVA Mohamed Mohamed sprays a new coat of paint on the SS Cape Intrepid. QMED Greg Abalos WHO Raises Swine Flu Alert to Pandemic Status The World Health Organization (WHO) recently raised the worldwide alert status of the Novel H1N1 influenza, or swine flu, to Level 6. At this level the WHO considers the overall severity of the influenza pandemic to be moderate. This assessment is based on scientific evidence available to the WHO, as well as input from various nations on the pandemic’s impact on their health systems, and their social and economic functioning. Novel H1N1 is a new influenza virus causing illness in people. This virus is spreading from person to person, probably in much the same way that regular seasonal influenza viruses spread. The following guidance has been offered by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). What can I do to protect myself from getting sick? There is no vaccine available right now to protect against novel H1N1 virus. However, there are routine actions that can help prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like influenza. Take these everyday steps to protect your health: ■ Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it. ■ Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective. ■ Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way. ■ Try to avoid close contact with sick people. 10 Seafarers LOG ■ Stay home if you are sick for seven days after your symptoms begin or until you have been symptom-free for 24 hours, whichever is longer. This is to keep from infecting others and spreading the virus further. The CDC also recommends being prepared in case you get sick and need to stay home for a week or so. Specifically, a supply of over-the-counter medicines, alcohol-based hand cleaners, tissues and other related items could be useful and may help avoid the need to make trips out in public while you are sick and contagious. What is the best way to keep from spreading the virus through coughing or sneezing? If you are sick, limit your contact with other people as much as possible. If you are sick, stay home for seven days after your symptoms begin, if possible, or until you have been symptom-free for 24 hours, whichever is longer. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. Put your used tissue in the waste basket. Then, clean your hands, and do so every time you cough or sneeze. What is the best technique for washing my hands to avoid getting the flu? Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs. Wash with soap and water or clean with alcohol-based hand cleaner. The CDC recommends that when you wash your hands – with soap and warm water – do so for at least 15 to 20 seconds. When soap and water are not available, alcohol-based disposable hand wipes or gel sanitizers may be used. You can find them in most supermarkets and drugstores. If using gel, rub your hands until the gel is dry. The gel doesn’t need water to work; the alcohol in it kills the germs on your hands. What should I do if I get sick? If you have severe illness or you are at high risk for flu complications, contact your health care provider or seek medical care. Your health care provider will determine whether flu testing or treatment is needed. If you become ill and experience any of the following warning signs, seek emergency medical care. In adults, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include: ■ Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath ■ Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen ■ Sudden dizziness ■ Confusion ■ Severe or persistent vomiting ■ Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough What surfaces are most likely to be sources of contamination? Germs can be spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth. Droplets from a cough or sneeze of an infected person move through the air. Germs can be spread when a person touches respiratory droplets from another person on a surface like a desk, for example, and then touches their own eyes, mouth or nose before washing their hands. How should waste disposal be handled to prevent the spread of influenza virus? To prevent the spread of influenza virus, it is recommended that tissues and other disposable items used by an infected person be thrown in the trash. Additionally, persons should wash their hands with soap and water after touching used tissues and similar waste. What cleaning should be done to prevent the spread of influenza virus? To prevent the spread of influenza virus it is important to keep surfaces (especially bedside tables, surfaces in the bathroom, kitchen counters and toys for children) clean by wiping them down with a household disinfectant according to directions on the product label. How should linens, eating utensils and dishes of persons infected with influenza virus be handled? Linens, eating utensils, and dishes belonging to those who are sick do not need to be cleaned separately, but (importantly) these items should not be shared without washing thoroughly first. Linens (such as bed sheets and towels) should be washed by using household laundry soap and tumbled dry on a hot setting. Individuals should avoid “hugging” laundry prior to washing it to prevent contaminating themselves. Individuals should wash their hands with soap and water or alcohol-based hand rub immediately after handling dirty laundry. Eating utensils should be washed either in a dishwasher or by hand with water and soap. Additional information and updates are available on the CDC web site at: http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/ July 2009 �54775_p1_24x:January 08 6/25/2009 11:29 PM Page 11 The SIU-crewed lst Lt. Alex Bonnyman (photo at left) transits the Miraflores Locks in the Panama Canal. Members of the vessel’s crew (above) take in the sights during the transit. Members of the SIU-affiliated United Industrial Workers perform a variety of duties in the daily operation of the locks. Affiliated Union Members Play Vital Roles at Panama Canal Representation Helped Workers Secure Hard-Earned Benefits Workers in the Panama Canal Zone for decades have played a significant role in the economic growth and prosperity of not only their own country but also those of numerous other locations around the globe. Collectively, canal zone workers—mostly union members—provide the lion’s share of the labor which supports the republic’s welldeveloped services sector – one that accounts for two-thirds of its gross domestic product. It was not until 1962 when President John F. Kennedy signed into law Executive Order 10988, however, that these same workers started being fairly compensated for their seemingly countless hours of dedicated labor. Under this measure, workers in the Canal Zone for the first time were afforded the right to union representation and the opportunity to bargain for their wages and benefits. Not long after the order went into effect and at the request of a large contingent of the workers, Rene Lioeanjie (now a consultant for the SIU-affiliated United Industrial Workers) visited the Canal Zone to launch a wide-reaching organizing campaign. An accomplished author on the maritime transportation industry, Lioeanjie is a former president of the National Maritime Union (NMU) and former vice president-atlarge of the SIU. Within months of his arrival in Panama and following many hours of intense and often perilous dialogue, Lioeanjie organized some 4,000 workers as members of the NMU. Descendents of those original NMU members in Panama who remained with the union became UIW members in 2001 when the SIU (the UIW’s parent union) and NMU merged. But the road that had to be traveled for these workers to gain true union representation along with their right to bargain for fair wages and benefits was not short or easily navigated. En route to obtaining these returns, Lioeanjie, with the assistance of several of U.S.-based labor colleagues, was compelled to address and dispense with a series of institutionalized barriers that functioned to the detriment of workers. Many of these impediments had been in place since construction of the Panama Canal began in 1903. Most dealt with issues of pay, benefits and leave, and over the years led to more than a few riots, work stoppages, sickouts and even strikes. Several new memorandums of understanding, pieces of legislation as well as treaties between the United States and the government of Panama had to be drafted, negotiated and ratified before working conditions for union members in the Canal Zone arrived at their current state. Through it all, however, union officials were there, leading the charge to secure the best representation possible for the workers. “I was assigned to the NMU in Panama in 1963,” said Lioeanjie. “The hopes of the Members of the SIU-affiliated United Industrial Workers position their eqiupment (a railed locomotive called a Mule) into position to assist another vessel through the Miraflores Locks. July 2009 workers grew daily during our organizing campaigns because they could see how hard we were working. They understood that we were defending their rights. “They saw that the NMU was a union that was 100 percent for what was right and that we would not allow discrimination of any kind … especially due to race, color, political beliefs, religion or nationality,” he said. “When you signed into the NMU, you were a union member right away, which gave you the same rights and benefits of union members from the United States.” Union efforts from that era have translated into favorable conditions for a host of union as well as non-union workers in the Canal Zone. Two such individuals are UIW members Fernando Duran and Johel Tolato. Duran is employed in the Panama Canal Authority’s (PCA) Storehouse Division while Tolato works in the PCA’s Line Handling Division. “Prior to getting my current position in the storehouse division, I worked as a union member in the Panama Railroad Division,” said Duran. “I’ve been a member of the union since 1988 and the experience has been very positive for me. Being in the union has benefitted me personally, socially and economically. “Through the union, I have been able to enhance my relationships with others and gain more respect in the workplace,” he added. “Union members make better salaries and enjoy greater benefits than non-union members including life and health insurance. I have no regrets about becoming a union member and I’d highly recommend union membership to others. The union is very positive.” Tolato concurred with Duran, adding, “The union has been a welcomed change to my life. It has helped me a great deal and I’d have no hesitancy about suggesting joining the union to others.” He donned the UIW colors in 2004 after being employed at the AC Nielsen Company. “Since joining the union, I have enjoyed upgrades in all aspects of my employment,” he said. “These include salary increases, access to life and health insurance and a variety of other benefits. “I also have improved my capability to interact with other people,” he concluded. “Most importantly though is that since joining the union, I have a permanent job.” Through collective bargaining, unions have helped raise the standard of living for millions of American workers. There is a distinct economic advantage in belonging to a union and working under a union contract. For example, figures from the Bureau of Labor Statistics show the typical union worker’s pay and benefits are 33 percent higher than what non-union workers get. Additionally, according to data from the agency, union representation means that workers are more likely to be able to retire with security and dignity. Overall, 90 percent of full-time union workers participate in at least one retirement plan, compared to only 74 percent of unrepresented workers. Union workers are far more likely to participate in traditional defined benefit plans – 86 percent for union members versus only 50 percent for non-union workers. Such plans are almost always financed entirely by the employer, and the retirement benefits are guaranteed by the federal government. Moreover, unions have pioneered the provision of health care as an employee benefit. Many union contracts provide health care coverage, often paid for substantially or entirely by the employer. Among union workers, 52 percent have family medical coverage that is wholly paid by the employer. In nonunion work places, only 18 percent have such coverage. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel (left) and SIU Controller Nancy Beltran recently met with Rene Lioeanjie (right), now a consultant with the SIU-affiliated UIW, in Panama. Lioeanjie is a former president of the National Maritime Union (NMU) and former vice president-at-large of the SIU. Seafarers LOG 11 �54775_p1_24x2:January 08 6/29/2009 6:11 AM Page 12 AB Carlton Dorrance, AB Foaad Saleh American Mariner AB Sadig Saeed Presque Isle 2nd Cook Walter Wise Adam E. Cornelius 2nd Cook Dariu Walter J. SIU-Crewed Great Sailing Despite Ro AB William Padgett H. Lee White AB Joseph Hance Walter J. McCarthy GUDE Salahuddin Saleh American Mariner Even though cargo volumes on the Great Lakes are down this year due to the economy, most of the Seafarers-contracted fleet in that region has been operating since fit-out started earlier in 2009. “The reliability of SIU crews and the various types of training they’ve completed have definitely helped us to weather the economic storm,” said SIU Vice President Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski. “Overall, we have fared relatively well despite the recession. Our crews and our contracted companies here deserve credit.” Most of the SIU-crewed tonnage on the Great Lakes consists of self-unloaders. The vessels carry cargoes including coal, lime- ston L oper Lak Jone vess mus Am T earl lake Safety Joel Le Seafarers meet with SIU Representative Don Thornton (right) a board the Walter J. McCarthy. 12 Seafarers LOG July 2009 �54775_p1_24x2:January 08 6/29/2009 6:11 AM Dariusz Czepczynski er J. McCarthy Page 13 SA Steve Martin Presque Isle SA Gary Lapczynski American Mariner SA Monassar Saleh Adam E. Cornelius at Lakes Ships Rough Economy stone, iron ore, cement, salt and more. Like the other Seafarers-contracted ships operating between domestic ports, the Great Lakes fleet is covered by a vital law called the Jones Act. This federal directive requires that vessels sailing from one U.S. port to another must be crewed, flagged, built and owned American. The photos on these two pages were taken earlier this year aboard various SIU-crewed lakers during fit-out. 2nd Cook Maxine Bell Indiana Harbor SA Saleh Elhubishi Walter J. McCarthy afety Director Monte Burgett, Recertified Bosun oel Lechel, Walter J. McCarthy OS Fadel Quraish Presque Isle July 2009 GUDE Asker Abubaker American Mariner SA Yahya Mohsin H. Lee White AB Jason Pechette American Mariner 2nd Cook Amy Shunkwhiler Indiana Harbor GUDE Clint Kujawa, SIU Algonac Safety Director Monte Burgett, Recertified Bosun Joel Lechel, Walter J. McCarthy Seafarers LOG 13 �54775_p1_24x:January 08 6/25/2009 11:31 PM Page 14 The deck gang gathers in the crew mess for a snapshot. Tyco Dependable Docks in New York SIU Patrolman Mark Von Siegel submitted these photos from a mid-May servicing of the Seafarers-crewed Tyco Dependable in New York. The 459-foot vessel was built in 2002. It has been part of the SIU-contracted fleet since 2003. Members of the engine department are pictured aboard the cable ship. AB Michael Kanga The steward department includes (from left, wearing white) GVA Michael Sivells, GVA Danilo Achacoso, Recertified Steward Brian Gross, GVA Francisco Calix and Chief Cook Franz Schnell. Capt. Yann Durieux is standing at rear. Happenings in Hawaii On May 15, the union thanked Larayne Koide (left, with SIU Asst. VP Bryan Powell) for many years of dedicated service to the SIU and its membership. Her retirement took effect at the end of May. The SIU wishes her fair winds and following seas. 14 Seafarers LOG Each year, the SIU participates in graduation ceremonies of the Navy Junior ROTC program at Campbell High School in Ewa Beach, Hawaii. The union presents a “Good Shipmate Award” to a graduating cadet. At this year’s ceremonies, which took place May 14, the union recognized the achievements of Cheyenne Ritt (left in photo at left above, with SIU Port Agent Neil Dietz). Also at this year’s event, the son of SIU member Roberto Firme received accolades for his accomplishments. The son, also named Roberto, led a close-order drill team and was honored by the Hawaii King’s Guard. Pictured from left to right in the group photo (above right) are Seafarer Firme, Commander John Hutchinson, Cadet Firme and Dietz. July 2009 �54775_p1_24x:January 08 6/25/2009 11:36 PM Page 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea May 16, 2009 - June 15, 2009 Port SIU Members Participate In ‘Rolling Thunder’ Event A small but enthusiastic contingent of Seafarers, SIU officials and family members recently participated in the 2009 “Rolling Thunder” event in Washington, D.C. Rolling Thunder is a yearly demonstration, mostly by motorcycle riders, for POW/MIAs and veterans’ issues. Upwards of a halfmillion individuals rode on May 24. The SIU group – on hand to honor all veterans but particularly to raise awareness about those who served our country on merchant vessels during times of war – first gathered at the union-affiliat- SIU participants initially met in Piney Point, Md., (photo ed school in Piney Point, above) and then proceeded to Md., and then proceeded to the main staging area at the the main assembly point at Pentagon (photo at top and the Pentagon. From there, the below). official demonstration included travelling to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington. Plans already are in the works for Seafarers to ride in the 2010 demonstration. August & September 2009 Membership Meetings Piney Point.............Monday: August 3, Tuesday, September 8* Algonac ....................................Friday: August 7, September 11 Baltimore.............................Thursday: August 6, September 10 Guam.................................Thursday: August 20, September 24 Honolulu................................Friday: August 14, September 18 Houston...............................Monday: August 10, September 14 Jacksonville.........................Thursday: August 6, September 10 Total Registered Class A Class B Class C Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Seattle St. Louis Wilmington TOTAL 17 1 4 11 9 7 43 43 2 13 21 46 17 26 10 1 8 31 2 32 344 8 3 1 10 9 6 34 26 6 9 9 14 16 14 9 3 5 36 3 23 244 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Seattle St. Louis Wilmington TOTAL 3 0 5 9 2 12 20 23 1 10 9 15 4 12 2 0 6 7 0 17 157 1 3 1 2 2 6 19 18 2 5 2 16 14 10 4 1 4 13 2 7 132 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Seattle St. Louis Wilmington TOTAL 0 0 5 8 3 12 22 17 2 8 6 19 8 25 5 2 4 10 2 28 186 2 2 0 12 2 7 7 4 2 1 5 5 10 8 1 0 0 4 0 7 79 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Seattle St. Louis Wilmington TOTAL All Departments: 2 0 0 1 0 2 4 3 0 0 1 8 1 4 0 0 0 4 0 3 33 720 17 3 4 3 2 7 18 16 1 4 1 36 13 17 1 6 0 11 0 13 173 628 Joliet..................................Thursday: August 13, September 17 Mobile............................Wednesday: August 12, September 16 New Orleans............................Tuesday: August 11, September 15 New York................................Tuesday: August 4, September 8 Norfolk................................Thursday: August 6, September 10 Oakland .............................Thursday: August 13, September 17 Philadelphia.......................Wednesday: August 5, September 9 Port Everglades .................Thursday: August 13, September 17 San Juan ..............................Thursday: August 6, September 10 St. Louis ................................Friday: August 14, September 18 Tacoma...................................Friday: August 21, September 25 Wilmington.............................Monday: August 17, September 21 *Piney Point change created by Labor Day holiday Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. July 2009 Total Shipped Class A Class B Class C Deck Department 4 13 6 2 0 0 1 0 0 4 2 0 4 11 7 1 1 2 5 0 0 2 5 0 5 29 25 3 2 24 16 1 1 2 5 1 0 15 3 0 3 13 7 0 5 22 20 1 8 14 18 1 2 21 8 0 0 2 6 0 0 1 2 1 0 4 5 0 2 27 28 0 0 0 4 0 6 25 13 1 43 231 186 12 Engine Department 1 1 0 1 0 1 2 0 1 3 2 0 2 6 6 1 1 1 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 4 12 0 0 9 14 3 1 0 1 1 1 3 3 0 0 4 3 0 2 9 3 0 2 8 10 1 1 10 6 2 0 1 3 0 0 0 1 0 0 3 2 0 0 5 6 0 0 0 0 0 3 12 6 1 15 82 80 10 Steward Department 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 1 0 0 2 5 1 0 0 3 0 0 4 4 0 0 18 3 0 1 9 1 0 1 0 1 1 0 7 0 0 1 7 5 1 1 16 1 0 0 6 10 0 0 17 6 0 0 2 0 1 0 2 0 1 0 4 2 0 1 13 2 1 0 1 1 0 0 17 2 0 5 130 48 6 Entry Department 7 1 11 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 4 0 6 0 1 0 1 1 2 1 2 2 6 3 9 5 8 0 8 5 0 0 1 0 3 0 2 0 0 0 2 0 2 4 21 5 5 0 8 4 9 4 8 0 2 0 1 4 18 0 3 23 2 0 1 0 4 5 6 1 0 0 0 0 7 1 8 3 80 19 100 54 143 462 414 82 Trip Reliefs Registered On Beach Class A Class B Class C 0 0 1 5 0 1 13 17 0 7 12 5 14 8 2 0 3 20 0 13 121 9 2 8 23 5 18 90 68 2 31 27 81 24 43 11 2 11 62 4 57 578 10 6 4 28 8 14 59 53 7 12 16 34 32 27 11 7 12 56 7 36 439 7 0 0 8 1 0 11 10 0 3 7 13 16 5 1 4 0 10 0 15 111 0 0 2 4 0 2 3 11 1 2 2 0 6 5 0 0 3 8 0 4 53 1 0 7 14 2 20 36 35 2 15 12 32 11 17 2 3 8 23 4 24 268 6 1 2 12 4 9 32 28 2 9 7 25 32 25 4 3 15 35 6 28 285 4 0 1 2 1 2 1 0 2 1 0 5 5 1 0 0 0 2 1 2 30 0 0 1 2 0 3 6 3 0 0 4 9 3 11 1 1 3 4 0 5 56 0 0 2 14 3 24 35 30 2 14 10 37 14 39 3 5 1 20 3 62 318 3 2 2 16 0 8 14 15 1 4 6 13 14 7 1 2 3 8 1 8 128 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 1 1 1 1 0 0 1 0 9 17 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 2 1 1 2 0 2 11 241 1 0 1 0 0 3 9 4 0 1 3 14 1 10 0 0 0 7 0 7 61 1,225 16 2 4 12 2 12 51 47 0 8 9 63 28 29 0 8 1 40 0 38 370 1,222 14 0 0 12 0 5 30 22 0 7 2 10 25 18 3 18 3 8 0 19 196 354 Seafarers LOG 15 �54775_p1_24x:January 08 6/25/2009 11:37 PM Page 16 Inquir ing Seaf arer Seafarers International Union Directory 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 Kermett Mangram, 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 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 3315 Liberty St., Jacksonville, FL 32206 (904) 353-0987 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 Editor’s note: This month’s Inquiring Seafarer question was posed to Seafarers who recently were enrolled in courses at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Question: What are some of the better aspects of upgrading at the school? the school are awesome as far as upgrading is concerned. All the classes have (corresponding) computer programs in the library. I didn’t know that until I came to upgrade for AB, but I really liked it. It’s comfortable here. I graduated from Class 697 last May. Nicole Walton, Oiler, welding class For one thing, the distance to the school, since I live in Virginia. I just graduated (from the apprentice program) in August, Class 701. I’ve been here to upgrade and also took a computer class. I enjoy the teachers here, especially Buzzy Andrews. I also like it that you can go to other teachers and they will help you. They really take the time to help. Please mention that my niece is (SIU member) Fee Walton – she’s the reason I joined. Nicholas Dippel, QMED, marine electrician class I like the fact that it’s technical and they tell you more about what goes on aboard the ships. They tell you what you’ll experience, what you’ll troubleshoot. The teachers are great. Because of where the base is located, you’re not subject to outside influences. I’ve been to the school a lot – four or five times to upgrade, plus I was in the apprentice program. I’ve taken welding, junior engineer, oiler and BAPO (basic auxiliary plant operations). The biggest thing is you learn skills you will use on the job. Brooke English, AB, welding class You need to know as much as possible on these ships so you’re qualified. Sometimes, on some ships, you won’t survive if you don’t know certain things. The resources here at Robin Bourgeois, D-MAC, machinist class The educational opportunities here are just amazing. I’ve also found out that the school has a lot of extra programs, like the college program, which I’m doing. I like how they have free Wi-Fi and they keep making things better and better. It’s definitely a good thing to be able to come here and feel like you’re at home. Upgrading is the best thing anybody can do. I’ve been to the school as an unlicensed apprentice in 2004, then for oiler, junior engineer and college courses. Each time I come back, it’s better. It has been a blessing and it has changed quite a bit in the last five years. The union takes care of you. Chavalier Maycock, Chief Electrician, marine refrigeration technician class A lot of guys who’ve sailed for years continue to get an education at school and upgrade. It’s always good to get more knowledge. We’re so busy on the ships, but you have time at the school – more time to study. The teachers reinforce the lessons. Overall it helps you a lot on the ships. For instance, you learn the cycles, the functions, the electrical parts and how they all go together. You’re never too old to learn. I’m glad I come to the school and I would advise the younger people to get into the refrigeration training programs. It’s all about knowledge and upgrading. It’s a lot of work, but this is an important part of your life. Pic-From-The-Past MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 499-6600 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 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (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) 549-4000 The late SIU Executive Vice President John Fay (right) chats with Seafarers Patrick Dorrian (left), Arthur Raio and John Gallagher during a special meeting in the port of Philadelphia. This photo was taken in 1975 just prior to the start of a crews conference in which Dorrian (engine department), Raio (steward department) and Gallagher (deck department) had been elected to serve as delegates. Fay, who at the time was port agent in Philadelphia, briefed the three mariners on what to expect during the conference. 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 16 Seafarers LOG July 2009 �54775_p1_24x:January 08 6/26/2009 1:27 AM Page 17 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 waterways 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 DEEP SEA THOMAS ARTHUR Brother Thomas Arthur, 55, joined the union in 1978. He initially sailed on the Montpelier Victory. Brother Arthur was born in New Jersey and shipped in the engine department. He frequently visited the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md., to upgrade his skills. Brother Arthur’s final ship was the USNS Sisler. He resides in Seaside Heights, N.J. MAURICE FORMONTE Brother Maurice Formonte, 67, started sailing with the Seafarers in 1966 while in the port of New Orleans. His first voyage was aboard the Kyska. Brother Formonte, who sailed in the steward department, was born in Brazil. He was last employed on the Overseas Vivian. Brother Formonte continues to make his home in Brazil. LARRY LIGHTFOOT Brother Larry Lightfoot, 65, became an SIU member in 1970. His first ship was the Warrior; his last, the North Star. In 1987 and 2000, Brother Lightfoot enhanced his seafaring abilities at the Piney Point school. The steward department member was born in South Dakota. Brother Lightfoot lives in Seattle. AHMED MEFTAH Brother Ahmed Meftah, 67, donned the SIU colors in 1967. He originally shipped aboard the Transwestern. Brother Meftah was born in Arabia and worked in the engine department. He most recently shipped on the Santa Mariana. Brother Meftah is a resident of San Francisco. July 2009 JAMES REEVES JR. Brother James Reeves Jr., 72, was born in Alabama. He began sailing with the union in 1957 from the port of Mobile. Brother Reeves initially worked aboard the Alcoa Pioneer as a member of the deck department. He last shipped on the Overseas Joyce. Brother Reeves calls Semmes, Ala., home. INLAND JAMES COOPER III Brother James Cooper, III, 56, joined the SIU in 1974. He was employed with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jacksonville for the duration of his career. Brother Cooper upgraded on two occasions at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He resides in his native state of Florida. RICHARD GORDON Brother Richard Gordon, 77, signed on with the union in 1963 while in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. He initially worked in the Great Lakes division aboard an American Steamship Company vessel. Brother Gordon was a member of the engine department. The New York native’s last trip was on the Bob-Lo Island. Brother Gordon settled in River Rouge, Mich. JOHN MALONEY Brother John Maloney, 65, became a Seafarer in 1998. His earliest trip was aboard an OSG Ship Management vessel in the inland division. Brother Maloney was born in Maryland and enhanced his skills often at the Piney Point school. He most recently sailed with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jacksonville. Brother Maloney makes his home in Northport, N.Y. CHARLES VARNEY JR. Brother Charles Varney Jr., 64, joined the SIU ranks in 1991 while in Puerto Rico. The deck department member was born in Massachusetts. Brother Varney upgraded on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. He primarily worked with Crowley Towing & Transportation. Brother Varney lives in Canyon Lake, Texas. ROBERT WALKER JR. Brother Robert Walker Jr., 62, was born in Hampton, Va. He donned the SIU colors in 1990. Brother Walker originally shipped on a McAllister Towing of Virginia vessel. He frequently took advantage of opportunities available at the maritime training facility in Piney Point, Md. Brother Walker’s final trip was with Penn Maritime Inc. He is a resident of Ware Neck, Va. . GREAT LAKES EDWARD KESTER Brother Edward Kester, 65, started his maritime career in 1964. He first sailed aboard an American Steamship Company vessel as a member of the deck department. Brother Kester’s last trip was with Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG 1944 The War Shipping Administration has established new rules for medical examinations for merchant seamen. The new directive requires a complete annual physical examination for all seafarers shipping aboard WSA ships in addition to the regular signing-on physical. The WSA designated that the U.S. Department of Public Health and its facilities be in charge of implementing the new regulations. It also established that any seaman who does not pass a physical examination can appeal the rejection in accordance with the provisions of his collective bargaining agreement. The WSA also established a requirement that seamen be required to take immunization shots when their vessels will be proceeding into pestilence areas. Great Lakes Associates Inc. He is a New York native but now calls Cleveland home. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION RODOLFO RIGONAN Brother Rodolfo Rigonan, 65, joined the NMU in 1991, initially sailing from Charleston, S.C. His first ship was the Austral Rainbow; his last was the Cape Decision. Brother Rigonan was born in the Philippines and shipped in the steward department. He settled in Goose Creek, S.C. meeting at headquarters, President Paul Hall told the members that facilities for the training and upgrading of seamen were being expanded. In addition to local training sites in New York and other outports, the SIU has recently purchased a 28-acre site at Piney Point, Md., to train members for entry-level jobs aboard American-flag ships. This will be in addition to upgrading training to enable working seamen to qualify for promotions after specialized training. 1982 Construction on the SIU’s brand new sixstory headquarters building in Camp Springs, Md., is nearing completion. The building is located just minutes by car from downtown Washington, D.C. All of the exterior work has been completed, and interior work is moving along rapidly. The building should be ready for occupation in the next few months. The opening of this structure gives the SIU a very visible presence in Washington, where the fortune of the U.S. maritime industry is decided on a daily basis. This Month In SIU History 1950 On July 20, the SIU signed agreements with its contracted operators providing that Seafarers aboard contracted ships in the five zones along the Chinese coast will be protected against war risks by terms of riders supplementing the ships’ articles until agreement is reached with the operators on adequate bonus payments, personal effects payments and attack bonuses. The agreements on the war bonuses payments were made retroactive to the date that the Korean hostilities broke out. Crew members of the affected ships will receive in addition to basic wages and allowances, 100 percent of their base wages while in the five specified areas rendered unsafe, including the waters around Korea. 1967 In a report to the Atlantic and Gulf membership during the regular July membership 1990 As the demand increased for vessels to supply the stepped-up military operations in the Persian Gulf, the SIU instituted a manpower alert to assure that all manning assignments within the union’s responsibility would be met. In issuing the alert, SIU President Michael Sacco called on all union members to participate fully. He urged all Seafarers who are currently on the beach to immediately contact the nearest union hall or the SIU’s manpower center to register for employment. In addition, Sacco extended the call to all physically fit pensioners, as well as to inactive SIU members. Seafarers LOG 17 �54775_p1_24x:January 08 6/26/2009 1:45 AM Page 18 Final Depar tures DEEP SEA JOHN ADAMS Pensioner John Adams, 69, passed away March 14. Brother Adams became a Seafarer in 1959. The New York native shipped in the deck department. Brother Adams first sailed in the inland division with Boston Towing Boat Company. His last vessel was the Horizon Expedition. Brother Adams went on pension in 1995 and called Jacksonville, Fla., home. EGLICERIO BARRACA Pensioner Eglicerio Barraca, 76, died March 2. Brother Barraca joined the union in 1989. He worked with American Hawaii Cruises aboard the Independence for the duration of his career. Brother Barraca retired in 2000 and lived in Pandan, Antique, Philippines. ELLSWORTH BELL Pensioner Ellsworth Bell, 91, passed away Feb. 2. Brother Bell was born in Dayton, Ohio. He signed on with the SIU in the port of San Francisco. Brother Bell was a member of the steward department. He began collecting his retirement compensation in 1977 and lived in Queen Creek, Ariz. CURTIS BRODNAX Pensioner Curtis Brodnax, 76, died Feb. 3. Brother Brodnax started sailing with the Seafarers in 1962. His first trip to sea was on the Hurricane; his last was aboard the Dodge Island. Brother Brodnax shipped in the steward department. He resided in his native state of Virginia. Brother Brodnax went on pension in 1995. ANTONIO COLON Pensioner Antonio Colon, 94, passed away March 12. Brother Colon joined the SIU in 1951. He originally worked with AH Bull Steamship Company. 18 Seafarers LOG Brother Colon was born in Puerto Rico. Prior to his retirement in 1973, he sailed aboard the Trans Oregon. Brother Colon continued to make his home in Puerto Rico. GERALD CORBIN Brother Gerald Corbin, 48, died Dec. 28. He first donned the SIU colors in 1979 while attending classes at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Corbin’s earliest trip to sea was on the Overseas Alice. He was born in Beaufort, S.C., and shipped in the deck department. Brother Corbin’s final voyage was aboard the Cape Washington. He settled in Clinton, Md. PHILIP DIEGO Brother Philip Diego, 57, passed away March 2. He began his seafaring profession in 1991. Brother Diego initially sailed on the Independence as a member of the engine department. He was born in New York. Brother Diego most recently worked aboard the ITB New York. He was a resident of Brooklyn, N.Y. 1961. His first voyage was on the Mt. Rainer. Brother Huggins was a member of the engine department. He was born in Tennessee. Before retiring in 1993, Brother Huggins sailed aboard the USNS Kane. He made his home in Mobile, Ala. WALTER KARLAK Pensioner Walter Karlak, 78, died March 2. Brother Karlak signed on with the Seafarers in 1952. His first ship was the Steel Chemist; his last was the Elizabeth. Brother Karlak shipped in the engine department. He became a pensioner in 1987 and settled in Woodside, N.Y. HAROLD MURPHY Pensioner Harold Murphy, 76, passed away Feb. 25. Brother Murphy was born in Wisconsin. He joined the union in 1956. Brother Murphy’s earliest voyage was on the Mt. Evans. The deck department member last worked with Michigan Tankers Inc. Brother Murphy went on pension in 1981 and continued to live in his native state. JACK GARDNER Pensioner Jack Gardner, 86, died March 9. Brother Gardner, a member of the deck department, began sailing with the Seafarers in 1943 from the port of Baltimore. His first trip was on the Alcoa Pennant. Brother Gardner was born in Shelby, Tenn. He was last employed aboard the Charleston. Brother Gardner started receiving his pension in 1983. He called Sea Level, N.C., home. CLINTON SMITH Pensioner Clinton Smith, 81, died Feb. 13. Brother Smith began his SIU career in 1946. He primarily sailed aboard vessels operated by Delta Steamship Lines, including the Del Norte and Del Sud. Brother Smith shipped in the engine department. He continued to reside in his native state of Mississippi. Brother Smith retired in 1983. WILLARD HUGGINS Pensioner Willard Huggins, 81, passed away Feb. 14. Brother Huggins joined the SIU ranks in JOSEPH COURVILLE Pensioner Joseph Courville, 77, passed away March 17. Brother Courville first donned the SIU INLAND colors in 1963. He was born in Eunice, La. Brother Courville mostly shipped aboard vessels operated by Seabulk Tanker. He started collecting his retirement pay in 1993. Brother Courville was a resident of Marksville, La STEVE JONES Pensioner Steve Jones, 68, died Feb. 10. Brother Jones joined the union in 1968 initially sailing with Dravo Basic Materials Company. Prior to his retirement in 2003, he worked aboard vessels operated by Martin Marietta. Brother Jones resided in Alabama.. STANLEY MANOWSKI Pensioner Stanley Manowski, 91, died Feb. 2. Brother Manowski became a Seafarer in 1956 while in the port of Baltimore. He originally sailed on Arundel Corporation vessels. Brother Manowski was born in Maryland. Prior to his retirement in 1980, he worked with McAllister Towing of Baltimore. Brother Manowski called Baltimore home. JEAN SAVOIE Pensioner Jean Savoie, 74, passed away Feb. 20. Brother Savoie joined the SIU ranks in 1973 while in the port of Norfolk, Va. The steward department member was born in Massachusetts. Brother Savoie sailed in both the inland and deep sea divisions; his earliest trip was with Allied Transportation Company. His final ship was the Cornhusker State. Brother Savoie went on pension in 2000 and made his home in Portsmouth, Va. died Feb. 28. Brother Turner signed on with the union in 1957 in the port of Baltimore. His first voyage was with Arundel Corporation. Brother Turner last sailed aboard a Moran Towing of Maryland vessel. He was a native of Baltimore but called Fort Myers, Fla., home. Brother Turner retired in 1983. GREAT LAKES ROBERT KANE Pensioner Robert Kane, 86, passed away Feb. 25. Brother Kane was born in Conneaut, Ohio. He started sailing with the SIU in 1961, primarily on vessels operated by Great Lakes Towing Company. Brother Kane became a pensioner in 1984 and lived in Ashtabula, Ohio. Editor’s note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU), have passed away. Name Alonso, Jose Alpert, Milton Barthelemy, Duvic Bermudez, Mack Carcamo, Robert Carvajal, Alphonse Constantaras, James Diaz, Neftali Doroba, Marian Gilmore, Russell Grant, Lee Hydock, Thomas Johnson, Claudio Jones, Anthony Jones, James Kavanagh, Henry Leal, John Lesassier, Theodore Montijo, Quintin Natal, Juan Nolen, Zenith Ortega, Manuel Reyes, Felipe Rubio, Luis Santiago, Carlos Schmidli, Donald Tatum, Harding Thomas, Carlos Tomlinson, Elsadia Victorine, John Visbal, Reeding Age 84 81 82 83 80 93 84 85 88 80 92 81 82 84 95 92 87 81 89 89 84 91 73 85 83 86 86 85 95 92 83 DOD April 8 May 2 May 2 May 18 April 28 April 25 April 26 May 19 April 29 April 27 March 30 April 13 May 31 April 15 May 2 May 27 May 5 April 24 May 2 May 22 May 21 May 6 May 17 May 13 May 23 May 15 March 31 April 23 April 8 May 1 May 12 CHARLES TURNER Pensioner Charles Turner, 87, July 2009 �54775_p1_24x2:January 08 6/29/2009 7:57 AM Page 19 Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings EAGLE (Maersk Line, Limited), May 3 – Chairman Michael R. Hester, Secretary John Reid, Educational Director Daryl D. Thomas, Deck Delegate Korron Richardson. Chairman notified crew members of upcoming sanitary inspection and asked them to keep rooms clean. He also thanked the steward department for great meals. Secretary reported a smooth trip and expressed his gratitude to his fellow mariners for their help keeping ship clean. Educational director urged Seafarers to keep documents current and visit the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., to upgrade skills. Treasurer reported $925 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. It was reported that a stainless steel grill had been purchased for galley. Suggestion was made to lower retirement age and increase benefits. GLOBAL SENTINEL (Transoceanic Cable Ship), May 22 – Chairman Joseph J. Olson, Secretary Shawn R. Fujiwara, Educational Director Lothar Wick, Deck Delegate Justin S. Beal, Engine Delegate Gary M. Bartlett. Chairman requested clarification on medical coverage while on foreign voyage. Bosun was asked to check into getting flat-panel TV for crew lounge. Secretary reminded crew to let him know of any items they would like stocked in the slop chest. Educational director stressed the importance of keeping individual records straight. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Communications are posted as received. Next port: Portland, Ore. H. LEE WHITE (American Steamship Company), May 12 – Chairman William H. Mulcahy, Secretary Jeffrey J. Van Slambrouck, Educational Director Dean M. Parks, Deck Delegate Raymond C. Hotchkiss, Engine Delegate Mohsin K. Nasser. Chairman talked about the importance of keeping seafaring documents up-to-date and contributing to the 401(k) plan. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Mariners were encouraged to enhance their skills at the Piney Point school. All new crew members were reminded to stay alert on deck and in the engine room. HOUSTON (U.S. Shipping Partners), May 10 – Chairman John R. Lamprecht, Secretary Robert E. Wilcox Jr., Educational Director Michael L. Williams, Deck Delegate Victor Cooper, Engine Delegate Jeffrey Fields, Steward Delegate Anthony Rutland. Bosun reported good voyage and July 2009 thanked reliefs for their hard work and professionalism. Secretary expressed his appreciation for crew’s help keeping pantry and messhall clean. Members were asked to clean lint filters in dryer so it will work more efficiently and to prevent fires. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Communications were read from VP of contracts and Fort Lauderdale port agent. It was noted that new washing machine has been installed in crew laundry. Request was made to reimburse members for added baggage fees when joining vessel. MAERSK CAROLINA (Maersk Line, Limited), May 31 – Chairman Konstantinos Prokovas, Secretary Alexander Bank III, Educational Director Kevin M. Cooper. Chairman announced payoff June 1 in Newark, N.J. Secretary urged mariners to contribute to SPAD (Seafarers Political Activity Donation) because when you do, you help yourself as well as your union brothers and sisters. Educational director encouraged members to check out what the union-affiliated school has to offer. He suggested mariners compare information on vacation checks to discharges and also recommended mariners keep all necessary seafaring documents current. Treasurer reported $1,000 in ship’s fund; crew would like to use money for satellite TV system. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request was made for a cold drink dispenser, barbecue grill and an instant coffee machine. Steward department was thanked for great meals. Crew sent well wishes to all brothers and sisters on vacation, asking them to have fun and be safe. Maintenance required on watertight doors on A B and C deck, as evidenced during driving rain. Next ports: Newark, N.J., Charleston, S.C. and Norfolk, Va. MAERSK MISSOURI (Maersk Line, Limited), May 3 – Chairman Oliver M. Balico, Secretary Billy Gigante, Educational Director Jaime A. Colon, Deck Delegate Gregory T. Johnson, Engine Delegate Ibarra A. Mangaya, Steward Delegate Jose F. Manandic. Bosun stated payoff to take place in Elizabeth, N.J., on May 4. Chairman reported great crew and smooth voyage. Secretary asked departing crew members to leave cabins neat for reliefs. Educational director advised seaman to take advantage of the Piney Point school to enhance their skills. He reiterated the need to keep documents current. Treasurer stated $2,000 in ship’s fund. The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring 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. Aboard the Maersk Ohio The union-contracted Maersk Ohio recently made a voyage which involved the transit of the Suez Canal. Recertified Bosun Jim Joyce lauded his shipmates for their hard work and professionalism during the trip and sent these photos to the LOG. In photo above, Joyce (center) takes a break from his duties to pose with AB James Robinson (left) and AB Donald Wallerson. Pictured in the inset photo is SA Salea Mohmohd. In the photo at right, the Maersk Ohio makes its way through the Suez Canal. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks was given to the steward department. Next ports: Elizabeth, N.J., Charleston, S.C., Norfolk, Va. and Egypt. MAERSK UTAH (Maersk Line, Limited), May 13 – Chairman Herbert Charles, Secretary Michael M. Amador, Educational Director Eric Bain, Deck Delegate Raphael S. Vargas, Steward Delegate David Halim. Chairman thanked crew for working well together and keeping house clean. Secretary reminded Seafarers leaving vessel to leave rooms clean and supplied with fresh linen. Educational director encouraged mariners to check credentials’ expiration dates and take advantage of educational opportunities available at the Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next port: Savannah, Ga. TYCO DEPENDABLE (Transoceanic Cable Ship), May 3 – Chairman Sanyboy Whiting, Secretary Emmanuel F. Laureta, Educational Director Ely R. Cuaresma, Deck Delegate John G. Salarda Jr., Steward Delegate Rolando A. Alonzo. Bosun talked about the importance of union and solidarity. He also discussed why union meetings take place and how union officials can’t help unless they are kept informed of what’s happening on board the vessel. Secretary expressed gratitude to fellow members for helping keep ship clean. Educational director recommended mariners attend classes at the SIU-affiliated school to improve job skills. Treasurer noted that new DVD and boxing gloves had been purchased from the ship’s fund money. No beefs or disputed OT reported. WESTWARD VENTURE (Interocean American Shipping), May 24 – Chairman Thomas W. Grosskurth, Secretary Robert S. Davis, Educational Director Herman Castro, Deck Delegate Agustin Miranda, Engine Delegate Joe E. Hargrove. Bosun announced payoff May 29 in Jacksonville, Fla. Patrolman will be coming to ship. He also stated sanitary inspection would be May 26 and suggested everyone turn mattresses. Members were reminded to check dates on documents and renew early. Secretary notified mariners that he has a copy of the letter to President Obama from President Sacco regarding piracy if anyone wants a copy. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew members would like to check on getting new recliners in crew rooms and getting the ice machine on cabin deck fixed. Steward department was thanked for terrific job especially Chief Cook Roderick Franklin and GUDE Juan Colon. Next port: Jacksonville, Fla. Seafarers LOG 19 �54775_p1_24x:January 08 6/25/2009 11:46 PM Page 20 Letters To The Editor The Sabatinis are all smiles on graduation day. Bosun’s Son Capitalizes On SHBP Scholarship Enclosed is a photo of Anthony R. Sabatini, son of Recertified Bosun Anthony Sabatini and his wife, Debbie. Four years ago, Anthony was awarded a $20,000 scholarship from the Seafarers International Union and the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. On May 30, 2009, Anthony graduated (with honors) from San Diego State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in computer science. We would like to express our sincerest thanks to Kathleen Eno, Gloria (Coley) and Beverly (Watkins) from the scholarship department for their timely help. We would also like to thank the Seafarers for giving Anthony this great opportunity. Letters may be edited for conciseness and clarity. Submissions may be mailed to 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 or e-mailed to webmaster@seafarers.org. honor to represent Mr. A.J. Wichita, president of the American Merchant Marine Veterans, and also Mr. Ian T. Allison, co-chairman of the Just Compensation Committee. This year’s ceremony took place May 7 and was hosted by the Australian American Association, Western Australian Division. I made my own floral wreath (photo enclosed). There was a big roll-up of service personnel and ex-service personnel. A message from President Barack Obama was read by Capt. Michael P. Donnelly, USN (ret.). The words I wrote on the wreath’s card were, “In memory of the men of the U.S. Merchant Marine of World War II who gave their lives for the U.S.A. and their bodies to the oceans and seas and P.O.W. camps of the world – and their souls to God. They are now anchored safely in God’s harbor. Lest we forget….” I would like all Americans, young and old, to take note that at the memorial here in far away Australia, a World War II U.S. Army veteran, formerly from Boston and now 100 years old, climbed lots of steps to lay a wreath in memory of his fallen comrades. His name is Victor Lane and he was a sergeant. God bless America and God bless Australia, always loyal shipmates. John E. Helman, age 89 Hamilton Hill, Western Australia The Sabatini Family San Diego, California U.S. Mariners Remembered At Ceremony in Australia Once again, at the Battle of the Coral Sea memorial service here in Fremantle, Western Australia, I had the John Helman put together this wreath as a tribute to U.S. Merchant Mariners of WWII. At a separate commemoration for the Battle of the Coral Sea, Robert Bickerton from the Catafalque Party is pictured at Sir Thomas Blamey Square, Canberra, Australia. Belated Thank You Bill Deserves Full Support Recently, the Belated Thank You to the Merchant Mariners of World War II Act passed in the U.S. House of Representatives. This is not a bailout. It is not an earmark, nor is it an entitlement. It is a 65-year-old war debt that has never been paid. So what is the big holdup? If we can spend trillions of dollars bailing out these corporations … why can’t we pay a 65-year-old war debt? We can’t seem to compensate the few old WWII merchant marine veterans who are left after so many years. Why? Please do what is right and help generate support for S. 663 today. There is a trail of dead bodies from the U.S. all the way across the North Atlantic to Russia. These unmarked graves tell the story of the many brave veterans of the merchant marine who gave their lives for their country. Robert Simpson Antioch, Tennessee Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the 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 recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU 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 disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval 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 shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively 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 employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: 20 Seafarers LOG Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers 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 filing 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 SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful 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 responsibility for Seafarers 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 OBLIGATIONS. 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 headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. 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 further 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 American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect 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 Michael 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. July 2009 �54775_p1_24x:January 08 6/25/2009 11:47 PM Page 21 Seafarers Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Schedule The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., for the next few months of 2009. All programs are geared to improving the job skills of Seafarers and to promoting the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation’s security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Course Start Date Date of Completion Machinist September 14 October 2 Pumpman October 5 October 16 Welding July 6 September 7 October 5 November 2 November 30 July 24 September 25 October 23 November 20 December 18 Safety Specialty Courses August 17 November 30 August 28 December 11 Deck Upgrading Courses Course Start Date Date of Completion Advanced Firefighting August 17 October 12 September 11 November 6 Basic Firefighting/STCW ARPA July 20 November 16 July 24 November 20 July 20 September 14 November 9 July 24 September 18 November 13 Fast Rescue Boat Bosun Recertification October 13 November 2 June 29 August 17 July 3 August 21 GMDSS July 6 July 27 July 17 August 7 Medical Care Provider August 31 December 14 September 4 December 18 Government Vessels July 27 September 21 November 16 July 31 September 25 November 20 Lifeboat September 28 October 9 Radar July 6 November 2 July 17 November 13 Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman (STOS) August 24 October 19 September 4 October 30 Tanker Assistant July 27 September 21 August 7 October 2 Tank Pic Barge September 21 September 25 Able Seaman Steward Upgrading Courses Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward These classes start every other Monday. The most recent class began June 29. Academic Department Courses General education and college courses are available as needed at the Paul Hall Center. In addition, basic vocational support program courses are offered throughout the year, two weeks prior to the beginning of a vocational course. The following opportunities are currently available: Adult Basic Education (ABE), English as a Second Language (ESL), a College Program and a Preparatory Course. When applying for preparatory courses, students should list the name of the course desired on upgrading application. An introduction to computers course, a self-study module, is also available. Engine Upgrading Courses Online Distance Learning Courses Advanced Refrigerated Container October 5 October 30 Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations (BAPO) July 20 September 14 November 9 August 14 October 9 December 4 FOWT August 17 October 12 September 11 November 6 Junior Engineer August 31 October 23 Marine Electrician October 26 December 18 Marine Refrigeration Technician November 9 December 18 UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ________________________________________________________________ Five new online “distance learning” (DL) courses now are available to students who plan to enroll in classes at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. The online courses are not mandatory, but they are structured to benefit students who eventually attend other classes at the Paul Hall Center, which is located in Piney Point, Md. The new online courses are: Communications, First Aid Preparation, Bloodborne Pathogens, Basic Culinary Skills, and Basic Math Refresher. Also available in the DL program are Hazardous Material Control and Management, Hearing Conservation, Respiratory Protection, Heat Stress Management, Environmental Awareness, Shipboard Pest Management, and Shipboard Water Sanitation (for a total of 12 courses). Students MUST have access to the internet with an e-mail address in order to take the foregoing classes. Each must be taken online, not at the Paul Hall Center. E-mail addresses should be provided on applications (printed neatly) when applying. Applicants should include the letters DL when listing any online course on the form below. With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested, 1995 STCW Certificate, valid SHBP Clinic Card and TWIC. Street Address _________________________________________________________ City __________________________ State _______________ Zip Code ___________ Telephone _________________________ Deep Sea Member Lakes Member Date of Birth ______________________ Inland Waters Member If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. Social Security # ______________________ Book # _________________________ Seniority _____ Department ___________ E-mail ____________________________ U.S. Citizen: Yes No Home Port _____________________________ COURSE BEGIN DATE END DATE ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held _____________________________________ LAST VESSEL: _____________________________________ Rating: ___________ _____________________________________________________________________ Date On: ___________________________ Date Off: ________________________ Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? Yes No SIGNATURE __________________________________ DATE ________________ If yes, class # __________________________________________________________ Yes Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? No If yes, course(s) taken ___________________________________________________ Do you hold the U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman Endorsement? Yes No Firefighting: Yes No CPR: Yes No Primary language spoken ________________________________________________ July 2009 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. 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 students, who are otherwise qualified, of 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. 7/09 Seafarers LOG 21 �54775_p1_24x:January 08 6/25/2009 11:48 PM Page 22 Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class – Twenty unlicensed apprentices recently completed their requirements for graduation in Class 718 for this course. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Ezallah Ali, Jessica Crockett, Jason Demayo, Timothy Denny, Alethea Earhart, Michael Fernandez, Lamont Fulton, Joseph Gibbens, Miran Harris, Michael Knight, Nicholas McAbier, Darryl McCoy, Sunnil Motley, Tyrell Perry, Michael Sheehan, Joel Shelton, Sean Smith, William Smith, Vincent Steppits and Zatarian Turlington. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Able Seaman – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course on May 22: Jeffrey Amestoy, Stephen Amthauer, Keithan Bland, LaDarus Clark, Angela Corbitt, John Curran, Joven Deocampo, James East, Brooke English, John Figgins, Nicholas Gustafson, Jose Layz, Cameron Mitchell, Jesse Mixon, Juan Ortega Jr., Paublito Ramos-Ortiz, Ronnie Rodriguez, Anthony Snoeyenbos and John Wahl. Their instructor, Bernabe Pelingon, is at far right. Welding – Ten upgraders on May 22 completed training in this 103-hour course. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Sandra Baker, Francis Brown, Michael Clark, Marion Cruzat, Melvin Cruzat, Arman Deblois, Sherrod Frazier, David Ruggirello, Ronald Sease, and Jesse Tornabene. Their instructor, Buzzy Andrews, is sixth from the left. FOWT – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) on May 22 graduated from this course: Larbi Andaloussi, Tsawang Gyurme, Brian Jackson, Henry Sheppard, Charles Toliver, Bernard Wade, Nicole Walton, Oshema Watson and Igor Yakunkov. Tim Achorn, their instructor, is at far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Tank PIC Barge (DL) - Twenty-three individuals on May 15 completed training in this course. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: James Baldwin, Jose Baltazar, Andrew Browning, Harvey Carvajal, Scott Daly, Denis Dubro, Eugene Edwards, Tyler Egan, Byron Graham, Richard Gruskin, John Harper, Veronica Hernandez, Rafael Lanila, Parris Mancuso, Joe Mieluchowski, Johnnie Owens Jr., Kyle Parson, Michael Ribeiro, Cesar Runatay, Justin Spadoni, Samuel Stewart, Donald Wellentin and Herbert Zehnder. Their instructor, Mitch Oakley, standing, seventh from right. 22 Seafarers LOG July 2009 �54775_p1_24x2:January 08 6/29/2009 6:33 AM Page 23 Paul Hall Center Classes Tank Ship Familiarization (DL) – Twenty Phase III unlicensed apprentices on May 15 completed training in this 63-hour course. Graduating from the class (left, in alphabetical order) were: Tallentyre Barmann, Collins Brooks, Casimir Cain, Vicki Coats, Scott Collins, Eric Cunanan, Timothy Cunningham, Maurice David, Miguel Hernandez, Jonathan Johnson, Patrick Leming, Marcus Logan, Jesus Pacheco, Bruce Raquet, Enrique Rodriguez, Angel Rodriguez, Jerald Salas, Richard Vega, Edwin Velez and Osburn Wyche Jr. Computer Classes Christian Rosado (above right) recently completed training in several computer courses while upgrading at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Rosado proudly displays his certificates of course completions while posing with Rich Prucha, his instructor. STOS – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) completed training in this 70-hour course on May 15. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Eugene Ajoste, Ahmed Almihany, Joseph Barnes, Arnold Castro, Jayson Cummings, Abdul Ghaleb, Larry Middleton, Amin Mohamed, Anthony Newbill, Alfredo Nieto, Jamal Sailan and Daniel Wilcox. Tom Truitt, their instructor, is at left. Medical Care Provider (Hawaii) – Six individuals on May 2 finBST (Hawaii) – The following individuals (above, in no particular order) on May 16 completed training in this course at the Seafarers Training Center at Barbers Point, Hawaii: Carl Barry, Chad Cid-Hogan, John Jackson, David McDaniel, Michael Wren, Stephen Foster, Chulsoo Kim, Blakely Marquez, Mark St. Denis, Zachary Davis, David Robbins and James Ruhle. BST (Hawaii) – The following individuals (above, in no particular order) on May 8 graduated from this course in Barbers Point, Hawaii: Sue Mayes, Sandy Frate, Elizabeth Johnson, Antonina Kozyryeva, Christopher Arnold, Cindy Lowe, Michael Wippert and Carlos Lopez. July 2009 ished their training in this course at the Barbers Point, Hawaiibased Seafarers Training Center. Graduating, above, in no particular order were: Chuck Howard, Chinando Pacis, Calvin Kaawa, Kalani Low, Jim Carras and Keoki White. BST (Hawaii) – Eighteen individuals on May 9 completed training in this course at the Hawaiibased Seafarers Training Center. Those graduating (above, in no particular order) were: William Bryant, Edith Taylor, Serina Dolly, Jason Charles, Amber Wehrle, Cindy Gonzalez, Tan Tran, Jacob Carey, Curtis Hill, Yves Balbinot, Clinton Wayne Barnes, Cindy Crawford, Dario Daraman, Geovannie Marin Rivera, Kris Steinke, Robyn Foster, Adam Straga and James Edward Gill. Seafarers LOG 23 �54775_p1_24x:January 08 6/25/2009 11:53 PM Page 24 Volume 71, Number 7 July 2009 Members of SIU Affiliate Help Keep Panama Canal Operating Smoothly - Page 11 On the Job at Luedtke Engineering Capt. Dale Leonard S IU members play important roles in the ongoing success of Luedtke Engineering Co., a family owned dredging and marine construction business based in Frankfort, Mich. More than 30 Seafarers are employed at Luedtke, which was founded in 1930. They work aboard tugs, derrick boats, dredges and other equipment. Luedtke has been an SIU-contracted com- Derrick Boat No. 16 (above) is part the company’s stable of top-notch equipment. pany for approximately 35 years. “Part of the key to our success is wellqualified people, experience and the equipment,” the company notes on its web site. “These capabilities show that Luedtke personnel have the skills and ability to keep our equipment running efficiently.” The photos on this page were taken recently at a work site in the Saginaw (Mich.) River. Seafarers conduct dredging operations (photo above and below) in the Saginaw River. Seafarer Charles Wallace Deckhand Abdulwali Eljahmi Tugboat Kurt R. Luedtke � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2000-2009 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXII-LXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Scanned Issues 1984-1988, 1994-Present, Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource July 2009 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES CROWLEY MARITIME’S COMMITMENT DISPLAYED IN MORE WAYS THAN ONE TEXAS TUG CREWS RATIFY CONTACTS SIU ENDORSES TRUMKA FOR AFL-CIO PRESIDENT VICE ADM. HARNITCHEK APPOINTED TRANSCOM DEPUTY COMMANDER MAERSK LINE COMPLETES FLAG-IN OF 9 SHIPS UNION-CONTRACTED CROWLEY MARITIME CHRISTENS ATB TEXAS BOATMEN APPROVE TWO CONTRACTS SEAFARERS HELP HONOR MARINERS, OTHER VETERANS ACROSS NATION STUDY FINDS U.S. EMPLOYERS BECOMING MORE AGGRESSIVE TO KEEP OUT UNIONS KEYSTONE’S KURZ, NOL’S WIDDOWS SELECTED AS 2009 AOTOS RECIPIENTS MAERSK MISSOURI RESCUES YACHTSMAN PAUL HALL CENTER COURSE SPOTLIGHT SIU-CONTRACTED COMPANIES HONORED FOR RESCUES, SAFETY TANKER PELICAN STATE CHRISTENED ALLIANCE NEW YORK MARINERS HONOR CREW MEMBER’S MILESTONE WITH SEAFARERS ABOARD THE SS CAPE INTREPID WHO RAISED SWINE FLU ALERT TO PANDEMIC STATUS AFFILIATED UNION MEMBERS PLAY VITAL ROLES AT PANAMA CANAL SIU CREWED GREAT LAKES SAILING DESPITE ROUGH ECONOMY TYCO DEPENDABLE DOCKS IN NEW YORK SIU MEMBERS PARTICIPATE IN ‘ROLLING THUNDER’ EVENT ON THE JOB AT LUEDTKE ENGINEERING Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 07/01/2009 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 71, No. 7 2009 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/548c8bb5c0b24211cbc5d567f90602a8.pdf e2137ad84af6047cb24d079722a3f3ec PDF Text Text 59996_P01_24:January 08 6/23/2010 8:00 PM Page 1 Volume 72, Number 7 Maersk to Operate 10 Prepositioning Ships July 2010 The U.S. Navy’s Military Sealift Command on May 27 announced that it had completed “one of the largest acquisitions in the command’s history,” in which the agency selected SIU-contracted Maersk Line, Limited to operate and maintain 10 ships in the Maritime Prepositioning Force (MPF). Additionally, Seafarers-contracted Patriot won the bid to operate another prepositioning ship, the 1ST LT USNS Harry L. Martin. The agreements contain a series of one-year options which would extend through September 2015. The MPF ships include the USNS 2ND LT John P. Bobo (below) and USNS 1ST LT Baldomero Lopez (left). Page 3. SIU Members Continue Assisting in Gulf Cleanup Industry Rebuts False Claims About Jones Act SIU members from the union’s inland and deep sea divisions are still helping with the massive cleanup operation along the Gulf Coast, following the Deepwater Horizon disaster that began April 20 with a deadly explosion. Among the Seafarers involved with the cleanup are mariners aboard Overseas Shipholding Group’s shuttle tanker Overseas Cascade (left), pictured near the heart of the spill. Meanwhile, erroneous attacks against maritime labor, the Obama administration and the Jones Act emerged in mid-June, and an SIU official wrote an op-ed piece making a powerful case for union representation in the offshore oil industry. Pages 2, 5. Paul Hall Center’s Oil Spill Prevention And Containment Class in 20th Year The union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md., continues offering a U.S. Coast Guardapproved oil spill prevention and containment course. Students from a mid-June offering of the class are pictured (in-lay at left) in a Paul Hall Center classroom and deploying booms as part of their hands-on training. The Paul Hall Center has conducted the course since 1991. Pages 12-13. USNS Martin Crew Donates to Navy-USMC Fund Page 4 SIU-Contracted Companies Honored for Safety Page 6 �59996_P01_24:January 08 6/23/2010 8:00 PM Page 2 President’s Repor t Jones Act: Setting the Record Straight There were times in June when I almost had to check my calendar to make sure we weren’t back in the mid-1990s. During that era, wellfinanced, calculated opposition to American-flag shipping repeatedly attacked the Jones Act, one of the staples of our industry for the last 90 years. As SIU members know, the Jones Act requires that vessels operating between domestic ports be crewed, built, owned and flagged American. Most if not all other major maritime nations have laws that basically require the same thing. Orchestrated or not, attacks on the Jones Act recently resumed in the wake of the Gulf oil spill, with various publications, politicians and think-tanks firing off accusations ranging from the confusing to the insulting. The most ridiculous of those claims Michael Sacco involved a supposed refusal by the administration to waive the Jones Act and a supposed corresponding request (which never happened) from unions not to waive it. Let me cut right to the bottom line: It is offensive for anyone to suggest that American maritime labor would hinder cleanup operations in the Gulf, in any way, shape or form. Our industry has been clear from the start of this disaster – which, by the way, involved a non-union operation under the flag of the Marshall Islands. Speaking with one voice, U.S. maritime labor and management have said that we wouldn’t try to stand in the way of using foreign-flag assistance if no qualified, viable American-flag tonnage was available. That’s simple common sense, and shame on all those who try to distort our position. And what troubles me even more is that those attacking the Jones Act and the U.S.-flag maritime unions do not have the relationship with the water that we do. Many of our members and their families depend on the Gulf, its bayous and its estuaries for their livelihood and recreation. We are hurting because they are hurting. For anyone to say we don’t care simply shows how ignorant of the situation they truly are. We have plenty of supporters, too, and there have been media outlets that reported the truth. But again, the attacks aren’t anything new, nor are the methods. Enemies of American-flag shipping toss out half-truths and accusations designed to bring out emotion. They use words like “protectionist” to describe a law that benefits our nation’s economic and national security. What’s their real agenda? I agree with U.S. Senator Daniel Inouye, who stated that recent attacks on the law smack more of “pushing a political agenda than any genuine interest in helping Gulf Coast communities with their clean-up.” Meanwhile, SIU crews and other American mariners continue assisting with the Deepwater Horizon cleanup, as do a number of foreign-flag ships that have been on the scene almost from the beginning. As for the Jones Act, our industry came together in the mid-1990s like never before to set the record straight. Our efforts worked, because the truth is that the Jones Act is a sound, proven, vital regulation that benefits America. Now, we’re in the process of resuming an educational effort to reinforce those facts. As we did in the past, we’ll succeed this time, too. Freedom, Barge EMI-2400 Become Newest Additions To Express Marine Fleet Seafarers-contracted Express Marine has taken delivery of the tug Freedom (right) and accompanying barge EMI-2400 (two other photos), which together form an articulated tug-barge (ATB). The 115-foot tug was built by Patti Shipyard Inc. in Pensacola, Fla., while the 480-foot barge was constructed by Gunderson Marine in Portland, Ore. The ATB will sail in the Jones Act trades, transporting coal to various Gulf Coast ports. Express Marine is based in Camden, N.J., and provides a variety of services including lightering, ship docking and general towing, both coastal and offshore. In recent years the familyowned company – in business for more than 100 years – has added other new tonnage including the tugboats Duty and Honor. (Photos by Harold Hutchinson) Thanking Seafarers On another topic, I want to thank the rank-and-file membership for authorizing action on the Horizon Lines contract. Just like always, you did the right thing and you showed your true colors. I am proud to represent you, and I appreciate your ongoing support. IMO to Focus on Piracy Response In 2011 World Maritime Day Theme Volume 72, Number 7 July 2010 The SIU on line: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, AFLCIO; 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; Associate Editor, Mark Bowman; Photographer, Mike Hickey; Art, Bill Brower; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2010 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. 2 Seafarers LOG Following a proposal by International Maritime Organization Secretary-General Efthimios E. Mitropoulos, the IMO Council in June unanimously approved that next year’s World Maritime Day theme will be “Piracy: orchestrating the response.” In presenting the proposal, the secretary-general said that piracy continues to be an endemic problem for the international community, not only around the Horn of Africa but in other parts of the world as well, despite the many and varied efforts to contain if not eliminate it. These efforts notwithstanding, he added, much work remains to be done if the ultimate goal of consigning piracy to the realms of history is to be achieved. He identified five objectives that IMO and the international maritime community should pursue in promoting the 2011 WMD theme: ■ Secure the release of hostages by calling the world’s attention to the unacceptable plight of all those being held by pirates and, by so doing, create a worldwide demand for action that would eventually set them free; ■ Strengthen the protection of individuals, ships and cargoes by constantly improving guidance to the industry; promoting even greater levels of support from navies; and providing care for those attacked or hijacked by pirates; ■ Ensure compliance with adopted measures by making certain that merchant vessels are aware of how to access the available naval protection, and that they are implementing the recommended preventative, evasive and defensive measures effectively; ■ Promote cooperation between and among member states, regions and organizations in reducing the risk of attacks on innocent ships through information sharing; coordination of military and civilian efforts; and regional initiatives, such as the Djibouti Code of Conduct; and ■ Build up the capacity of affected member states to deter, interdict and bring to justice those who commit acts of piracy and armed robbery against ships – and, while so doing, help tackle the root causes of piracy. The IMO is the United Nations specialized agency with responsibility for the safety and security of shipping and the prevention of marine pollution by ships. July 2010 �59996_P01_24x:January 08 6/24/2010 8:56 PM Page 3 The USNS Stockham (above) is a combination containership and roll-on/roll-off vessel. Civiliancrewed ships like the USNS PFC Dewayne T. Williams (right) are vital to America’s military readiness strategy, according to the Navy. Maersk Wins U.S. Navy Prepositioning Contract Following a bidding process that lasted longer than a year, the U.S. Military Sealift Command in late May announced that SIU-contracted Maersk Line, Limited has been awarded a contract for the operation and maintenance of 10 ships in MSC’s prepositioning fleet. Seafarers-contracted Patriot Contract Services won the bid for the 11th ship in the fleet, the USNS 1ST LT Harry L. Martin. At press time, it was learned that turnover on the 11 vessels will be delayed, in part because of the time required to address a protest filed after the contract awards. However, if the original awards remain intact as expected, Seafarers will receive wage increases aboard all 11 vessels: the USNS GYSGT Fred W. Stockham, USNS LCPL Roy M. Wheat, USNS 2ND LT John P. Bobo, USNS 1ST LT Jack Lummus, USNS PFC Dewayne T. Williams, USNS SGT William R. Button, USNS 1ST LT Baldomero Lopez, USNS SGT Matej Kocak, USNS MAJ Stephen W. Pless, USNS PFC Eugene A. Obregon and USNS Martin. Each contract includes a series of one-year options which if exercised will extend the agreements through September 2015. The 10 ships included in the Maersk awards actually are covered in four separate agreements while the 11th vessel is covered in what is known as a small business set-aside. The SIU represents all unlicensed mariners aboard Maersk Line, Limited (MLL) vessels and represents the steward department mariners aboard Patriot ships. In announcing the awards during the June membership meetings, SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker pointed out that there were no guarantees the bids would be won by Seafarers-contracted companies. The union is grateful to keep these vessels under SIU contracts, he said. MLL issued a statement in which the company noted it will “provide personnel and mariners, operational and technical support ashore and afloat, as well as all the equipment, tools, provisions and supplies necessary to operate these vessels worldwide. MLL also will support MSC in the management of government-owned cargo, including, but not limited to, hazardous materials, vehicular, bulk, and general cargoes.” “MLL’s support of Maritime Prepositioning Ships goes back to 1983 when we converted five commercial vessels and operated them for 25 years. We’re pleased that MSC has recognized the value of our service and has entrusted us with these ships,” said Scott Cimring, MLL’s senior director of Government Ship Management. “Our approach to ship management leverages our global network, proven management practices, and a mindset of continuous improvement. Costeffective readiness is a MLL hallmark, and we’re ready and excited by the opportunity to continue serving the nation.” According to MSC, all 11 ships are deployed to strategic locations worldwide carrying U.S. Marine Corps cargo including tanks, ammunition, food, and medical supplies ready for rapid delivery ashore when needed. The agency describes its overall prepo- sitioning program – which consists of 32 ships supporting the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and Defense Logistics Agency – as “an essential element in the U.S. military’s readiness strategy. Afloat prepositioning strategically places military equipment and supplies board ships located in key ocean areas to ensure rapid availability during a major theater war, a humanitarian operation or other contingency…. Prepositioning ships provide quick and efficient movement of military gear between operating areas without reliance on other nations’ transportation networks. These ships give U.S. war fighters, who are flown into a theater of operations, the assurance that they will have what they need to quickly respond in a crisis – anywhere, anytime.” The prepositioning fleet features both U.S. government-owned vessels, privately owned ships chartered by the military, and vessels activated from the U.S. Maritime Administration’s Ready Reserve Force (RRF). All are crewed by U.S. civilian mariners. The USNS 1ST LT Baldomero Lopez (left), pictured in 2008 in a military exercise in Thailand, is part of the MSC prepositioning fleet. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Brian P. Caracci) Like a number of other ships in MSC’s fleet, the USNS MAJ Stephen W. Pless (above) is named after a Medal of Honor recipient. House of Representatives Votes to Extend MSP The U.S. Maritime Security Program (MSP) would be extended through 2025 under language contained in H.R. 5136, The National Defense Authorization Act. Passed by the U.S. House of Representatives on May 28 by a vote of 229 to 186, the measure extends by 10 years the MSP, which previously had been authorized through the end fiscal year 2015. The legislation on June 9 was received by the Senate where it was read twice and placed on the body’s legislative calendar. As of press time for this edition of the Seafarers LOG, no further action had taken place. The measure still must be passed by the Senate and signed by President Obama before it becomes law. Title 35, Section 3501 of House’s version of the act July 2010 addresses the authorization of appropriations for National Security Aspects of the Merchant Marine for Fiscal Year 2011. This section authorizes a total of $359 million for the U.S. Maritime Administration of the Department of Transportation for fiscal year 2011. Of the funds authorized, $174 million would be available for the MSP, and $60 million for the loan guarantee program authorized by chapter 537 of Title 46, United States Code, commonly referred to as the Title XI Loan Guarantee Program. Section 3502 of the act, titled “Extension of Maritime Security Fleet Program,” would extend the authorization of the Maritime Security Fleet through fiscal year 2025. Describing the entire National Defense Authorization Act, House Armed Services Committee Chairman Ike Skelton (D-Mo.) stated, “This defense bill aligns our military strategy with the 21st century to sustain the two wars today and prepare for the threats of tomorrow – whatever and wherever they may be. The bill reflects our continued commitment to defend America, support U.S. service members and their families, and keep Americans safe.” The MSP consistently has been hailed by U.S. military leaders as a vital, efficient, cost-effective program. In addition to offering access to militarily useful U.S.flag tonnage and other American-owned maritime resources, the program also helps maintain a pool of reliable, well-trained, loyal U.S. citizen seafarers. Further, as has been pointed out by top-ranking officers at the U.S. Transportation Command and U.S. Military Sealift Command and by other proponents, the MSP costs only a fraction of what the government would have to spend in order to replicate its capabilities. Legislators and military officers at various times have estimated that it would require at least $800 million – per year – from the Defense Department to provide similar sealift and related system capacity on its own. Seafarers LOG 3 �59996_P01_24:January 08 6/23/2010 8:00 PM Page 4 Mariners Donate Funds Four Honored by St. Louis Port Council Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society Receives Check Earlier this year, SIU members and officers aboard the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) prepositioning vessel USNS 1st LT Harry L. Martin contributed $3,000 to the U.S. NavyMarine Corps Relief Society. The money came from an award by SIU-contracted Keystone, the vessel operator, for three years of environmentally safe operations by the Martin. A presentation took place April 14 at Blount Island Command in Jacksonville, Fla. According to the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society web site, the non-profit organization’s mission is “to provide, in partnership with the Navy and Marine Corps, financial, educational, and other assistance to members of the Naval Services of the United States, eligible family members, and survivors when in need; and to receive and manage funds to administer these programs.” Chief Storekeeper Eurico Liboon recalled, “We had a crew meeting on board the ship and discussed a lot of different suggestions on what to do with the money. We decided that donating for our wounded troops who risked their lives in protecting us would be a great cause and a thank-you to them from us.” Keystone commended the crew members and officers for their heartfelt gesture. In a recent communication, the company wrote, “We salute Captain Mike Donovan and the entire crew of the Harry L. Martin for their generously donating the total proceeds of their three-year environmental incentive monies to the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Fund during their recent visit to Blount Island Command. To Capt. Donovan and his crew, Bravo Zulu!” Col. Steven R. Peters, commanding officer of Blount Island Command, said in a letter to Rear Adm. Mark Buzby, commander of MSC, “Sir, I wanted to pass on my sincere thank you to you and Capt. Michael Donovan and the crew of the USNS Harry L. Martin for their very generous gift to the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society (Combat Casualty Assistance) while in port here…. As I understand it, the funds donated were generated from the crews’ excellent hazmat and waste disposal performance (pollution-free operations) sustained over the last three years. Their stellar performance is only bested by their generosity to this most worthy cause.” Donovan told the MSC newspaper Sealift that the crew’s selection for this donation reflects their camaraderie with our armed forces. “Our mission is to support Marine Corps logistics when needed,” he told the paper. “In this mission, we have met and interacted with a number of Marines and have come away with a deep appreciation for the work the Corps does…. With the ongoing war in Afghanistan and Iraq, we felt this program could make the best use of the money. Everyone felt it was a worthy cause to donate to. It’s always a good feeling to be able to donate, whether it’s time or money, to people who could really use the help.” This photo was taken aboard the ship as the check was presented. Among those pictured are AB John Shank, AB Gustavo Arzu, AB Wallace William, Chief Storekeeper Eurico Liboon, OS George Galanis, Chief Engineer Steve Granahan, Capt. Mike Donovan, Col. Steven Peters, Oiler Kerry Coleman, 1st Engineer Justin Litterine, QMED Drew Brown, Bosun Jose Jimenea, Chief Mate Mark Nowak, 3rd Mate Sam Leshner, Cadet Greg Otto and AB Brooke English. The AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department’s St. Louis Port Council on April 24 conducted its 30th annual awards dinner honoring individuals who support the maritime industry specifically and working families in general. Pictured from left to right are the honorees along with MTD and port council officials: MTD and SIU President Michael Sacco, Port Council VP Jack Martorelli, Port Council President Dick Mantia, Congressman William Lacy Clay (recipient of the Able Helmsman award), Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 562 Business Manager and Secretary-Treasurer Pat Kellett (Labor Man of the Year), Murphy Company CEO Jim Murphy Jr. (Management Man of the Year), retired Local 562 official Dick Kellett (Joe Sacco Friend of Labor award), St. Louis Building & Construction Trades Council Executive Secretary-Treasurer Jerry Feldhaus and SIU St. Louis Port Agent and Port Council SecretaryTreasurer Becky Sleeper. Seafarer’s Son Wins Union Plus Scholarship The son of SIU Steward Roberto A. Firme is on a roll. First, Robert Firme was awarded a $20,000 scholarship through the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan, as reported in the June LOG. Shortly thereafter, the younger Firme received notification that he’d won a $4,000 grant through Union Plus, a nonprofit organization founded by the AFLCIO. Firme was eligible to apply for the Union Plus scholarship because of the SIU’s participation in various Union Plus programs. Overall for 2010, Union Plus awarded $150,000 in scholarships to 121 students representing 42 unions. More than 5,000 applications were received from students representing all 50 states, Puerto Rico and Canada. Robert Firme is from Ewa Beach, Hawaii, and has been accepted at Stanford University. He graduated first in his class at James Campbell High School. Of his Seafaring father, he said, “His selfless sacrifice motivated me to work hard in school and become the first person in my family to attend college.” Roberto Firme has been an SIU member since 1986. Leslie Tolf, president of Union Privilege (the organization overseeing Union Plus), stated, “During these challenging economic times, with college tuition rising and many working families struggling just to get by, we’re pleased to be helping some of the labor movement’s most promising students achieve their college dreams.” Union Plus scholarship awards are granted to students attending a two-year college, four-year college, graduate school or a recognized technical or trade school. Since starting the program in 1991, Union Plus has awarded $3 million in educational funding to more than 1,900 union members, spouses and dependent children (including other SIU members and dependents and members of the SIU-affiliated United Industrial Workers). Recipients are selected based on academic ability, social awareness, financial need and appreciation of labor. Visit UnionPlus.org/Education for applications and benefit eligibility. Papp Replaces Allen as U.S. Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Robert J. Papp Jr., assumed command as the 24th commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard on May 25, relieving Adm. Thad W. Allen during a military ceremony at Fort Lesley J. McNair in Washington, D. C. SIU officials President Michael Sacco, Executive Vice President Augie Tellez and Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel attended the ceremony. “I am honored to serve as the 24th commandant of the Coast Guard,” said Papp. “When I assumed the duties from Admiral Thad Allen at noon today, it concluded a series of key rotations and marked the setting of a new watch to lead our service.” During the ceremony, Secretary of Defense Robert Gates awarded Allen the Defense Distinguished Service Medal. Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano presided over the change of command and awarded Allen the Homeland Security Distinguished Service Medal. Although the ceremony marked the end of his term as commandant, Allen continues serving as the National Incident Commander for the Deepwater Horizon oil spill, managing an unprecedented response effort. “I have the utmost confidence in Admiral Papp’s and Admiral Brice-O’Hara’s ability to 4 Seafarers LOG lead the Coast Guard during a period of tremendous changes, challenges and opportunities,” said Allen. “The new leadership team is well equipped to continue to elevate the value of the U.S. Coast Guard to America and the global maritime community.” Papp reports to Coast Guard Headquarters from Portsmouth, Va., where he served as commander of Coast Guard Atlantic Area since 2008. In this position, he served as the operational commander for all Coast Guard missions from the Rocky Mountains east to central Asia, covering more than half of the world including the recent Haitian earthquake disaster response, Coast Guard support to Operation Iraqi Freedom and counter-drug operations in the Caribbean. Allen became the 23rd commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard on May 25, 2006. He has led the largest component of the Department of Homeland Security, comprised of 42,000 men and women on active duty, 7,000 civilians, 8,000 reservists and 34,000 volunteer Coast Guard Auxiliarists. Allen’s leadership in times of crisis includes the aftermath of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, when he served as the principal federal officer responsible for response and recovery operations. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano presides as Adm. Robert J. Papp Jr. (right) relieves Adm. Thad W. Allen as Coast Guard Commandant during the change of command ceremony at Ft. McNair. (U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 1st Class Kip Wadlow) July 2010 �59996_P01_24:January 08 6/23/2010 8:00 PM Page 5 SIU VP: Union Representation Would Make Difference in Gulf While various pundits across the nation pondered what led up to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill and how to prevent a similar disaster, SIU Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey last month served up an otherwise-overlooked suggestion. Specifically, in an op-ed piece in the daily newspaper Houston Chronicle, Corgey stated that union representation in the offshore oil industry might have helped prevent the spill and certainly would improve operations moving forward. “What’s wrong in the Gulf of Mexico? We think the answer is simple,” Corgey wrote. “The offshore exploration, production and service industry in the Gulf of Mexico, to the best of our knowledge, is 100 percent nonunion and increasingly foreign. Past attempts to organize these workers have been met with bitter opposition — not from employees but from employers. These largely anti-union employers struggle in a volatile, hypercompetitive environment that has resulted in unsafe working conditions and unstable employment. Lack of union representation has denied oil-field workers a voice in the workplace, which in turn has created an out-of-control industry with little over- sight or accountability. It is painful to see oil-soaked birds receive more media attention than injured, deceased or displaced workers. It is also painful to see the lack of an organized workers’ voice in the legislative and regulatory processes contribute to 11 deaths and the worst spill in U.S. history. This clearly did not have to happen.” A lifelong resident of Houston, Corgey cited the cooperative spirit that exists in the U.S. Merchant Marine between labor, management and government – a condition that fosters safe operations and open communication. “In my experience, the most effective health, safety and environmental programs are a three-legged stool consisting of a committed employer, effective government regulation and meaningful safety provisions contained in a binding union contract subject to a grievance and arbitration procedure with teeth,” he wrote. “We practice this model in the deep-sea, U.S.flag fleet with measurable success. I served on the Towing Safety Advisory Committee of the United States Coast Guard in the early 1990s following the Exxon Valdez disaster and participated in advising the Coast Guard on writing the 4 Crowley Tugs ‘Cleaner and Greener’ Seafarers-contracted Crowley Maritime Corporation in mid-June reported that four of its Harbor-Class tugboats have been “repowered and reintroduced” for service assisting vessels in the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, Calif. The SIU-crewed tugs Admiral (below), Leader, Scout and Master “underwent an extensive repowering as part of an emissions and air quality initiative program by the Port of Los Angeles,” according to Crowley, which described the updated boats as “cleaner and greener.” The project, launched in late 2006, focuses on repowering the vessels’ main engines and generators, and is part of a larger Port of Los Angeles emissions and air quality initiative known as the San Pedro Bay Ports Clean Air Action Plan. The plan requires all vessel operators in the area to upgrade their engines to be Tier II emissions compliant by 2013. July 2010 regulations for the Oil Pollution Act of 1990. I also served on the Area Maritime Security Committee of the Department of Homeland Security for the Port of Houston following the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attack and participated in writing the original Port Security Plan, which became the model for security plans nationwide. After Exxon Valdez and the 2001 terror attacks, government, industry and labor worked together to accomplish something positive for the nation. This model must be replicated to save our domestic offshore industry.” Among his specific recommendations, Corgey urged re-establishing Jones Act provisions on the outer continental shelf “to require American companies to operate American vessels, built in America, employing American workers subject to U.S. government oversight and labor laws.” He concluded, “The American political system is based on checks and balances. This evidently does not currently exist in the Gulf as can be evidenced by representatives for deceased Deepwater Horizon workers being either aggrieved family members or personal injury trial lawyers. SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey These workers would clearly be better served by the unified voice of effective trade unions to help protect the environment, proactively work to prevent the need for personal injury representation and ensure that all workers safely return home to their families. That’s the union way and that’s the American way.” Jones Act Critics Miss the Mark Shoddy Reporting Paints Erroneous Picture of Vital Law As the Deepwater Horizon saga dragged on through June, a vital United States maritime law – the Jones Act – suddenly became a hot topic in the media and, to lesser extent, in Congress. Critics attacked President Obama for not waiving the Jones Act to supposedly open the door for additional assistance in the Gulf cleanup operations. At least one also charged that U.S. maritime unions were thwarting progress by their purported unwillingness to support a suspension of the law, which requires that all vessels operating between domestic ports be crewed, built, owned and flagged American. Following that initial round of erroneous claims and inaccurate reporting, the truth gradually emerged. Statements from industry groups, senators, congressmen and the head of the Deepwater Horizon Unified Command, Admiral Thad Allen, exposed the critics’ arguments as flawed at best, as did certain news articles. White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs did the same. For starters, Allen pointed out that as of mid-June, more than a dozen foreign-flag vessels already were assisting in the cleanup. No Jones Act waivers had been issued because none of the vessels required one to operate in that area. Presumably, that’s also why the government neither had submitted nor received any waiver requests. Moreover, federal law includes allowances to help ensure an adequate supply of vessels during an emergency. For instance, the vessel “skimmers” operating more than three miles from shore also do not require Jones Act waivers. (The Deepwater Horizon spill is happening 50 miles from shore.) Nevertheless, the Unified Command developed specific guidance to ensure accelerated processing of requests for Jones Act waivers should they be received. As one reporter said of those clamoring to suspend the law, there is “just one problem with these arguments: They are almost entirely false.” Indeed, the Maritime Cabotage Task Force (MCTF), the largest coalition in the history of the domestic American maritime industry, made it perfectly clear that the industry’s goals are, as always, what is best for the nation. In a statement issued June 11, the MCTF said, “The American maritime industry supports immediate action to address the unfolding environmental disaster in the Gulf. Federal law called the Jones Act requires that American vessels be used for domestic trans- portation activities in the U.S., and countless American vessels are already responding in the Gulf. In addition, we know that many other American vessels are standing by ready to help. There are well-established federal procedures for waiving the Jones Act to bring in foreign vessels in those situations were American vessels are not available. The American maritime industry has not and will not stand in the way of the use of these well-established waiver procedures to address this crisis.” Others including Congressman Don Young (R-Alaska) and Senator Daniel K. Inouye (DHawaii) also helped clarify the situation. In a statement issued on June 16, Inouye said, “I was taken aback by the suggestion that we suspend the Jones Act to bring in foreign ships to deal with the catastrophic oil spill in the Gulf. That is not necessary. American vessels from the Navy, Coast Guard, state and county governments are working with private citizens and foreign vessels in support of the clean-up effort. To suggest that we suspend the Jones Act to allow foreign ships into the Gulf is more about pushing a political agenda than any genuine interest in helping Gulf coast communities with their clean-up.” Finally, still others wondered not why the Jones Act hadn’t been waived, but rather, why all available U.S.-flag, Jones Act-qualified vessels hadn’t been utilized in the cleanup. In particular, U.S. Rep. John Mica (Fla.), ranking Republican member of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, urged that domestic operators be contacted immediately “to review both their assets and capability to be part of this important response.” In May, the Transportation Institute (a Washington, D.C.-based coalition that promotes the Jones Act and other U.S. maritime laws) announced results of a study that demonstrated in a strong economy, Jones Act vessels will carry more than 1 billion tons of cargo, or more than 40 percent of all waterborne commerce in the United States. This activity generates $100.3 billion in economic output, adds another $45.9 billion to the value of U.S. economic output, and contributes $11.4 billion in federal, state and local taxes. Further, the Jones Act fleet generates nearly 500,000 family-sustaining jobs. Enacted in 1920, the Jones Act protects American’s national and economic security. In part, it does so by helping maintain a pool of well-trained, loyal, U.S.-citizen mariners who sail aboard all types of American-flag ships, including military support vessels. Seafarers LOG 5 �59996_P01_24x:January 08 6/24/2010 8:59 PM Page 6 SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel (center) speaks during the U.S.-Consultative Shipping Group meeting, where he promoted mariners’ rights. Heindel Addresses International Maritime Forum SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel on June 15 touched on several important topics during a meeting of U.S. maritime representatives and officials from the Consultative Shipping Group (CSG), which is composed of shipping administrations from more than a dozen countries. Heindel, who also serves as first vice chair of the International Transport Workers’ Federation Seafarers’ Section, was a featured panelist for the meeting, which took place at AFL-CIO headquarters in Washington, D.C. He discussed the need for the United States to ratify certain maritime labor conventions and also called for stronger international efforts to fight piracy. Other featured speakers included U.S. Deputy Secretary of Transportation John Porcari, Acting Maritime Administrator David Matsuda and CSG Chairman Andreas Nordseth, who is the director general of the Danish Maritime Authority. Heindel was invited to discuss some of the challenges facing maritime labor. He pointed out that even though nothing on the attentiongrabbing scale of last year’s Maersk Alabama incident has occurred since then involving another U.S.-flag ship, the problem definitely hasn’t disappeared. In fact, it has grown. “All ships sailing off the coast of eastern SIU-Contracted Companies Earn Safety Recognition A number of Seafarers-contracted companies and their SIU crews recently were recognized for safe operations and outstanding seamanship. The accolades were delivered June 3 in New Orleans, where the Chamber of Shipping of America (CSA) conducted its 52nd annual awards program. The CSA presented awards for specific incidents as well as for prolonged operations (at least two years) without a mariner involved in a lost-time injury. The latter decorations are known as the Jones F. Devlin Awards. CSA President Joseph Cox told an audience of more than 170 people, “CSA’s involvement in safety is longstanding. We continue to represent the industry, domestically and internationally, on safety issues encompassing every facet of ship operations. It is therefore only fitting that an industry so focused on safety, publicly recognizes the skills and dedication of the women and men who are responsible for actions in keeping with the highest traditions of the sea – aid to those in peril.” Dozens of companies were represented at the event. Many of them are members of the CSA, which represents U.S.-based businesses that own, operate or charter oceangoing tankers, containerships, and other merchant vessels engaged in both the domestic and international trades and other entities that maintain a commercial interest in the operation of such oceangoing vessels. SIU-crewed vessels and Seafarers-contracted companies receiving letters of commendation included USNS 1st LT Jack Lummus and USNS PFC Dewayne T. Williams, both operated by American Overseas Marine, and the USNS Richard G. Matthiesen, operated by Ocean Shipholdings Inc. Also receiving letters were Crowley Marine Services and OSG Ship Management. Recipients of the Devlin Awards included Alaska Tanker Company, Crescent Towing, Crowley Maritime Corporation, E.N. Bisso & Son Inc., American Overseas Marine, Higman Barge Lines Inc., Horizon Lines, Interocean American Shipping Corporation, Keystone Shipping Co., Maersk Line, Marine Transport Lines, Moran Towing, Ocean Shipholdings Inc., OSG Ship Management, PASHA Shipping Group, Sea Star Line, Seabulk Tankers Inc., Seabulk Towing Inc., Totem Ocean Trailer Express, and USS Vessel Management LLC. 6 Seafarers LOG Africa and in the waters of the Indian Ocean keep on constant lookout for possible attacks,” he stated. “Every week, the reports come in that more vessels have been attacked, with some captured. Crews spend agonizing months docked in Somali ports as the pirates and ship’s owners haggle over the price of freedom.” He said that although some of the potential solutions are complex, the bottom line is that governments must do everything possible to end this scourge. Heindel also called for the U.S. to pass two International Labor Organization conventions. One is known as ILO 185, and it concerns a uniform identification credential for mariners. The other is the Consolidated Maritime Labor Convention, which the ITF has described as a “bill of rights for seafarers.” “Both of these conventions from the ILO deserve support and ratification,” Heindel concluded. “The United States should take the lead in doing so in order that mariners around the world will have safer and better working conditions.” The CSG includes representatives from Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, The Netherlands and the United Kingdom. Crew, QMED Donate for Haiti Relief Seafarers from USNS Buck Contribute to Humanitarian Cause Recovery operations in Haiti no longer make for everyday headlines in the U.S., but those humanitarian efforts remain in the thoughts of SIU members, as recently demonstrated by a number of Seafarers. In late May, SIU members aboard the USNS Paul Buck chose to donate their portion of the ship’s fund to Haiti relief. The $300 donation comes on the heels of earlier maritime labor efforts which saw $82,000 given by Maritime Trades Department-affiliated unions (including the SIU) to the AFL-CIO Solidarity Center’s Earthquake Relief for Haitian Workers’ Campaign. Operated by Ocean Shipholdings Inc. for the U.S. Military Sealift Command, the Buck recently delivered vital cargo to McMurdo Station in Antarctica as part of the annual Operation Deep Freeze mission. Additionally, QMED Esmeil Aborady donated his overtime pay (earned while sailing aboard the USNS Fred Stockham) to Haiti relief efforts. Ship operator Keystone matched the contribution. Bosun Phil Corl (second from left in photo above) delivers the crew’s donation to the care of Patrolman Brian Guiry. Also pictured (from left) are SA Charlotte Chastain, GUDE Aristotle Bone and QMED Endang Abidin. In photo below, Seafarers are pictured aboard the USNS Paul Buck in late May in Charleston, S.C. July 2010 �59996_P01_24x:January 08 6/24/2010 9:01 PM Page 7 USNS Comfort Honored for Haiti Mission The U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) hospital ship USNS Comfort was welcomed as an honorary member in the Maryland Hospital Association at the organization’s annual meeting in Baltimore on June 4. The Comfort is crewed by members of the SIU Government Services Division and is home-ported in Baltimore. According to MSC, the honorary membership recognizes the Comfort’s role in international relief efforts following the Jan. 12 earthquake in Haiti. The vessel spent seven weeks anchored off the coast of Port-au-Prince, where shipboard medical personnel treated nearly 900 earthquake victims. “It’s an honor for the men and women who served on Comfort during the Haiti mission to be recognized as part of the Maryland Hospital Association,” said Capt. James Ware, the commanding officer of Comfort’s Medical Treatment Facility. “We are very proud of all of our enduring relationships with the broader medical community, including partners ranging from other U.S. military services and government agencies to non-governmental organizations and even foreign militaries and health ministries.” Ware and David Lieberman, the civilian officer in charge of the ship, accepted the honor on behalf of the more than 1,000 Navy medical personnel and 79 civil service mariners who coordinated with 170 Navy planners and support per- sonnel and an additional 244 civilian medical volunteers from eight non-governmental organizations. “Maryland’s hospitals and the USNS Comfort share more than a home. We also share a mission of providing care and compassion to all who need it,” said Carmela Coyle, MHA president and CEO. “For Maryland’s hospitals, that means being there to provide care. For the USNS Comfort, it means getting there to provide care.” Lieberman and the rest of Comfort’s CIVMARS are also happy with the honor. “Part of what makes Comfort’s hospital so exceptional is the fact that we can take it where it’s needed,” said Lieberman. “Although the mariners don’t treat patients, we are so proud of the role that we play in getting this ship to people in need and ensuring that the hospital has electricity and water.” Ware and Lieberman accepted a plaque that will be displayed aboard the ship. “The people who man Maryland’s hospitals are proud to now be associated with the people who man the USNS Comfort in all capacities, and we welcome them as colleagues,” said Coyle. According to MSC, the Comfort was delivered to the Navy Dec. 1, 1987, and arrived in Baltimore July 13, 1988. When not deployed, the ship is kept pier-side where a small crew of CIVMARS and Navy medical personnel maintain the ves- Navy Capt. James Ware, commanding officer of hospital ship USNS Comfort’s medical treatment facility; David Lieberman, Comfort’s officer in charge; Navy Capt. James Rice, Military Sealift Command force medical officer; and Richard Haynes, MSC executive director, accept a plaque from Maryland Hospital President and CEO Carmela Coyle and MHA Board Chair Albert Counselman (far left) commemorating the Comfort’s honorary MHA membership at the organization’s annual meeting June 4 in Baltimore. sel and Medical Treatment Facility in a high state of readiness. When activated, the Comfort can deploy on a mission in five days. The Maryland Hospital Association is the advocate for Maryland’s hospitals, health systems, communities and patients before legislative and regulatory bodies. MHA’s 61 member hospitals include teaching hospitals, health systems, specialty hospitals, veterans’ hospitals and long-term care facilities. Hospital Ship Mercy Mobilizes For Pacific Partnership 2010 Civilian mariners in the SIU Government Services Division on board the hospital ship USNS Mercy showed once again they can play the dual roles of ambassador and humanitarian on a recent trip to Vietnam in support of exercise Pacific Partnership 2010. During the mission, the Vietnamese vice minister of health and the U.S. ambassador to Vietnam experienced partnership firsthand as they toured both the USNS Mercy and a Seabee construction project on June 4. Vice Minister of Health Trịnh Quân Huấn and Ambassador Michael W. Michalak were interested in seeing exactly what capabilities Pacific Partnership brings to the people of Quy Nhon, Vietnam, during the 13day mission stay. According to the U.S. Military Sealift Command, which operates the Comfort, Pacific Partnership was created in the wake of the tsunami which struck Indonesia in 2004. Since 2006, partner nations and nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) have come together each year to continue fostering the relationships developed during those challenging months to provide medical, dental, veterinary and engineering civic action programs as well as “subject matter expert exchanges” with local medical professionals. This was Pacific Partnership’s third visit to Vietnam, and the second time there for the USNS Mercy. As the ambassador walked the passageways of the hospital ship, he noticed not only the variety of U.S. military uniforms, but also the large number of partner nation military professionals and July 2010 NGO volunteers going about their day, helping maintain the Mercy’s ability to provide surgery and other health care to those in need. Also noteworthy was the number of Vietnamese medical specialists on board the Mercy – not for medical care, but rather to participate in information exchanges. “I think that we’ve had excellent cooperation from the Government of Vietnam, and we’ve learned an awful lot in doing these missions,” said Michalak. “And this one, from what I understand, has been absolutely the smoothest and the best coordinated mission of all.” MSC reported that a Japanese ship worked alongside the Mercy to also provide medical care, with more than 30 medical professionals from the JDS Kunisaki going ashore each day to treat those in need. Additionally, the vice minister and the ambassador visited one of the Seabee engineering sites in Quy Nhon upon completion of the Mercy tour. The construction project focused on the Quang Trung Clinic District Health Center, which provides health services to more than 24,000 residents that live in the area, with an average of 300 to 400 patients seen each month. The clinic is the second of four engineering civic action programs to be completed by engineers from Australia, the U.S., and Vietnam. Vietnamese volunteers had a major role in executing the project. Builder 3rd Class Scott Bishop, right, Capt. Lisa M. Franchetti, commander of Pacific Partnership 2010, and U.S. Ambassador to Vietnam Michael W. Michalak cut a ribbon with a Ministry of Health of Vietnam official and a Quang Trung Hospital physician during a rededication ceremony. The Seafarers-crewed Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Mercy is in Vietnam conducting the fifth in a series of annual U.S. Pacific Fleet humanitarian and civic assistance endeavors to strengthen regional partnerships. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Matthew Jackson) The HSV 2 Swift serves different branches of the U.S. military, depending on its specified assignment. HSV 2 Swift Arrives in Panama For Southern Partnership Station The SIU-crewed highspeed vessel HSV 2 Swift arrived in Balboa-Rodman, Panama, May 22, to kick off the Southern Partnership Station 2010 visit to the Central American nation. The vessel is operated by Sealift Inc. for the U.S. Military Sealift Command. Southern Partnership Station (SPS) is a deployment of various specialty platforms to the U.S. Southern Command area of responsibility in the Caribbean and Latin America, with the primary goal of information sharing with navies, coast guards, and civilian services throughout the region. “This visit to Panama and the other nations we’ll visit during this deployment are opportunities for us to foster friendly, mutual cooperation and understanding by coming together to enhance regional maritime security,” said Capt. Kurt Hedberg, mission commander of SPS 2010. “I look forward to getting to know and learning from the people of Panama through our subject matter expert exchanges over the next few weeks.” While deployed in support of SPS 2010, the Swift will visit various countries in the Caribbean island nations, Central and South America during the upcoming months. Some of the topics to be discussed during the visits are port security, personal security, junior and senior enlisted leadership principles, outboard motor maintenance, maintenance management and small boat operations. The U.S. Marine Corps also has an eight-man mobile training team on board the Swift to participate in the exchanges. Seafarers LOG 7 �59996_P01_24:January 08 6/23/2010 8:00 PM Page 8 ‘Piney Point is a Great Place to Start a Career’ Seafarer Richardson Utilizes School to Advance from Trainee to Mate Between its renowned entry-level program and numerous upgrading courses, the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education offers plenty of opportunities for Seafarers to help advance their careers. Korron Richardson knows all about those opportunities, and he stands as one of the most recent examples of the school’s long-held axiom that its students can progress as far as their ambitions take them. Richardson, a native of Brooklyn, N.Y., graduated from Paul Hall Center Trainee Class 578 in 1998. Since then, he has returned to the Piney Point, Md.based campus upwards of 20 times for various upgrading courses. Earlier this year, he completed the third mate’s class and subsequently passed the exam to earn his license. “This school is a great place to learn,” Family support helped Karron achieve his goal of earning a license. Pictured with him at the school are his wife, Latasha, and children Korron Jr. and Kariah. “I couldn’t have done it without them,” Karron said. Alliance Charleston Captain Credits Crew The master of the SIU-crewed MV Alliance Charleston recently thanked crew members for their efforts during the newly reflagged ship’s first voyage under the Stars and Stripes. Captain David A. McLean III in early May sent a 8 Seafarers LOG Richardson, 31, said in Piney Point immediately following the June membership meeting. “Piney Point is a great place to start a career and to become part of a great union. The SIU offers excellent jobs and real opportunities to move up, to better yourself and better your family’s situation.” As with virtually any worthwhile achievement, Richardson’s ascension wasn’t easy. He said the mate’s class (which lasts 16 weeks and formally is called Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch) by far was the most difficult one he’s ever taken. Instructor Stacey McNeely credited Richardson for bearing down. “He definitely did not give up when the going got tough,” she stated. “Korron worked really hard. He is an example that you can go as far as you want to go. This career path is achievable by anyone who wants to do it and is willing to do the work. He will make a good mate.” Richardson, who most recently sailed aboard the Sealand Eagle, enthusiastically cited McNeely’s steady guidance as an invaluable aid throughout his studies. He also enjoyed the support of his family, including his wife, Latasha, who pointed out that Korron “has made great progress in a short period of time. He’s only been in the union for about 12 years and for him to have gotten as far as he has in such a short period is a real accomplishment. I’m really proud – he didn’t let anything stop him.” Good Fit For Korron Richardson, Piney Point and the SIU were a good fit from the beginning. He learned about the unlicensed apprentice or trainee program from his brother, Rashawn, who preceded him at the school. (Other family members also sail with the SIU, including cousins Curtis Richardson, Lavell Smith and Corey Richardson.) He started sailing in the engine department but quickly switched to the deck, where he found his niche. Richardson said he liked the maritime industry right away, including a schedule that contained some unforeseen benefits. But his desire to advance evolved through a number of years, thanks in part to repeated encouragement from fellow Seafarers as well as officers who saw his potential. “I enjoy the traveling and then having that time off afterward with your family,” he said. “It’s great – you can catch up, get things planned. It’s a good deal. You work hard, then you come home and can enjoy a nice long vacation with your family. “As far as wanting to keep upgrading,” he continued, “when I saw those opportunities, I just tried to make it a habit: go to work, get enough sea time, see what classes I can take, and just go for it. You learn so much, and you have opportunities to get better jobs.” Time after time, he came back to the Paul Hall Center to help achieve his goals. (His fondness for the school is so great that he even took his family there for vacation, including son, Korron Jr., and daughter, Kariah.) “The environment makes it the right fit for learning,” Richardson noted. “It’s quiet and there aren’t many distractions. All the resources are here, and the school has made a lot of improvements over the years, such as the simulators and the fire fighting school.” He also pointed out that the lessons aren’t abstract. Recalling a voyage on the Overseas Ambermar, Richardson remembered relieving the bosun for a midnight watch as the vessel was preparing to go through the Panama Canal. The ship lost steering, but Richardson’s training paid off when the captain gave orders to drop the anchors. Richardson did so – port first, then starboard, then putting them on the brake – and helped save the ship. Reflecting, Looking Ahead Reflecting on his still-unfolding career, Richardson said he has enjoyed sailing on a wide variety of ships including tankers, containerships and roll-on/roll-off vessels. He is proud to have supported our troops in Operation Iraqi Freedom – he earned the U.S. Merchant Marine Expeditionary Medal for a voyage aboard the USNS Capella – and in general wishes more of the public understood the importance of the U.S. Merchant Marine. “Somebody’s got to deliver the cargo, the ammunition,” he observed. “It’s not just dropping out of the sky. People fail to realize who’s doing that job. We do it, and we’re willing to sail into harm’s way to deliver.” Looking forward, Richardson eventually wants to sail as captain. He already knows the training and testing requirements. His advice to people just entering the industry? “Don’t listen to he said, she said. Go out there and gather information for yourself. When it comes to work, just do the job and your character will show. Learn that job, master your position, and then move on to something else. I remember there were times as a wiper, cleaning the heads. It’s a dirty job, but somebody’s got to do it, so take some pride in it. People notice.” Asked to summarize his experience at the school, from the beginning until now, Richardson thought for a moment and then replied with a hearty laugh, “Pleasure and pain! Starting out as a trainee, you’re trying to get used to something new but you don’t really know what’s going on. But when you get out on the ships, you remember the things you learned at school. The other pleasure part is a decent check – the money. You start to see the big picture.” letter to the entire crew of the Alliance Charleston, which joined the SIU fleet in February. “During the initial voyage of the MV Alliance Charleston I commend you all and want you to know you have been exemplary of the United States Merchant Marine,” McLean wrote. “During my time aboard, the entire crew was an asset to the vessel. Good shipmates, you endeavored to take on responsibility and gain knowledge in all aspects of vessel operations and company and ship policies and proce- dures. You listened well, learned quickly, followed orders explicitly, took initiative, paid great attention to detail and each and every one became a valued member of my crew.” McLean added that the crew worked safely and maintained “a great attitude.” Built in 2008, the Alliance Charleston is operated by Farrell Lines for Maersk Line, Limited. The ship is 751 feet long and has more than 710,000 square feet of cargo space. It can sail at greater than 20 knots. A frequent upgrader, Karron Richardson says of the Paul Hall Center, “All the resources are here.” July 2010 �59996_P01_24x:January 08 6/24/2010 9:08 PM Page 9 SIU-Crewed Ship Serves as Mock Boarding Vessel The SIU-crewed USNS LCpl. Roy M. Wheat recently served as ground zero for the at-sea portion of a U.S. Navy maritime exercise dubbed Phoenix Express 2010 (PE210) in the Mediterranean Sea. A dual-phased multinational event, the exercise was two weeks in duration. It was designed to strengthen maritime partnerships and enhance stability in the Mediterranean region through increased interoperability and cooperation among partners from Africa, Europe and the United States. PE210 commenced May 10 with phase one (in-port segment) and culminated June 2 with phase two (at-sea segment). Phase one of the exercise focused on maritime interdiction operations training and was conducted in Souda Bay, Greece. Phase two focused on maritime interdiction operations wherein the USNS Wheat–because of its enormous size—was used as a mock boarding platform. An average of two boardings per day by different countries took place aboard the Wheat while the exercise was underway. During this segment, forces from the different countries enhanced their techniques, tactics and procedures during visit, board, search and seizure drills aboard the Wheat. They also conducted search and rescue, medical, maritime domain awareness and automatic identification system drills. The Wheat’s commanding officer, Capt. John W. Matfield, was on the bridge to meet each newly arriving team and watch as they commandeered his ship. “It’s been interesting to see the different forces at work and how hard it is to pull it all together,” he said “But it also surprises me that these teams do as well as they do on such short notices. “The Wheat’s motto is ‘Whatever, wherever, whenever’ so the crew and I see this exercise as a part of our job as well as a break from our normal routine,” Matfield concluded. “We want to provide the teams with a realistic experience because for the most part their training platforms are not as similar as a commercial vessel.” SIU members aboard the USNS Wheat during PE210 included Bosun William Lima, ABs Glenn Davis, Sylvan Harris, Harvey Carvajal, Eric Moreira, and Bryan Benak; Electricians David Spaulding and Dave Higdon; Storekeeper Renee Clayton; Oilers Victor Chance, Francis Yapching and Kevin Johnson; Steward Walter White, Chief Cook Jermaine Robinson, GVAs Anthony Newbell and Emmanuel Korsah and Steward Assistant George Jenkins. The USNS LCpl. Roy M. Wheat is one of the U.S. Military Sealift Command’s 13 container and rollon/roll-off ships and is part of the agency’s prepositioning fleet. Commissioned in late 2001, the Wheat is named in honor of Marine Corps LCpl. Roy M. Wheat who died in 1967 during the Vietnam War and was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor. A Turkish Navy-operated, rigid-hull inflatable boat (above) transfers members of a visit, board, search and seizure team to the Military Sealift Command operated and SIUcrewed USNS LCpl. Roy H. Wheat (far right). A Spanish navy visit, board, search and seizure team member (right) provides cover for his team while conducting a boarding exercise aboard the Wheat. (U.S. Navy photos by Mass Communication Specialists 2nd Class Jimmy C. Pan and Felicito Rustique) Portuguese navy visit, board, search and seizure team members (above) climb down a ladder into their ridged-hull inflatable boat after completing an inspection aboard the USNS LCpl. Roy M. Wheat. In photo at right, Italian team members secure the Wheat’s flight deck during their operations. (U.S. Navy photos by Mass Communication Specialists 2nd Class Jimmy C. Pan and Felicito Rustique) A member of a Spanish navy team stands guard over a detained crew member (photo at left) aboard the USNS LCpl. Roy M. Wheat while one of his comrades (above) verifies identification of another mariner. (U.S. Navy photos by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Felicito Rustique) July 2010 Seafarers LOG 9 �59996_P01_24x:January 08 6/24/2010 9:12 PM Page 10 At Sea And Ashore With the SIU SEALAND EAGLE’S ICY TRANSIT – AB Brad Brunette (above) and his fellow mariners aboard the Sealand Eagle didn’t let icy conditions in the North Atlantic deter them during a recent voyage. SUPPORTING PRO-MARITIME CONGRESSMAN – SIU members in early June turned out in support of U.S. Rep. Rick Larsen (D-Wash.) during a re-election campaign kickoff in Everett, Wash. Some of those Seafarers are pictured with the congressman, who is standing third from left. PHASE II ABOARD MAERSK OHIO – One of the most valuable components of the unlicensed apprentice program conducted by the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center is Phase II – a 90day period during which trainees rotate through each department on a Seafarers-contracted ship. Here, Recertified Bosun Domingo Leon Jr. (right) and UA Osamah Saleh pause for a photo before resuming their duties aboard the Maersk Ohio. MILESTONES IN HOUSTON – SIU officials at the Houston hall recently congratulated two Seafarers on sep- arate milestones. In photo at right above, Port Agent Mike Russo (left) presents an A-seniority book to AB Carlos Colon. In the other snapshot, Safety Director Brian Kinard gives newly retired Steward/Baker Loicy Jones her first pension check. Congratulations to Brother Colon and Sister Jones on their achievements MEETING ABOARD EL MORRO – Port Agent Amancio Crespo submitted this photo of members on the El Morro in San Juan, P.R. It was taken shortly after a late-May meeting aboard the vessel. Pictured from left are OMU Rickey Pettaway, Chief Cook John Foster, AB Errick Nobles, Recertified Steward Rafael Cardenas, OMU Dana Thomas and AB Angelo Wilcox. NEW YORK-AREA MEMBERS BACK JOBS FORUM – More than a dozen New York- SNAPSHOT FROM SISLER – Bosun Ken Steiner (right) and AB William McIntyre are pictured aboard the USNS Sisler in the Mediterranean. The vessel is part of the U.S. Military Sealift Command’s prepositioning program. 10 Seafarers LOG area SIU members, including those pictured here, participated in a major gathering of labor and environmental groups invited by the Cornell Global Labor Institute in New York City. The occasion (last fall) was a symposium titled “Jobs, Justice, Climate: A Rally for Labor and Environment Movements.” AFLCIO President Rich Trumka was a featured speaker at the event, which took place at the New York Society for Ethical Culture. He and other speakers emphasized their unity in supporting solutions to climate change that include major focus on the need for good, family-sustaining jobs. July 2010 �59996_P01_24x:January 08 6/24/2010 9:12 PM Page 11 Pictured from left to right aboard the El Faro are SA Dennis Uchic, Recertified Steward Lauren Oram, Chief Cook Marychris Littel and Baltimore Port Agent Elizabeth Brown. UA Lisa Lee, QMED Daryl Thomas Sealand Eagle Snapshots from Sealand Eagle, El Faro DEU John Cooper recently submitted these photos from voyages aboard the Sealand Eagle and the El Faro, respectively. A regular contributor to the Seafarers LOG, Cooper extended his thanks to SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker, Assistant Vice President Bryan Powell, Assistant Vice President Archie Ware and Port Agent Elizabeth Brown for their efforts and support. Some of the photos show unlicensed apprentices from the unionaffiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. Those apprentices are in Phase II of the program – a 90-day shipboard training period during which they rotate through each department. UA Ann Mensch El Faro AB David Eller El Faro UA Kevin Cunningham Sealand Eagle July 2010 Recertified Steward Edward Collins, UA Kevin Cunningham Sealand Eagle UA Gwendolyn Garcia El Faro UA Lisa Lee, DEU John Cooper Sealand Eagle OMU Thomas Hawks El Faro Seafarers LOG 11 �59996_P01_24:January 08 6/23/2010 8:04 PM Page 12 Oil Spill Spill Oil PPrreevveennttiioonn & & Coonnttaaiinnm meenntt C A A Valuable Valuable Part Part of of Paul Paul Hall Hall Center Center Training Training for for 20 20 Years Years Since 1991, 1991, the the union-affiliated union-affiliated Paul Paul Hall Hall Since Center Center for for Maritime Maritime Training Training and and Education Education has has offered offered aa U.S. U.S. Coast Coast Guard-approved Guard-approved course course titled titled Oil Oil Spill Spill Prevention Prevention and and Containment. Containment. It It is is aa 35-hour 35-hour class class available available to to mariners mariners from from each each shipboard shipboard department department who who meet meet the the school’s school’s general general admission admission requirements. requirements. Like Like many many other other Paul Paul Hall Hall Center Center courses, courses, 12 Seafarers Seafarers LOG LOG 12 this this one one blends blends practical practical training training exercises exercises with with classroom classroom instruction. instruction. Topics Topics include include oil oil types types and and petroleum petroleum products’ products’ behavior behavior on on water; water; pollution pollution prevention prevention regulations; regulations; hazardous hazardous materials materials training; training; spill spill prevention; prevention; absorbents; absorbents; suction suction equipment; equipment; skimmers skimmers and and their their proper proper use; use; and and small-boat small-boat operations. operations. Students Students also also receive receive instruction instruction involving involving spill spill containment containment booms, booms, boom boom towing towing configurations, configurations, and and anchoring anchoring operations. operations. Based Based in in Piney Piney Point, Point, Md., Md., the the Paul Paul Hall Hall Center Center opened opened in in 1967. 1967. The The photos photos on on these these two two pages pages were were taken taken during during aa mid-June mid-June class. class. The The students students are are Seafarers Seafarers from from SIU-contracted SIU-contracted Penn Penn Maritime Maritime Inc. Inc. July 2010 2010 July �59996_P01_24:January 08 6/23/2010 8:07 PM Page 13 Graduating from from the the course course in in mid-June mid-June are are (from (from left) left) Seafarers Seafarers Felix Felix Alfonso, Alfonso, Mike Mike Washburn, Washburn, Kevin Kevin Snick, Snick, John John Neal, Neal, Graduating Jesus Medrano, Medrano, Paul Paul Starvish, Starvish, Greg Greg Greene Greene and and Paul Paul McCready. McCready. Instructor Instructor Stan Stan Beck Beck is is at at far far right. right. Jesus July July 2010 2010 Seafarers Seafarers LOG LOG 13 13 �59996_P01_24:January 08 14 6/23/2010 Seafarers LOG 8:07 PM Page 14 July 2010 �59996_P01_24:January 08 6/23/2010 8:07 PM Page 15 Online Petition Urges Action Against Piracy As previously reported in the LOG and at the June membership meetings, an unprecedented coalition of organizations – from trade unions to shipowners’ associations and insurers – recently teamed up to launch an online petition demanding action to end piracy. The web address for the petition, which launched on May 20, is: www.endpiracypetition.org A link to the petition also is available on the SIU home page, www.seafarers.org. The SIU had a hand in developing the petition, which is part of the International Maritime Organization’s Year of the Seafarer campaign. It is intended to call worldwide attention to piracy and in particular is designed to grab the interest of leaders across the globe. The plan is to deliver at least half a million signatures to governments by September 23, which is IMO World Maritime Day. Seafarers are encouraged to make their voices heard by signing the petition. July & August 2010 Membership Meetings Piney Point......................*Tuesday: July 6, Monday: August 2 Dispatchers’ Repor t for Deep Sea May 16, 2010 – June 15, 2010 Port Total Registered All Groups A B C Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Seattle St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 15 2 7 18 5 12 52 31 5 14 13 35 21 16 4 2 12 38 3 40 345 6 4 13 15 3 5 20 27 6 4 6 23 28 18 5 10 8 17 0 19 237 1 1 1 2 2 0 2 1 1 1 2 3 8 1 0 2 3 1 0 3 35 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Seattle St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 5 0 9 8 2 4 14 16 0 4 8 14 8 13 2 2 2 14 1 10 136 1 1 2 6 1 5 18 21 0 6 0 13 9 6 5 1 8 14 2 13 132 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 2 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 7 Guam............................................Thursday: July 22, August 19 Honolulu ...........................................Friday: July 16, August 13 Houston..............................................Monday: July 12, August 9 Jacksonville......................................Thursday: July 8, August 5 Joliet.............................................Thursday: July 15, August 12 Mobile........................................Wednesday: July 14, August 11 New Orleans.........................................Tuesday: July 13, August 10 New York............................................Tuesday: July 6, August 3 Norfolk.............................................Thursday: July 8, August 5 Oakland .........................................Thursday: July 15, August 12 Philadelphia...................................Wednesday: July 7, August 4 Port Everglades .............................Thursday: July 15, August 12 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Seattle St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 2 0 2 11 0 11 11 18 0 3 8 23 14 20 3 5 2 18 0 19 170 1 1 2 6 1 2 7 12 1 1 3 7 13 2 4 2 0 5 2 3 75 San Juan ...........................................Thursday: July 8, August 5 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 St. Louis ............................................Friday: July 16, August 13 Tacoma ..............................................Friday: July 23, August 20 Wilmington...........................................Monday: July 19, August 16 * Piney Point change created by Independence Day holiday Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. ATTENTION SEAFARERS Keep Us On Your Radar Screen Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Seattle St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 1 0 0 0 0 1 3 5 2 0 1 5 0 4 0 0 0 4 0 2 28 8 2 2 9 1 3 10 17 3 5 5 23 17 16 1 6 0 14 2 14 158 7 1 1 5 0 1 5 9 2 2 3 8 15 5 3 22 0 3 0 5 97 2 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 1 0 1 4 0 3 0 0 1 5 0 2 22 Contribute to the Seafarers Political Action Donation (SPAD) GRAND TOTALS: 679 602 143 485 July 2010 Trip Reliefs Registered on Beach All Groups A B C Deck Department Algonac .................................................Friday: July 9, August 6 Baltimore..........................................Thursday: July 8, August 5 Total Shipped All Groups A B C 11 1 4 11 3 11 31 30 4 10 8 26 11 20 3 1 3 24 0 26 238 7 4 5 10 3 4 17 14 5 3 7 13 25 8 4 11 8 13 3 19 183 3 1 1 0 1 0 3 1 0 1 0 2 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 17 1 2 3 11 0 1 18 17 0 4 9 16 7 12 2 2 3 14 0 21 143 13 2 9 21 7 16 103 57 3 20 19 77 30 42 6 2 14 69 5 63 578 6 6 16 20 5 17 35 53 7 13 6 36 46 20 11 2 10 35 7 47 398 3 0 2 8 1 1 6 3 1 2 4 5 14 2 0 5 4 0 0 15 76 2 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 2 0 2 0 0 1 0 1 0 10 1 0 3 5 0 1 9 12 0 2 3 10 1 5 1 1 1 3 1 5 64 4 1 11 18 2 9 31 29 1 14 8 28 20 21 6 2 3 20 1 24 253 2 4 7 12 2 8 25 42 1 12 2 27 20 14 6 1 17 26 3 19 250 2 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 5 2 1 0 0 1 0 0 4 18 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 6 0 0 0 5 0 3 9 9 1 0 3 6 9 7 0 0 3 12 0 11 78 4 0 5 9 2 25 23 27 0 8 15 44 16 40 2 7 6 33 1 44 311 4 1 4 10 1 3 14 14 1 4 5 9 19 6 3 3 5 9 2 5 122 0 0 1 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 1 2 9 13 0 2 6 0 4 9 16 2 3 2 20 12 6 2 4 0 8 1 5 115 5 0 0 0 0 3 0 1 0 2 0 1 4 4 1 24 0 3 0 1 49 3 0 0 1 0 0 2 6 0 0 0 3 0 0 1 1 0 4 0 1 22 0 0 0 0 0 3 3 7 0 1 1 10 0 4 0 0 1 7 0 7 44 11 2 5 10 3 9 31 34 2 7 8 55 32 34 1 3 1 24 1 43 316 4 1 2 9 1 8 17 18 2 5 5 12 39 9 3 5 0 9 0 35 184 437 82 307 1,186 1,086 287 Engine Department 2 1 4 7 0 2 7 15 0 7 6 13 3 10 2 2 1 7 0 6 95 2 0 1 5 1 3 12 14 2 1 1 5 10 8 0 1 8 7 1 5 87 Steward Department 1 0 4 7 1 6 18 10 0 6 3 13 12 16 2 0 1 15 2 13 130 1 0 0 2 1 1 5 6 1 1 2 4 12 5 1 1 2 2 1 4 52 Entry Department Seafarers LOG 15 �59996_P01_24:January 08 6/23/2010 8:07 PM Page 16 Seafarers International Union Directory 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 Kermett Mangram, 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 Inquiring Seafarer Editor’s note: This month’s question was answered in Brooklyn, N.Y. Why did you enter this industry and why have you stuck with it? William G. Rackley AB My father, William Lee Rackley, was a longtime member of the SIU – he started back in 1940. I wanted to travel and I followed in his footsteps. He sailed as bosun. I’ve stuck with it for 28 years. I’ve lived in two different places in Hawaii and I currently live in the Philippines. It has given me the opportunity to live all over the world and to live freely. helped me a lot and I’ve been very happy. I’ve been very happy. Domingo Leon Jr. Recertified Bosun It was a way to travel, but it was also during the Vietnam War and the industry was short of men. I filled out an application in 1970 and was accepted. It has provided me a way to make money. It gave me the experience of 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 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 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 James Triassi Bosun Fairly simple: I got into working with other men. I stayed with it because of the travel part, of course, and lastly, it has been a way to support my family without having to work too hard. It provides a good vacation time, also. the industry because I love to travel, and this is a perfect opportunity. Of course, it’s different now. I started in 1971. I love the work and learning new things. With all the new and different kinds of ships you get on, you’ve got to learn something new every day, and in this industry, you can. At my age, what else am I going to do? I’m 62, will be 63 next month. Eric Clotter Chief Cook I wanted to do something better for myself, for the future. My father was in the industry for so many years – he sailed as an SIU electrician. My brother was a chief cook, now he’s a chief steward. I joined the family business. It’s a blessing and a challenge to be part of the SIU. I’m looking forward to more challenges and for the future, and I thank God for everything. I joined the SIU in 2003. Timothy Koebel Recertified Bosun I got into it because I heard the SIU was the best union to join if you’re going to go to sea, which it has turned out to be. And also they had a veterans’ program (at Piney Point), which I entered in 1979. The reason I’ve stayed with it is I’ve done very well. Bobby Selzer (New York port agent) has Pic-From-The-Past NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 499-6600 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 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (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) 549-4000 Retired Seafarer Vincent Patterson of Signal Mountain, Tenn., sent the above photo. Pictured are crew members aboard the Liberty Ship SS James E. Howard, including Seafarers, and personnel from the U.S. Navy and U.S. Army. Vincent is seated in the middle wearing a white shirt and tie. The photo was taken in July 1943 while the Howard was docked in Cario, Egypt. The vessel was transporting supplies into the Suez Canal for use in the invasion of Sicily. 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 16 Seafarers LOG July 2010 �59996_P01_24:January 08 6/23/2010 8:08 PM Page 17 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 waterways 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 DEEP SEA ENRIQUE BODDEN Brother Enrique Bodden, 66, became an SIU member in 2001. His first ship was the Mormac Sun; his last was the American Queen. Brother Bodden worked in the engine department. He attended classes on three occasions at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Bodden resides in Marrero, La. WILLIAM DAY Brother William Day, 65, joined the union in 1990. He initially sailed on the Courier. In 2000 and 2001, Brother Day visited the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md., to upgrade his skills. The engine department member most recently shipped aboard the 1st Lt. Baldomero Lopez. Brother Day is a resident of Nolanville, Texas. SHELDON GREENBERG Brother Sheldon Greenberg, 56, started sailing with the Seafarers in 1978 while in the port of Jacksonville, Fla. His earliest voyage was on the Bradford Island. Brother Greenberg frequently upgraded at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. He was a member of the engine department. Brother Greenberg’s final trip to sea was aboard the Maersk Michigan. He lives in Orange Park, Fla. THOMAS HARTMAN Brother Thomas Hartman, 55, signed on with the SIU in 1974 in the port of San Francisco. He originally shipped on the Baltimore. Brother Hartman upgraded often at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He sailed in all three departments during his career. Brother Hartman’s last ship was the Oakland. He continues to make his home in his native state of California. July 2010 VARNEY MILNER Brother Varney Milner, 64, began sailing with the union in 2001. Brother Milner first sailed on the Sgt. Matej Kocak. He was born in New York and shipped in the deck department. In 2002, Brother Milner enhanced his skills at the Paul Hall Center. His final trip was aboard the Comet. Brother Milner calls Downers Grove, Ill., home. MARIANO MORENO Brother Mariano Moreno, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1968. His first voyage was on the Sea Del. Brother Moreno, who sailed in all three departments, was born in Puerto Rico. His last ship was the Ponce. Brother Moreno resides in Spring Hill, Fla. WAYNE SHINDLER Brother Wayne Shindler, 71, joined the union in 2001 while in the port of Norfolk, Va. He initially sailed aboard the USNS Dahl. In 2001 and 2006, Brother Shindler took advantage of educational opportunities at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. His most recent trip was on the USNS Watson. Brother Shindler, who sailed in the steward department, is a resident of Norfolk. MACARIO TORRE Brother Macario Torre, 60, was born in the Philippines. He began sailing with the union 1980. Brother Torre, a member of the deck department, was originally employed on the Express. He attended classes on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Torre’s final voyage was aboard the Maersk Virginia. He settled in Clark, N.J. MICHAEL WATSON Brother Michael Watson, 61, became an SIU member in 1968. He first sailed on the Yellowstone. Brother Watson, who sailed in the deck department, was born in Seattle. He most recently shipped aboard the North Star. Brother Watson makes his home in Tacoma, Wash. INLAND PETER ALLERT Brother Peter Allert, 62, joined the SIU ranks in 1999 while in the port of Houston. He first sailed on vessels operated by Moran Towing of Texas. Brother Allert was a member of the engine department. His last trip was with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jacksonville. Brother Allert lives in Ingleside, Texas. HAROLD FLANAGAN Brother Harold Flanagan, 58, signed on with the union in 1977 in the port of New Orleans. He primarily worked aboard Crescent Towing of New Orleans vessels. Brother Flanagan shipped in the deck department. He calls Canton, Miss., home. WILLIAM HOLCOMB Brother William Holcomb, 64, donned the SIU colors in 1967. He originally sailed with Higman Barge Line. Brother Holcomb was born in Texas and worked in the engine department. His final voyage was on the Seabulk Tanker. Brother Holcomb resides in Zavalla, Texas. THOMAS MACEY Brother Thomas Macey, 63, started his seafaring career in 1973. The steward department member shipped mostly on Crowley Towing of Wilmington vessels. Brother Macey was born in Long Beach, Calif. He was a frequent upgrader at the Piney Point school. Brother Macey is a resident of Cypress, Calif. Brother Morante enhanced his skills at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He makes his home in Jacksonville, Fla. JOAQUIM PEREIRA Brother Joaquim Pereira, 66, became an SIU member in 1986. He mainly worked with Penn Maritime Inc. Brother Pereira upgraded in 2001 at the Seafarers-affiliated training center in Piney Point, Md. He lives in New Bedford, Mass. HILARIO MORANTE Brother Hilario Morante, 56, joined the SIU in 1985 and primarily sailed in the deck department aboard vessels operated by Crowley Towing & Transportation of Wilmington. This Month In SIU History Reprinted from past issues of the Seafarers LOG 1950 On July 20, the SIU signed agreements with its contracted operators providing that Seafarers aboard contracted ships in the five zones along the Chinese coast will be protected against war risks by teams of riders supplementing the ships’ articles until agreement is reached with the operators on adequate bonus payments, personal effects payments and attack bonuses. The agreement on the war bonuses payments was made retroactive to the date that the Korean hostilities broke out. Crew members of the affected ships will receive in addition to basic wages and allowances, 100 percent of their base wages while in the five specified areas rendered unsafe, including the waters around Korea. alleged “invasion force” in two armed launches was stopped on the coast by Dominican government forces. The “invaders” had reportedly been based in Cuba. 1967 In a report to the Atlantic and Gulf membership during the regular July membership meeting at headquarters, President Paul Hall told the members that facilities for the training and upgrading of seamen were being expanded. In addition to local training sites in New York and other outports, the SIU has recently purchased a 28-acre site at Piney Point, Md., to train young men for entry-level jobs aboard American-flag ships. This will be in addition to upgrading training to enable working seamen to qualify for promotions after specialized training. 1994 1959 Seafarers on the cement carrier Florida State were caught in the crossfire stirred by an attempted revolt in the Dominican Republic but all escaped unhurt. The SIU-manned ship was strafed by planes and stopped by gunboats several times off the Dominican coast before returning to Port Everglades, Fla. The latest incidents occurred a few hours before an SIU members in the Port of San Juan, P.R., helped pull a grounded oil tanker to safety without spilling any of the 13 million gallons of fuel oil the runaway-flag vessel was carrying. Seafarers aboard tugs operated by Crowley Maritime moved the Greek-flagged, Liberian-owned Mantinia safely into Guayanilla Bay. The 749-foot ship had been grounded in sand. Seafarers LOG 17 �59996_P01_24:January 08 6/23/2010 8:08 PM Page 18 Final Depar tures DEEP SEA THOMAS ARMSTRONG Pensioner Thomas Armstrong, 87, passed away Jan. 1. Brother Armstrong became a Seafarer in 1953. His first trip was with Seatrain Lines Inc. Brother Armstrong was born in Illinois. Prior to his retirement in 1987, he shipped on the Beaugard. Brother Armstrong settled in Florida. CLARENCE FELDER Pensioner Clarence Felder, 77, died Jan. 13. Brother Felder began shipping with the Marine Cooks & Stewards while in the port of San Francisco. He was born in Mississippi and sailed in the steward department. Brother Felder’s earliest trip to sea was aboard the President Madison; his last was on the President Johnson. He started collecting his retirement in 1987 and made his home in California. JAMES LARATTA Pensioner James Laratta, 70, passed away Feb. 20. Brother Laratta joined the SIU ranks in 1987 while in the port of Norfolk, Va. He initially sailed on the USNS Capella. Brother Laratta, a member of the engine department, was born in Glen Ridge, N.J. His final voyage took place aboard the Portsmouth. Brother Laratta became a pensioner in 2004. He resided in Titusville, Fla. CARLITO NAVARRO Brother Carlito Navarro, 59, died Feb. 11. He was born in the Philippines. Brother Navarro signed on with the SIU in 1979 while in Piney Point, Md. His first voyage was on the Adventurer. Brother Navarro sailed in the steward department. His final trip was aboard a Matson Navigation Company vessel. Brother Navarro called Anaheim, Calif., home. CHESTER PRESTON Pensioner Chester Preston, 69, passed away Feb. 16. Brother Preston started shipping with the union in 1991. He first sailed on the Cape Ann. Brother Preston was born in the Philippines and worked in the engine department. He was last employed aboard the 18 Seafarers LOG Gopher State. Brother Preston lived in Norfolk, Va., and went on pension in January of 2010. WILLIAM REID Pensioner William Reid, 82, died Jan. 23. Brother Reid was born in Long Island, N.Y. He joined the union in 1953 in the port of New York. Brother Reid originally shipped with Emerson Steamship Company as a member of the steward department. His final trip was on the Value. Brother Reid continued to call New York home. He retired in 1992. ANTONIO VILLANUEVA Brother Antonio Villanueva, 86, passed away Feb. 2. He first donned the SIU colors in 1963 while in the port of New Orleans. Brother Villanueva initially sailed aboard the Trans Indiana. The deck department member most recently worked on the Aguadilla. He was born in Honduras but made his home in Surprise, Ariz. RICHARD WILLIAMS Pensioner Richard Williams, 84, died Feb. 4. Brother Williams began sailing with the union in 1951. His earliest trip was on the Devils Lake. The Virginia native shipped in the deck department. Brother Williams’ final ship was the LNG Gemini. He was a resident of Windsor, N.C. Brother Williams became a pensioner in 1991. INLAND RAYMOND DANLEY Pensioner Raymond Danley, 82, passed away Jan. 2. Brother Danley was born in Florida. He started his seafaring career in 1966. Brother Danley’s first vessel was operated by DeBardeleben Marine Corporation. Before retiring in 1994, he worked with Crowley Towing of Jacksonville. Brother Danley continued to reside in his native state. RICHARD ECKLES Pensioner Richard Eckles, 77, died Feb. 9. Brother Eckles became a union member in 1962 while in the port of New Orleans. He primarily sailed aboard Capital Towing Company vessels. Brother Eckles was born in Baton Rouge, La. He went on pension in 2001 and called Zachary, La., home. ADELL GAUTHIER Pensioner Adell Gauthier, 83, passed away Feb. 26. Brother Gauthier signed on with the SIU in 1967. He was employed with National Marine Service Inc. for the duration of his career. Brother Gauthier was born in Pilottown, La. He started collecting his retirement pay in 1988. Brother Gauthier lived in Freeport, Fla. GREAT LAKES MARK FRALEY Brother Mark Fraley, 49, died Feb. 19. He was born in St. Clair, Mich. Brother Fraley joined the union 1979 while in Piney Point, Md. His first ship was the Sharon; his last was the Indiana Harbor. Brother Fraley continued to make Michigan home. NELSON HAWLEY Pensioner Nelson Hawley, 75, passed away Feb. 24. Brother Hawley began sailing with the SIU in 1966. He was born in Fairview, Mich., and shipped in the engine department. Brother Hawley originally worked aboard a vessel operated by Huron Portland Cement. His last trip was on the JAW Iglehart. Brother Hawley retired in 1996 and resided in Alpena, Mich. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION Editor’s note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU), have passed away. TELISFORD AMAYA Pensioner Telisford Amaya, 91, passed away Feb. 27. Brother Amaya was a native of Honduras. He retired in 1978. Brother Amaya lived in Johnson City, Tenn. ANTONIO BARROS Pensioner Antonio Barros, 89, died Feb. 28. The Massachusetts native went on pension in 1968. Brother Barros made his home in Bronx, N.Y. JUSTO MIRANDA Pensioner Justo Miranda, 89, died Jan. 19. Brother Miranda was born in Honduras. He went on pension in 1970 and resided in Brooklyn, N.Y. ERNEST BURNETT Pensioner Ernest Burnett, 82, passed away Feb. 14. Brother Burnett was born in Colver, Pa. He became a pensioner in 1992 and resided in Falmouth, Mass. WALTER REYNOLDS Pensioner Walter Reynolds, 90, passed away Feb. 20. Born in Lowell, Mass., he retired in 1984. Brother Reynolds was a resident of Seattle. ROBERT CAIN Pensioner Robert Cain, 88, died Feb. 2. Brother Cain, a native of Georgia, went on pension in 1978. He made his home in Mobile, Ala. WILLIAM CONYERS Pensioner William Conyers, 85, passed away Jan. 25. Brother Conyers was born in Love Grove, N.C. He retired in 1984. Brother Conyers lived in Port Arthur, Texas. JOHN CZUPLAK Pensioner John Czuplak, 82, died Feb. 4. Brother Czuplak was born in Pennsylvania. He started collecting his retirement compensation in 1969 and settled in Chesapeake, Va. WILLIAM HARRISON Pensioner William Harrison, 76, passed away Jan. 6. The New York-born mariner became a pensioner in 1998. Brother Harrison was a resident of Hayward, Calif. VANN HATLEY Pensioner Vann Hatley, 84, died Jan. 13. Brother Hatley was a North Carolina native. He went on pension in 1972. Brother Hatley lived in Concord, N.C. THOMAS HAYNES Pensioner Thomas Haynes, 86, passed away Feb. 5. Brother Haynes was born in Georgia. He retired in 1990. Brother Haynes called Union Point, Ga., home. LAWRENCE HUTSON Pensioner Lawrence Hutson, 89, died Feb. 7. Brother Hutson was a native of Britain. He started collecting his retirement compensation in 1973. Brother Hutson made his home in Mobile, Ala. RAMON JIMENEZ Pensioner Ramon Jimenez, 100, passed away Feb. 17. Brother Jimenez, a native of Puerto Rico, became a pensioner in 1973. He settled in Opalocka, Fla. PHILLIP RILEY Pensioner Phillip Riley, 78, died Jan. 28. Brother Riley was a native of Savannah, Ga. He began receiving his pension in 1996. Brother Riley continued to live in Georgia. VIDAL RIVERA Pensioner Vidal Rivera, 84, passed away Jan. 22. Brother Rivera was born in Puerto Rico. He started collecting his retirement compensation in 1987. Brother Rivera made his home in New York. DAVID SHAW Pensioner David Shaw, 86, died Jan. 16. Brother Shaw, a native of Texas, retired in 1989. He called Sun City, Calif., home. EDWARD TUCKER Pensioner Edward Tucker, 56, passed away Jan. 7. Brother Tucker was born in Rhode Island. He went on pension in 2008. Brother Tucker made his home in Falmouth, Mass. The following former members of the NMU also have passed away, however, no data was available to construct individual biographical sketches: Name Bergeron, Anthony Carruthers, Troy Guerrero, Antonio Jones, Linwood Loy, Peter Mackey, Warren Martin, Charles Rocco, James Salih, Ali Age 81 83 78 80 82 83 85 84 89 DOD Feb. 5 Feb. 3 Feb. 26 Feb. 1 Feb. 4 Feb. 8 Feb. 14 Feb. 4 Feb. 11 July 2010 �59996_P01_24:January 08 6/23/2010 8:08 PM Page 19 Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings CAPE TEXAS (Crowley), May 25 – Chairman Jimmy Ocot, Educational Director Quincy Wilson, Deck Delegate Julius Obilana, Engine Delegate Louis Santiago. Chairman urged crew members to keep documents updated. He also asked them to place life preservers in the portside deck room. Secretary reminded mariners to clean rooms and leave laundry bags outside of rooms for collection. Educational director discussed new style and requirements for zcards and the quick turnaround. Treasurer stated money in ship’s fund was used to purchase DVDs. Deck delegate reported that weekly sanitary pay was not being received. Engine delegate inquired about the 401K plan. Steward delegate thanked everyone for a smooth voyage. HORIZON EAGLE (Horizon Lines), May 12 – Chairman Anton Sulic, Secretary Rang V. Nguyen, Educational Director Steling Cox, Deck Delegate Peter Koucky, Engine Delegate Servando Canales, Steward Delegate Muckbil A. Shabi. Chairman thanked crew for a good trip and went over ship’s itinerary. He stated pay-off would take place May 22 at sea. Members were asked to empty trash cans before departing vessel and leave fresh linen for reliefs. Secretary encouraged crew members to donate to SPAD (Seafarers Political Action Donation) and keep dues current. Treasurer noted ship’s fund money would be used to get two new bikes. No beefs or disputed OT reported. President’s report was read and discussed from the April 2010 Seafarers LOG. Next port: Oakland, Calif. HORIZON RELIANCE (Horizon Lines), May 16 – Chairman Kissinfor Taylor, Secretary Joseph Laureta, Educational Director Daniel Borden, Deck Delegate Felipe Jimenez, Steward Delegate Frank Iverson. Chairman announced that ship would be in the yard from May 27 until July 15. Secretary reminded mariners to clean up after themselves. Educational director suggested crew members take advantage of upgrading opportunities at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md. Members were reminded to renew documents early so they won’t miss job opportunities. Treasurer stated $138 in satellite fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. All Seafarers aboard vessel expressed gratitude to SIU President Mike Sacco and the other union officials for their tireless work to preserve jobs in these difficult times. Thanks were given to Steward Joe Laureta for good food. Next ports: Long Beach, Calif., Honolulu and China. HORIZON SPIRIT (Horizon Lines), May 27 – Chairman Donald Rezendes, Secretary Roderick Clay, Educational Director Roy Frett, Engine July 2010 Delegate Thomas Humphreys, Stewards Delegate Raul Napoles. Chairman announced payoff at sea on May 28. Crew members were thanked for the excellent work they did getting ship ready after shipyard. Room inspection took place earlier in the day. Secretary reminded crew to always be aware of their surroundings and respect their shipmates. Educational director advised mariners to attend classes at the Piney Point school to enhance seafaring abilities. He also reviewed the basics of SPAD, the union’s voluntary political action fund, with the crew. Treasurer noted $63 in movie fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request was made for a new region 8 DVD player. Mariners were asked to clean rooms before signing off. Kudos given to the steward department for great food. Next port: Honolulu. HORIZON TRADER (Horizon Lines), May 30 – Chairman Antonio Mercado, Secretary Kevin Dougherty, Educational Director Thomas Flynn, Deck Delegate Efrian Alvarez, Engine Delegate Wilmer McCants, Steward Delegate Richard Jones. Bosun announced payoff on June 4 upon arrival in Jacksonville, Fla. He reminded crew members that a safety vest is required in all APM ports and that Jacksonville requires two forms of ID, one being the TWIC card. Educational director advised everyone to upgrade and make sure they stay up-to-date on their TWIC & MMDs. Treasurer reported $1,800 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. It was suggested that direct deposit of vacation checks be made available. Basic safety requirements were discussed. Bosun thanked steward department for great BBQs. Next ports: Jacksonville, Fla., San Juan, P.R., and Elizabeth, N.J. HOUSTON (USS Transport), May 3 – Chairman John Lamprecht, Secretary Robert Wilcox, Educational Director Scott Fuller, Deck Delegate Dean Stanley, Engine Delegate Noel Magbitang, Steward Delegate Irvinson Perez. Chairman expressed his satisfaction with work performed by crew. He stressed the importance of safety first. Secretary thanked crew for helping keep pantry and messhall clean. Crew members were asked to keep lint filters clean to prevent fires and make dryer work more efficiently. Educational director advised members to upgrade, which can lead to better opportunities and advancement. He reminded crew members to keep documents current. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Announcement was made that laptop is available for e-mail on bridge when in port or at anchor. Suggestion was made to reimburse members for added baggage fees when joining vessel. MAERSK CAROLINA (Maersk Line, Limited), May 2 – The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring 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. Memorial Day Aboard the Midnight Sun The crew aboard the SIU-contracted and TOTE operated Midnight Sun on Memorial Day were the recipients of a dual-layered surprise courtesy of their skipper Capt. Daniel J. Severino. Not only did the captain reward the crew for their hard work by giving them break relief for the holiday, but also took his gesture one step further by preparing and grilling an assortment of entrees for their dining pleasure. According to Chief Cook Sal Ahmed, Severino stepped into the galley, prepared all of the meats and seafood (everything from cutting to marinating) and then grilled them. The entrees for the resulting meal—all Severino’s creations—included grilled leg of lamb steaks, grilled salmon, grilled fillet mignon and hot dogs. The galley gang (photo above) contributed shrimp cocktail, pizza, deviled eggs, potato salad, baked beans and strawberry short cake. Galley gang members (from left to right) included Chief Cook Ahmed, Recertified Steward Chris Amigable and SA Nasser Abdullah. Captain Serverino is second from left. Midnight Sun Bosun Fadel Saleh (right) gets a crash course in the art of grilling from Serverino in the photo below. Chairman Brian Fountain, Secretary Alexander Banky, Educational Director Kevin Cooper. Chairman reported another safe trip with no lost time injures. He noted payoff to take place on May 10 in Newark, N.J. Crew members were reminded to keep garbage room locked. Secretary urged mariners to make sure they have all receipts turned into the captain and check pay vouchers at payoff. He also encouraged them to contribute to SPAD and leave rooms clean for next member. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew members thanked AB Ron Mena for donating his time and showing his knot-making skills. His artwork is on display throughout the ship. Next ports: Newark, N.J., Charleston, S.C., and Norfolk, Va. RACER (Maersk Line, Limited), May 12 – Chairman Thomas Flanagan, Secretary Glen Williams, Educational Director Jeffrey Levie, Deck Delegate Kenneth Simmons, Engine Delegate Bernard Smalls, Steward Delegate Sandra Vann. Chairman announced payoff in Newark, N.J., on May 18. He asked those departing the vessel to leave rooms clean and supplied with fresh linen for new crew. Request was made for members to submit ideas for upcoming contract negotiations. Educational director encouraged fellow mariners to keep going to Piney Point to upgrade skills. Treasurer stated $550 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Clarification requested on transportation policy and reimbursement. Crew was asked to be considerate of others concerning computer and phones. Next ports: Charleston, S.C., Miami, Houston and Mobile, Ala. ST LOUIS EXPRESS (Crowley), May 25 – Chairman Matthew Sagay, Secretary Jack McElveen, Educational Director Joaquim Figueiredo, Deck Delegate Boyd Spivey, Engine Delegate Michael Warner, Steward Delegate Felecia Royalty. Chairman informed mariners that if there’s a problem aboard the ship they can call or fax the hall to notify them of the vessel’s next port. Secretary recommended that all Seafarers donate to SPAD and know what job you are putting in for before you do so. Educational director urged crew to upgrade whenever possible to improve skills; class dates are in the Seafarers LOG. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion was made to reduce sea time requirements to receive full pension benefits. Seafarers LOG 19 �59996_P01_24:January 08 6/23/2010 8:08 PM Page 20 Seafarers Member Haller Authors His Second Book SIU electrician and Navy veteran QE4 Robert Haller has written a second book about his seafaring life and, in particular, the service of merchant mariners and his experiences during the Cold War. His book, “Adventures of a Cold War Veteran,” takes readers from his childhood days when his father built a bomb shelter, to his Navy life tracking Soviet nuclear subs during the height of the Cold War and the international tensions of the era, to his experiences as a merchant seaman. Haller credits his family for his interest in a life at sea. The Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education graduate’s three brothers were members of the U.S. Merchant Marine and also graduates of the school. His father was in the U.S. Navy. In fact, seafaring runs so deeply in his family’s tradition that his older brother Chuck’s ashes are buried beneath a plaque at the school in honor of his 30 years of service in the U.S. Merchant Marine. Haller’s first published book was titled “Life of a Bluenose.” The title comes from the Bluenose Certificates mariners receive for crossing the Arctic Circle for the first time. The newer publication, “Adventures of a Cold War Veteran,” is 72 pages and is Letters To The Editor Letters may be edited for conciseness and clarity. Submissions may be mailed to 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 or e-mailed to webmaster@seafarers.org. Tribute to Late Father Robert Haller, who joined the SIU as a teenager, displays both of his books. published by Professional Press, P.O. Box 3581, Chapel Hill, NC 27515-3581, telephone 1-800-277-8960. It sells for $5. CIVMARS Support Our Troops Barely visible beneath the helicopter, a mariner aboard the Seafarers-crewed U.S. Military Sealift Command dry cargo/ammunition ship USNS Sacagawea hooks a pallet of supplies to the bottom of an MH60S Sea Hawk during a vertical replenishment with the USS Bataan in the Caribbean Sea. The photo was taken in late February. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Hendrick Dickson) Enclosed are copies of some of the recognition letters/certificates that my dad received after the war ended. My father, Lutgardo Silva, was a retired union member and decorated veteran from World War II. He was so proud of his service that he dedicated a letter to his entire family – specifically, a 1946 letter from the War Shipping Administration. That letter, from Acting Administrator Granville Conway, reads in part: “During the evening twilight, in October 1944, the SS Howard L. Gibson, in which you were serving, was in collision with another vessel of a transAtlantic convoy. Both ships immediately burst into flames which, in the case of the Gibson, extended from bow to stern. Some progress was made in extinguishing fires in the after part of the ship, but because of the danger of exploding magazines the Master ordered the vessel abandoned. All hands were safely picked up by a destroyer escort. During the night, you volunteered and joined a party of 12 shipmates who returned to the vessel in an attempt to save her from destruction. You knew that the undertaking was extremely dangerous as the ship might blow up at any moment. Nevertheless, you and your companions, working in groups, fought the fires on deck, and manned the machinery in the smokefilled engine room. After a long and hazardous period of some 30 hours the flames were extinguished and the ship saved. “I congratulate you upon the performance of a service which was in keeping with the finest traditions of the United States Merchant Marine, and I direct that a copy of this letter be made a part of your Service Record.” My father was an honorable man, rich with wisdom, loyalty and love. He was dedicated to his family and country and was married to my mom for 72 years. (Mom passed away in 2003.) My father was buried with veterans’ honors; the Coast Guard played Taps and gave me the flag. Teresa Silva Metairie, Louisiana Shipboard Memories Many years ago, I had an adventure on the great old passenger ship President Lincoln. It was April of 1945 and I was returning to the USA. I was a sergeant in the Marine Corps and was appointed to feed and care for 60 prisoners of war aboard the ship. We were sailing from the island of Engebi, part of the Marshall Islands. I spent the next 16 or 17 days of that voyage to San Francisco caring for those prisoners. It was a good voyage and a pleasure to get off that old ship. Some 25 years later, when I was sailing SIU on the Delta Lines vessel Del Norte, I saw and recognized that old ship the President Lincoln in the harbor in Rio de Janeiro. It was still sailing, and carrying immigrants from Italy to Argentina under the Italian flag. I proceeded to board the old ship up the open gangway at the lobby area. There, I approached the fire station and opened the fire axe station doors and turned the axe over and saw the name: President Lincoln. It indeed was that old vessel that I had ridden home from the war zone so many years ago. I am retired from Delta Lines some 28 years now. Harold Crane Opelousas, Louisiana Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the 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 recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU 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 disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval 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 shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively 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 employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by 20 Seafarers LOG certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers 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 filing 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 SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful 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 responsibility for Seafarers 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 OBLIGATIONS. 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 headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect 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 Michael 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. July 2010 �59996_P01_24x:January 08 6/24/2010 9:24 PM Page 21 Seafarers Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Schedule The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., for the next few months of 2010. All programs are geared to improving the job skills of Seafarers and to promoting the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation’s security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Seafarers who have any questions regarding the upgrading courses offered at the Paul Hall Center may call the admissions office at (301) 994-0010. Deck Department Upgrading Courses Start Date Title of Course Able Seaman Date of Completion August 16 October 11 July 26 September 27 November 8 October 18 July 26 August 16 September 27 July 12 September 13 October 25 August 2 September 8 November 15 August 23 October 18 August 2 September 27 ARPA Bosun Recertification Fast Rescue Boat Lifeboatman Radar Observer (Unlimited) Radar Recertification (1 day) STOS Tanker Asst DL Tank PIC Barge DL September 10 November 5 July 30 October 1 November 12 November 8 July 30 August 20 October 10 July 23 September 24 November 5 August 2 September 8 November 15 September 3 October 29 August 13 October 10 Engine Department Upgrading Courses Advanced Container Maintenance Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations November 15 July 19 September 13 November 8 August 16 October 11 August 23 November 29 October 4 July 5 September 27 October 25 November 29 FOWT Marine Refrigeration Technician Machinist Pumpman Welding December 10 August 13 October 8 December 3 September 10 November 5 October 1 December 17 October 15 July 23 October 15 November 12 December 17 Safety Upgrading Courses Basic & Advanced Firefighting July 5 October 18 July 26 August 16 September 20 October 18 November 15 BST/Basic Firefighting July 16 October 29 July 30 August 20 September 24 October 22 November 19 UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ____________________________________________________________________ Address __________________________________________________________________ Title of Course Start Date Date of Completion Medical Care Provider July 19 November 1 July 23 November 5 Steward Department Upgrading Courses Chief Steward July 19 August 27 Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. Certified Chief Cook/Chief Steward These classes start every other Monday. The most recent class began June 28. Academic Department Courses General education and college courses are available as needed at the Paul Hall Center. In addition, basic vocational support program courses are offered throughout the year, two weeks prior to the beginning of a vocational course. The following opportunities are currently available: Adult Basic Education (ABE), English as a Second Language (ESL), a College Program and a Preparatory Course. When applying for preparatory courses, students should list the name of the course desired on upgrading application. An introduction to computers course, a self-study module, is also available. Online Distance Learning Courses “Distance learning” (DL) courses are available to students who plan to enroll in classes at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. The online courses are not mandatory, but they are structured to benefit students who eventually attend other classes at the Paul Hall Center, which is located in Piney Point, Md. The online courses are: DOD Level 1 Antiterrorism Awareness Training, MSC Environmental Awareness, First Aid Preparation, Hazardous Material Control and Management, Hearing Conservation, Heat Stress Management, Bloodborne Pathogens, Shipboard Pest Management, Respiratory Protection, Back Safety, Fixed Fire Fighting Systems, Shipboard Firefighting, Portable Fire Extinguishers, Fire Fighting Equipment, Shipboard Water Sanitation, Crew Endurance Management, Basic Math Refresher, Intermediate Math Refresher, Marine Engineering Mathematics Preparation, Introduction to Navigational Math, Basic Culinary Skills, and Chief Cook Preparation. Students MUST have access to the internet and an e-mail address in order to take the aforementioned classes. Each course must be taken online, not at the Paul Hall Center. E-mail addresses should be provided on applications (printed neatly) when applying. Applicants should include the letters DL when listing any online course on the upgrading application form below. Notice to Upgraders Students who have registered for classes at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover—for whatever reason—that they cannot attend should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twentyfive (125) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back or relevant pages of merchant mariner credential, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested, 1995 STCW Certificate, valid SHBP Clinic Card and TWIC. _________________________________________________________________________ Date of Birth ______________________________________________________________ ____________________________ START DATE _______________ Deep Sea Member ____________________________ _______________ _______________ If the following information is not filled out completely, your application will not be processed. ____________________________ _______________ _______________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ Social Security #_______________________ Book # ____________________________ ____________________________ _______________ _______________ Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________ Lakes Member Seniority_____________________________ Inland Waters Member COURSE DATE OF COMPLETION _______________ Department______________________ Home Port_____________________________________________________________ LAST VESSEL: __________________________________Rating: ______________ E-mail________________________________________________________________ Date On: ___________________________ Date Off:________________________ Endorsement(s) or License(s) now held______________________________________ 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. Are you a graduate of the SHLSS/PHC trainee program? Yes No If yes, class # ______________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? Yes No If yes, course(s) taken_____________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ July 2010 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 students, who are otherwise qualified, of 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. 7/10 Seafarers LOG 21 �59996_P01_24:January 08 6/23/2010 8:08 PM Page 22 Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 730 – Sixteen unlicensed apprentices completed training in this 60-hour course April 2. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Cleavern Brown, Oleg Doskach, Gwendolyn Garcia, Christopher Geraty, Elliott Kolner, Dwain Liess, Casey Matheson, Terry Mattison, Terrence Meadows, Ann Mensch, Saleh Mohamed, James Ross, Mohammed Sarreshtedar, Michael Souza, Frederick Thompson Jr., and William Lee. Marine Electrician – Twelve uprgaders finished their training in this 280-hour course May 14. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Robin Bourgeois, Leander Collins, Arman DeBois, Robert Ivanauskas, Thomas Jones, Forrest McGee, Tomas Merel, Antoine Rainey, Romel Reyes, Alexander Thodes, Jo-vanio Sprauve and Richard Wright. Jay Henderson, their instructor, is at left. (Note: Not all ae pictured.) Fast Rescue Boat – Eight upgraders completed this 30-hour course May 7. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Omar Aswad, Juan Bernal-Helices, Richard Cannady, William Coronacion, Samuel Lloyd, John Manning, Stephen Roell and Marc Simpson. Their instructor, Stan Beck, is at left. Able Seaman – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course May 21: Joseph Barnes, Thomas Braillard, Prymus Buckholtz, Victor CortesMaldonado, Kelly Forbis, Christopher Hickey, Andrew Hufana, James Johner, Joseph Lacaden, Patricia Lamb, John McElhaney, Jonmark Newman, Richard Ong, Rey Ramos, Jonathan Rivera Rodriguez, Santiago Rodriguez-Saldivar, Cedric Short, Rosalind Sparrow, Lisa Williams and Jerald Young. Their instructor, Bernabe Pelingon, is at right. Tank Ship Familiarization DL – Twenty-six Phase III unlicensed apprentices finished their training in this 63-hour course May 14. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Tousif Ahmed, Jason Bimie, Shawn Bising, Timothy Bradstreet, Matthew Caradimos, Ronald Coley, Jessica Crocket, Alethea Earhart, Sheryl Farmer, Gerald Foster II, Kevin Gebhard, Anthony Green Jr., Andrew Gronotte, Kevin Hanmont, Nita Holly, Ricky Howard, Brandon Hutchison, Eddie Jackson, Nicholas McAbier, Jason Monk, Shoal Nervo, Keith Reeder, Gavin Scott, Bryan Smith, Sean Smith and Ticer Sutthipong. (Note: Not all are pictured.) 22 Seafarers LOG July 2010 �59996_P01_24:January 08 6/23/2010 8:08 PM Page 23 Paul Hall Center Classes FOWT – The individuals pictured at left finished their requirements in this course May 21. Graduating (in alphabetical order) were: Kenneth Adams II, Danilo Achacoso, Brandy Baker-Days, Joseph Bankhead, Joel Bell, Sotero Berame Jr., Latiffe Brooks, Derrick Clark, Andrew Delutis, Felix Garcia, John Gryko, Keith Jordan Jr., Lucian Lepadatu, Ali Mohamed, Charles Naze, Muthala Noorudin, Edwin Velez, Mohamed Sylla, Charles Wescott and Rickey Yancey. Their instructor, Tim Achorn, is standing at right in plaid shirt. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Basic & Advanced Firefighting (Crowley) – Six individuals from Crowley Maritime completed this 35-hour course May 21. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Jackqueline Ellsworth, Stanley Jackson Jr., Rick James, Michael Proveaux, David Sexton and Shawn Williams. Their instructor, Wayne Johnson, is at left. Basic & Advanced Firefighting (Crowley) – Six of the individuals shown above, all employees of Crowley Maritime, on May 14 finished their requirements in this course. Graduating (in alphabetical order) were: Leslie Bracey, Eldin Ebanks, Frederick Gathers, Marlon Green, Allen Pryor, and Mariette Wright. Their instructors, Steve Stockwell and Wayne Johnson, are at the far right and far left respectively. BST (Hawaii) – Ten individuals completed traiing in this course April 10 at the Seafarers STOS – Nine upgraders finished this 70-hour course May 21. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Douglas Badger, Henrynilo Becodo, Jerrell Dorsey, SabbahYahay Ghaleb, Eduardo Meregillano, Mark Potterville, Andre Robinson Sr., Adam Sanders and Richard Sawyer. Stan Beck, their instructor, is standing fourth from left. BST (Hawaii) – The following individuals (above, in no particular order) on April 3 graduated from this course: Robert Lewis, Julie Carpine, Isis Cortes, Elena Lozinschi, Robin Williams, Hilcar Medina, Stephen Zygiel, Michel Le Naour, Kathleen Jensen, Dionne Wisdom, John Vargas, Kiara Randolph and Lauren Cain. July 2010 Training Center in Barbers Point, Hawaii. Graduating (above, in no particular order) were: Lucas Lemirande, Mehdi Abad, Rosanna Carriero, Jae Lauren Spurgin, Shelby Halady, Karia Cain, Chris Fitzsimons, Charles Robles, Chivaughn Anderson and Amber Monge. BST (Hawaii) – The seventeen individuals shown above on April 17 finished this course. Graduating (in no particular order) were: Ryan Helms, Emily Del Giacco, William Horsley, Leonie Veith, Richard Belch, Krisandra Humphrey, Lisa Sadler, Joseph Gloro, Gabriell True, Megan Wilkins, John Hartman, Ronald Igarta, Adam Ramson, Robert Strickland, Thomas Baker, Kevin Bauer and Tamara Yamin. Seafarers LOG 23 �59996_P01_24x:January 08 6/24/2010 9:33 PM Page 24 July 2010 Volume 72, Number 7 CIVMARS In the News Page 7 Maritime Day Around the SIU Besides National Maritime Day events which took place last month in the greater Washington, D.C., metropolitan area involving Seafarers, a number of others were held at various ashore and at sea locations around the United States and overseas. The photos appearing on this page—which were provided to the LOG from several sources—highlight some of these events and the individuals involved. CEREMONY IN SAN FRANCISCO - SIU Asst. VP West Coast Nick Celona (right) chatted with VP Richmond Sanitary Services Leonard Stefanelli, following dedication ceremony honoring all submariners lost at sea. Stefanelli is a veteran of the U.S. Navy. The event took place during the weekend of May 22-23 at Pier 45 of the Fishermen’s Wharf in San Francisco. The SIU provided a wreath for the event. WASHINGTON, D.C. EVENT - SIU President Michael Sacco (left) chats with apprentices from the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education during the U.S. Maritime Administration’s May 18 Maritime Day Ceremony in downtown Washington. SEAFARERS OBSERVE MARITIME DAY IN PAKISTAN - While anchored offshore of Karachi, Pakistan May 22, crew aboard the union-contracted MV Freedom observed Maritime Day. Taking part in the observance (above, in no particular order) were: Bosun Trevorous Ellison, AB George Parker, Chief Engineer Hibl, 2nd Asst. Engineer Tabaosares, Steward Allen Van Buren, 2nd Mate Elliot, Chief Cook Mary Brayman, OS Angelito Basa, AB Joshua McAtee, Oilers Marcus Gramby and Larry Locke Jr., Chief Mate Champion, Capt. Shawn Mcatee Hagerty, AB Wadeea Alnasafi, 1st Asst. Engineer Barto, 3rd Mate Phillips, OS Arnold Castro and 3rd Asst. Engineer Kern. PORT OF GALVESTON - Maritime Day was commemorated in the Port of Galveston, Texas, May 21 with a wreath laying ceremony at the U.S. Merchant Marine Memorial Plaque near the Elissa at Pier 22 of the Texas Seaport Museum. The event was organized by Capt. John Peterlin III. (Clockwise from below) the SIU Government Services Vessel Thomas Jefferson was docked near the ceremony site. Members of the color guard from the U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Unit Galveston prepare to post the colors while Chaplain Karen Parsons of the Galveston Seafarers Center conducts the event’s benediction. Moving into position to place the ceremonial wreath are Wayne Farthing of the MM&P, Dave Weathers of the AMO and SIU Port Agent Mike Russo. The SIU-contracted and G&H operated tug Wesley A saluted fallen mariners with fountains from its two hydrants. ABOARD THE M/T SUNSHINE STATE - The crew of the Sunshine State on May 22 in Tampa, Fla., observed Maritime Day by posing with the U.S. Merchant Marine Flag along with the flag of their contracted company (Intrepid). Taking part in the event (top row from the left) were: Capt. Stephen Foster, Chief Engineer Victor Mull, Steward Gregory Johnson, AB Thomas Brooks and Oilers Demarco Holt and Derrick Sullivan. In the bottom row are ABs Joel Fahselt, Ed Tennyson and Arnaldo Fernandez; Oiler Mario Delacruz, Pumpman Furman Watson, AB Ed Fuller and ACU Leo Battiste. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2010-2019 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXII-LXXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2010-2019 Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource July 2010 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES SIU MEMBERS CONTINUE ASSISTING IN GULF CLEANUP PAUL HALL CENTER’S OIL SPILL PREVENTION AND CONTAINMENT CLASS IN 20TH YEAR FREEDOM, BARGE EMI-2400 BECOME NEWEST ADDITIONS TO EXPRESS MARINE FLEET IMO TO FOCUS ON PIRACY RESPONSE IN 2011 WORLD MARITIME DAY THEME MAERSK WINS U.S. NAVY PREPOSITIONING CONTRACT MARINERS DONATE FUNDS SEAFAER’S SON WINS UNION PLUS SCHOLARSHIP PAPP REPLACES ALLEN AS U.S. COAST GUARD COMMANDANT SIU VP: UNION REPRESENTATION WOULD MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN GULF JONES ACT CRITICS MISS THE MARK HEINDEL ADDRESSES INTERNATIONAL MARITIME FORUM CREW, QMED DONATE FOR HAITI RELIEF SIU-CONTRACTED COMPANIES EARN SAFETY RECOGNITION USNS COMFORT HONORED FOR HAITI MISSION HOSPITAL SHIP MERCY MOBILIZES FOR PACIFIC PARTNERSHIP 2010 HSV SWIFT ARRIVES IN PANAMA FOR SOUTHERN PARTNERSHIP STATION ‘PINEY POINT IS A GREAT PLACE TO START A CAREER’ ALLIANCE CHARLESTON CAPTAIN CREDITS CREW SIU-CREWED SHIP SERVES AS MOCK BOARDING VESSEL OIL SPILL PREVENTION AND CONTAINMENT A VALUABLE PART OF PAUL HALL CENTER TRAINING FOR 20 YEARS MARITIME DAY AROUND THE SIU Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 07/01/2010 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 72, No. 7 2010 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/ae18fa6211357c847492c707f3ee8139.pdf 041f0198cf6a91107fad1d4ee91bcd3a PDF Text Text 65262_Seafarers_X2:JUNE 2011 6/27/2011 7:02 PM Page 1 Volume 73, Number 7 July 2011 SIU-Crewed Pacific Tracker Supports Crucial Missile Defense Agency Test SIU members sailing aboard the Pacific Tracker (photo below at bottom) recently backed a vital, successful test conducted by the U.S. Missile Defense Agency (MDA). Seafarers on board the Interocean American Shipping-operated vessel during the mission included John Steeber (left in photo immediately below) and Patrick Devlin (right). Pages 12-13. NOAA Crews Ratify Contract Following nearly two years of negotiations, a new contract is in place covering ships operating under the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The five-year pact covers members of the SIU Government Services Division who sail aboard NOAA’s 19 vessels, including the Bell Shimada (below). Pictured at the signing in early May, which took place at NOAA facilities in Norfolk, Va., (from left in photo above) are: NOAA Administrative Officer Jamie Johnson, NOAA Labor and Employee Relations Advisor Cecilia Collins, NOAA Director of Marine Operations Capt. (Rear Adm. Select) Michael S. Devany, NOAA Labor Relations Specialist Dale North, SIU VP Government Services Kermett Mangram, NOAA Cmdr. Karl Mangels, SIU Government Services Representative Kate Hunt and NOAA Program Specialist Sharon Wilgus. Members approved the contract earlier this year. Page 4. State Department Hosts Maritime Security Forum Page 5 Seafarers-Affiliated AMO Opens New HQ The American Maritime Officers (AMO), an affiliate of the Seafarers International Union of North America, dedicated the union’s new headquarters building (above right) June 7 in Dania Beach, Fla. SIU President Michael Sacco (second from left in group photo) was a guest speaker at the ceremonial opening. Also on hand to help mark the occasion were (from left) AMO Secretary-Treasurer Jose Leonard, U.S. Somali Piracy News Pages 2, 5 Maritime Administrator David Matsuda, U.S. Rep. Allen West (R-Fla.), MSC Commander Rear Adm. Mark Buzby, AMO National President Tom Bethel, Dania Beach City Commissioner Walter Duke, Seventh District Coast Guard Commander Rear Adm. William Baumgartner and AMO Plans Co-Chairman Anthony Naccarato. Page 6. Penn Maritime Pact Approved Page 2 Mariners Saluted on ‘Forever’ Stamps Page 8 �65262_Seafarers_X:JUNE 2011 6/24/2011 8:47 PM Page 2 President’s Report Piracy, Continued More than two years have passed since the infamous attempted takeover by pirates of the SIU-crewed Maersk Alabama. Piracy wasn’t a new problem when the Alabama saga unfolded in April 2009, but for many people outside the maritime industry, it marked the first time they truly became aware of the crisis. Much has changed since then, but Somali piracy itself arguably remains the top issue facing our industry around the globe. Attacks are increasing in a huge region that includes parts of the Red Sea, Indian Ocean and Gulf of Aden. Violence against mariners aboard captured vessels also is growing. Per-ship ransom amounts are up. This month’s LOG includes several articles about piracy, and I encourage the membership to read them. We post regular updates about this topic on our web Michael Sacco site as well, in addition to providing news at the monthly membership meetings. For many years, the SIU has been very active in the battle to protect not only our own Seafarers but mariners around the world. To that end, we continue to work with other maritime unions, the U.S. Coast Guard, the State Department, the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) and others. And we have made some progress beyond simply getting people to listen. Despite the increase in the number of attacks, fewer vessels are being boarded and captured. Many if not most vessels sailing in the high-risk areas successfully have implemented anti-piracy measures. Some carry armed security details, whether hired from the private sector or (depending on the cargo) provided by the military. It is very much worth noting that no ship carrying armed personnel has been captured. Our position hasn’t changed from day one: We believe that the respective flag states should provide shipboard security. In fact, we also assert that flag states immediately should adopt legislation that enables each nation to prosecute and, if appropriate, imprison pirates. On that note, I should add that the flag-of-convenience (FOC) or runaway-flag registries aren’t lifting a finger to help fight this battle. They remind me of employees in so-called right-to-work states who enjoy the benefits of a union contract but refuse to do their fair share by paying union dues. In this case, the runaway-flag ships are protected as much as possible by the traditional maritime states, but the FOC countries themselves aren’t helping. It’s time for that to change. Solving this problem is going to require continued and expanded multinational efforts, and it will continue to involve public and private resources. It’s a complex situation, and the pirates – better described as waterborne terrorists, really – make it more so by rapidly adapting to many of the industry’s counter-measures. The ITF put it succinctly last month in a Seafarers’ Section resolution that read in part: “No seafarers should have to risk their lives for their job.” That’s really the bottom line, and it underscores the importance of governments not losing sight of the fact that the victims of these attacks are mariners and their families – real people, not just statistics on a chart somewhere. As U.S. Coast Guard Rear Adm. Kevin Cook put it last month at a maritime security forum hosted by the State Department, “When we talk about vessels being hijacked, we’re really talking about the crews.” To help reinforce that point, the Save Our Seafarers campaign – extensively promoted here, on the SIU web site and at our hiring halls – is spotlighting individual mariners who’ve been attacked by pirates. Hopefully, their stories will spur more action to end this scourge, as will a recent report by a group named Oceans Beyond Piracy. Among other startling insights, the report stated that in 2010, more than 1,000 mariners were taken hostage by pirates (see story on page 5). I’ve cited this comparison before, but it remains the best one I’ve read or heard when it comes to putting this battle into perspective: Imagine a report documenting the capture of 1,000 airline passengers and flight-crew personnel. Would the world let that happen? Quite obviously, the answer is no, and the immediate conclusion should be that mariners deserve the same protections as any other workers. The Ready Reserve Force ship Cape May (above) was one of many SIU-crewed vessels honored at the annual Chamber of Shipping of America luncheon. Union-Contracted Companies Recognized for Safe Operations Numerous SIU-contacted companies garnered well-earned recognition at this year’s Chamber of Shipping of America (CSA) safety awards luncheon, which took place June 2 in New Orleans. As in past years, some awards were given for specific incidents while others were presented for prolonged operations (at least two years) without a mariner involved in a lost-time injury. Nearly 200 individuals representing more than 70 companies and crews attended the 53rd annual program. Joseph Cox, CSA president, stated, “We have been holding these annual award ceremonies since 1958. For that initial year, we honored six vessels having a total of 12 years’ operation with no lost-time incidents. This year, we gave awards to 1,288 vessels that operated 7,284 years without a lost-time incident. This extraordinary record is directly attributable to the professionalism of our seafarers and the dedication of shore-based company personnel to safe operation.” He added, “CSA’s involvement in safety is longstanding. We continue to represent the industry, domestically and internationally, on safety issues encompassing every facet of ship operations. It is, therefore, only fitting that an industry so focused on safety, publicly recognizes the skills and dedication of the women and men who are responsible for actions in keeping with the highest traditions of the sea – aid to those in peril.” The CSA’s members include 33 U.S.-based companies (many of them SIU-contracted) that own, operate or charter oceangoing tankers, containerships, and other merchant vessels engaged in both the domestic and international trades. The association also represents other entities that maintain a commercial interest in the operation of such oceangoing vessels. Among the companies recognized in June were Alaska Tanker Company, Crescent Towing, Crowley Marine Services, Crowley Maritime Corporation, Crowley Petroleum Services, Crowley Puerto Rico Services, Crowley Technical Management, E.N. Bisso and Son., Farrell Lines, American Overseas CSA President Joseph Cox credits mariners and shore-side support personnel for promoting safety. (Photo courtesy of Barry Champagne Photography) Marine, Higman Barge Lines, Horizon Lines, Interocean American Shipping, Keystone Shipping, Maersk Line, Limited, Marine Transport Lines, Moran Towing, Ocean Shipholdings, and OSG Ship Management. Also earning safety awards were Sea Star Line, Seabulk Tankers, Seabulk Towing, Totem Ocean Trailer Express, USS Vessel Management, and the U.S. Maritime Administration. Each received an honor known as the Jones F. Devlin Award. CSA Citations of Merit were presented to the SIU-crewed Horizon Producer (Horizon Lines) and the Overseas Maremar (OSG), while a letter of commendation went to the Seafarers-crewed Cape May (Ocean Shipholdings). Penn Maritime Contract Approved Volume 73, Number 7 July 2011 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, AFLCIO; 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, Paddy Lehane; Photographer, Mike Hickey; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2011 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. Reversed to White Reversed to White 2 Seafarers LOG Seafarers recently approved a new contract with Penn Maritime by a large margin. The contract, which is valid until 2015, maintains benefits for the mariners, boosts wages and features other gains. More than 100 SIU members are covered by the new agreement. “I’m pleased with the negotiations and am very happy to have been a part of them,” said SIU Vice President Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi, who led the SIU negotiating committee. “Everyone involved was cordial and worked very hard for a mutually beneficial contract. I believe that’s what we came up with.” The contract maintains Core Plus health benefits, which is the premiere health care plan available through the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. The agreement also guarantees pay raises over the next four years, as well as an increase in longevity pay for longtime employees. The pact also stipulates an increase in food and gear allowances, and calls for the addition of step-children to death-in-the-family considerations. In addition to Soresi, other members of the SIU delegation included Brooklyn hall Patrolman Mark von Siegel, Engineer Jeff Ryzda, Mate John Harvard, and AB Teddy Crockett. On the company side, Penn Maritime was represented by Jim Sweeney and Tom Elkowitz. With the economic troubles facing the nation, and particularly working people, some entered the negoti- ations with a glass-half-empty mentality. However, due to strong leadership from the SIU and the consistently excellent work provided by the SIU members aboard Penn’s vessels, the negotiations resulted in welcome progress. “I’ve been in the union for 31 years and this is the ninth contract I’ve negotiated,” said Crockett. “This one was different and it’s all due to the economy. This is an important contract. We were prepared for anything, but we ended up with some big gains.” Crockett chocks up the beneficial contract to the hard work of the union’s officials, including Soresi and President Michael Sacco, as well as the support and hard work from others involved with the negotiations. The gains that the committee secured on behalf of their fellow mariners have the future looking a bit brighter for Crockett and other Penn Maritime workers. “I feel good about the future,” said Crockett. “We’re in a bit of a quandary now, with the economy and the wars and all. Fortunately, we’ve got a great union. We’re faring a lot better than most these days. Everybody’s making some sacrifices, but we’ve got outstanding leadership. I can’t stress that enough.” Penn Maritime operates 16 tugs and 18 doublehulled heated ocean tank barges. The company is the largest coastal transporter of heated asphalt products. July 2011 �65262_Seafarers_X:JUNE 2011 6/24/2011 9:35 PM Page 3 Congressmen Express Strong Support for Jones Act Hearing Examines Ways to Create more Jobs in U.S. Maritime Industry Members of the House Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation recently described the Jones Act – one of America’s most important maritime laws – as critical to the national, economic and homeland security needs of the United States. SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez testified at the subcommittee’s June 14 hearing, most of which focused on America’s maritime transportation system (MTS) and its capacity to create jobs, facilitate commerce and help the U.S. maintain and increase its exports. In addition to the MTS, panelists and members of the subcommittee discussed other issues that directly involve the maritime industry, including several programs that have come under attack in recent months. Chairman Frank LoBiondo (RN.J.), after pointing out that the Jones Act requires that cargo moving between domestic ports be carried aboard ships that are crewed, flagged, owned and built American, stated the law is “something I strongly support. I hear rumors from time to time about ideas or suggestions that can be advanced, either legislatively or otherwise, that would dramatically change or weaken the Jones Act. I can assure you that as chair of this committee, I’ll do everything in my power not to allow that to happen. “As we focus our efforts on ways to maximize the (maritime transportation) system’s potential, it is imperative that the policies we develop promote the transportation of goods on American ships, built in American shipyards, and operated by American mariners,” LoBiondo continued. In addition to the effects that the Jones Act and other pro-maritime legislation have on the national economy, certain state-level economies would be in dire straits without the protections afforded to American workers and companies. “I just want to note, for the record, that in Hawaii, Jones Act activities provide 23,000 jobs, just in Hawaii, and approximately $1.1 billion in wages and benefits to Hawaii’s economy,” said U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), a member of the subcommittee. “I’m a strong supporter of that act.” U.S. Rep. Chip Cravaack (RMinn.) said that as a retired Navy captain, “I understand the importance of a maritime industry and how important it is to have a U.S.-flag, U.S.-crewed vessel ensuring that when we do have to go over the horizon we have the proper assets to do it; with the proper people that have been trained in a way that we need to make sure they’ll be able to carry the flag when rubber starts hitting the road. So I highly support U.S.-flag vessels and U.S. Jones Act, as well.” Panelist Mike Roberts, who is a senior vice president of SIU-contracted Crowley, thanked the committee for its support of the Jones Act and mentioned its paramount importance to his company. “This fundamental maritime law provides important national security, homeland security and economic security benefits to our nation,” Roberts stated. “This subcommittee’s support for the Jones Act is greatly appreciated.” In addition to Tellez and Roberts, others testifying before the subcommittee were Maritime Administrator David Matsuda, Chamber of Shipping of America President and CEO Joseph Cox, and John Mohr, executive director of the Port of Everett, Wash. Each of the men on the panel gave brief summaries of their submitted remarks and answered questions by members of Congress on the maritime industry and the important role it plays in our economic and national security. The MTS is made up of 25,000 miles of channels, the Great Lakes, and over 3,700 terminals around the country. In addition, the MTS includes nearly 175,000 miles of railways, more than 45,000 miles of interstate highways, and over 1,400 intermodal connections. Due to its reach, the MTS is a key aspect of the nation’s economy. “The commerce which moves on the MTS fuels the economy,” said Rep. LoBiondo. “Approximately 99 percent of the volume of overseas trade enters or leaves the country by water. The movement of cargo and associated activities add more than $649 billion annually to U.S. gross domestic product, sustains more than 13 million jobs and contributes over $212 billion in annual federal state local taxes. Domestic shipping alone is responsible for 500,000 American jobs and $100 billion in annual economic output.” U.S. Rep. Rick Larsen (DWash.), ranking member of the subcommittee, looked to the future to provide solid justification for fully funding the MTS today. Larsen’s district, which encompasses some of the most important ports on the West Coast, has an understandable interest in ensuring that the MTS and other programs are fully funded and defended by lawmakers. “The overarching reality is that our economic future and the MTS are closely intertwined,” said Larsen. “To think that our economy can fully recover and grow if we fail to invest in this critical infrastructure is both unrealistic and shortsighted. We must summon the will to invest in the system or we risk choking off the very conduit that makes our economy hum, that drives job creation, and that ensures the U.S. market remains preeminent in global trade.” Matsuda emphasized the economic importance of the MTS and touted its proven job-producing capabilities. “The MTS accommodates 78 percent of U.S. exports and imports by weight and 48 percent by value,” Matsuda told the subcommittee. “In addition to supporting the needs of Chairman Frank LoBiondo (R.-N.J.) Augie Tellez SIU Exec. VP Ranking Member Rick Larsen (D-Wash.) U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii) U.S. Rep. Chip Cravaack (R-Minn.) U.S. exporters and industry, it is an important source of employment in its own right. The MTS supports millions of American jobs, facilitates trade, and moves people and goods in a safe, cost-effective, and energy-efficient manner.” While there have been calls both within and outside of the industry for more laws that will enable the U.S. Merchant Marine to continue to thrive, there are several long-standing laws that need sustained implementation. Tellez encouraged the committee members to continue enforcing laws that are already on the books, including the Jones Act, cargo preference laws and the U.S. Maritime Security Program (MSP). Enforcing existing enacted laws would strengthen the industry and would subsequently strengthen the economy as a whole. “We must ensure that our U.S.flag merchant fleet remains strong and viable in the international and domestic trades,” said Tellez. “It is only by defending our existing programs, reducing the regulatory burden on our operators, ensuring the tax system is fair and competitive internationally, seeking opportunities to expand the industry both internationally and domestically and maintaining the key gov- ernment programs that keep the fleet afloat that we will be able to create jobs and increase U.S. exports.” Tellez pointed out that it would stimulate the national economy if more U.S.-produced cargo were shipped on American-flagged, American-crewed vessels. “The U.S. Merchant Marine is effective in that our reliability and performance are second-to-none, particularly when it comes to productivity and safety,” Tellez said. “For too long, we have allowed foreign competitors to undercut the American-flag fleet and our ship operators. This foreign competition is often supported by generous tax regimes, little or no-cost health care, and tax exempt wages for foreign seafarers by a number of foreign governments that make the international playing field far from even.” Another issue that was raised was cargo preference and food aid, both of which are of great importance to maritime industry workers. With budget cuts involving food aid and other cargo financed through the Export-Import Bank, Tellez made it clear to members of the committee that cutting funds for those programs would have disastrous effects on U.S. Merchant Mariners. “When it’s all said and done, the various maritime industry programs are fine, but we must not overlook one other imperative point,” said Tellez. “Namely, our industry’s lifeblood is cargo. Cargo cures practically every ill. That’s what keeps us afloat.” While the present laws have beneficial effects on the U.S. economy and its worker pool, Tellez and others believe that the future is dependent on a stronger Americanflag fleet. “Maritime labor believes that we as a nation have to think and plan long-term, and such planning absolutely must include maintaining a strong American-flag fleet and a reliable pool of U.S. shipboard manpower,” said Tellez. “Ideally, we’ll reach a point where shippers look first for ways to use the U.S. vessels, rather than having to be convinced.” Tellez concluded, “I respectfully urge continued support of the Maritime Security Program, the Jones Act and cargo preference laws, and I further ask that any and all reasonable steps be taken in order to further encourage the maintenance and growth of the American-flag fleet and the U.S. Merchant Marine.” Seafarers-Crewed Hospital Ship Comfort Continues Humanitarian Mission The union-crewed hospital ship USNS Comfort is shown anchored off San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua, on June 17. Manned in the unlicensed slots by members of the SIU Government Services Division, the Comfort at press time was on its fifth country stop during Continuing Promise 2011, a five-month humanitarian assistance mission to the Caribbean, Central and South America that began in April. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Kim Williams) July 2011 Seafarers LOG 3 �65252_Seafarers:JUNE 2011 6/24/2011 8:19 AM Page 4 Mariners Approve New NOAA Contract SIU Members Ratify 5-Year Agreement Covering 19 Ships Following negotiations and related meetings spanning nearly two years, members of the SIU Government Services Division overwhelmingly have approved a new five-year contract covering the 19 vessels in the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) fleet. “It has been a long and time-consuming effort and we are extremely grateful for the patience of the membership and the dedication of the negotiation committee members as we worked through the bargaining process,” stated SIU Vice President Government Services Kermett Mangram. He added that the old contract had not been modified for many years. Negotiations for an updated agreement started in June 2009. “We are confident this new agreement will provide both labor and management with clear guidance and understanding of existing work rules and detail new terms and conditions between the parties,” Mangram said. Among those playing key roles for the union during negotiations and throughout the ratification process were members Tom Sherman, Margret Collins, Herbert Hazwell, Tonya Watson and Dave Fare and officials Mangram, Representative Kate Hunt and SIU Tacoma Port Agent Joe Vincenzo. Hunt on the East Coast and Vincenzo on the West Coast visited each of the 16 active NOAA ships throughout March; they explained key elements of the new pact and oversaw the voting procedure. The pact officially was executed by the union and NOAA on SIU VP Government Services Kermett Mangram (left) and Capt. (Rear Adm. select) Michael Devany, NOAA director of Marine Operations, chat following the contract signing. Squadron One Commander Praises Merchant Mariners The new commander of the U.S. Military Sealift Command’s Prepositioning Ship Squadron One recently commended the efforts of Seafarers and others associated with the squadron, which consists of four SIU-contracted ships. “The merchant mariners in Bobo, Obregon, Wheat and Sisler, along with the staff, are proud Americans who bring impressive capability to distant shores. They are a winning team, and I am honored to join them,” stated Navy Capt. Ricks W. Polk. Polk relieved Navy Capt. Michael F. Ott June 16 in a ceremony aboard squadron flagship USNS 2ND LT John P. Bobo. The ceremony took place while the Seafarerscrewed Bobo was underway in the Baltic Sea near the coast of Estonia. MPS Squadron One is a forward-deployed group of four government-owned ships: the Bobo (operated by AMSEA), the USNS PFC Eugene A. Obregon (Waterman), the USNS LCPL Roy M. Wheat (Keystone) and the USNS Sisler (Ocean Shipholdings).The squadron strategically prepositions cargo and supplies at sea in the eastern Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean and Baltic seas, enabling rapid delivery to shore where needed, according to MSC. The commander of MPS Squadron One has tactical command and control of all four ships in the squadron and is embarked aboard the Bobo. In addition to the civilian mariners serving aboard the vessels, the squadron staff has approximately a dozen military personnel. Polk, a native of Indianapolis, Ind., was commissioned through the limited duty officer program in 1986. He most recently served as commander, Afloat Training Group Middle Pacific. His previous duty stations afloat include battleship USS New Jersey, frigate USS Jarrett and on the staff of commander, Destroyer Squadron 21. After attending the Air Command and Staff College and the Armed Forces Staff 4 Seafarers LOG The new agreement covers 19 vessels including the Bell Shimada (above). May 5. (Two other NOAA ships have been acquired by the agency but haven’t started sailing, while another is laid up.) Vincenzo pointed out that during the ratification process, 20 additional mariners joined the union – a move he described as “a testament both to their understanding of the value of unionism and the collective bargaining process within the public sector and to their desire to form and do the work of ships’ committees.” He and Hunt both noted that the union relied heavily on private-sector maritime standards contained in the SIU’s Standard Freightship Agreement in drafting the provisions of the new NOAA contract. In addition, the union incorporated many of the ideas and proposals submitted by the crews sailing aboard NOAA vessels. “What the members will discover is not a radically new document, but instead an agreement which provides clearer language and addresses the true nature of the work performed by the NOAA membership,” said Hunt. (She added that because these crews are federal employees, wages and benefits weren’t covered in the negotiations. The mariners enjoy the same wages and benefits as other government workers.) Contract highlights include strengthened standards and jurisdiction language that protects mariners’ positions on the NOAA vessels; clarification on temporary promotions; enhanced training opportunities, including the utilization of the Seafarers-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education; and a simplified grievance and arbitration process. The new agreement also preserves all areas of work recognized in the standard contract as penalty work; adds new language, based on suggestions from members, providing payment when performing stand-by diving duties; boosts safety standards; eliminates outdated work-clothing language and provides reimbursement for safety shoes; and includes a new “special watch” schedule recognizing the true operating nature of many NOAA vessels, especially the fishery ships. Another notable change concerns deck department rules for watchstanders. The union has agreed that an AB assigned to the bridge may be sent below to perform mission-related duties as long as they are paid at the deck utility (DU) rate. If the AB is only receiving the AB(W) rate and is sent below to work, they would continue to receive penalty pay. In accordance with current Coast Guard regulations, the union also agreed that an OS can be assigned as helmsman or lookout, as long as they are fully trained and certified. “We appreciate the efforts of all who participated in this very important project, including the management members of the NOAA negotiating team,” Hunt stated. “They demonstrated great resolve and patience throughout our talks and we appreciate the joint efforts in took to achieve this agreement.” College, Polk assumed command of mine countermeasures ship USS Warrior. He also commanded frigate USS Ingraham. Ashore, Polk has served at Atlantic Undersea Test Evaluation Center Andros Island, Bahamas, and as director of training, executive officer and commanding officer at the Mine Warfare Training Center, Ingleside, Texas. He has also served at the U.S. Naval Academy. Ott’s next assignment is commander of Assault Craft Unit Four in Little Creek, Va. Mariners from the SIU-crewed USNS 2nd Lt. John P. Bobo (pictured last year in Souda Bay, Crete) were among those credited by the new commander of MSC Prepositioning Ship Squadron One. (U.S. Navy photo By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class John Martinez) July 2011 �65262_Seafarers_X4:JUNE 2011 6/28/2011 5:47 PM Page 5 State Dept. Group Examines Maritime Security A collaborative group representing various segments of the maritime industry met June 15 at the U.S. State Department to discuss security concerns facing the commercial and military sectors worldwide. Representatives of the SIU and the Maritime Trades Department, AFL-CIO were among the 100-plus audience members. Sponsors of the day-long event included SIUcontracted companies Maersk Line, Limited (MLL); American Roll-On/Roll-Off Carrier (ARC); and APL Shipping. The group itself is named the Overseas Security Advisory Council’s (OSAC) Maritime Security Work Group, self-described as a partnership among the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Diplomatic Security, OSAC and the U.S. private sector “formed to promote safety and security for American entities with business activities operating in the maritime sector.” More than 5,500 organizations are “constituents” of the parent group, OSAC, including businesses, universities, faith-based groups and others. Among the featured speakers at the midJune gathering were Vice Adm. Mark Harnitchek, deputy commander of the U.S. Transportation Command; Rear Adm. Kevin Cook, U.S. Coast Guard director, prevention policy; Ed Hanley, MLL vice president of labor relations; Patrick Callahan, MLL director of health, safety, security, environment and quality; Fred Finger, ARC vice president and general manager of operations; and Charles Dragonette of the U.S. Navy’s Office of Naval Intelligence. The meeting featured seven individual presentations, a panel discussion and numerous questions from the audience. Piracy proved prominent in many of the talks, but other issues were addressed including port security, container scanning, programs that are vital to the American-flag fleet, social unrest overseas, ter- rorism, and regulatory and procedural issues that apply to threat response. Harnitchek provided an overview of TRANSCOM and cited the “very strong partnership we have with the (U.S.) commercial industry.” He emphasized the fiscal advantages of relying on the commercial sector for sealift and other support, noting “it would cost our government a fortune” to maintain equivalent assets, including shipboard personnel. Harnitchek said he is concerned that reductions in U.S. preference cargo may lead to a dangerous decrease in U.S.-flag tonnage available to support our armed forces. He said government money spent helping maintain U.S. ships “is money well-spent.” He added that in TRANSCOM’s dealings with the private sector, “There is a colossal bond of trust that goes beyond the contract.” Callahan stated that while U.S. and other vessels have improved their respective antipiracy measures, “the root cause is not being addressed.” He said that among many other preventive steps, Maersk has conducted antipiracy exercises with the military, but while those drills have been beneficial there is no apparent long-term solution to the attacks. During the panel discussion, Bobbie Neal, State Department counter-piracy and maritime security officer, described piracy as “becoming more organized and more violent.” Cook pointed out that the U.S. has anywhere from four to seven U.S. ships in the high-risk areas in and near the Indian Ocean, but “combatting piracy is a shared responsibility. We need international participation, and assistance needs to become more compulsory.” He added that U.S.-flag shipowners and operators have done a good job providing feedback and assistance in fighting against piracy. Finger said ARC believes that “arming vessels is the way to go, but it must be done properly and with safeguards.” He said that from a Vice Adm. Mark Harnitchek, deputy commander of TRANSCOM, says “there is a colossal bond of trust that goes beyond the contract” in the agency’s dealings with the commercial U.S. maritime industry. safety standpoint, he worries more about certain port calls than pirate attacks, pointing to a recent stop by an American-flag ship in Karachi, Pakistan, the week Osama bin Laden was killed, as an example. That stop proved uneventful but tense. Hanley said he sees a need for bilateral agreements protecting owners, carriers and See Group, Page 9 Vatican Urges Prompt Response Experts Release New Report To Problems Created by Piracy On ‘Human Cost’ of Piracy The Vatican, the seat of the Roman Catholic Church and its leader Pope Benedict XVI, has not shied away from taking positions on issues dealing with the rights and safety of workers. In late May, the Church continued that trend by bringing much-needed publicity to the dangers facing mariners around the world. The Pontifical Council for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerants, the Vatican council responsible for carrying out the Pope’s programs dealing with seafarers and others who spend their lives on the move, released a memo calling on the world to pay attention to the threat of piracy. “Recent reports in the media, about the plight of seafarers seized by pirates, have placed the tragic reality of piracy into the spotlight once more,” said the memo. The Apostleship of the Sea, a Pontifical council that deals with maritime issues, noted in a recent meeting that piracy has spiraled out of control and attacks reached an unprecedented peak last year. The council also pointed out that attacks this year show no signs of decreasing in intensity or violence. The Vatican pointed out that while most of the attacks take place in a particular region, the problems created by piracy are shared by the global community. “Even though the majority of attacks were recorded off the coast of Somalia, as a matter of fact, piracy remains a worldwide challenge that requires a global response, as the illusion of easy and immediate money has also attracted the interest of international criminal organizations,” according to the memo. And while much attention has been put on the effect on commerce, the Vatican continued, a smaller amount of attention has been given to the men and women who sail the dangerous seas. “The maritime world has responded by adopting several measures to protect vessels and their cargoes,” said the Vatican. “Unfortunately, little attention is given to the seafarers and particularly to their families during and especially after the hijacking, leaving to the shipping company the responsibility to care for the people involved, according to the July 2011 situations and their nationalities.” In response, the council issued an appeal to various communities in an effort to remember and attempt to alleviate the suffering of hijacked seafarers and their families in times of crisis. The organization’s message in part reads as follows: To the Governments and international organizations, to promptly activate the appropriate channels to safely bring homes the sequestered seafarers and to find solutions to this problem, given that it is necessary to intervene on the real causes of the phenomenon, such as unfairness in the distribution of goods between countries and the exploitation of natural resources. To the ship owners, to adopt preventive measures to ensure the safety not only of the vessels and their cargoes, but also of the seafarers. In the tragic case of a hijacking, to assume an attitude of attention and support for the families of seized people and offer immediate assistance in order to reduce the longterm traumatic effects. To all the hijacked seafarers, not to lose the hope that they will be soon reunited with their loved ones and to remain strong in their faith. To them the Apostleship of the Sea would like to express its complete solidarity. To the families of the hijacked seafarers, not to hesitate to contact the Stella Maris Centers for assistance and support. In these tragic circumstances, these Centers more than ever can be a safe port and a beacon of hope. The seafarers should know that the chaplains and volunteers of the Apostleship of the Sea are at their side to face these long days and months of uncertainty and fear. To the pirates, to cease their criminal activities and recognize the deep pain they are causing to seafarers (and their families) and to treat them with respect and humanity. The Apostleship of the Sea concluded by reiterating its willingness and desire to cooperate with the parties involved to provide whatever support is needed, whether psychological or spiritual, to affected seafarers and their families. Year 2010 Goes Down As One of Most Violent Periods on Record A study sponsored by the Oceans Beyond Piracy Project, a group composed of experts in the maritime field, has brought more attention to the rising incidences of violence against seafarers from around the globe. The report, titled “The Human Cost of Somali Piracy,” was released June 6 at Chatham House in London. The Oceans Beyond Piracy Project revealed many disturbing statistics about piracy in 2010, which is known as one of the most violent on record. During the course of 2010, for example, 4,185 seafarers were attacked with firearms and/or rocket propelled grenades (RPGs); 342 were forced to stave off attacks in reinforced citadels on board. More than 1,000 seafarers were taken hostage by pirates in 2010 alone. Some were used by the pirates as human shields to avoid capture by navies and law enforcement. With these numerous affronts to the security of men and women just trying to do their jobs, the study expresses alarm about the lack of public awareness and concern for the fate of the world’s mariners. The study notes, “The economic cost of piracy is now wellknown, but it makes clear that the extent of the human cost is much less well-known and understood. Thousands of seafarers have been subjected to gunfire, beatings, extended periods of confinement and, in some cases, torture in the Indian Ocean and Gulf of Aden at the hands of their captors.” This lack of public knowledge can be attributed to several factors, including, at times, an absence of reporting in the media and the subsequent undervaluing of the situation’s severity by most people outside of the maritime community. “There is very little reporting of the personal violence against seafarers in the waters off Somalia,” said Kaija Hurlburt, the lead researcher for the study. “We have found strong evidence that over a third of the seafarers that were held in 2010 were abused, and the trend is looking more ominous this year. The lack of reporting prevents the true cost from being understood by the public.” The potentially catastrophic economic implications of continued Somali piracy are well-documented, according to Oceans Beyond Piracy. It’s clear that ransoms, route changes, security teams, and other defensive measures come at a significant price, not only to the ship operators, but to the global economy as well, the organization points out. Some studies estimate that more than 40 percent of the world’s oil travels through pirate-infested waters. The danger to the men and women who sail the Indian Ocean, Gulf of Aden, and other waters where Somali pirates wreak havoc, on the other hand, is comparably unknown. The study serves as a bleak reminder that more than just goods are at stake; the lives of thousands of seafarers are hanging in the balance. As one shipping company executive put it, “Somali piracy has a tendency to be discussed in economic terms, but the real issue is the untold misery and trauma imposed on our colleagues at sea and their relatives by the Somali criminals. We should be very concerned about the lack of concerted action by the global community in dealing forcefully with this problem.” Anyone interested in reading the latest report for themselves my obtain a copy in PDF format by goig on-line and visiting www.oceansbeyondpiracy.org Seafarers LOG 5 �65252_Seafarers:JUNE 2011 6/24/2011 8:19 AM Page 6 On hand to help mark the occasion were (from left) AMO Secretary-Treasurer José Leonard (who oversaw the construction project), SIU President Michael Sacco, U.S. Maritime Administrator David Matsuda, U.S. Rep. Allen West (R-Fla.), MSC Commander Rear Adm. Mark Buzby, AMO National President Tom Bethel, Dania Beach City Commissioner Walter Duke, Seventh District Coast Guard Commander Rear Adm. William Baumgartner and AMO Plans Co-Chairman Anthony Naccarato. The new building is shown directly above. AMO Celebrates New Headquarters Building The Seafarers-affiliated American Maritime Officers (AMO) on June 7 dedicated the union’s new headquarters building in Dania Beach, Fla., with a ceremony featuring military, government, labor and business leaders. Guest speakers included SIU President Michael Sacco; Rear Adm. Mark Buzby, commander, U.S. Military Sealift Command; U.S. Rep. Allen West (R-Fla.); U.S. Maritime Administrator David Matsuda; Seventh Coast Guard District Commander Rear Adm. William Baumgartner; President of AMO Service and Co-Chairman of AMO Plans Anthony Naccarato; and Dania Beach City Commissioner Walter Duke. Sacco recalled an era many years ago when both the SIU and the AMO had headquarters and training facilities in Brooklyn, N.Y. He then stated that when he looks at the new facility in Dania Beach, “I see a tribute to (AMO National President) Tom Bethel’s leadership, and a gorgeous reflection of AMO’s progress and success. This development is going to benefit rank-and-file AMO members for many, many years to come. “Certainly, the whole executive board deserves credit, too,” he added. “You pulled together and worked together, and look what you’ve been able to accomplish.” The SIU president also touched on the outstanding working relationship the Seafarers and AMO have enjoyed for many years. “The relationship remains great to this day, and I’m proud to point out that AMO has been affiliated with the Seafarers International Union of North America for the last seven years,” Sacco stated. Bethel thanked the AMO membership “for guiding our union to this long-overdue milestone. I dedicate this extraordinary building to these extraordinary seagoing men and women.” (The facility’s construction was approved by members in union-wide balloting.) Reporting on the ceremony, AMO described the new, state-of-the-art build- ing as its first true headquarters. It will house several departments including dispatch, member services, accounting and editorial along with union administration. Previously, the union operated from three (and occasionally four) separate locations in Dania Beach. “This building is a much more accurate reflection of what American Maritime Officers is as a professional organization of singular stature,” Bethel added. “Ours is the nation’s largest and strongest union of merchant marine officers, and this building is a far more fitting symbol of the excellence identified so closely and so commonly with American Maritime Officers.” Mariners Honored Across U.S. Seafarers and SIU officials recently took part in several National Maritime Day ceremonies, beginning with the annual events hosted in Washington, D.C., on May 19. Those ceremonies were covered in the June edition of the LOG; pictured here are some of the other participants at memorials in (respectively) Virginia, Texas and California. NORFOLK, VA. – A number of Seafarers joined hundreds of fellow CALISTOGA, CALIF. – SIU Asst. VP Government Services Chet Wheeler (left in photo above, with U.S. Rep. Mike Thompson, D-Calif.) was a guest speaker at a Memorial Day remembrance that included tributes to the U.S. Merchant Marine. Seafarers are highlighted by one of the monuments (photo at immediate right) at Logvy Park, where the event took place May 30. SAN FRANCISCO, CALIF. – The Liberty ship SS Jeremiah O’Brien hosted its traditional memori- al on Maritime Day itself, May 22. SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone (left in photo above, with MFOW VP Bill O’Brien) helped honor those mariners who made the ultimate sacrifice. Some 1,235 SIU members gave their lives in World War II, a conflict that often is the focal point of National Maritime Day ceremonies. 6 Seafarers LOG attendees May 20 as MSC Commander Rear Adm. Mark Buzby delivered the keynote address. Several SIU members were featured in a video presentation titled “It’s More than a Job: Every Voyage has a Purpose,” in which they shared their experiences and views about the merchant marine’s value to U.S. national and economic security. Pictured from left to right are (back row) Recertified Steward Army Joe Leake, SIU Hawsepiper/3rd Asst. Engineer Brad Neathery, SIU Port Agent Georg Kenny and his wife, Maureen Kenny (former SIU chief cook). Brad’s children, Alyssa and Michael, are in front. Army Joe and Brad were featured in the video, as were Seafarers AB David Freeman, Recertified Bosun Robert Lindsay and Steward/Baker Angela Robinson. GALVESTON, TEXAS – With the SIU-crewed tug Lexie M (G&H Towing) in the background at Pier 22, SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey and others delivered remarks. Among those on hand May 20 were SIU Port Agent Mike Russo (second from right), AMO National Executive Board member Dave Weathers (right) and MEBA Houston Branch Agent Dana Woodruff (third from right). July 2011 �65252_Seafarers:JUNE 2011 6/24/2011 8:19 AM Page 7 CONTINUED SUPPORT FOR MARITIME – SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez (left) in late May attended a reception for U.S. Rep. Peter King (R-N.Y.) (center) in Washington, D.C. The gathering was hosted by the Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association; MEBA Chief of Staff Bill Doyle is at right. Rep. King, chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee, expressed his ongoing support for maritime labor, the Jones Act and the U.S. Maritime Security Program. REMEMBERING BROTHER ESCOTO – Mariners aboard the Sealand Meteor on June 5 conducted a memorial service for retiree Antonio Escoto, who passed away in late April at age 73. The former engine department member’s ashes were scattered at sea in position 49-50N/014-02W, noted Capt. Peter J. Parise, the vessel’s master. Some of the attendees are pictured above. The service included prayers and a reading of Psalm 23 by the captain. Recertified Bosun Stephen Kastel and Electrician Christopher Earhart represented the SIU during the remembrance. At Sea & Ashore With the SIU HONORING MARINERS’ SERVICE – A new veterans’ memor- ial has been built in Cedar Park, Texas (photos at left and directly above), which specifically honors members of the U.S. Merchant Marine, as well as members of the armed forces, for their service and dedication to the nation during times of war. The ribbon-cutting ceremony took place on Memorial Day 2011. The completed project, including a large monument, is expected to be revealed and dedicated in a ceremony this November. More information is available at the web site www.cpvetmemorial.org. SOLIDARITY IN D.C. – Seafarers participated in a rally June 7 in Washington, D.C., backing National Nurses United (photos above and below). Prior to the demonstration, AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka told the nurses, “Together, we’re going to build up our working families and return America to prosperity the only way it’s ever been done–by working people standing shoulder-to-shoulder and fighting for what’s right, and we won’t be quiet until we win!” More than 1,000 union members and other supporters participated in the rally. The NNU is proposing a “Main Street Contract for the American People” which the union describes as “a program for rebuilding American communities with jobs, health care, education, and other urgent needs, funded through a fair tax policy targeted at those on Wall Street who created the economic crisis.” July 2011 PRESENTATIONS IN OAKLAND – Patrolman Nick Marrone II recently presented SA Mahr Mused (right in photo above) with his full-seniority B-book at the union hall in Oakland, Calif. Mused’s most recent vessel was the USNS 1st LT Jack Lummus. In the other photo, Marrone greets AB Joseph Barnes, who received his A-book last year. FULL BOOK IN HOUSTON – Port Agent Mike Russo (right) congratulates AB Joe Zavala, who recently received his full union book at the union hall in Houston. Seafarers LOG 7 �65252_Seafarers:JUNE 2011 6/24/2011 8:19 AM Page 8 New Stamps Honor U.S. Merchant Mariners Creations Highlight Four Vessels That Helped Mark Mariner History The U.S. Postal Service will salute the U.S. Merchant Marine (USMM) July 28 by issuing a set of four forever stamps during a dedication ceremony at the United Sates Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, N.Y. The dedication will take place at 11:30 a.m., at the academy campus’ Ackerman Auditorium, which is located at 300 Steamboat Rd. The event will be free and open to the public. Designed to honor the USMM throughout its rich history, the four stamps will feature four vessel types which historically have been used by merchant mariners in the service of their country: ■ A clipper ship modeled after the Sovereign of the Seas, launched in 1852; ■ An auxiliary steamship, based on the ships of the Collins Line; ■ A World War II Liberty Ship; and ■ A container ship, based on Seafarerscontracted Matson Line’s R.J. Pfeiffer. Illustrator Dennis Lyall of Norwalk, Conn., created the stamps under the art direction of Phil Jordan of Falls Church, Va. The following history on the four vessel types depicted on the stamps was provided by the U.S. Postal Service. Clipper Ships The clipper ship, noted maritime historian Benjamin Labaree, was “a unique American contribution to the glory of seafaring.” Hundreds of “Yankee” clippers, noted for their streamlined shape and majestic cloud of square-rigged sails, were built from the 1840s through the 1850s. Their heyday arrived with the California Gold Rush of 1849, which hastened the need for faster sailing ships to take prospectors and supplies out West. In 1851, the fastest of the clipper ships, the Flying Cloud, sailed the 13,000-plus miles from New York around Cape Horn to San Francisco in a record 89 days. Clippers also boosted the trade in tea, bringing it fresh from China to England and America. Clipper ships eventually lost their dominance to the more dependable steamship, which had greater cargo capacity and could sail on regular schedules. But during the time they “flashed their splendor around the world,” as Samuel Eliot Morison has written, clippers embodied the poetry of the seas. Auxiliary Steamships In the mid-nineteenth century, steampowered ships competed with clipper and other sailing ships for transatlantic mail and passenger service. In America the most magnificent of these were the four large wooden-hulled, sidewheel steamships—the Atlantic, Baltic, Pacific, and Arctic—that were built by New York entrepreneur Edward K. Collins in the 1840s. Like many steamships of the time, they included back-up or auxiliary sailing rigs to supplement their powerful engines. The elegant, 280-foot ships of the “Collins Line”—the ocean liners of their day—were notable for both speed and cargo-carrying capacity. They provided service between New York and Liverpool in the 1850s and set numerous transatlantic speed records before rising costs helped bring an end to their business. Liberty Ships During World War I, the United States learned how to mass-produce merchant ships. But the nation remained without a settled policy for maintaining a modern merchant marine to meet its economic and defense needs until 1936, when legislation established the U.S. Maritime Commission and empowered the U.S. Merchant Marine to serve as a naval auxiliary unit. The Commission immediately began increasing the size of the country’s merchant fleet and shortly before America’s entry into World War II ordered the production of plain but sturdy cargo vessels called Liberty ships. Over the next four years, the United States produced more than 2,700 Liberty ships – “the most impressive single page in the history of the American shipbuilding industry,” according to historian Allan Nevins. Liberty ships served in all theaters of war and sustained the Allied forces with a steady supply of food and war materiel. These ships were manned by members of the U.S. Merchant Marine, including thousands of SIU members, whose sacrifices, though less heralded than those of U.S. Navy crewmen, were no less critical to the war effort. our local stores. “In 2006 alone,” according to a maritime history exhibit at the Smithsonian Institution, “about 18 million containers stuffed with cargoes of all sorts were sent on more than 200 million trips by sea, rail, and road to places around the world.” Container ships were pioneered in the 1950s by Malcolm McLean, a trucking operator from North Carolina. McLean’s idea was to eliminate multiple handling costs by standardizing the shape of a container so that it could be easily moved between different modes of transportation: truck, rail, and ship. Intermodal transportation took hold and created efficiencies that transformed the global economy. By the end of the twentieth century, container ships carried nearly all of the world’s manufactured goods and exemplified the modern merchant marine. Container Ships Without the container ship the global economy as we know it would be impossible. These ships, each loaded with thousands of containers measuring either 20 or 40 feet in length, carry virtually all the products and materials that end up in MFOW Official Salutes Work Of SIU Stewards Longtime Union Rep Sheehan Retires Distinguished Career Comes To End After Nearly 50 Years After 47 years of service to the SIU, its members, and the port of New York, Jack Sheehan announced his retirement this June. Sheehan served the SIU in various capacities over nearly five decades, most recently as patrolman for the Brooklyn hall. “I have known Jack all my working career and I’ve never met a more dedicated individual to this membership,” said SIU Vice President Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi. “I wish him the best in his future endeavors.” Joining Sheehan (second from left) at the Brooklyn hall to celebrate his career are (from left) Seafarer John Natoli, VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi and Seafarer Eddie Vasquez. 8 Seafarers LOG Sheehan was hired in 1964 as a claims supervisor in New York. In 1980, he transferred to the manpower office, also in the New York hall. Two years later, he served as a representative for the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (then named the Seafarers Welfare Plan). He became a union representative in 1985. In 1991, Sheehan was called upon to serve as the SIU safety director in New York, a position he filled for nearly 17 years. During his many years of service, Sheehan has seen the industry evolve and has assisted multiple generations of Seafarers with their needs. Sheehan’s contributions and unwavering devotion to his union and its members has made a lasting impact on the union’s leadership and rank-and-file members alike. Port Agent Robert Selzer, himself an SIU member and employee for 47 years, spent most of his career working alongside Sheehan in the Brooklyn hall. “I worked with Jack Sheehan for the past 47 years,” said Selzer. “Not only was he my colleague, but he was a friend as well. Jack is a person of integrity and ability in his work.” Selzer, too, commends Sheehan for his devotion to the union and his hard work on behalf of the members. “I always notice and admired the fact that Jack truly cared about the members he represented,” Selzer continued. “I wish him a happy retirement.” SIU Government Services Division Representative Kate Hunt expressed similar sentiments. “Jack was a pleasure to work with every day,” Hunt said. “He’s a real gentleman and is very well-respected by the SIU membership. He will be greatly missed in the Port of New York. He’s a good Irishman and a great shipmate.” When asked to reflect on nearly five decades of working for the union, Sheehan remained true to his reputation as an SIU devotee through-and-through. “It was my pleasure to work at the SIU and with the membership,” said Sheehan. “Through the years I met some really great people. I will miss all of them.” Bill O’Brien, vice president of the Seafarers-affiliated Marine Firemen, Oilers, Watertenders and Wipers Association (MFOW), recently saluted the work of SIU steward department personnel. In a late-May email to stewards aboard SIU Pacific District vessels, O’Brien wrote, “The Seafarer stewards and cooks are honest, hard-working, dedicated, well-trained and talented individuals. They work long hours under adverse conditions to prepare healthy and well-balanced and delicious meals. They strive to maintain a safe, clean and healthy environment for their shipmates, and they never complain.” He added, “Your efforts are vital to the success of every voyage on every ship. I believe that in my heart.” O’Brien was following up on a very brief, less flattering comment he’d written earlier this year as part of an annual report published in the MFOW newspaper. SIU Vice President West Coast Nick Marrone said, “I’m sure at one time or another, everyone has said or written something that simply didn’t come out as intended. In this case, Bill quickly and sincerely reached out to our steward department personnel to set the record straight, and I think he deserves credit for doing so.” July 2011 �65252_Seafarers:JUNE 2011 6/24/2011 8:19 AM Page 9 Gathering at the union hall are (from left) AB Victor Kistanov, Paul Hall Center VP Don Nolan, AB Slavi Zahariev (back), SA Rossitza Zahariev, Exec. VP Augie Tellez, Steward/Baker Rocel Alvarez, Recertified Bosun Burkley Cooper, QMED Rudy Miller, AB Franklin Estupinan, OMU Rafael Comesana, President Michael Sacco, AB Eugenio Lopez and Port Agent Kris Hopkins. Pictured from left are (front row) SA Marvin Davis, OS Marques Johnson, Paul Hall Center VP Don Nolan, SIU President Michael Sacco, (back) Chief Cook Kenneth Kelly, OMU Charles Searfass, OS Richard Swirtz, Recertified Bosun Joe Caruso and AB William Yurick. HQ Officials, School VP Meet Seafarers in Florida SIU President Michael Sacco, Executive Vice President Augie Tellez and Paul Hall Center Vice President Don Nolan recently met with SIU members both at the union hall in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., and aboard the new OSG tanker Overseas Tampa. The informal gatherings took place June 8, one day after the Seafarers-affiliated American Maritime Officers dedicated their new headquarters building in Dania Beach. Although the get-togethers were casual, the officials updated members on contract news, political efforts and shipbuilding issues. As previously reported, the Overseas Tampa was delivered in late April by Aker Philadelphia Shipyard. Thanks to Port Agent Kris Hopkins for providing the photos on this page Sharing a laugh in the crew mess are (from left) Recertified Bosun Joe Caruso, SIU President Michael Sacco and OS Richard Swirtz. The double-hulled tanker Overseas Tampa is one of the newest additions to the SIU-crewed fleet. Chief Cook Kenneth Kelly, President Sacco Seafarers Franklin Estupinan (left) and Rudy Miller (center) hear the latest union news from SIU President Michael Sacco. President Sacco, Recertified Steward George Monseur Pumpman Scott Fuller, President Sacco, Recertified Bosun Joe Caruso, VP Nolan Group Discusses Security Concerns Continued from Page 5 mariners “if crews have to defend themselves overseas. These are our brothers and sisters on board – American citizens.” He also suggested ramping up training in hostage survival techniques and called for “a clear order to disable pirate mother ships.” More than one speaker pointed out that no ship with an armed security team has been overtaken by pirates. Among the other speakers were representatives of the U.S. Maritime Administration; Carnival Corporation; the Coast Guard’s Global Maritime Operational Threat Response Coordination Center; the Government Accountability Office; Holland America; and the Office of Naval Research. July 2011 One of the meeting’s highlights was a panel discussion featuring Coast Guard Rear Adm. Kevin Cook, executives from SIU-contracted companies and others. Seafarers LOG 9 �65252_Seafarers:JUNE 2011 6/24/2011 8:20 AM Page 10 Debunking Myths: Editor’s note: The following item is the final part of an article that ran in the June 2011 edition of the Seafarers LOG. Material contained in the piece was extracted from “In the Public Interest: Debunking the Myths about Government, Government Workers, and Unions,” a publication produced by the New York-based Joseph S. Murphy Institute for Worker Education and Labor Studies and some of its affiliated agencies. MYTH # 3 Public sector unions are too powerful. Public sector unions are the problem. Through political contributions, these unions control federal, state, and local governments and set their agendas. Corrupt union bosses wield enormous power and force politicians to toe their line. Unions are bankrupting our government. REALITY ■ Workers join unions because they want a better life. Like everyone else, they want dignity, fair pay, benefits, and a voice in the workplace. Workers achieve these goals more effectively by joining together than by acting individually. ■ Union leaders are elected by their members. Some are great leaders, some are not. Some are strong and forceful, others not so much. And sometimes there is corruption in the labor movement. The Radical Right likes to characterize all union leaders as union “bosses,” but most are hard working people who make significant sacrifices and devote their lives to fighting for social justice. As long as elections are fair—and the overwhelming majority are—then union leaders are the democratically elected representatives of working people. ■ There is no evidence that unions are bankrupting government. For instance, in Texas, where unionization rates are low, the government is facing a catastrophic deficit. In New York, where unionization rates are high, the deficit is lower. ■ Texas has followed the Radical Right prescription for tax cuts, deregulation, and resistance to unions as a path to economic prosperity and a balanced budget—a strategy that has clearly failed. ■ Unions do make a difference. (LOG editor’s note: Government data consistently shows that union members earn more than unrepresented workers.) ■ Higher union wages are good for all workers. Unions keep wage levels up for everyone. When public sector unions succeed in defending decent wages and benefits for their members, they set a benchmark and help maintain wage and benefit standards for all workers. ■ Public sector unions do have a degree of political power—and that’s good. Union power leads to better jobs, higher wages, a safer workplace, a bigger middle class and a stronger economy. Unions’ political power comes directly from the members through their small, but pooled political contributions and through their direct involvement in the democratic and electoral process. It also comes from communities that rely on—and fight for—public services. ■ Collective bargaining in the public sector is good for workers and for government. Not only do workers win decent wages through collective bargaining, they win fair and consistent work rules and are protected from job discrimination and unsafe working conditions. Collective bargaining also insulates employees from politics and patronage, reducing government corruption. ■ When public sector unions fight to protect their members’ jobs, they are also fighting to protect our communities and vital public services. Unions are the first—and often last—line of defense for public education, health care, Medicare, public safety and other important social needs. ■ At the same time, public sector unions are not as strong as the Radical Right makes 10 Seafarers LOG them out to be; they have fewer bargaining rights than private sector workers. And most don’t have the right to strike. ■ Right wing and employer attacks on unions over the past 30 years have severely weakened unions-especially in the private sector. ■ Employment in state and local government has fallen by 4,000,000 since 2008. And, in the first year of the Obama Administration, government employment has declined by more than 300,000—that is, 300,000 fewer teachers, police officers, firefighters, school bus drivers, etc. Radical Right politicians want more public employee heads on the chopping block and they would like to eliminate public sector unions altogether. ■ It’s not that unions are too powerful; it’s that Corporate America is too powerful. Our nation’s economy is dominated by huge conglomerates with revenues larger than many countries. Yet these corporations exist solely to maximize the profits of the shareholders—and to concentrate wealth and power in the hands of a few who run them. What’s more, most of the companies we consider to be “American” are really global enterprises. They move jobs around the world in search of the lowest wages, shift revenues offshore to avoid paying taxes, and care little about the lives and communities of U.S. workers. They squeeze out family businesses, distort our economic priorities, and wreak havoc on our economy with financial speculation. ■ These companies can shape public policy to serve their interests. With their enormous campaign contributions to candidates from both major parties and their extensive lobbying, they call the shots on most policy issues. ■ Big corporations also have a strangle hold on the major media. They shape how we view the world, what we crave (that is, buy), and who we blame for our social and economic ills. Ownership and control of the media is increasingly concentrated in the hands of a few mega corporations that control most of the TV networks, cable channels, movie studios, newspapers, magazines, and publishing houses. ■ Workers and unions are up against powerful adversaries that have enormous resources (including the media) at their disposal. That’s why attacks on unions have been so effective. A BETTER PLAN Strengthen unions to raise the standards for all workers and provide a counterweight to the interests of corporations and the wealthy. A democratic society needs stronger—not weaker—unions. MYTH # 4 Public pensions are too generous. Pension plans are draining the public coffers and sending our federal, state, and municipal governments into a budgetary tailspin. Working people end up paying taxes to support retirement benefits they only wish the could have. Public employees are retiring in luxury. REALITY ■ Most public sector workers have modest incomes and modest pensions. On average, state and municipal workers earn less than $45,000 per year and when they retire receive a pension of approximately $19,000 per year. The average annual benefit for all public retirees (including federal employees) is $22,780. This hardly affords them a life of luxury. ■ Some reforms clearly need to be made – for example, closing loopholes that allow some workers to spike their final salaries in order to get higher retirement benefits. The Radical Right, however, is using extreme cases to generalize about all public sector workers and arguing for drastic cuts in workers’ pensions and in all areas of gov- Public Sector Union Workers Don’t Deserve ‘Negative Rep’ They Get ernment spending. These cuts would have a devastating impact on workers and communities. ■ Everyone should have enough to live on at the end of a long work life—whether through adequate Social Security benefits or through a pension. The American Dream promises a decent retirement for those who work hard and play by the rules. Pensions not only provide economic security for workers in their later years, they are engines of economic growth, curtail poverty, and help maintain the economic stability of seniors and the communities they live in. ■ Since many public workers are not covered by Social Security, government is not contributing 6.25 percent of their pay into the Social Security fund as private employers would. For these workers, their pension is the only source of retirement income. ■ Taxpayers only pay 14 percent of public workers’ retirement costs. Most pension money comes from worker’s own contributions to the plan and returns on investment. ■ Pension expenses amount to only 3.8 percent of all noncapital spending by state and local governments. ■ Public workers still rely mostly on pension plans (called “defined benefit plans”) that pool investments, are managed by professionals, and spread risks widely over many years. Most private sector plans have either been eliminated, diluted, or changed to 401(k) plans that require participants to make their own investment decisions and bear the risk of bad investments. These 401(k) plans put all the risk and more of the cost onto the backs of individual workers. And they carry fees that can decimate long term returns. Retirees can and do outlive their 401(k) assets. Only onein-five private sector workers are still covered by “defined benefit plans” –and only one-in–eight non-unionized workers have this kind of plan. ■ Now there’s a push to shift public sector pension plans to 401(k) s – or to eliminate them altogether. ■ Pension funds in both the private and public sectors often leave workers in poor financial straits. So does Social Security, with the average retiree receiving only $1,178 a month. ■ The Radical Right is whipping up resentment among private sector workers by exaggerating government workers’ wages and benefits and by encouraging what Wharton Economics Professor Olivia Mitchell calls “pension envy.” This campaign is fostering tensions between workers, between neighbors, and between parents and teachers. The end result is a “race to the bottom” that leaves all workers with little income security. ■ Until the 2008 crash, most public pensions were well funded. But the deep financial downturn of 2008 and 2009—spurred by Wall Street’s recklessness—caused significant losses for pension funds. ■ Most state and local governments have lost between 10 to 20 percent of their rev- enues during the past two or three years. Many of these governments missed payments they were required to make under their collective bargaining agreements (under these agreements, workers gave up part of their salary increases in exchange for promised pension contributions.) Rather than paying into the pension funds as they were supposed to, some of these governments used the money to give tax breaks to special interests. Now they are complaining about having to pay the pension money back and using budget deficits as an excuse to cut pensions permanently. ■ The Radical Right often exaggerates the problems facing public pension funds to build the case for eliminating them altogether. But most of these funds are not at imminent risk of default and have years to recover the value they lost during the recession. ■ Controversy over pension funds also diverts attention from the bonuses and golden parachutes given to the CEOs and Wall Street executives who caused the economic A BETTER PLAN meltdown and budget crisis in the first place. Improve pensions for all workers and restore defined benefit plans as the standard for pensions. Rather than cutting Social Security, improve it so that all retirees can have a decent standard of living. MYTH # 5 Government is too focused on the poor. The government provides services mainly for the poor, which is after all only a small percentage of all Americans. Our tax dollars are going to help everyone but ourselves. The poor are already getting more than they should. REALITY ■ Protecting the poor and poor communities is important—and most industrialized democracies do a better job of it than does the United States. They recognize that providing a safety net is not only the right thing to do, but ensures a stable civil society. Partly because we do so little to help people get back on their feet, poverty in America is both significant and persistent. ■ Only 15 cents of every federal tax dollar goes to helping low income families. Most of our tax dollars go to the military, Social Security, and Medicare (which is mostly for seniors). ■ Cuts in public services will disproportionally affect the most vulnerable—the poor, the elderly, the disabled. Women and people of color—who are more likely poor—are hit the hardest. ■ One way or another, we all depend on services we get from federal, state, and local government: public schools and colleges; Continued on next page July 2011 �65252_Seafarers:JUNE 2011 6/24/2011 8:20 AM Page 11 Report Separates Facts From Fiction About Public Sector Union Workers Continued from Page 10 police and fire protection; mass transportation; roads, highways, and bridges; garbage collection; libraries and parks; health research; national defense and security—not to mention safe food, safe water, and safe buildings. ■ And when the bottom falls out for middle class families, government support provides a critical safety net. ■ At the same time, many of the services the middle class depends on are being defunded. Some services have been eliminated, others are being provided at increased costs. From 1980 to 2010, funding for higher education, for example, has declined as a proportion of the federal budget by 45 percent: it’s no wonder that college tuition has increased so dramatically. During that same period, funding for research and general education as a proportion of the federal budget decreased by 50 percent. ■ It’s not the poor who are getting too much attention from public officials; rather it’s the wealthy and corporate benefactors who finance their political campaigns who do best at the public trough. A BETTER PLAN Government should preserve equal opportunity for all. It should be a “great equalizer” that prevents extreme concentrations of wealth, power and privilege. MYTH #6 Government imposes too many regulations. The government interferes too much in the economy and is strangling private enterprise. Excessive governmental regulation inhibits competition, stifles innovation, impedes start-ups, and kills jobs. There are too many controls on industry and business. REALITY ■ Everyone wants to eliminate outdated or useless rules—and simplify overly complex ones. That’s precisely why the call to deregulate is so popular with the Radical Right and why they can easily score points by ridiculing one or two truly absurd regulations. But rallying people to support a major rollback of government regulations is dangerous. ■ Many industry regulations and regulatory agencies were created during the New Deal to prevent a repeat of the Great Depression. The Reagan administration set off a tidal wave of deregulation aimed at “reducing the role of government” and abolishing any rules that might “impede the market.” The tidal wave continued under both Republican and Democratic administrations, helped along by huge campaign contributions from corporations and the wealthy. ■ One industry that was deregulated was the banking industry. ■ Proponents of deregulation argue that it encourages competition. Initially, it often does. But that usually means a downward spiral for workers and their communities. Deregulated companies compete by laying off workers, reducing wages, taking shortcuts on safety, and eliminating less profitable services. As companies go out of business—or are bought out or merged—the field narrows and a few large companies come to dominate the industry. Free now from government restrictions, these goliaths often find it profitable to collude with their competitors. They raise prices, add fees, and further reduce services to less profitable markets. The airline industry is a case study of this destructive spiral. ■ While scrapping rules that protect consumers has yielded huge profits for companies, it has had a devastating impact on working people and the economy. Financial deregulation led to a reckless gambling spree on Wall Street that has cost millions of people their savings and their homes. An estimated 25 percent of homeowners today are “underwater”—that is, they owe more money on their mortgages than their houses are actually worth. More than six million families have lost their homes to foreclosures since 2007 and an equal number of families are at risk of foreclosure. ■ Once banking rules were gutted, investment bankers were free to sell their complex financial products, which later became known as “toxic assets.” The spread of these bad debts across the globe helped plunge nations into a financial meltdown. The cost to taxpayers in the U.S. was nearly a half trillion dollars. As one analyst put it, “Goldman Sachs, the investment house, sold poison to unwitting customers—financial [products] deliberately designed to fail. Sure enough, they failed, but they also helped poison the entire system.” ■ The “Greed is Good” culture of Wall Street serves a handful of people who make a lot of money—not by producing useful goods or providing important services, but by collecting huge fees for manipulating money in ways that endanger the economy. ■ The Radical Right touts “the magic of the free market,” a market economy that supposedly thrives because it is unfettered by government interference. By interfer- Summary Annual Report for SIU Pacific District Seafarers Medical Center Fund This is a summary of the annual report of the SIU Pacific District Seafarers Medical Center Fund, EIN 94-2430964 for the year ended June 30, 2010. The annual report has been filed with the Department of Labor, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Benefits under the plan are provided by the SIU Pacific District Seafarers Medical Center Fund, a trust fund. Basic Financial Statement The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $(124,844) as of June 30, 2010, compared to $(138,607) as of July 1, 2009. During the plan year the plan experienced an increase in its net assets of $13,763. During the plan year, the plan had total income of $549,884, including employer contributions of $538,589, earnings from investments of $51 and other income of $11,244. Plan expenses were $536,121. These expenses included $150,363 in administrative expenses, and $385,558 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: ■ An accountant’s report; ■ Financial information and information on payments to service providers; and July 2011 ■ Assets held for investment. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of SIU Pacific District Seafarers’ Medical Center Fund, 730 Harrison St., Suite 400, San Francisco, CA 94107, (415) 392-3611. The charge to cover copying costs will be $2.25 for the full annual report, or $.25 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan, at 730 Harrison Street, Suite 400, San Francisco, CA 94107, and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, DC or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, N1513, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20210. ence, they mean regulations that protect consumers, workers, and communities. But most (though not all) proponents of the “free market” were strikingly silent when it came to protecting huge corporations—like Citibank, AIG, and JP Morgan Chase—from market losses during the financial crisis they helped to create. ■ The Radical Right insists that deregulation will increase competition and create jobs. But sweeping deregulation unleashed Wall Street greed that ended up being the biggest job killer since the Great Depression. A BETTER PLAN Re-establish and strengthen government regulations that protect consumers, workers, and the environment from profit hungry corporations. MYTH # 7 Liberal tax and spend policies have created deficits and debts that are too big. Our taxes are too high and our government is sending too much money. Taxes are simply strangling our economy. And our government is nearly bankrupt. Thanks to liberal politicians and their ever-expanding social programs, our nation is in big trouble. REALITY ■ A number of factors have contributed to the nation’s debt and the budget deficit including: the collapse of the financial and housing markets which sparked a recession and caused a loss of jobs and tax revenues; the rising cost of the goods and services that the government purchases and provides; and tax breaks for the wealthy which have reduced government revenues. ■ No one wants to saddle future generations with unmanageable debt. And no one wants to pay more taxes than they have to— especially in this tough economy. But while the Radical Right is quick to denounce the federal debt and trumpet fiscal responsibility, they are happy to add to the nation’s debt by providing tax breaks for the wealthy and tax loopholes for corporations. ■ The Radical Right argues that cutting taxes for the rich means they will spend more of their money—increasing consumption and improving the economy. While middle and lower income families may spend their tax savings on goods and services they need, there is little evidence that the rich will spend the extra money in ways that will boost the economy. The Radical Right also argues that cutting taxes for corporations means they will make more money and hire more people. But Corporate America is just as likely to invest savings abroad and create jobs elsewhere. Radical Right tax policies are outright gifts to the wealthy and to Corporate America that reduce public revenues and exacerbate the financial crisis. ■ But the financial crisis provides the Radical Right with what one conservative columnist called a “golden opportunity”—a chance to undermine unions and defund social programs. In New Jersey, for example, Governor Chris Christie vilified public sector workers—teachers especially—and used the budget deficit as an excuse to both cut programs ad to stop paying money the state owes to the employee pension fund. These strategies are having a devastating impact on middle and lower income workers, their families, and their communities. ■ It’s not simply that government debt and deficits are too big, it’s that the revenues that come into government coffers from corporations and the wealthy are too small. There are plenty of services that government should be providing, but simply can’t because the most privileged in society just aren’t paying their fair share. A BETTER PLAN Increase revenues by returning to a more progressive tax structure—like the one we had before the Radical Right began to dismantle it. Summary Annual Report for SIU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc. This is a summary of the annual report of the SIU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc., EIN 94-1431246 for the year ended July 31, 2010. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Benefits under the Plan are provided by the SIU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc., a Trust Fund. Basic Financial Statement The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $94,919 as July 31, 2010, compared to $427,754 as of August 1, 2009. During the plan year the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $332,835. This decrease includes unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year or the cost of assets acquired during the year. During the plan year, the plan had total income of $7,990,099, which included employer contributions of $7,977,512, realized losses of $6,792 from the sale of assets, and earnings from investments of $19,379. Plan expenses were $8,322,934. These expenses included $425,382 in administrative expenses and $7,897,552 in benefits paid to participants. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: ■ An accountant’s report; ■ Financial information and information on payments to service providers; ■ Assets held for investment; and ■ Transactions in excess of 5% of plan assets. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of SIU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc., at 730 Harrison Street, Suite 400, San Francisco, CA 94107, telephone number (415) 764-4990. The charge to cover copying costs will be $4.00 for the full annual report, or $0.25 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan at 730 Harrison Street, Suite 400, San Francisco, CA 94107, and at the U. S. Department of Labor in Washington, DC, or to obtain a copy from the U. S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to Public Disclosure Room, Room N1513, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N. W., Washington, D.C. 20210. Seafarers LOG 11 �65262_Seafarers_X2:JUNE 2011 6/27/2011 7:02 PM Page 12 The recent mission proved a reunion of sorts for a number of mariners who in 2010 had sailed together aboard the Collector. Those crew members, pictured from left to right earlier this year on the SS Pacific Tracker, are OMU Jo MDR Duane Akers, AB John O’Connell, AB Warner James, Chief Cook Albert Hermoso, SA Patty Johansen, CM J SA Thomas (Mike) Curley, QMED Patrick Devlin, SA Armando Amante, OS Jack Corn, SA Orlando Makiling and GU Souza. T Pacific Tracker Assists in Key Mis GUDE Michael Souza, Bosun John Mossbarger OMU Amber Fisher uses a sandblaster. OMU Ali Mohamed lends a hand at the drill press. 12 Seafarers LOG he SIU-crewed Pacific Tracker earlier this year supported an important test successfully conducted by the U.S. Missile Defense Agency (MDA). A mid-April report by the MDA stated that agency personnel along with U.S. Navy sailors aboard the destroyer USS O’Kane and soldiers from the 94th Army Air and Missile Defense Command operating from the 613th Air and Space Operations Center at Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii, “successfully conducted a flight test of the Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD) element of the nation’s Ballistic Missile Defense System, resulting in the intercept of a separating ballistic missile target over the Pacific Ocean. This successful test demonstrated the capability of the first phase of the European Phased Adaptive Approach announced by the President in September 2009.” This marked the United States’ first test of a sea-based defense against longer-range weapons of a particular type, according to agency and news reports. Earlier tests involved shorter-range targets. Operated by Interocean American Shipping, the Pacific Tracker did its part for the exercise, conducted in the pre-dawn hours of April 15. The test involved launching an intermediate-range ballistic missile target from the Marshall Islands, roughly 2,300 miles southwest of Hawaii. Just 11 minutes after the target was launched, the O’Kane destroyed it. (Official video footage of the exercise, dubbed FTM-15, is posted on YouTube.) “We were a team, and you could really feel it aboard the ship,” said OMU John Steeber, who provided the photos accompanying this story. “I’ve been on a number of similar mis- sions and w themselves this particul this last one The MDA challenging intercept ag (range 1,864 The Seafarers-crewed Pacific Tracker is operated by Interoce 2nd Cook Gregory Blaylock July 2011 �65252_Seafarers:JUNE 2011 r aboard the MV Pacific are OMU John Steeber, ansen, CM Jerry Smith, ling and GUDE Michael 6/24/2011 8:20 AM Page 13 QMED Patrick Devlin, 1st AE/SIU Hawsepiper Jeffrey Yarmola, OMU Ali Mohammed, OMU John Steeber Missile Defense Agency Test sions and while everyone always handles themselves professionally, due to the nature of this particular voyage the pride and effort on this last one were outstanding.” The MDA described the test as “the most challenging to date, as it was the first … intercept against an intermediate-range target (range 1,864 to 3,418 miles) and the first … engagement relying on remote tracking data.” FTM-15 was the 21st successful intercept, in 25 attempts, for the Aegis BMD program since flight testing began in 2002, according to the agency. The Pacific Tracker previously sailed for the U.S. Military Sealift Command as the SS Beaver State. d by Interocean American Shipping. SA Thomas (Mike) Curley July 2011 SA Patricia Johansen, Chief Steward Lewis Johansen SA Orlando Makiling, SA Armando Amante OMU John Steeber (left) and QMED Patrick Devlin work on brackets for a new tool board. Seafarers LOG 13 �65262_Seafarers_X2:JUNE 2011 6/27/2011 7:07 PM Page 14 Editor’s note: This is the eighth and final installment in a series written by Edward T. Woods, a U.S. Merchant Marine veteran of World War II who sailed in the engine and steward departments. Previous entries were published off and on beginning with the September 2010 edition of the LOG. Woods turns 84 this month; he was 16 when he shipped out aboard the S/S Horseshoe in 1944. The most recent installment of his story (published in the June edition) ended in 1946, while Woods was in Germany as a crew member from the U.S. Army Transport ship Edmund B. Alexander. A t Christmastime 1946, about eight members of the crew each gave a few packs of American cigarettes to a local German family that we had befriended during our stay. They traded the cigarettes for a live rabbit, potatoes, a green vegetable, bread, a butter substitute and bottles of local bootleg whiskey that the family told us was similar to Kummel. The old-timers said it was nothing like the prewar Kummel that was known and enjoyed throughout all Europe. Since we had provided the means, we were invited to their Christmas Eve dinner. I had never eaten rabbit and was hesitant, but I did, and it proved tasty. The lady of the house had made boiled potatoes and delicious gravy. It was a satisfying and an agreeable dinner. The family youngsters had set up a live Christmas tree in the living room and decorated it with burning candles. An old lady, the family grandma, kept trying to tell me something about the tree that I couldn’t understand. Later in the evening, as we were all singing O Tannenbaum, O Tannenbaum, the German Christmas tree song, my sleeve caught on fire as my arm brushed against the lighted candles. At this, the old lady shouted something to me, which the kids translated as that she had warned me about there being thirteen candles on the tree, a sure sign of bad luck. I guess the superstition regarding the number thirteen was known worldwide. Following a few rounds of drinks, the Americans began singing, O Deutschland, O Deutschland ünter Alles, a parody on O Deutschland, O Deutschland über Alles, the German national anthem, changing “Germany over all” to “Germany under all.” Obviously, we thought it was a big laugh until two German policemen came to the door and told us the song was forbidden to be sung in any form since the end of hostilities. We were still teenagers and what may not be politically correct today was hilarious to us at the time. The Alexander, originally a coal burner, had been converted to oil in the early months of World War II. In the engine room area, there were huge rooms that had once stored coal, now empty, cleaned and painted. They proved to be convenient places for dice and card playing. Both big and small games went on day and night. The ship’s masters at arms, whose job was to police the ship and stop gambling, never went down into the engine room. One older member of the steward department, a true entrepreneur, set up a table with chairs in a small side room, provided fresh decks of cards, poker chips and brought sandwiches and coffee in from the galley. He took a quarter out of each hand dealt over the entire time of play. It was called “cutting the game.” Everyone seemed satisfied with the arrangement; at least no one complained. I am confident he went home the biggest winner at the end of the voyage. I had exceptionally good luck playing poker the few weeks before Christmas. I won a few big pots and I was able to send a $500 money order home to my mother as a Christmas present. Mother was working at the Hotel Barclay in New York and had become dissatisfied with her job. She later wrote to tell me that she was so pleased with the present that she quit her job. In 1946, $500 was about 15 weeks’ pay. She had wanted a reason to stay home, as she was concerned about my youngest sister, Jane being alone in our apartment. Jane was eight years old at the time…. When we left Germany to return to the States, there were a lot of sad goodbyes from our German friends and promises made to keep in touch. We were back in New York but a few days when we were ordered to Reykjavik, Iceland, to pick up the last remaining American troops still deployed there. I was disappointed that there was no 14 Seafarers LOG The Ed Woods Story – A Teenager In World War II Ed Woods and his wife, Jackie, visit a World War II memorial in St. Bernard Parish, La. “It’s a beautiful memorial,” Ed said. “I was pleased to see the merchant marine honored on an equal basis with the other services.” shore leave, as I had never expected to visit Iceland and, in all probability, would never go there again. We anchored off shore for a night and the next day the troops were carried out to the Alexander on lighters. From Iceland, we went to St. Johns, Newfoundland, and dropped off most of the troops. Why we carried American Army troops from Iceland to Newfoundland, Canada, in early 1947, I don’t know; the war was over. Back in New York, I learned that Walter Winchell, Westbrook Pegler and other influential newspaper columnists of that era, and who also had national radio audiences, had spread untrue stories about merchant seamen. They called us communists, drunks and strikers that had refused to unload ships at Guadalcanal and, unbelievably, also called us draft dodgers. (Sixteen-year-old draft dodgers?) Winchell and the newspapers that carried these stories lost the libel suits filed against them, and were forced by the court to apologize, print retractions, and to pay damages. Unfortunately, the myth that mariners refused to unload ships in Guadalcanal persists even today. I have no idea why Winchell and Pegler reported these lies. Every man I met aboard a merchant ship during World War II had a reason for being there and not in other branches of the military, most commonly disabilities that prevented them from enlisting or being drafted, or being overage or underage. If there were any shirkers or draft dodgers going to sea at that time, I never met them and not a one of the people I sailed with ever hesitated to man a gun against the enemy. After a short vacation, I decided to go the marine engineering school at Sheepshead Bay, N.Y. I had sailed as a fireman/water tender and oiler but didn’t have the official endorsement. After a month at school, I passed the exams, received my endorsements and obtained a fireman/water tender’s job on a brand new Victory ship, the S/S Pierre Victory on July 17, 1947 and sailed to Antwerp and Rotterdam. When I returned to New York, due to a National Maritime Union policy, I was forced to leave the ship. I was able to get a fireman/water tender’s job with on the ESSO Rochester for a short time until that too was sold to foreign investors. The Rochester only made coastwise trips: Boston, Baltimore and ports in Texas. By 1948, it became difficult for me to get a berth on a ship, mainly because I was not a member of any seafarer’s union (though it wasn’t for lack of interest). My ships had been handled by the Wet Ink/Standard Oil Company under the supervision of the U.S. Navy and I was never given an opportunity to join a union. At the end of the war, when I tried to join, I was told the “books were filled.” Most of our merchant fleet was tied up in graveyards or had been sold to foreigners for pennies on the dollar. I wanted to go back to sea but it proved impossible to get with any company. Our tankers and other ships were being sold to foreign interests. I was desperate for a job and, fortunately, I heard of job openings in Korea for marine engine personnel. My old friend Phil Marshal and I filed applications, we were accepted, and within a few days we were en route by plane to Seoul, Korea. The flight took two weeks from Fairfield, California, to Gimpo Airport in Seoul. We flew in a two-engine plane that made numerous refueling stops: Hawaii, Johnson Island, Kwajalein Island, Guam, Manila, Tokyo and lastly Seoul. Our stop in Tokyo lasted for 10 days and gave us ample time to tour the city…. I took note of how much of the city had been burned down and not yet rebuilt. When we were ready to leave for Seoul on a smaller Army plane, we were told we would be required to wear parachutes. A Japanese man came out and in broken English said he would instruct us in the use of parachutes. I didn’t like this procedure. To me, it had been only a short time before that he and his buddies wanted to blow me out of the water and now he was going to tell me how to jump out of a plane if necessary. An American army sergeant in charge of the boarding assured me that all was in order and it was safe to follow the man’s instructions. We were listed as Department of the Army Civilians (DACS) and given grades equal to our yearly pay. We were equal to U.S. Army first lieutenants and were assigned to BOQs. We were pleased with the designation, having lived in cramped quarters aboard ships. There were other benefits available: the use of officers clubs and bars, and we were entitled to buy a monthly liquor ration. The U.S. military would purchase the liquor tax-free, which made it very inexpensive, for resale to military officers and DACS. For $5, we could buy a bottle of scotch, a bottle of rye, two bottles of wine, and a case of beer. I much preferred the beer and would exchange my liquor with the scotch and whiskey drinkers for their cases of beer. In between, I could buy beer and whiskey at the officers club for about ten cents a drink. American personnel were asked to serve as monitors in a free Korean election that resulted in Syngman Rhee being elected the first president of the new republic. I met Rhee and his Australian wife during a brief ceremony in Pusan when the U.S. Army turned over a former Japanese destroyer to him for use by his new government. The day before the transfer, the U.S. military officers and the DACs were invited to enjoy a sea cruise before the ship was officially given to the Korean government. I don’t know who footed the bill but there was plenty of good food and drink available. Some of the army officers had brought their Korean house girls along for the ride and everybody had a good time. The next day, however, it was announced by the commanding officer of the area, a full colonel, that the employment of house girls was forbidden from that day forward and if domestic help was needed by American or allied personnel it was to be limited to male employees…. I spent my first three months working in Pusan on the south coast of Korea teaching Koreans the fundamentals of operating a floating electrical power barge. They were quick to learn and I transferred to Seoul, the capital and largest Korean city. I became a boiler inspector for the U.S. State Department. My job was to examine the boilers in designated buildings that were being considered for use by our government. I had the use of a small truck, a driver, four laborers and a translator. How the translator ever got his job was beyond me. I knew but a few words in Korean but it was more words than he knew in English. We found that talking in pigeon English was best for communicating, although many times it was difficult to give instructions to my crew…. I had signed a year’s contract to work in Korea, which would have kept me there until April 1949. However, by Thanksgiving 1948, the United States government decided to send home as many civilians as could be spared. It was no surprise; the Russian-controlled North Korea had been causing problems since the end of hostilities with Japan and most of us sensed that a war with North Korea was inevitable. I returned to the States as a passenger on a United States Army transport that stopped for two days in Okinawa. I went ashore and saw the many changes that had taken place since my previous visit in 1945. The wreckage and the sunken ships were gone and the port had a pristine look. There were no signs of the typhoon that had caused so much damage on my visit three years earlier. My ship arrived in San Francisco on Christmas Eve 1948. Those of us who had never before sailed under the Golden Gate Bridge followed the custom and threw coins in the water for the good luck it was sure to bring. A man whom I had made friends with in Korea, and whose home was in San Francisco, made arrangements for a few of us to stay at a local hotel until after the Christmas weekend. That afternoon, Christmas Eve, he treated us to dinner at the famous Top of the Mark restaurant. Alcatraz Island in San Francisco Bay was pointed out to us. At first, the island had a majestic appearance until I realized it was a federal prison holding the most serious offenders…. I found it difficult to settle down home in New York and tried various jobs until February 3, 1950 when I married Jackie. However, that will be another story at another time. It was Sunday, June 25, 1950. Jackie and I had just sat down for breakfast when it was announced over the radio that North Korea had invaded South Korea. I wasn’t surprised; in fact, I had expected North Korea, backed by the Soviet Union, to attempt a takeover of all Korea much earlier…. It pained me to hear that the North Korean army was finding it so easy to march south down the peninsula, overcoming what was described as light resistance by the small number of American forces on duty there. I had made friends with many of the younger Army enlisted men, serving with the 24th Corps, during my stay in the Seoul area and I feared for their safety. Many of them were teenagers and had never been in a war. At the end of World War II, I had earned and been issued a document called a Certificate of Continuous Service. End Notes See Mariner, Page 20 July 2011 �65252_Seafarers:JUNE 2011 6/24/2011 8:21 AM Page 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea May 16, 2011 - June 15, 2011 According to the report, the Port of New York and New Jersey (above) was one of the nation’s busier stops in 2010. (Photo courtesy American Association of Port Authorities.) MarAd Report Says U.S. Port Calls Grew in 2010 The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration in mid-June released a report showing that more oceangoing vessels are calling on U.S. ports. Such stops or port calls increased by 13 percent in 2010 following an eight percent decline in 2009, according to the agency. “Oceangoing vessel calls reflect waterborne trade between the United States and countries around the world, and are a measure of import, export and domestic ocean shipments,” MarAd said in announcing the report. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood viewed the increase as an indication of economic recovery. “Although challenges remain, this encouraging rebound in oceangoing vessels is a sign that President Obama’s economic policies are working,” LaHood said. “We’re committed to supporting policies that will build on this momentum so that the maritime industry will continue to grow and create American jobs.” According to the report, titled “Vessel Calls Snapshot, 2010,” some 7,579 oceangoing vessels made 62,747 calls at U.S. ports last year. Of the 2010 calls 35 percent were by tankers carrying oil and gas used to power vehicles and heat homes; 31 percent were by containerships carrying general export and import cargo for markets around the U.S. and the world; 17 percent were by dry bulk vessels carrying iron, coal and grain for export; nine percent were by rollon/roll-off vessels carrying vehicles for import and export; and six percent were by general cargo ships. In addition, the report shows that tanker operators are replacing single-hull vessels with new, greener double-hull ships. In 2010, 97 percent of the tanker calls were by double-hull vessels, up from 78 percent five years earlier. “As our economy recovers, maritime can play even more of a key role in the affordable, efficient and environmentally sustainable transportation of goods, both within our borders and across oceans,” said U.S. Maritime Administrator David Matsuda. The 24-page report is available online, in PDF format, on the MarAd web site: www.marad.dot.gov. It summarizes and highlights vessel calls for U.S. ports by coast and vessel type, age, size, global vessel calls, and top 10 U.S. port calls. August & September 2011 Membership Meetings Piney Point................Monday: August 8, *Tuesday: September 6 Algonac ......................................Friday: August 12, September 9 Baltimore.................................Thursday: August 11, September 8 Guam.....................................Thursday: August 25, September 22 Honolulu ...................................Friday: August 19, September 16 Houston....................................Monday: August 15, September 12 Jacksonville.............................Thursday: August 11, September 8 Joliet......................................Thursday: August 18, September 15 Mobile................................Wednesday: August 17, September 14 New Orleans.................................Tuesday: August 16, September 13 New York....................................Tuesday: August 9, September 6 Norfolk....................................Thursday: August 11, September 8 Oakland .................................Thursday: August 18, September 15 Philadelphia..........................Wednesday: August 10, September 7 Port Everglades .....................Thursday: August 18, September 15 San Juan..................................Thursday: August 11, September 8 St. Louis ....................................Friday: August 19, September 16 Tacoma......................................Friday: August 26, September 23 Wilmington..................................Monday: August 22, September 19 * Piney Point change created by Labor Day holiday Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. July 2011 Port Total Registered All Groups A B C Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 20 1 6 16 4 7 46 42 1 15 13 51 17 27 5 0 9 38 4 29 351 8 3 4 8 1 8 17 30 7 6 7 18 23 15 1 1 9 17 2 25 210 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 2 0 3 14 3 7 24 13 3 4 7 13 11 11 4 0 4 16 3 11 153 6 1 3 7 0 3 11 19 3 4 2 9 17 9 5 2 5 13 1 13 133 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 2 0 5 14 1 15 24 12 3 5 6 19 13 17 3 5 1 6 2 25 178 2 0 3 6 1 1 5 5 2 0 2 9 14 5 1 3 2 3 3 3 70 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTAL 1 0 1 0 0 0 6 2 1 0 2 6 0 4 0 0 0 4 0 5 32 11 1 2 9 0 3 23 21 2 7 2 29 23 17 3 5 3 18 1 11 191 GRAND TOTAL: 714 604 Total Shipped All Groups A B C Trip Reliefs 2 0 1 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 3 0 1 12 1 1 2 9 0 3 27 20 0 2 5 22 6 14 2 0 4 19 0 18 155 18 1 8 24 7 11 87 58 3 19 19 85 32 43 11 4 12 53 3 69 567 7 6 9 22 6 11 42 38 5 11 12 34 36 24 7 4 14 31 2 34 355 2 0 1 3 0 1 4 3 3 1 2 4 7 2 0 0 0 7 1 8 49 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 4 0 1 2 2 0 1 6 7 0 2 5 10 6 5 2 0 1 9 0 6 65 2 0 7 18 4 14 29 32 4 13 7 26 20 12 2 0 8 24 2 20 244 2 2 8 12 1 9 21 37 1 7 4 19 34 12 5 3 11 20 3 29 240 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 1 0 1 3 4 2 1 0 0 0 1 1 2 20 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 6 0 0 0 4 0 0 6 10 0 2 2 13 6 8 1 0 1 5 1 9 68 2 0 7 12 3 20 34 29 1 5 7 37 19 34 1 3 2 31 2 50 299 2 0 4 5 3 3 11 10 2 1 3 12 21 4 2 1 4 4 2 3 97 0 0 0 1 1 1 0 2 0 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 9 2 0 0 1 0 3 1 3 0 1 0 1 4 3 1 34 0 0 0 3 57 1 1 0 1 0 0 2 3 0 0 1 6 1 1 0 1 0 3 0 3 24 2 0 2 0 0 4 6 5 0 1 2 18 0 5 0 0 0 13 0 11 69 15 2 3 15 2 12 28 39 2 10 3 58 37 26 3 5 3 24 2 48 337 27 2 3 10 1 5 11 24 4 3 10 15 47 13 5 6 5 14 1 29 235 Deck Department 2 10 8 0 1 2 3 3 5 1 14 4 0 4 2 1 7 6 6 39 16 4 23 24 1 2 3 1 9 5 1 14 3 3 36 14 5 11 13 2 27 10 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 9 6 2 33 15 1 4 1 3 27 21 36 273 161 Engine Department 0 4 6 0 0 2 0 1 6 0 6 2 0 0 0 0 2 2 5 14 10 2 8 8 0 1 3 0 6 1 1 7 2 2 10 11 0 9 11 1 7 7 0 3 3 0 1 0 0 2 1 11 1 6 0 1 1 2 11 9 14 99 96 Steward Department 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 2 1 0 11 3 1 1 0 0 4 2 0 17 3 2 13 1 0 2 1 0 6 2 2 5 1 1 20 4 1 10 7 1 16 4 0 3 0 0 2 2 0 3 2 0 14 3 0 1 3 0 16 2 8 148 42 Entry Department 12 1 8 1 0 2 2 0 1 3 0 6 0 0 0 8 0 4 8 6 8 8 2 15 0 1 1 1 0 1 1 2 2 9 1 26 11 0 15 9 2 8 2 0 0 29 0 4 4 1 1 7 6 6 0 0 1 4 5 7 119 27 116 177 547 415 79 312 Registered on Beach All Groups A B C 1,179 1,029 313 Seafarers LOG 15 �65252_Seafarers:JUNE 2011 6/24/2011 8:21 AM Page 16 Inquiring Seafarer Seafarers International Union Directory 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 Kermett Mangram, 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 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 Editor’s note: This month’s question was answered by members at the hall in Brooklyn, N.Y. Question: What is your favorite port that you’ve visited? William Harrison Oiler I would say that Rota, Spain, is my favorite port that I’ve ever been to as a Seafarer. The reason I liked the port is because it had scenery that was incredible. The culture was welcoming and embracing. I also went to the beach while I was there and it was very clean and very well maintained. The food in Spain was amazing, especially the bread they served. I would recommend Rota to any Seafarer as a destination they must experience. There’s a military base as well, so you can do shopping without going into town. It has all the perks you need. Jesus Colomer Sanchez GUDE My favorite port is Cancun, Mexico. The people there are really friendly and really nice. The area is beautiful, with white, sandy beaches. Also, the food is delicious. Earl Powers AB The Port of New York/New Jersey is actually my favorite port. I regularly ship from here and I’m always glad to be back. The people who work here at the port are, to me, what makes it so great. Jeremy Paschke AB Pics-From-The-Past My favorite port, without a doubt, was one I hit on my last ship, the M/V Green Cove. The port was Melbourne, Australia. I was only there for one day but I absolutely loved everything about my time in Melbourne. We hit port on Boxer Day, the day after Christmas, which is a big holiday down under. The vibrancy, energy, and civility of the crowded streets were a very welcome sight after over two weeks at sea. Australians are a great people and have built an awesome city that they can be proud of. I can’t wait to go back. Terry N. Arbuah AB My favorite port is the port of New York/New Jersey because I’ve lived here for so long and I love it. When I’m returning home and I see the Statue of Liberty, I always clap. Phillip Ayotte Electrician My favorite port is Haifa, Israel. In the spring of 2006, while sailing relief on the Maersk Nebraska, we docked the evening before the anniversary of Israel’s founding. All the longshoremen knocked off at 1800 and didn’t resume work until 2200 the next day. I hired a guide and we visited all the sites in Israel, including the great church in Nazareth, the holy sites in Canaan and Galilee, and the Jordan River. I went swimming in the Dead Sea, which is a very unique experience. The water is so dense, your body floats and you can’t drown. I’ve visited a lot of places in my years working and that area has an energy unlike any other. I plan to travel there on vacation with my beautiful wife sometime in the future. NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 499-6600 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 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (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) 549-4000 Mariners from Isthmian’s George M Bibb are pictured June 27, 1946 at Staten Island, New York’s Pier 5 shortly after the vessel paid off. At the time, Isthmian crews were choosing between eventual winner SIU, another union, or no representation as they cast votes in a National Labor Relations Board-certified election. This Isthmian fleet included more than 3,000 unlicensed jobs. 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 16 Seafarers LOG July 2011 �65252_Seafarers:JUNE 2011 6/24/2011 8:21 AM Page 17 Welcome Ashore 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 waterways 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. DEEP SEA AMADO ABANIEL Brother Amado Abaniel, 70, began sailing with the union in 1980, originally on a Delta Steamship vessel. He attended classes on numerous occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Abaniel was a member of the deck department. He last worked aboard the Overseas Long Beach. Brother Abaniel resides in Long Beach, Calif. FRANCISCO BRAVO Brother Francisco Bravo, 65, became an SIU member in 1999 while in the port of New York. His initial voyage was on the USNS Yano; his last was aboard the USNS Denebola. Brother Bravo sailed in the deck department. He enhanced his skills in 2001 at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Bravo lives in Baltimore. EMILIO CORDOVA Brother Emilio Cordova, 65, joined the union in 1986. He was born in Chile and worked as a member of the steward department. On three occasions, Brother Cordova upgraded at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. One of his first trips with the SIU was on the USNS Denebola. Brother Cordova most recently shipped aboard the President Adams. He calls New York home. EVARISTO CRUZ Brother Evaristo Cruz, 65, became a Seafarer in 1978. His first ship was the Mayaguez. Brother Cruz was born in Puerto Rico and worked in the deck department. He last sailed aboard the Expedition. Brother Cruz is a resident of Yabucoa, P.R. LUIS DAVILA Brother Luis Davila, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1978. He originally sailed on the Humacao as a member of the steward department. Brother Davila is a native of Puerto Rico. His final trip was aboard the El Yunque. Brother Davila makes his home in Barceloneta, P.R. July 2011 MILTON FLYNN Brother Milton Flynn, 66, joined the Seafarers in 2000 while in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. On three occasions, Brother Flynn took advantage of educational opportunities available at the SIUaffiliated school in Maryland. He was first employed on the USNS Dahl. Brother Flynn, a member of the deck department, most recently worked aboard the Calvin P. Titus. He resides in Pompano Beach, Fla. RAYMOND FRIEDLER Brother Raymond Friedler, 65, signed on with the SIU in 1967. The engine department member’s initial voyage was on Waterman Steamship’s Fanwood. Brother Friedler’s final trip to sea was aboard the Stuyvesant. He lives in Pacifica, Calif. CARSON JORDAN Brother Carson Jordan, 60, became an SIU member in 1972. He first sailed on the Bradford Island. Brother Jordan, a member of the deck department, frequently upgraded at the unionaffiliated Paul Hall Center. He most recently shipped aboard the Green Bay. Brother Jordan calls Jacksonville, Fla., home. SAMUEL WASHINGTON Brother Samuel Washington, 74, was born in Green Cove Springs, Fla. He began his career with the Seafarers in 2000 while in the port of Norfolk, Va. Brother Washington was originally employed on the USNS Effective. The steward department member’s final voyage was aboard the USNS Watkins. Brother Washington settled in Norfolk. ROOSEVELT WILLIAMS Brother Roosevelt Williams, 70, started his SIU career in 2000. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Williams completed a number of training components at the SIUaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. His most recent trip to sea was aboard the El Faro. Brother Williams is a resident of San Antonio, Texas. INLAND CARLTON BRICKHOUSE Brother Carlton Brickhouse, 62, began sailing with the union in 1967. His earliest trip was with Moran Towing of Virginia. Brother Brickhouse attended classes in 1967 at the Piney Point school (the year the facility opened). His final vessel was operated by McAllister Towing of Virginia. Brother Brickhouse resides in Chesapeake, Va. HILTON FOSTER Brother Hilton Foster, 55, became an SIU member 1980. Brother Foster primarily worked aboard Express Marine Inc. vessels. He was born in North Carolina. Brother Foster was a steward department member. He often upgraded his seafaring abilities at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Foster makes his home in Aurora, N.C. DESO HRBOKA Brother Deso Hrboka, 60, joined the union in 1984 while in Wilmington, Calif. He was born in Croatia and shipped in the engine department. Brother Hrboka took advantage of educational opportunities available at the SIU-affiliated school in Maryland on two occasions. He was employed with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Wilmington for the duration of his career. Brother Hrboka lives in Ventura, Calif. STEVEN WILLIAMS Brother Steven Williams, 58, began his seafaring profession in 1973. He worked in both the deep sea and inland divisions. Brother Williams initially sailed on the Cove Navigator. He was born in Jacksonville, Fla., and sailed in the engine department. Brother Williams most recently worked with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jacksonville. He frequently enhanced his skills at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Williams continues to reside in Jacksonville. GREAT LAKES LARRY ENGLISH Brother Larry English, 65, donned the SIU colors in 1967. The Florida native originally shipped aboard the Redland. In 2002, Brother English attended classes at the Piney Point school. His final ship was the Richard J. Reiss. Brother English, who sailed in the deck department, calls Greenville, Fla., home. This Month In SIU History Editor’s note: The following items are reprinted from previous editions of the Seafarers LOG. 1940 In a surprise move on July 27, 260 SIU members who manned the ships of the New Bedford, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket Steamship Line went on a four-day strike for increased wages and emerged victorious. After intervention by the governor of Massachusetts, which resulted in the settlement, they agreed that their demands for increases of $10 per month in wages and 10 cents per hour could be submitted to an impartial board for settlement. The company also agreed to reinstate all strikers without discrimination. Despite company threats, the strike was 100 percent effective. 1953 Every ship in the SIU fleet was provided with a 50-book library under a new program inaugurated by the union through the efforts of the Seafarers LOG office. Distribution of the new libraries will be handled by the SIU Sea Chest, which has facilities in all major port cities. The placing of books aboard SIU vessels meets a long-felt need for reading material to enliven long voyages, and provides the many avid readers on board SIU vessels with a large selection to choose from. 1966 Earl Shepard, vice president in charge of the Atlantic Coast, has been assigned the responsibility of meeting SIU Atlantic and Gulf Coast manpower needs. The Vietnam War has put great pressure on the existing SIU manpower, but the SIU has always provided enough men to man the needed ships. The SIU, through its extensive upgrading programs, is able to provide a pool of manpower to meet sudden crises, such as the Vietnam call-up. The breakout of vessels from the reserve fleet has meant that more jobs are available to SIU men and the union has effectively filled them. 2000 Baltimore-area SIU members enthusiastically endorsed the opening of the union’s newest hall – a completely refurbished facility that opened July 1. Located at 2315 Essex Street, the Baltimore building is the second new SIU hall to open this year and the sixth since 1994. This is the third location for the SIU in Baltimore. From 1939 to 1954, the Baltimore hall was located on North Gay Street. The hall on East Baltimore Street opened in November 1954. Seafarers LOG 17 �65262_Seafarers_X:JUNE 2011 6/24/2011 8:47 PM Page 18 Final Departures DEEP SEA GLENN BERTRAND Brother Glenn Bertrand, 53, passed away January 16. Brother Bertrand first donned the SIU colors in 1975. He initially shipped aboard the Long Lines. Brother Bertrand, who sailed in the steward department, was born in Houston. He last worked on the Westward Venture. Brother Bertrand made his home in Pearland, Texas. WILLIE BUTTS Pensioner Willie Butts, 70, died January 21. Brother Butts first donned the SIU colors in 1968. He initially shipped aboard a vessel operated by Victory Carriers Inc. Brother Butts sailed in the engine department. Prior to his retirement in 1992, he worked on the Liberty Sea. Brother Butts was a resident of Roanoke, Ala. ROBERT DEHLBOM Pensioner Robert Dehlbom, 73, passed away February 1. Brother Dehlbom became an SIU member in 1967. His first trip was with Columbia Steamship Company. Brother Dehlbom sailed in the engine department. His last trip was aboard the Great Land. Brother Dehlbom called Chewelah, Wash. home. JOSEPH KOEBERLE Brother Joseph Koeberle, 61, died February 10. He signed on with the Seafarers in 1990. Brother Koeberle, a member of the deck department, first sailed on the USNS Denebola. His final ship was the Eugene A. Obregon. Brother Koeberle resided in Franklinville, N.J. CALVIN LANGLEY Pensioner Calvin Langley, 82, passed away January 23. Brother Langley joined the Seafarers in 1968. He was initially employed on the Western Comet. Brother Langley was a member of the engine department. He was born in Mississippi. Brother Langley’s last voyage was aboard the Discovery. He went on pension in 1993 and lived in Mobile, Ala. PAUL LEE Pensioner Paul Lee, 86, died January 11. Brother Lee was born 18 Seafarers LOG in China. He started sailing with the union in 1951 while in the port of Wilmington, Calif. Brother Lee, a member of the deck department, first worked with A.H. Bull Steamship Company. Prior to retiring in 1985, he made a last trip aboard the Santa Magdelena. Brother Lee was a resident of Daly City, Calif. BENJAMIN MAGLIANO Brother Benjamin Magliano, 41, passed away January 30. He started sailing with the union in 1990. Brother Magliano’s earliest trip was aboard the USNS Denebola. The engine department member’s last ship was the Commitment. Brother Magliano was a resident of Pasadena, Md. PANAGIOTIS MYKONIATIS Pensioner Panagiotis Mykoniatis, 85, died January 17. Brother Mykoniatis signed on with the SIU in 1966. His earliest trip was aboard the Meridian Victory. Brother Mykoniatis, who sailed in the engine department, last worked on the Robert E. Lee. He was born in Greece. Brother Mykoniatis began receiving his pension in 1990 and continued to reside in his native Greece. ORA RHOADES Pensioner Ora Rhoades, 83, passed away January 4. He first donned the SIU colors in 1944. Brother Rhoades initially sailed with A.H. Bull Steamship Company. He was a member of the deck department. Brother Rhoades’ final voyage was on the Long Island. He started collecting his retirement compensation in 1993 and made his home in Steuben, Maine. DENNIS SWORDS Brother Dennis Swords, 59, died December 25. Brother Swords joined the union in 1991. He originally shipped aboard the Austral Lightning. Brother Swords was born in Mobile, Ala. He worked in the engine department and most recently sailed on the Freedom. Brother Swords was a resident of Metairie, La. INLAND WILLIAM BURGESS Pensioner William Burgess, 70, passed away February 6. Brother Burgess was born in Mill Spring, N.C. He began shipping with the SIU in 1970. Brother Burgess first sailed with Steuart Transportation Company. Before his retirement in 1996, he worked aboard a Chesapeake & Delaware Towing vessel. Brother Burgess became a pensioner in 1996 and made his home in Fort Pierce, Fla. FRANK CAMPOS Brother Frank Campos, 48, died January 31. He started his seafaring career in 2002. Brother Campos initially sailed in the engine department aboard a vessel operated by Penn Maritime Inc. He last shipped aboard the Courage. Brother Campos lived in Kyle, Texas. RICHARD MASON Pensioner Richard Mason, 74, passed away February 16. Brother Mason became an SIU member in 1961. He was first employed with Marine Towing & Transportation. Brother Mason was born in Mt. Vernon, Md. His final trip was on an Interstate Oil Transport Company vessel. Brother Mason went on pension in 1999 and called Salisbury, Md., home. SIDNEY PELAS Pensioner Sidney Pelas, 72, died Dec. 21, 2010. Brother Pelas signed on with the SIU in 1971. The deck department member shipped aboard vessels operated by Dixie Carriers for the duration of his career. Brother Pelas became a pensioner in 2000. He was a resident of Buras, La. JOSEPH SANTULLI Brother Joseph Santulli, 53, passed away January 11. Brother Santulli was born in Philadelphia. He began working with the union in 1996 while in the port of Philadelphia. Brother Santulli primarily worked with Crowley Liner Services. He lived in Williamston, N.J. JACK THOMAS Pensioner Jack Thomas, 83, died January 29. Brother Thomas first donned the SIU colors in 1976. He initially shipped aboard a vessel operated by McAllister Towing of Virginia. Brother Thomas was born in Georgia. Prior to his retirement in 1993, he worked with Steuart Transportation Company. Brother Thomas made his home in Savannah, Ga. GREAT LAKES RAYMOND KLEIN Pensioner Raymond Klein, 83, passed away Feb. 5. Brother Klein began sailing with the union in 1960. A native of Posen, Mich., he sailed in the deck and engine departments. He first worked on an American Steamship Company vessel. Brother Klein’s final trip was aboard the St. Clair. He settled in Stuart, Fla. Editor’s note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU), have passed away. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION JONATHAN CARROL Pensioner Jonathan Carroll, 90, passed away February 2. Brother Carroll was born in Alabama. He retired in 1969 and resided in Spanish Fort, Ala. EDUARDO CASTRO Pensioner Eduardo Castro, 85, died January 23. Brother Castro, a native of Puerto Rico, became a pensioner in 1967. He called New York home. LEO CHEEK Pensioner Leo Cheek, 79, passed away February 11. Brother Cheek was born in North Carolina. He went on pension in 1986. Brother Cheek settled in Norfolk, Va. GILBERTO COTTO Pensioner Gilberto Cotto, 80, died January 30. The Puerto Rico-born mariner became a pensioner in 1988. Brother Cotto was a resident of Philadelphia. LUIS DAVINSON Pensioner Luis Davinson, 82, passed away January 26. Brother Davinson was a native of Chile. He started collecting his retirement compensation in 1988. Brother Davinson lived in Fairview Borough, N.J. CLARENCE FERGUSON Pensioner Clarence Ferguson, 83, died Dec. 15, 2010. Brother Ferguson was born in Virginia. He went on pension in 1967 and called Virginia Beach, Va., home. JOHN McCHRISTIAN Pensioner John McChristian, 82, passed away January 29. Brother McChristian was a native of Texas. He retired in 1989. Brother McChristian made his home in Galveston, Texas. WILLIAM MOORE Pensioner William Moore, 85, died December 19. Brother Moore was born in Sedgwick, Kan. He became a pensioner in 1971. Brother Moore settled in Durham, N.C. LOUIS NOEL Pensioner Louis Noel, 93, passed away January 31. Brother Noel was a Grand Coteau, La., native. He started collecting his retirement compensation in 1981. Brother Noel continued to live in Louisiana. FRANK PETTIES Pensioner Frank Petties, 84, died January 23. Brother Petties, a native of Marshall, Texas, went on pension in 1988. He was still a resident of Marshall, Texas. JEROME POPE Pensioner Jerome Pope, 70, passed away January 28. Brother Pope was born in North Carolina. He began receiving his pension in 2005. Brother Pope lived in North Charleston, S.C. JOSEPH ROBERTS Pensioner Joseph Roberts, 88, died January 4. Born in the West Indies, he became a pensioner in 1984. Brother Roberts was a resident of Coral Springs, Fla. JAMES STEVENS Pensioner James Stevens, 75, passed away January 18. Brother Stevens was a Mississippi native. He retired in 1991. Brother Stevens made his home in Wilmer, Ala. JOHN STOUT Pensioner John Stout, 81, died January 25. Brother Stout was born in Ashland, Pa. He went on pension in 1987. Brother Stout settled in Gloucester Township, N.J. TEOFILO VELEZ Pensioner Teofilo Velez, 83, passed away December 27. Brother Velez, a native of Cayey, P.R., started collecting his retirement compensation in 1992. He called Brooklyn, N.Y., home. PONCIANO VITALES Pensioner Ponciano Vitales, 97, died February 5. Brother Vitales was born in the Philippines. He began receiving his pension in 1975. Brother Vitales resided in San Jose, Calif. July 2011 �65252_Seafarers:JUNE 2011 6/24/2011 8:21 AM Page 19 Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings ALLIANCE BEAUMONT (Maersk Line, Limited), April 17 – Chairman Thomas P. Banks, Secretary Charles A. Brooks, Educational Director Robert L. Stafford, Deck Delegate Glen A. Rogers. Chairman asked those departing vessel to leave rooms clean for next mariners. Educational director suggested Seafarers take advantage of Maersk safety course available at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Treasurer reported $1,100 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendation was made to increase pension amounts and lower sea time requirements. Crew thanked steward department for a job well done. Requests were made for a new dryer, DVD player and movies. DEPENDABLE (Transoceanic Cable Ship Company), April 3 – Chairman Sanyboy Whiting, Secretary Emmanuel F. Laureta, Educational Director Vladimir G. Tkachev, Deck Delegate Donivan McCants, Engine Delegate Cecilio Bango. Chairman reviewed ship’s itinerary. Secretary expressed gratitude for crew’s help keeping ship clean. Educational director urged members to enhance their skills, which can lead to better opportunities and advancement. No beefs or disputed OT reported. It was noted that ship’s fund had a $2,700 balance. Suggestion was made to purchase a new ping pong table. (AMSEA), April 11 – Chairman Kreg D. Stiebben, Secretary Meili W. Seegers, Educational Director Donald D. Williams, Deck Delegate Chad Rudisill, Engine Delegate Fontanos Ellison, Steward Delegate Gennadiy Dragunov. Bosun discussed AMSEA policies concerning fraternization, drugs, alcohol and general safety. Secretary looking into modifying dinner hours. Educational director advised everyone to upgrade at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members would like new video equipment in the crew lounge. Next port: Saipan. USNS DEWAYNE T. WILLIAMS The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring 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. Steward Serves Succulent Sushi Recertified Steward John Huyett (above) regularly serves up an assortment of sushi rolls for fellow mariners aboard the Alaskan Explorer. “Sushi has always intrigued me,” Huyett wrote in an email to the LOG. So he bought a sushi-making set, read about the procedures and “started to assemble what was needed for a successful venture. I started out slow, making the ever-popular California roll. After I got comfortable with that one, I expanded my horizons with a couple of my own inventions – the Mediterranean chicken and the vegan rolls. One day, I was at a sushi restaurant and happened to see the chef making nigiri or hand rolls. It wasn’t long before I added shrimp nigiri to my repertoire. I later added the salmon and spicy tuna rolls.” Now, mariners line up for “Sushi Saturdays” aboard the vessel, featuring platters of freshly rolled sushi stacked and ready for enjoyment. Huyett added, “It has become a distinguishing mark here on the Alaskan Explorer. Aboard this ship, this is how we roll!” HORIZON HUNTER (Horizon Lines), April 10 – Chairman Loren E. Watson, Secretary Jennifer K. Jim, Educational Director Morris A. Jeff, Deck Delegate Ryan Legario, Engine Delegate Mohammad Siddiq, Steward Delegate Romeo Manasala. Chairman reported payoff at sea on April 16 and reminded members to check OT and pre-payoff documents. He asked them to leave a clean set of linen for arriving crew. Crew members were notified that they could renew mariner credentials a year in advance. Secretary read communications pertaining to trip tour scenarios aboard PEX, TP1 run vessels. Mariners were advised to check sailing board prior to leaving ship. Educational director advised all mariners to attend classes at the SIU-affiliated training center in Piney Point, Md. Treasurer informed crew that fish was purchased in Guam and that there was $1,400 in ship’s fund. Beef reported in the deck department concerning off-time; no disputed OT. Chairman suggested that all mariners read President Mike Sacco’s report in the Seafarers LOG to stay informed on new events within the union. Recommendations were made regarding upcoming contract negotiations. Vote of thanks was given to the steward department for good food. Next ports: Oakland, Calif. and Long Beach, Calif. HORIZON TIGER (Horizon Lines), April 24 – Chairman Lawrence Kunc, Secretary Terry L. Allen, Educational Director Paul P. Pagano, Deck Delegate Norman Taylor, Engine Delegate Lonnie Carter. Bosun announced payoff upon arrival in Wilmington, Calif., on May 1. He thanked his fellow CIVMARS Deliver The dry cargo/ammo ship USNS Robert E. Peary (right), crewed in the unlicensed positions by members of the SIU Government Services Division, delivers supplies to the multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Bataan May 25 in the Mediterranean Sea. The Peary is one of the U.S. Military Sealift Command’s T-AKE vessels. The Bataan is the command ship of a group conducting maritime security operations and theater security cooperation efforts. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Julio Rivera) July 2011 mariners for a safe voyage. Secretary informed crew that a new microwave for mess hall is to be purchased and asked seamen departing vessel to clean their rooms and get fresh linen. Educational director reiterated the need to renew documents in a timely manner and advised all mariners to enhance skills at the union-affiliated training center in Piney Point, Md. Disputed OT reported in deck department; no beefs. Suggestion was made to improve vision and dental plans and also increase vacation days. Requests were made for new mattresses and speakers for crew lounge. Next ports: Wilmington, Calif. and Oakland, Calif. MAERSK VIRGINIA (Maersk Line, Limited), April 3 – Chairman Roberto A. Contreras, Secretary Hugh E. Wildermuth, Educational Director Donald M. Christian, Deck Delegate Damon Lobel, Engine Delegate Christopher Sykes, Steward Delegate Simone Solomon. Chairman stated payoff to take place in Newark, N.J. on April 4. Secretary thanked fellow mariners for a safe trip. He also expressed gratitude for their help in keeping vessel clean and galley equipment repaired. Educational director encouraged mariners to upgrade at Paul Hall Center. Ship’s fund contains $2,000. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew made numerous recommendations about next contract and various benefits plans. Next port: Newark, N.J. OVERSEAS ANACORTES (OSG), April 5 – Chairman Felsher Beasley, Secretary Dana A. Paradise, Educational Director Cary G. Pratts. Chairman praised all departments for their good work. He urged mariners to check out www.seafarers.org or the union’s Facebook fan page for current information regarding the maritime industry. Members were advised to stay up-to-date on all necessary seafaring documents. Secretary stated forms were available upon request. Educational director reminded crew to get their time in and take advantage of upgrading at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Discussion was held pertaining to new washing machine operation. Crew would like coffee machine to be replaced in crew mess hall. Next port: Fort Lauderdale, Fla. PELICAN STATE (Crowley), April 24 – Chairman Raymond A. Tate, Secretary Milton M. Yournett, Educational Director Oscar Garcia, Deck Delegate Byron Graham. Chairman notified crew members that payoff would take place May 2 in San Francisco. Secretary reminded Seafarers to keep their documents updated and accurate. Educational director advised everyone to upgrade at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Treasurer reported $3,000 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Vote of thanks was given to the steward department for their hard work. Next port: San Francisco. (Crowley), April 24 – Chairman Timothy J. Jackson, Secretary Stanley Krystosiak, Educational Director Louis A. Santiago, Deck Delegate Charles Mull, Engine Delegate Phillip Niles. Bosun advised everyone to upgrade at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md., and make sure they stay up-to-date on their TWIC and MMD/MMC. Secretary reported a smooth trip. No beefs or disputed OT reported. President’s report from Seafarers LOG was read. Suggestions were made regarding pension benefits and bosun recertification class. All departments were thanked for jobs well done. PHILADELPHIA EXPRESS Seafarers LOG 19 �65262_Seafarers_X2:JUNE 2011 6/27/2011 7:07 PM Page 20 Mariner Reminisces Career With Fondness, Pride Continued from Page 14 It acknowledged that I had served honorably in the U.S. Merchant Marine for a given amount of time during the war. Its purpose was to exempt the mariner from any consideration in the military draft. I had never expected to have any need for it. However, in 1950, I was told that the exemption only applied to the draft laws of 1940; this was 1950, and a new draft law had been enacted. I was obligated to report to an induction center where I was given a physical examination and intelligence tests. I was not happy about this turn of events. I felt and truly believed that I had done my share six years earlier and wanted to spend my life in peace with my wife. I was accepted for service and told to prepare myself for induction. The war was waging in Korea and an officer recruiter told me that I would be offered a rating, as they needed men who knew something about Korea, especially since I was familiar with the three important cities: Seoul, Pusan and Inchon. It sounded interesting, but I was not looking forward to returning to Korea. In 1948, when I left there, Korea was attempting to recover from 35 years of Japanese occupation. I found its customs and lifestyles to be primitive compared to American standards. For one, I never got used to being in a vehicle on a narrow road behind honey wagons on a hot, sunny, dusty day. The stench was overwhelming. (Honey wagons collected and carried fertilizer made from human and animal waste.) On the day I was to be inducted, however, I learned that married men with or expecting children were excused from military service. I applied for and was granted an exemption. Our Eddie Jr. was due the following March. The drafting of World War II Merchant Seamen veterans in the 1950s was typical of how we were treated at the end of hostilities. No veterans’ benefits whatsoever, no medical treatment at the Marine hospitals for service-connected disabilities after 60 days, and being informed our wartime service did not count and that we were eligible to be drafted into the armed forces. If President Roosevelt had not died prematurely, benefits would have been given to us. FDR is on record requesting recognition for the contributions made by the U.S. Merchant Marine to the winning of WW II. Sadly, he died just before he was to sign the orders. A few months later, my younger brother John was drafted and was soon positioned at the front lines in Korea. My other younger brother, Jimmy, John’s twin, was exempt from service because he too was married and had a son, James Jr. Years later, in October 1968, James Jr., my nephew and Godchild was killed in action in Vietnam. Except for the petty officers, most of the gunners I sailed with in World War II were teenagers and at sea for the first time following basic training in boot camp. Each time we reached a new port, four or five of the gunners would be sent ashore and replacements would come aboard. At each port, the Navy would also put a different, seasoned Navy petty officer on board to teach the younger sailors Navy lore FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the 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 recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU 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 disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval 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 shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively 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 employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return 20 Seafarers LOG and basic seamanship. One time it would be a rated gunner’s mate and another time a rated bosun. The merchant crew would be invited to the classes. I attended when I could, I enjoyed it and I learned some valuable knot tying and splicing…. The majority of my shipmates during World War II were also teenagers, while the rest were old-timers in their upper fifties and sixties who had been seamen for most of their lives. I sailed with but a few middle-aged sailors, as ablebodied men in that age bracket had been drafted into the armed forces. I enlisted at age 16 and was 17 years old for most of the year I spent sailing the Pacific. The old-timers all had tales to tell about their experiences during the first years of the war. They had been torpedoed, bombed, and rescued out of lifeboats. One elderly oiler showed me three discharges all stamped Discharged at Sea. Three of his ships had been torpedoed and sunk. He had been picked up from lifeboats in the North Atlantic three times in three years. When a seaman finished a voyage and signed off a ship, he was issued a Certificate of Discharge that showed the date he had first signed on and the date he signed off. It also listed his position aboard ship and whether the voyage had been foreign. If his ship was sunk at sea, his pay stopped immediately and later, when he was able to obtain a Certificate of Discharge, it would be stamped Discharged at Sea…. In the evenings after supper, crew members would gather aft on the aft deck under the 5”38-gun turret and exchange stories. After a few weeks aboard ship, I could begin to tell which crew member embellished his tales and which crew member stuck to the facts. We all enjoyed listening to our second mate, the navigation officer, an elderly and friendly gentleman. He had been born and raised in Germany and had sailed in the German merchant navy before the First World War. He had served on the German liner Amerika. He told us that the Amerika had been the first ship to report icebergs to the Titanic in 1912. They transmitted the report by using their new Marconi radio. Unfortunately, the Titanic kept up speed, ignored the warning, hit an iceberg and went down in history as one of the most famous sea disasters. Our chief cook also had tales to tell. He had sailed to Murmansk, Russia, in one of the ill-fated convoys. His ship, although battered and bruised from enemy fire, was one of the few to make it to the Russian port of Archangel. The ship was forced to stay there for nine months, as it was known that a German battleship was waiting for them to leave port. Cookie, as he was called, did not have any good word for the Russians. He said that they treated him and his fellow crew members more like the enemy instead of the good Samaritans who had carried supplies from America to them under the most hazardous conditions. Most of the Russian dockworkers were women and had been forbidden to talk with them. No fraternizing whosoever with Russian women or men. Americans were also restricted in their travel Kn ow Y o u r R i gh t s receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers 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 filing 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 SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful 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 responsibility for Seafarers 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. throughout the city and were subject to arrest if found outside the preset boundaries. Cookie’s captain was hesitant to use the ship’s fuel for generating electricity and heat, as he knew it would be needed for the return voyage. He requested the port authorities to allow the ship to draw electricity from a Russian power line and was refused. It was a long and very cold nine months. While there were times during the war when I had concern for my safety, I would gladly do it again. When I first went to sea, I was a 16-year-old inner-city kid who had never left the New York area. There was a slogan, “Join the Navy and see the world.” Well, I couldn’t join the Navy but I did join the U.S. Merchant Marine and I did get to see the world…. Thinking back to that era, I believe the excitement, the thrill, of visiting an exotic port lessened my fear of being blown to smithereens by a Jap or German submarine. The old-timers were always ready to remind us that it was foolish to worry about what could happen because, if it did, it would be all over in a matter of seconds. They had witnessed other tankers hit by torpedoes. There would be a loud explosion, followed by a dark cloud of smoke and then nothing. Maybe a little froth on the water for a few seconds. “In all likelihood, the crew didn’t feel a thing.” As the years passed by, I was very fortunate – my ship dropped anchor in lagoons and tied up at piers in islands and countries that as a little boy I had only read and dreamed of visiting when reading back issues of National Geographic magazine. Each port that I visited, small or big, gave me a feeling of accomplishment. I went to England, Ireland, Italy, Holland, Belgium, Germany, Panama, French Morocco, Spain, Gibraltar, the Bahamian Islands, Korea, Japan, the Philippine Islands, Okinawa, the Marshall Islands, Admiralty Islands, Caroline Islands, New Guinea, New Zealand and Australia. This sense of satisfaction probably explains why I and the other teenage mariners who returned safely home at the end of World War II didn’t fight back when we were told we were not veterans and were not entitled to any benefits. Hey, we were still only 17 or 18 years old. We had the whole world in front of us. There was a popular song from that era – I’ll Get By – and that’s what we believed. In most states, if not all, 16-year-old kids are required to go to school. If they enlisted in the merchant marine in 1944, as their country asked them to, they must have quit school. “High School dropouts,” they’re called today. Someone, somewhere, should have said, “We owe these kids something. At the very least, let’s help them finish high school.” But no one did. We can sail any ocean, cross any river, give us the goods and we’ll deliver. Damn the submarines, we’re the men of the Merchant Marine. Ed Woods Atlanta, Georgia 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 OBLIGATIONS. 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 headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect 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 Michael Sacco at headquarters by certified mail, return receipt requested. The address is: Michael Sacco, President Seafarers International Union 5201 Auth Way July 2011 �65252_Seafarers:JUNE 2011 6/24/2011 8:21 AM Page 21 Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Schedule The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., for the next few months. All programs are geared to improving the job skills of Seafarers and to promoting the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation’s security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. 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 Course Start Date Date of Completion Marine Electrician July 16 September 9 Title of Course ARPA August 26 November 7 July 22 November 18 August 26 September 9 July 23 August 20 STOS August 5 September 2 August 27 Radar renewal (one day) September 9 September 7 September 7 Radar Observer August 6 August 19 Tank Barge PIC October 8 October 14 Tanker Asst. Cargo DL BAPO FOWT July 23 August 5 Engine Department July 23 September 17 August 19 October 14 August 20 September 16 UPGRADING APPLICATION Name ____________________________________________________________________ Address __________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ Telephone (Home)_________________________ (Cell)_________________________ Date of Birth ______________________________________________________________ Deep Sea Member ❏ Lakes Member ❏ Inland Waters Member ❏ 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? ❏ Yes ❏ No Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? ❏ Yes ❏ No If yes, class # ______________________________________________________________ If yes, course(s) taken_____________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________ July 2011 Steward Department July 9 October 8 Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. August 27 Lifeboat July 9 October 1 August 12 October 28 August 20 GMDSS Welding July 16 October 1 July 16 November 12 Fast Rescue Boats July 30 Chief Steward October 15 ECDIS Machinist Date of Completion August 20 Bosun Recertification August 20 Start Date Deck Department Able Seaman Junior Engineer October 14 August 19 July 29 October 21 August 19 November 18 Chief Cook These modules start every other week. The most recent class began June 27. Advanced Firefighting Basic Firefighting/STCW Safety Upgrading Courses September 17 July 16 September 10 Government Vessels August 13 Medical Care Provider October 1 MSC Readiness Refresher Vessel Security Officer NOTICE: July 30 October 15 September 30 July 22 September 16 August 19 October 7 August 5 October 18 NMC Web Site is Vital Resource for Mariners The National Maritime Center (NMC), the licensing authority for the U.S. Coast Guard, offers a comprehensive web site covering mariner credentialing, medical guidelines and much more. The site features a wide range of applications and forms, deck- and engine-department exam information, lists of Coast Guardapproved courses and more. Seafarers are encouraged to check out the site at:http://www.uscg.mil/nmc/ Mariners may call the NMC at 1888-IASKNMC (1-888-427-5662). Operational hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday. (The NMC is closed for all federal holidays.) Various email forms also are available through the NMC web site. With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twentyfive (125) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back or relevant pages of merchant mariner credential, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested, 1995 STCW Certificate, valid SHBP Clinic Card and TWIC. COURSE ____________________________ START DATE _______________ ____________________________ _______________ ____________________________ ____________________________ ____________________________ DATE OF 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 students, who are otherwise qualified, of 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. 7/11 Seafarers LOG 21 �65252_Seafarers:JUNE 2011 6/24/2011 8:22 AM Page 22 Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 745 – Eleven Phase 1 unli- censed apprentices and two upgraders completed this 60-hour course April 15. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Vince Adolph, Jason Allen, Chivon Arnold, Lakisha Barnes, Valerio Bellezze, Daniel Coffman, Marc Costley, John Cragin, Priscilla Greene, Christopher Hughes, David Leader, Wadhah Mukbel and Adam Repko. Class Instructor Ben Cusic is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Able Seaman – Twenty-one upgraders completed their requirements in the course April 29. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Shawn Bising, Matthew Caradimos, Curtis Church, Anthony Green Jr., Jonathan Green, Daniel Harris, Ricky Howard, Brandon Hubble, Ryan Landers, Kenneth LeDeoux, Curtis Lee II, Cory Mulligan, Shoal Nervo, Justin Pierce, Zachary Pollman, Ricky Rivera Martinez, Gavin Scott, Corey Shanley, Shaun Spencer, Stephen Warren II and Gary Youman. Bernabe Pelingon, their instructor is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Government Vessels – Fifteen upgraders completed their training in this course April 29. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Arkady Bichevsky, Daniel Coffman, John Coleman, Mark Hoffman, Peter Hokenson, Thomas Humpherys III, Hussein Hussein, Edgardo Ines, Ralph Kirby, Wadhah Mukbel, John Nersten, Angelo Schiraldi, Moses Scott IV, Peter Solis and Jose Torres. Tom Truitt, their instructor, is at the far left. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Government Vessels – Thirteen upgraders graduated from this course April 8. Completing their requirements and receiving certificates (above, in alphabetical order) were: Frank Battaglia, David Chance, Ricardo Dayrit, Lamont Faulks, Rosemary Glover, Korey Jackson, Ricky Langley, Carlton McMiller, John Noel, Gary Ramirez, Salah Saleh, Robert Scrivens and Kevin Youman. Class instructor Tom Truitt is sixth from the left. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Junior Engineer – Twenty four Seafarers completed the upgrading of their skills in this course April 29. Graduating and receiving certificates left, in alphabetical order) were: Talib Aekins, Antuan Barnes, Lennart Bergstrom, Michael Blue, Apolinario Calacal, Mario Dela Cruz, Virgilio Demegillo, Van Dixon, Ralph Garner, Mohsen Hubair, Brian Jackson, DeWayne Jacobs, Eric Martin, Frederick Nyarko, Vincente Ordonez, Robert Orloff III, Robert Rocanelli, Arthur Shaw, Amido Sindac, Peter Solis, Donato Surell, Scott Thompson, John White and Jimmie Williams. (Note: Not all are pictured.) BST – Sixteen Seafarers completed their training in this course April 11. Graduating (right, in alphabetical order) were: Magdy Balat, David Chance, Daniel Conzo, Hussein Hussein, Donald Irvine, Charles James, Thomas Moore, Paul Narro, Roger Nesbeth, Jimmy Ocot, Costica Oprisoru, Randall Rodgers, Peter Solis, Deralle Watson, Gregory White, and Alexander Young. Class Instructors Joe Zienda and Wayne Johnson are second from the left and at the far right respectively. 22 Seafarers LOG July 2011 �65252_Seafarers:JUNE 2011 6/24/2011 8:22 AM Page 23 Paul Hall Center Classes BAPO – Seventeen individuals, upgraders and Phase III unlicensed apprentices, completed this course April 29. Those graduating (left, in alphabetical order) were: Abdullah Alamri, Adam Bucalo, Edgar Castillo, Anthony Dell’Aquila, Joseph Griggs, Ross Halsted, Joshue Hammons, David Kabasinskas, Matthew Maynard, Antonio McAdams, Ronilo Monares, Amelia Ocampo, Michael Page, Dhahabi Quraish, Samuel Shuebrooks, Zachrey Stevenson and Samir Tarsha. Class Instructor Jay Henderson is at the far right. Advanced Refrigeration Container Maintenance – Twelve upgraders finished their requirements in the course May 6. Graduating and receiving certificates (above, in alphabetical order) were: Dennis Adjetey, Robin Bourgeois, Corey Downing, Joie Flesner, Joseph Grandinetti, Jeffrey Levie, Antoine Rainey, Rene Rosario, Trent Sterling, Jessie Turner, Philandar Walton and Richard Wright. Jay Henderson, their instructor, is at the far right. ARPA – Nine Seafarers completed this course April 29. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Reuben Brown, John Cappucci, Nicole Geideman, Gary Hirsch, Adel Irani, Enchantress Johnson, Karen Laycock, Raymond Maldonado and James Pearson. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Watchkeeping – Seven upgraders completed their training in this course Feb. 25. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Ray Adams Jr., Ron Boatwright Sr., Dominique Calvy, William Davis Jr., Dustin Marks, Felix Nunez and Hector Oritz. Joe Curtis, their instructor, is at the left. BST (HAWAII) - The following individuals (above, in no particular order) completed this course April 30 at the Seafarers Training Facility in Barbers Point, Hawaii: Robert Gonzalez, Rae Aguilera, Ryan Brady, Justin Challenger, Aretta Davis, Maximus Fuminaya, Preston Hadley, Matthew Hill, Olivia Kardos, Kevin Knight, Timothy Konick, Christopher Pahnlick, Hannah Perry, Brittany Samuels, Micah Stanton and Sylvia Taylor. July 2011 Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman – Seventeen individuals finished this course March 4. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Matthew Baptist, Robert Bryson III, Jeremy Cooke, Melissa Gooch, Marques Johnson, William Kane, Robert Mackey, David Marquez, Terry Mattison, Saleh Mohamed, Meree Mused, Bryan Page, Roman Pauley, Jonathan Scalsky, William Smith, Richard Swirtz and Robert Tlalka. Class Instructor Tom Truitt is at the far right. BST (HAWAII) - Nine individuals completed their training in this course May 7 at the Seafarers Hawaii-based training facility. Graduating (above, in no particular oder) were: Nancy Barnett, James Haywood, Stephanie Hernandez, Brianna Hernon, Corey Lowe, Patrick Mulligan, Cynthia Nieto, Katherine Pacifico and Michael Tompkins. Seafarers LOG 23 �65262_Seafarers_X2:JUNE 2011 6/27/2011 7:02 PM Page 24 Volume 73, Number 7 July 2011 Students Excel at Paul Hall Center Public Employees: Myths vs. Realities Pages 10-11 An early June stop at the SIU-affiliated Paul tices at the Piney Point, Md.-based campus. The Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education photos on this page were taken June 6-7 at the revealed the vibrancy of upgraders and appren- center. CROWLEY CREWS COMPLETE TRAINING – A number of Seafarers employed by Crowley took part in a two-day safety refresher course blending hands-on training and classroom instruction. Several of those mariners are shown in photos at left, right and immediately below. Successfully completing the class were Seafarers Raymond Petterson, John Figging, Anthony Willis, Susie Crawford, Robert Stone, Conrado Abinuman, Gregory Rivera, Delmas Price, Trevor Fouhey, Ronnie Boatwright, Todd Smith, Wesley Carey Jr., Paul Stanford, Ray Adams, Michael Morgan, Richard Salter, Jorge Solomon, David Massey and Scott Fletcher. FULL BOOKS PRESENTED – Seafarers Pamela Wilson (second from right) and Mayra Gines (third from right) received their full union books before the June membership meeting. The steward department members gathered with officials for this photo immediately after taking the union oath. Standing left to right are SIU VP Government Services Division Kermett Mangram, Philadelphia Port Agent Joe Baselice, Exec. VP Augie Tellez, Sec.-Treasurer David Heindel, President Michael Sacco, Gines, Wilson and VP Contracts George Tricker. SIGN OF DEDICATION – When Unlicensed Apprentice Joseph Dasteel (Class 744) saw an out- door sign for the UA program near the training and recreation center that he thought could be improved, he spoke up. When his offer to spend off-time tackling the project was accepted, he devoted hours to it and eventually finished the final strokes. After jokingly agreeing with a reporter’s lighthearted suggestion that the lesson is never to volunteer, Dasteel stated, “I was glad to have the opportunity to do something positive for the school.” EDUCATIONAL ACHIEVEMENT – Members Ray Fugit (fourth from left) and Kevin Stewart (third from right) each received a high school diploma prior to the membership meeting. They earned the diplomas through the academic department’s state-approved program. Congratulating them are (from left) VP Government Services Kermett Mangram, Port Agent Joe Baselice, President Michael Sacco, VP Contracts George Tricker, Exec. VP Augie Tellez and Sec.-Treasurer David Heindel. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2010-2019 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXII-LXXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2010-2019 Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource July 2011 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES SIU-CREWED PACIFIC TRACKER SUPPORTS CRUCIAL MISSILE DEFENSE AGENCY TEST STATE DEPARTMENT HOSTS MARITIME SECURITY FORUM SEAFARERS-AFFILIATED AMO OPENS NEW HQ UNION-CONTRACTED COMPANIES RECOGNIZED FOR SAFE OPERATIONS PENN MARITIME CONTRACT APPROVED CONGRESSMAN EXPRESS STRONG SUPPORT FOR JONES ACT SEAFARERS-CREWED HOSPITAL SHIP COMFORT CONTINUES HUMANITARIAN MISSION MARINERS APPROVE NEW NOAA CONTRACT SIU MEMBERS RATIFY 5-YEAR AGREEMENT COVERING 19 SHIPS SQUADRON ONE COMMANDER PRAISES MERCHANT MARINERS STATE DEPT. GROUP EXAMINES MARITIME SECURITY VATICAN URGES PROMPT RESPONSE TO PROBLEMS CREATED BY PIRACY EXPERTS RELEASE NEW REPORT ON ‘HUMAN COST’ OF PIRACY YEAR 2010 GOES DOWN AS ONE OF MOST VIOLENT PERIODS ON RECORD AMO CELEBRATES NEW HEADQUARTERS BUILDING MARINERS HONORED ACROSS U.S. NEW STAMPS HONOR U.S. MERCHANT MARINERS CREATIONS HIGHLIGHT FOUR VESSELS THAT HELPED MARK MARINER HISTORY LONGTIME UNION REP SHEEHAN RETIRES HQ OFFICIALS, SCHOOL VP MEET SEAFARERS IN FLORIDA PACIFIC TRACKER ASSISTS IN KEY MISSILE DEFENSE AGENCY TEST MARAD REPORT SAYS U.S. PORT CALLS GREW IN 2010 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 07/01/2011 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 73, No. 7 Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log 2011 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/642feb6134f76e505c9dd7250b05dfc1.pdf 69651efbccc4e43d77fc95d068e9df40 PDF Text Text Volume 74, Number 7 July 2012 Rescue At Sea Horizon Reliance Does It Again SIU members aboard the Horizon Reliance in early June rescued an 81-yearold sailor who had suffered a stroke aboard his sailboat between Hawaii and the West Coast. The Horizon vessel earlier this year handled an even more dramatic rescue in the Pacific. In photo at left, Bosun Kissinfor Taylor carries the stroke victim to safety while Chief Engineer Sean Stevens guards from behind; the gangway had been deployed at sea. Page 2. Great Lakes Group Christens Tugboat SIU members are sailing aboard the new tugboat Handy-Three, pictured below at its christening ceremony in Cleveland (with crew members, shipyard and company personnel and others aboard). The boat is operated by Puerto Rico Towing & Barge Co., a subsidiary of The Great Lakes Group. Page 3. Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan Awards $132,000 for 2012 College Scholarships Page 7 SIU Gains Jobs on BBC Seattle In early June, the newly reflagged cargo ship BBC Seattle (photo at immediate right) finished loading in Sunny Point, N.C., and began her first voyage under the U.S. flag. Operated by AMSEA, the vessel will sail worldwide supporting the U.S. Department of Defense. SIU crew members aboard the ship last month included (from left) Recertified Bosun Arthur Cross, Recertified Steward Juan Gonzalez, SA Sheila Daguio, AB Gerald Kelly, QMED Bernard Smalls and QMED David Terry. Big Win Down Under Page 2 11765_July_2012.indd 1 New NOAA Ship Page 4 More Maritime Day Coverage Page 24 6/21/2012 9:02:27 PM �President’s Report More Jones Act Support Seafarers know that one of the foundations of our industry is a law called the Jones Act, which helps sustain half-a-million American jobs while pumping billions of dollars into our economy. But despite the fact that the Jones Act has helped protect U.S. national and economic security for more than 90 years, the law sometimes comes under attack by groups or individuals who are misguided at best. That’s why it’s so important when key legislators from both political parties like Congressmen Buck McKeon (R-Calif.) and Adam Smith (D-Wash.) speak out on behalf of this crucial law, which specifies that cargo moving between U.S. ports must be carried on ships that are crewed, built, flagged and owned American. The congressmen recently wrote to the Secretaries of Defense, Transportation, Homeland Security and Energy to “urge the Administration to take all steps necessary to ensure that Jones Act vessels are used in the future and that the transporMichael Sacco tation of goods, including petroleum products, is in compliance with our nation’s cabotage laws.” They further stated that it is “critical that the Administration ensure that U.S. vessels and U.S. seafarers are fully utilized before granting any Jones Act waivers.” The letter was written in response to uncalled-for waivers granted last year to foreign vessels that transported oil from the U.S. Strategic Petroleum Reserve. Congressman McKeon chairs the House Armed Services Committee while Congressman Smith is the committee’s ranking member. They concluded, “The Jones Act supports our industrial base and maintains a national maritime infrastructure that helps to ensure there will be ample U.S. sealift capacity to defend our nation…. We recognize the importance of the Jones Act and its invaluable contribution to our nation’s security, which is why we are concerned about any efforts to weaken the law.” No one could have said it better. Members of Congress may not agree on much these days, but they do know the Jones Act is good for America. That’s why it has enjoyed bipartisan support for so many years. Safety Awards and Another Rescue Several SIU-contracted companies recently received safety awards from the U.S. Coast Guard, and almost at the same time as those announcements, the Seafarers-crewed Horizon Reliance was back in the news for its second rescue in the last four months. All of the recognition is well-deserved, and it reflects the overwhelmingly safe operations conducted daily by our members aboard vessels on the deep seas, Great Lakes and inland waterways. For us, a key ingredient to shipboard safety is the training available at our affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. Some of our older members and retirees know firsthand that when the school opened in 1967, our training was, by today’s standards, basic, though it met the requirements of that day. But it quickly evolved and has done nothing but improve over the years. Today, it’s a state-of-the-art facility that prepares Seafarers for the routines of shipboard life as well as the unpredictable things that happen at sea. The school is also another example of the partnership that we enjoy with our contracted operators. Many of those companies put substantial backing into the school, because they understand that when a trainee or an upgrader graduates from a safety course at the Paul Hall Center, that mariner is a real asset. And of course, the school is an invaluable resource for Seafarers, who can use it to keep upgrading and advancing their careers. Our school in Piney Point has done a great job not just keeping up with the industry’s needs, but also planning ahead for future concerns. That’s no easy task, but the school’s success also is no accident, and it’s a big reason why I’d stack our SIU crews up against any others across the globe when it comes to safe, reliable performance. Volume 74, Number 7 July 2012 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org The Seafarers LOG (ISSN 1086-4636) is published monthly by the Seafarers International Union; Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU, AFLCIO; 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, Paddy Lehane; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2012 Seafarers International Union, AGLIWD. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. 2 Seafarers LOG 11765_July_2012.indd 2 Horizon Reliance to the Rescue, Again For the second time in four months, the SIU-crewed Horizon Reliance pulled off a dramatic rescue in the Pacific – more recently, coming to the aid of an 81-year-old sailor who had suffered a stroke on June 10. The 893-foot Reliance picked up Robert Bourdon of Longview, Wash., the next day, about halfway between San Diego and Honolulu. Bourdon was sailing with his son and grandson from the West Coast to Hilo, Hawaii, aboard a 33-foot sailboat (the Gallivant) when the stroke occurred. According to news reports, Bourdon was partially paralyzed and couldn’t speak. His family members on the boat contacted the Coast Guard, and the Horizon Initial rescue efforts involved an attempted boat transfer container vessel diverted to the Galli- (above), but Horizon Reliance mariners quickly changed tactics. vant’s location after being called by the agency. Costanzi concluded, “These guys really showed Vessel master Captain Barry Costanzi said the some bravery and seamanship in the time-old tradiReliance first attempted a “boat transfer,” but when tion of rendering assistance at sea. It’s an honor to that maneuver was deemed impractical, they “imme- sail with them.” diately went to plan B, which was to use our crane Family members arrived in Honolulu from Washand a basket” to retrieve Bourdon. The sailboat had ington State in time to meet Bourdon on June 13 as too much rigging, however, so the larger vessel de- crew members carried him on a stretcher down the ployed its gangway in eight-to-10-foot seas. starboard gangway to an awaiting ambulance. AcBosun Kissinfor Taylor hauled Bourdon up the cording to the most recent news reports available accommodation ladder with Chief Engineer Sean at the LOG’s press time, doctors expect Bourdon Stevens right behind them, the captain noted, adding to recover, but he still was paralyzed on his right that Bourdon “was dead weight. He could not walk.” side and unable to speak. Doctors hadn’t determined how long he will remain hospitalized. The sailboat had left Olympia, Wash., on May 17. SIU members sailing aboard the Reliance when the rescue happened included Bosun Taylor, ABs Alan Lumansoc, Rene Rafer, Julius Udan, Ahmed Baabbad, Jerome Luckett, Harold Harper and Venerando Ramos, QEE David Watkins, OMUs Cresente Gumanas, Allen Newgen, Jonas Bocaya, Wilshire Cortez and Mel Sison, GUDE Jamie Merced, EU David Hamilton, Recertified Steward Joseph Laureta, Chief Cooks Teresito Reyes and Romarico Hinayon, SA Mohamed Ahmed and UA Robert Sale. On Feb. 8, the Reliance overcame exceptionally rough nighttime weather Plenty of post-rescue smiles were evident aboard the SIU- to save three individuals, including a crewed ship, as evidenced by (from left) Chief Mate Steve Itson, 9-year-old boy, whose sailboat became Bosun Kissinfor Taylor, Captain Barry Costanzi and Chief Engi- disabled and ultimately sank about 280 miles northeast of Hilo. neer Sean Stevens. MUA: ‘FOC Shipping can be Defeated’ Merchant seamen in Australia are celebrating new landmark legislation that will protect their livelihoods for years to come. The new laws, known as the Shipping Reform Package, won a tight vote in the Australian Parliament thanks to a push by the Maritime Union of Australia (MUA). The head of the MUA, Paddy Crumlin, also serves as the president of the International Transport Workers’ Federation (IFT), to which the SIU is affiliated. Crumlin and the MUA worked for over 10 years to fine-tune and gather support for the bill package, which is regarded by many as the most important maritime reform legislation in more than 100 years, delivering a serious blow to so-called flag-of-convenience (FOC) registries and the abuses that happen aboard some of those vessels. “What Australia has done … is show the way in international shipping,” said Crumlin. “The government has demonstrated that FOC shipping can be defeated and that all seafarers have a right to work in the industry. Cabotage is back on the menu for seafarers worldwide. These bills not only protect the national flag on Australia’s coastline, they privilege it.” Crumlin also praised the ITF and its member unions for their support throughout the entire process, noting that the backing of other maritime groups was a huge boon for the effort. “The support of the ITF was also critical to the political will to enact these wide-ranging and internationally important reforms and the ITF is enshrined in this legislation,” Crumlin said. Among other highlights, the legislation, composed of five bills, gives a zero tax rate for shipping companies in Australia. This serves as an incentive for vessels to fly the Australian flag as opposed to a runway flag. Crumlin and the MUA see this as a guarantee for future work for Australia’s seafarers, and a key step that will help ensure that Australia remains a viable presence in the international maritime trade. “This legislation provides a model for regional labor cooperation,” said Crumlin. “We now call upon other nations around the world to look to Australia’s example and work to protect their own national fleets, cabotage, and workers so that we can do away with flags of convenience forever.” The legislation creates a new register that will allow regional Paddy Crumlin workers from Pacific MUA National Secretary nations to work aboard Australian-flag vessels under Australian collective bargaining agreements. These agreements also guarantee workers’ rights to ITF standards. ITF General Secretary David Cockroft considers this a great victory for working people around the world and notes that it is the first time ITF standards have been incorporated into law on a national level. “This breakthrough … shows that unions are continuing to prove that, even in a globalized world, the need is for responsible shipping that has genuine ties to those who work on ships and the wider populations that they serve,” said Cockroft. The news of the Australian victory was warmly received by the SIU leadership. In a letter to Crumlin, SIU President Michael Sacco commended the MUA and the ITF for their efforts in making sure that strong cabotage laws are at the forefront of a nation’s maritime policy. “We know how long and hard you (Crumlin) and the MUA have been fighting for and encouraging votes to pass these important measures,” said Sacco. “Your efforts show yet again the value of strong cabotage laws that ensure safe jobs with decent wages and benefits for the men and women who ply the seas. This is truly a job well done.” July 2012 6/21/2012 9:02:43 PM �The Handy-Three is home-ported in San Juan, P.R. In the photo at right, U.S. Rep. Marcy Kaptur christens the tugboat at a recent ceremony in Cleveland. (Photo by Donn R. Nottage) Great Lakes Group Christens New Tug ‘Handy-Three’ Signals New Jobs for SIU Members The new tugboat Handy-Three has entered service in Puerto Rico, signifying new jobs for SIU members as well as for members of the Seafarers-affiliated American Maritime Officers. The boat is an outright addition to the Puerto Rico Towing & Barge Co. fleet; the company is a subsidiary of The Great Lakes Group. SIU members working aboard Puerto Rico Towing & Barge vessels have been providing vessel assistance and towing services to commercial vessels and barges in San Juan Harbor, other inland ports, and waters throughout the Caribbean for more than 15 years. Recently constructed at Great Lakes Shipyard in Cleveland, the Handy-Three is the fifth tug in the company’s fleet. The new tug is the third of a class designed by Jensen Maritime Consultants of Seattle, and is built specifically for harbor work and coastal barge towing. It is 74 feet long, has a beam of 30 feet, and a design draft of 11.5 feet. The tug’s free-running speed is 12 knots. In announcing the delivery, The Great Lakes Group noted, “By making this $5.7 million investment in a harbor tug, the company improves the efficiency of the fleet’s round-the-clock towing services and demonstrates the company’s continued commitment to the local economy by creating sustainable career jobs and putting money back into Puerto Rico.” A christening ceremony in Puerto Rico was expected to take place in late June or early July. A naming ceremony happened May 2 at the yard in Cleveland; U.S. Rep. Marcy Kaptur (D-Ohio), a longtime supporter of the U.S. Merchant Marine and American shipbuilding, served as the tug’s sponsor. SIU Vice President Great Lakes and Inland TSA Announces Option for 3-Year ‘Extended Expiration Date’ TWIC The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) on June 15 announced that, starting August 30, certain individuals holding Transportation Worker Identification Credentials will have the option of replacing their expiring TWICs with a three-year Extended Expiration Date TWIC. That credential will cost $60 and may be obtained with a single trip to an enrollment center. The TSA has posted a one-page “Policy Bulletin” covering the basics at www.tsa. gov/twic, along with a four-page “Overview and FAQ” and the related update to the Code of Federal Regulations. All of those papers may be accessed from the TSA’s TWIC home page, and all are directly linked in a June 15 news post on www.seafarers.org. Part of the TSA Policy Bulletin announcement reads as follows: Effective August 30, 2012, TWIC holders who are U.S. citizens or U.S. nationals, and whose TWICs will expire on or before December 31, 2014, have two options to renew their TWIC. They may either replace their expiring TWIC with a 3-year Extended Expiration Date (EED) TWIC or obtain a standard 5-year replacement. All TWIC holders should begin the application process at least 30 days before his or her TWIC expires. The EED TWIC is a one-time temporary extension option intended to provide convenience and cost-savings to workers pending the deployment of TWIC readers. TWIC holders who are not U.S. citizens or U.S. nationals are required to enroll for a standard 5-year replacement upon expiration of their current TWIC. Option 1 – Replacing expiring TWIC with 3-year EED TWIC July 2012 11765_July_2012.indd 3 (Limited to U.S. Citizens and U.S. Nationals) - $60 Fee & 1 Trip to an Enrollment Center Eligibility: n Individuals are eligible to obtain a 3-year EED TWIC if they meet the following requirements: - They are a U.S. Citizen or U.S. National AND - Their current TWIC is valid and not revoked AND - Their current TWIC is currently unexpired, but expires on or before December 31, 2014. n If any of the above requirements are not met, then the individual is not eligible for a 3-year EED TWIC and should apply for a standard 5-year renewal TWIC (option 2). n As long as an individual maintains eligibility, he/she can obtain a 3-year EED TWIC prior to the expiration of their current TWIC before December 31, 2014. Application Process: n Call the help desk (1-866-347-8942, Mon–Fri, 8AM to 10PM Eastern) to begin the application process. n The help desk will confirm whether the individual meets the eligibility requirements. n Once the EED TWIC arrives at the enrollment center specified by the individual, the individual will be notified for pick up and activation of their 3-year EED TWIC. n The individual should turn in the original TWIC upon receipt of the EED, as it will be revoked at the time of activation of the EED TWIC. Waters Tom Orzechowski represented the union at the event. “We have to play to our strengths in creating new jobs,” said Congresswoman Kaptur. “One of our historical assets along the North Coast has been shipbuilding. In a globalized economy, the demand of maritime transportation will grow dramatically, and we can take advantage of that opportunity right here if we work together.” At the naming ceremony, Ron Rasmus, president of The Great Lakes Group, said Kaptur “is here today because of her sponsorship and commitment to small shipyards.” Third JHSV Under Construction The U.S. Navy’s new Joint High Speed Vessels (JHSV) have been making a splash over the course of the spring and into summer with one vessel having passed builder’s sea trials and another starting construction and being named by the Secretary of the Navy. The latest JHSV vessel, known as JHSV-3, was recently given its official name by Navy Secretary Ray Mabus. The new ship will be officially called the USNS Millinocket and will be crewed by SIU members from the Government Services Division. The ship’s name is honor of citizens from the towns of East Millinocket and Millinocket, Maine. The latter town was once home to the largest paper mill in the world and during the Great Depression, workers at the mill collectively agreed to work less hours, ensuring that everyone would be able to keep their jobs and the town would survive. In February 2012, the USS Stephen W. Groves was decommissioned. The ship was named after a resident of East Millinocket, Ensign Stephen W. Groves, who was a Navy pilot. Groves was awarded the Navy Cross for bravery during the Battle of Midway in World War II. Mabus chose to honor him, and his hometown, for his service via the JHSV program. “Millinocket displays American values of community and ingenuity at their best,” said Mabus. “I chose to name the joint high speed vessel after East Millinocket and Millinocket to honor those values and the men and women of the community that represents them no less today than it did in the early 1900s.” The USNS Millinocket is being constructed in Mobile, Ala., by Austal USA but its estimated delivery date to the U.S. Navy has yet to be announced. The second ship in the series, the USNS Choctaw County, also is under construction at the yard and is expected to launch later this year. In other JHSV news, the first of the vessels has recently undergone builder’s sea trails and is waiting to enter service. JHSV-1, otherwise known as the USNS Spearhead, performed to a high standard and passed the builder’s trials with flying colors. The Spearhead is awaiting approval from the Navy itself and is expected to be delivered for service sometime this year. The JHSVs are a versatile, noncombatant class of ship that will be used to transport troops, vehicles, and other military equipment quickly. The vessels will have the capability to sail at an average speed of 35 knots while transporting 600 short tons over a distance of 1,200 nautical miles. The ships have a top speed of over 43 knots. They are nearly 388 feet long, have a 93-foot beam, and a nearly 13foot draft. The Navy expects to purchase more than 20 of the vessels over the next 30 years. As previously reported, the Navy’s current contract with Austal is for the construction of 10 JHSVs. The first four of the 10 will be crewed by federally employed civil service mariners, while the next six are slated to be crewed by civilian mariners working for private companies under contract to MSC. Military mission personnel will embark as required by the mission sponsors. Seafarers LOG 3 6/21/2012 9:02:45 PM �NOAA Commissions New High-Tech Vessel The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has recently commissioned a new, high-tech vessel in Norfolk, Va., that will map and monitor the seafloor to assist in rerouting merchant and military ships. The new ship, the Ferdinand R. Hassler, will be crewed by members of the SIU’s Government Services Division. “With the growth in the size of commercial vessels and the importance of waterborne commerce to our economic security, there is a critical need for accurate information about our coastal waterways,” said Kathryn Sullivan, Ph.D., assistant secretary of commerce for environmental observation and prediction. “This advanced NOAA survey vessel will play a vital role in ensuring safe navigation and commerce as we work each and every day to position America for the future.” The new ship will have the capacity to locate hazards in the seafloor, provide critical information that can be used to update nautical maps, and offer some scientific observation of the seafloors on the U.S. coastline. According to NOAA, the Hassler will be operating primarily along the Gulf and Atlantic coasts, the Caribbean, and even the Great Lakes. The ship “is also equipped to deploy buoys and unmanned submersibles and conduct general oceanographic research. Ferdinand R. Hassler’s twin-hull design is particularly suited to NOAA’s mission to map the ocean floor, as it is more stable than a single-hull vessel,” the agency reported. The vessel’s name was picked by a group of 10th-grade contest winners and their teacher from Naugatuck High School in Naugatuck, Conn. Ferdinand Hassler was the founding superintendent of the Coast Survey, which was created by Thomas Jefferson in 1807. Catherine Sununu, wife of former New Hampshire Senator John Sununu, served as the ship’s sponsor in the June 8 ceremony at the NOAA Marine Operations Center-Atlantic. The Hassler is equipped with stateof-the-art technology and has the potential to make a big impact on important oceanographic projects. The newly commissioned NOAA ship Ferdinand Hassler means new jobs for public-sector Seafarers. “NOAA Ship Ferdinand R. Hassler represents a major step forward in NOAA’s effort to modernize the agency’s fleet,” said Rear Adm. Jonathan Bailey, director of the NOAA Office of Marine Maersk Texas Crew Safe Following Pirate Attack SIU-Crewed Tugs Move USS Iowa Seafarers-crewed Crowley Maritime tugboats including the Master, Scout (inset) and Leader recently helped move the USS Iowa – one of the most powerful battleships of all time. With an assist from the SIU-crewed boats, the Iowa (above) on June 9 journeyed through the main channel of the Port of Los Angeles to her permanent home, Berth 87, near the World Cruise Center in San Pedro, Calif. The Pacific Battleship Center, which owns the ship, is scheduled to celebrate its public grand opening as an interactive naval museum on July 7. Coast Guard Honors SIU-Contracted Companies Crowley Maritime Recognized by NOAA SIU-contracted companies were among those recently recognized by the U.S. Coast Guard for environmental excellence. The agency in late May announced the recipients of the 2012 Biennial Rear Admiral William M. Benkert Marine Environmental Protection Award for Excellence at the American Petroleum Institute Tanker Conference in Orlando, Fla. Winners in various categories included the Seafarers-contracted companies Matson Navigation; Maersk Line, Limited; and U.S. Shipping Corp. According to the Coast Guard, the program “recognizes corporations and businesses involved in marine facility or vessel operations that have demonstrated sustained excellence and outstanding achievement in protecting the marine environment. It also encourages innovations in operations, maintenance, cargo handling, refueling, training, and provides a means for award recipients to share their successful methods and techniques with others in industry.” Also in late May, SIU-contracted Crowley Maritime Corporation was chosen as a 2011 Company Award winner for the United States National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Voluntary Observing Ship (VOS) program. The selection was based on Crowley’s 48 vessels providing 204,430 “highly accurate and timely weather observations for the U.S. VOS program in 2011,” according 4 Seafarers LOG 11765_July_2012.indd 4 and Aviation Operations and the NOAA Corps. “This new, highly capable ship will enable surveyors to map waterways and coastal areas both accurately and efficiently.” to the company. “Particularly impressive was Crowley’s St. Louis Express, a cargo vessel contributing 4,926 observations in 2011, ranking her the second-highest reporting vessel in the entire U.S. program.” The VOS program, which was established in 1853, relies on volunteer crew members on nearly 1,000 ships around the world to monitor the weather at their locations and submit the observations to national meteorological services. This data is used to create marine weather forecasts and is archived for future use by climatologists and other scientists. “Our vessels’ crew members have been contributing firsthand weather data to VOS for decades,” said Mike Golonka, general manager of Crowley’s ship management division. “As a former volunteer on board our vessels, I am especially proud of Crowley’s history with the program. This company is committed to continuing to support it. We see the impact it has each day on our own vessel operations, and we are very appreciative of this recognition.” “The invaluable efforts provided by the Crowley fleet of ships collecting and disseminating weather and oceanographic observations, during their voyages, is greatly appreciated by the VOS program,” said Helmut H. Portmann, director, National Data Buoy Center of the NOAA, in a letter to Crowley. “Your crews’ hard work and dedication has reflected great credit upon your company and the maritime community. Your contributions make a world of difference.” The SIU-crewed Maersk Texas thwarted an attack by pirates in the Gulf of Oman on May 23 with the help of their onboard security team. At around noon on May 23, reports came in that there was a possible pirate attack in progress. As more reports were posted, it became clear that the Texas was indeed under attack by several skiffs with armed men aboard. The vessel was roughly 70 nautical miles southeast of the Strait of Hormuz when watchstanders noticed roughly 8-10 skiffs approaching the vessel at a high rate of speed. This caused the captain to attempt evasive maneuvers to try and deter the skiffs from getting close. In addition, the crew and the security team took other defensive actions in a last-ditch effort to get the pirates to back off. Those tactics included spraying fire houses at the skiffs and firing warning shots. Things took a turn for the worse as the armed men aboard the skiffs, ranging from four to six men per skiff (possibly more), opened fire on the Texas. To make matters more complicated, there were also civilian fishing vessels in the area which added to confusion. However, due to the professionalism and training of both the crew and the security team, no harm came to any fishermen or their ships. “Despite clear warning signals, the skiffs continued their direct line toward Maersk Texas and the embarked security team fired warning shots,” said a representative of Maersk Line, Limited, the ship operator, in a release to the media. “The pirates then fired upon Maersk Texas, and the security team returned fire per established U.S. Coast Guard rules of engagement.” Once the pirates opened fire, the security team saw no other option other than engaging the pirates head-on. The security team returned fire and engaged in a brief firefight with the pirates that resulted in their retreat. In the meantime, the crew gathered in the citadel while the captain called out for assistance. The Iranian Navy was quick to respond over the radio. According to Bloomberg News, the Iranian Navy “provided guidance to the crew of the Maersk Texas by radio.” Thankfully, all crew members aboard are safe and accounted for. The Texas continued on its route from Kuwait to Beaumont, Texas. The SIU members aboard the ship at the time of the attack included Bosun Kennard Campbell, AB Robert Boudreaux, QDW Tyesha Boyd, GVA Willie Clemmons Jr., GUDE Roderick Thomas, QDW Courtney Price, AB Michael Congress, QEE Gary Dahl, AB Billy Hill, OS Melvin Hill, SB Michael McDermott, and ACU Paula Hopson. The SIU is committed to ensuring that Seafarers work in safe environments at all times. The union has made it clear that much more needs to be done to prevent and eliminate the threat of piracy for mariners. Among many other activities, the SIU is a supporter of the SaveOurSeafarers campaign, which is devoted to spreading the word and cultivating action on piracy issues in the Indian Ocean, Persian Gulf, Gulf of Aden, and elsewhere. For more information, and to sign a petition drawing attention to this problem, go to www.saveourseafarers.org. July 2012 6/21/2012 9:02:50 PM �Maritime Unions: The SIU in mid-June fired back after an article by a U.S. Coast Guard captain left many in the industry incredulous. The union posted its own response on June 14 and then, a day later, joined with the American Maritime Officers, the Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association, and the International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots in sending a related letter to Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Robert Papp. That letter came from the respective presidents of the nation’s major seagoing unions: Michael Sacco of the SIU, Tom Bethel of the AMO, Mike Jewell of the MEBA and Tim Brown of the MM&P. Both of the union communications said that an editorial by Coast Guard Captain Eric Christensen – from its headline to much of its content – not only didn’t ring true, but also opened the U.S.-flag fleet to unwarranted criticism. Christensen is the agency’s chief of commercial vessel compliance. In its individual reply, the SIU said Christensen’s article, titled “Sounding the Alarm on U.S.-Flag Compliance,” paints an “unfair and inaccurate picture of the American-flag fleet and its operators. He leads the reader to believe there’s an epidemic of non-compliance by U.S. operators, when in fact the Coast Guard’s own data shows that less than one-half of one percent of American-flag vessels have reportable problems.” Further, the SIU asserted, the captain’s article “is a blanket indictment that ignores the achievements the U.S.-flag industry has made in training, safety and education. This would be roughly the equivalent of our posting an editorial suggesting that Coast Guard officers are untrustworthy because a single one of them got caught selling mariner credentials. “Christensen’s paper,” the SIU continued, “cites only one specific recent case – and that one involves a non-union company that is infamous in American maritime circles. (The company isn’t named in the paper but it doesn’t have to be; anyone familiar with that outfit’s “record” knows them by the description.)” The SIU also pointed out that U.S. maritime unions and American-flag ship operators “share all of the goals Christensen mentions in his paper: safety for the crews, safety for the ships, and safety for the environment. We collectively spend billions of dollars and incalculable man-hours pursuing those goals and have set standards above those set by international conventions.” Meanwhile, the four union presidents delved into some of the more technical aspects of the original article, including a flagstate control regime (to which the U.S. is not a party) called the Paris MOU. America’s most recent classification by that regime, largely the basis for Christensen’s article, “does not come as a surprise,” wrote the labor officials. “The maritime unions have been advising the Coast Guard for some time that such an outcome would come to pass if steps were not taken to more efficiently administer regulations and correct failures, particularly with non-union companies with historically bad track records on maintenance, safety and regulatory compliance. To place the blame on the shoulders of all American shipowners and crews, however, fails to recognize the true issue and is extremely disingenuous.” They further reminded the commandant that the Paris MOU “acknowledges that of the 174 vessel inspections of U.S.-flag vessels by its member states, only seven vessel detentions have been recorded. This is hardly an ‘alarming trend’ representative of a significant decline in statutory and international convention compliance…. “We believe that part of the problem lies in the United States regulatory regime that the Coast Guard administers in accordance with the Administrative Procedures Act itself. The rulemaking procedures in the Act make it difficult for the USCG to respond to IMO treaty obligations in a timely fashion…. Even simply updating American regulations to conform to international standards can take a considerable amount of time. Changes to the APA are unlikely, making Coast Guard Congratulating Honoree from LIUNA Officials from the SIU and the Maritime Trades Department joined in congratulating Laborers International Union of North America Secretary-Treasurer Armand Sabitoni (second from left) during the 24th annual Sons of Italy Foundation “National Education & Leadership Awards Gala.” Sabitoni was honored May 23 in Washington, D.C. Pictured from left are MTD Executive Secretary-Treasurer Daniel Duncan, Sabitoni, SIU/MTD President Michael Sacco, SIU VP Contracts George Tricker and SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel. The Sons of Italy Foundation is the philanthropic branch of the Order Sons of Italy in America. ILO Elects Ryder to Executive Post The International Labor Organization (ILO), a global body that serves the world’s working people and is affiliated with the United Nations (U.N.), recently announced that Guy Ryder has been elected as the organization’s director-general. Ryder, who currently serves as the ILO’s executive director for international labor standards and fundamental principles and rights at work, will begin a five-year term in October. “I am really excited about this chance,” said Ryder. “This is a tremendous opportunity, in the middle of this global crisis, to make a difference to the lives of millions of people, including those who’ve never heard of the ILO, to change their lives for the better.” The ILO is an organization that is responsible for creating and implementing global labor standards. The ILO is also the only U.N. agency that works on a “tripartite” level, meaning that the organization is not only composed of worker organizations like unions, but also employers and governments. This, according to the ILO website, allows the organization to do more complete and far-reaching work. The director-general is responsible for implementing the group’s strategies worldwide. Ryder’s nomination has been praised by July 2012 11765_July_2012.indd 5 Coast Guard Editorial ‘Unfair and Inaccurate’ numerous labor unions, government officials, and international nongovernmental organizations. Ryder has spent the vast majority of his career, which spans more than 25 years, in the international labor arena working with unions in his native England as well as being an international worker rights advocate. “I extend my congratulations to Guy Ryder on his election as the new director-general of the International Labor Organization and wish him the greatest success in his new position,” said U.S Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis. “Mr. Ryder has been a great advocate of the world’s working people, both as a trade union leader and in his work at the ILO.” International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) General Secretary David Cockroft also praises the election of Ryder as a great leap forward for working people around the globe. The ITF is an international federation comprised of transportation unions, including the Seafarers International Union. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel serves as the chair of the Seafarers’ Section of the ITF. “Guy is one of my oldest friends, and I can think of no one better qualified to build on the undoubted successes of his predecessors,” Cockroft said. interim guidance and advisory notices critical to bridging the gap until final regulations are promulgated.” Sacco, Bethel, Jewell and Brown also said that a “resistance” by the agency’s legal division to permitting the Coast Guard to “disseminate non-mandatory advisory notices on international requirements until after regulations are in place, compounds this problem rather than alleviating it. The result is that U.S.-flag ships and operators are left to their own devices in determining how to comply with IMO requirements, thus exposing them to penalties from port state control regimes like the Paris MOU. This is presently occurring with the STCW Manila Amendments related to work and rest hours. Although the new STCW Manila Amendments came into effect January 1, 2012, USCG has not yet promulgated regulations conforming to the international standard nor offered any effective guidance.” They concluded, “In the future, we would prefer to work together to resolve these issues, rather than have senior Coast Guard officials indict the entire industry because of the bad behavior of a very small minority of bad actors in public…. As always, we remain committed to ensuring that American mariners are the best trained and most professional mariners in the world.” GLMTF Names Ohio Rep. Gibbs Great Lakes Legislator of Year U.S. Rep. Bob Gibbs (R-Ohio) has been named 2012 Great Lakes Legislator of the Year by the largest labor/management coalition representing workers and industries dependent on shipping on America’s fourth sea coast. Rep. Gibbs, who represents Ohio’s 18th District in the House of Representatives, formally received the award from Great Lakes Maritime Task Force (GLMTF) in Washington, D.C., on June 6. The SIU is a member of the task force. “Rep. Gibbs’ first term in Congress has been remarkably focused on the issue that will most decide the future of Great Lakes shipping – the dredging crisis,” said Eugene Caldwell, president of the GLMTF. “He was the 100th co-sponsor of the RAMP (Restore America’s Maritime Promise) Act. This legislation requires the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund (HMTF) to spend all the tax dollars it collects for dredging on dredging, as it was originally intended. Currently the HMTF also serves as a surplus that is then used to paper balance the budget. More than 16 million cubic yards of sediment clog the Great Lakes navigation system and the backlog will grow to 28 million by 2016 unless dredging is adequately funded.” Caldwell, who is also vice president and general manager of Bay Shipbuilding Company in Sturgeon Bay, Wis., stressed that many provisions of the RAMP Act have been incorporated in the Transportation Reauthorization bills passed by both the House and the Senate. “As chairman of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee’s Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment, Rep. Gibbs’ support was key in many legislators’ decision to endorse the goals of the RAMP Act and will be when the two chambers conference on their transportation reauthorization bills.” Few states are more negatively impacted by the dredging crisis than Ohio. In a strong economy, its nine deep-draft ports can handle more than 50 million tons of cargo. “Rep. Gibbs understands that resolving the dredging crisis is not just good for Ohio, it’s good for America,” said Don Cree, first vice president of the GLMTF. “Ohio is the second-largest steel-producing state in the country and it takes 1.5 tons of Lakesdelivered iron ore to make a ton of steel. When Great Lakes freighters can again deliver full loads of iron ore and other cargos to Ohio and other Great Lakes states as well, our national U.S. Representative economy will Bob Gibbs (R-Ohio) be stronger.” Congressman Gibbs also monitors other issues that affect shipping on the fourth sea coast, including the importance of adequate Coast Guard icebreaking resources. Upon his selection for the award, Rep. Gibbs said, “I am honored to receive the Great Lakes Maritime Task Force’s Great Lakes Legislator of the Year Award as the economic importance of maritime trade [must not] be underestimated…. The dredging crisis concerns me because harbors that have not been dredged to their proper depth will not only reduce ship traffic and freight at that port, but also will increase shipping costs…. Our Great Lakes ports and waterways must be at their authorized depths and widths so raw materials and general cargo are able to move domestically and overseas in an efficient and economical manner…. Every inch of depth means more cargo can be shipped, and with our nation attempting to increase exports, we need to ensure that all our ports are operating at their full potential and ships aren’t running half-full.” Founded in 1992, Great Lakes Maritime Task Force promotes domestic and international shipping on the Great Lakes. With 82 members, it is the largest 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. Seafarers LOG 5 6/21/2012 9:02:52 PM �SIU President Michael Sacco Executive VP Augie Tellez Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel Jacksonville Hosts Regional, Trustees Meetings Members Thank President Sacco, Executive Board for Exhibiting ‘Extraordinary Leadership’ Jacksonville, Fla., was a hub of activity for the SIU during the first week of June. In addition to the regular monthly membership meeting on June 7, Seafarers and SIU officials gathered at the union hall for a Gulf Coast regional meeting; and, the Seafarers Board of Trustees also met that week. During the regional meeting, members from the area along with local SIU employees presented SIU President Michael Sacco with a plaque thanking him and the union’s executive board for “extraordinary leadership and continuous support.” The photos on this page were taken June 7 at the hall, located on Belfort Road. VP Contracts George Tricker Gulf Coast VP Dean Corgey VP Government Services Kermett Mangram Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen Steward/Baker Shirley Bellamy (holding plaque in photo below) presents a token of appreciation to SIU President Michael Sacco and the executive board. Pictured from left to right around Bellamy are AB Gerald Alford, OMU Darnell O’Hara, QMED Lamont Robinson, AB Thomas Conry, Steward/Baker Allen Van Buren, Chief Cook Jose Constantino and QMED Florencio Marfa. Below is a shot of the plaque that Bellamy presented to President Sacco. Members fill the hall in Jacksonville, Fla. 6 Seafarers LOG 11765_July_2012.indd 6 July 2012 6/21/2012 9:03:01 PM �SHBP Awards $132,000 in Scholarships Eight individuals—three active Seafarers and five dependents—now are better financially prepared to pursue their respective higher education goals thanks to grants totaling $132,000 that have been bestowed upon them by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP). Members of the SHBP Scholarship Committee, who convened in Carmel, Calif., May 11, selected Seafarers Daniel Giles, Curtrina Duck and Jesse Tornabene along with dependents Kathryn Flanagan, Julio Marcone, Patricia Madrio, Abigail Tesfaye and Heidi Garner as recipients of the Calendar Year 2012 Charlie Logan Scholarships. Giles was designated to receive a $20,000 grant to cover the costs associated with a four-year degree while Duck and Tornabene each were selected to garner $6,000 to pursue their respective educational goals in programs offering two-year courses of study. Each of the dependents landed scholarships of $20,000 to help realize their respective aspirations at four-year colleges or universities. Daniel Giles AB Daniel Giles was born in Norfolk, Va., and is a 2000 graduate of First Colonial High School in Virginia Beach, Va. Following high school, he held a variety of positions while working in restaurants and on organic farms. “In each of these distinctive lifestyles, something was missing,” Giles said. “Very rarely was I challenged mentally. “Just as I would find intellectual stimulation it would be time to get back to work,” he continued. “I would share ideas from what I was reading about neuroscience, astronomy or physics with co-workers only to receive blank and bewildered stares.” Brother Giles joined the SIU in 2007. He enrolled in and attended the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. It was there that he earned his merchant mariner credentials and began what has been a very promising career on the high seas. Most recently, he sailed aboard the USNS Invincible. “As a teenager, I didn’t know what I wanted or why I should continue school to achieve it,” he said. “Now, however, I see that the world of academics is where I belong. The idea of spending years in libraries and laboratories, surrounded by other curious and hungry minds seems so right that it’s hard to believe it took me this long to realize it.” Brother Giles will pursue his degree in the sciences, most likely biology or chemistry with a minor in mathematics. He hopes to attend Portland State University, Oregon State University or Concordia University. Curtrina Duck AB Curtrina Duck joined the SIU in 2008 and like Brother Giles received her merchant mariner training at the Paul Hall Center. She has upgraded her skills on several occasions at the Southern Marylandbased school, most recently in 2010. Born in Norfolk, she is a 2002 graduate of the city’s Booker T. Washington High School. Following graduation, she worked as a customer service representative in a call center and later as a medical biller and coder. Her SIU career to date has included voyages aboard deep sea vessels. Sister Duck most recently sailed aboard the Pomeroy, op- July 2012 11765_July_2012_2X.indd 7 erated by Ocean Shipholdings. “My goal is to become a registered nurse,” the able bodied seaman said. Although she has not yet decided the specific nursing specialty she will pursue, she is anxious to assist others. “I am looking forward to helping and caring for people of all ages, races, sizes and genders,” she said. “I think the body is a unique form and it hurts my heart to see people who are hopelessly suffering with poor health conditions. I am an upbeat person and I think that I could do well with making a person smile, while at the same time caring for their needs.” Sister Duck enrolled in and was admitted to Tidewater Community College in 2011 and still attends that school today. She is studying nursing and resides in Chesapeake, Va. Jesse Tornabene QMED Jesse Tornabene donned the union colors in 2004 in Piney Point and like the former SIU scholarship recipients underwent his merchant mariner training there. A frequent upgrader, Brother Tornabene most recently returned to the school earlier this year. A native of New Orleans, Brother Tornabene graduated from Northshore High School in 2002. Following high school he took on work as a pump station attendant in Jefferson Parish, La. Two years later he joined the union. He currently works aboard the SBX-1. “My pursuit for a higher education began when I arrived in Piney Point, Maryland, to attend the apprenticeship program at the Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship,” Brother Tornabene said. “The trainee program revealed to me how much I didn’t know and the fundamentals I lacked. Continuing my education has remained a priority since I arrived at the Paul Hall Center seven years ago.” Brother Tornabene has applied for admission to Delgado Community College in New Orleans as well as at California National University for Advanced Studies. He is currently enrolled at the University of Phoenix. To date, he has earned nine credits and is pursuing his degree in engineering and business administration. Kathryn Flanagan Kathryn Flanagan hails from New Milford, Conn. She is the daughter of Recertified Bosun Thomas Flanagan (and mother, Betty Ann,) and has two siblings. Flanagan is a 2012 graduate of New Milford High School where she held membership in both the National Honor Society and French Honor Society. She also was a member of her school’s marching band and graduated in the top five percent of her class. Flanagan has done volunteer work in her community with food banks and soup kitchens. “Since childhood, I have always been fascinated by life and all it represents,” she said. Over the years, she continued, her keen interest in the human experience has developed into a definite passion: educational biology. “As I moved through high school, my future plans became very clear, and I have tried to excel and go the extra mile while exploring a life in science,” she continued. This extra dedication has translated into fresh perspectives not only about life in general but also about individuals who play significant roles in the life experiences of others. Flanagan plans to major in educational biology at the University of Connecticut, ColbySawyer College or SUNY Stony Brook. Julio Marcone Julio Marcone is the son of Steward/ Baker Julio Marcone (and mother, Angelica) who sails aboard the Intrepid Ship Management operated Courage. He has two siblings. Born in Florida, Marcone is a 2012 graduate of Fort Lauderdale High School where he finished his upper secondary educational experience with a 4.48 grade point average. He ranked 26th in his class of 381 and held membership in the National Honor Society. Additionally, Marcone was a member of his school’s marching band and debating team. “I like to think that I have an accurate bearing on my own skills and a wellthought out, if broad idea, of what I want to study,” Marcone said. “My recurring interests are political science and some path to medical school.” He also has considered studying biology or chemistry as a first step into a medical career. Marcone hopes to pursue his studies at Boston University, Amherst College, Tulane University or the University of Florida. Patricia Madrio Patricia Madrio is a 2012 graduate of New Milford High School in New Milford, Conn. The daughter of ABG Roy Madrio (and mother, Mary, a registered nurse), she has two brothers. Madrio graduated with 4.13 GPA ranking 20th in her class of 352 students. She was a member of the National Honor Society, Kiwanis Club and Rotary Club. Madrio served as secretary for both NHS and Rotary Clubs. “I plan on majoring in nursing….,” she said. “As proven by my mother’s stable work conditions, nursing will provide a stepping stone to a variety of careers. “Nursing will provide a way for me to become, ultimately, a medical lawyer,” she continued. “With a nursing background, I will be able to apply my knowledge to the cases that I am presented with.” She will pursue her nursing degree at Northeastern University, Pennsylvania State University or the University of Connecticut. Abigail Tesfaye Abigail Tesfaye hails from Houston. She is the daughter of QEE Tesfaye Gebregziabher (and mother Ruth) and has one sibling. A 2012 graduate of the High School for Performing and Visual Arts in Houston, Tesfaye finished 35th in her class, which numbered 149 students. She was a member of the National Honor Society, Business Professionals of America and the Fusion Orchestra. Tesfaye also is active in her church as a youth group leader and worship leader. In the area of community service, she has done volunteer work in retirement homes and served as a camp counselor. She works as a sales associate in a nationally acclaimed apparel company. Tesfaye will pursue her bachelor’s degree in English at Concordia, Baylor University, Texas A&M or the University of Houston. Heidi Garner Heidi Garner hails from Knotts Island, N.C., and is the daughter of Capt. Edward Garner (and mother, Heather, a teacher’s assistant) and has one sibling. Born in Virginia Beach, Va., Garner is a 2011 graduate of Currituck County High School in Barco, N.C. She posted a 4.43 GPA and ranked 14th in her class among 246 students. While at Currituck County High, Garner was a varsity cheerleader and held membership in the Disney Movie Club, the Companion Animal Club and the Beta Book Club. In addition, she served as a counselor–in-waiting during a Ferrum College (Virginia) Summer Enrichment Camp. Garner currently attends N.C. State University where she is majoring in elementary education. She has earned 15 credits while posting an overall 3.6 GPA. Scholarship Committee Members of the calendar year 2012 SHBP Scholarship Committee on May 11 met in Carmel, Calif., to choose this year’s award recipients. Comprising the committee (above from left to right) were: Dr. Louis Fernandez, provost and vice president academic affairs, California State University, San Bernardino; Dr. Hank Toutain, dean of students, Kenyon College; Dr. Gayle Olson, University of New Orleans (retired); Dr. Trevor Carpenter, College of Southern Maryland (retired); Dr. Keith Schlender, associate VP academic affairs, Lourdes University; and Dr. Charlie Lyons Jr., American Association of Colleges and Universities (retired) and a committee member since 1968. Also on the committee, but not pictured is Dr. Michael Glaser, St. Mary’s College (retired). Seafarers LOG 7 6/22/2012 6:30:55 PM �Alaskan Explorer Alaskan Navigator Seafarers Ratify Standard Contracts As reported last month, SIU members overwhelmingly have approved the new standard freightship and tanker agreements. The five-year contracts call for yearly wage increases while maintaining benefits. The contracts take effect July 1 and run through June 2017. Pictured on this page are SIU members on vessels and at the New Orleans hall voting in favor of the new standard contracts. Ocean Freedom Horizon Spirit Jean Anne 8 Seafarers LOG 11765_July_2012.indd 8 Maersk Ohio Jean Anne Maersk Wyoming Horizon Tacoma New Orleans Hall Overseas Los Angeles Sealand Champion Sealand Charger Sealand Lightning July 2012 6/21/2012 9:03:20 PM �U.S. Military, Government Leaders Urge Passage of Law of Sea Treaty On May 23, United States defense and diplomatic leaders urged the Senate to ratify the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea – known in maritime circles by its acronym, UNCLOS. Defense Secretary Leon Panetta along with Army General Martin Dempsey, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, joined Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton in testimony before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. All three urged the committee to approve the treaty. Panetta told the Senate panel, “I strongly believe that [ratification of] this treaty is absolutely essential, not only to our economic interests and our diplomatic interests, but I’m here to say that it is extremely important to our national security interests as well. I join a lot of the military voices of the past and present that have spoken so strongly in support of this treaty.” The treaty, which came into force in 1994, has been waiting for Senate ratification ever since. Clinton said it is “imperative” that America act now. She also stated: “No country is better served by this convention than the United States. As the world’s foremost maritime power, we benefit from the convention’s favorable freedom of navigation provisions. As the country with the world’s second-longest coast- line, we benefit from its provisions on offshore natural resources.” A total of 161 countries have approved the treaty. “We’re the only industrial power that has failed to do that,” Panetta said. “And as a result, we don’t have a seat at the table.” The SIU and the rest of American maritime labor have Defense Secretary Leon Panetta long been in favor of testifies on the Law of the Sea United States ratifi- Convention before the Senate Relations Committee in cation of UNCLOS. Foreign Washington, D.C. (Photos by U.S. D e m p s e y s a i d Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Chad U . S . r a t i f i c a t i o n J. McNeeley) would strengthen America’s ability to utilize sea power. “And, it reinforces the sovereign immunity of our warships as they conduct operations,” he stated. America’s absence from the treaty “plays into the hands of foreign states that seek to bend customary law to restrict movement on the oceans,” the chairman added. “And, it puts our warships and aircraft ‘on point’ to constantly challenge claims. “But, the force of arms does not have to be – and should not be – our only national security instrument. Joining the convention would provide us another way to stave off conflict with less risk of escalation.” In additional to its economic provisions, the treaty establishes specific jurisdictional limits on the ocean area that countries may claim, including a 12-mile territorial sea limit and a 200-mile exclusive economic zone limit. A number of countries currently are pushing to extend the latter limit to 300 miles. Being a signatory party would better enable the U.S. to make Army Gen. Martin E. Dempsey, chairman of the Joint Chiefs such claims and would bolster our capacity to defend of Staff, endorses U.S. ratification of the treaty as Secretary our economic interests, say those who favor ratificaof State Hillary Rodham Clinton looks on. tion. Merchant Mariners, MSC Receive Accolades On Defense News Site A respected defense industry news outlet recently released a glowing article that details the contributions made by merchant mariners and the Military Sealift Command (MSC). AOL Defense, an online defense magazine, began publishing a series on the U.S. government’s strategy in Asia, and specifically how sea power is going to be a cornerstone of that policy. The first article in the series, titled “Military Sealift Command: A Flexible Key to The Asia Strategy”, pays special attention to the vital role that merchant mariners play in supporting the foreign policy goals of the country. “The Military Sealift Command is not the most visible element of the Navy-Marine Corps team, unless you are at sea and need them,” said the article’s author, Robbin Lair, an AOL Defense Board of Contributors member and defense consultant. “Whether that support comes from underway replenishment, from ships at sea or air assets, the more than 100 MSC ships are the lifeblood of our fleet.” The article goes on to explain the logistical and strategic advantages that MSC utilizes in the Asian waters, including the speed and costeffective nature of the work of civilian mariners. “There are a number of notable aspects of MSC as the U.S. builds its fleet out into the future for the long distances of the Pacific,” said Lair. “First, the crews of the MSC are civilians. Indeed, they are among the hardest working civilians in the U.S. government or in the private sector, for that matter. They are at sea an average of nine months of each year. The personnel costs of these civilian mariners are substantially less than if they wore uniforms. Second, the command has a very flexible contracting system, which allows it to achieve cost effective results and breathtaking acquisition outcomes in short periods of time.” The article concludes with an assertion that merchant mariners have known for a long time: The MSC and its civilian crews are an integral and vital part of the U.S. military’s forward deployment. Maersk Seafarers Complete Safety Session In late May, SIU-contracted Maersk Line, Limited (MLL) resumed its beneficial series of safety leadership meetings at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Twenty-six SIU members employed by MLL and several of the company’s shore-side workers completed a safety conference at the Piney Point, Md., school May 22-23. As previously reported, the meetings are part of a program designed to maintain and improve workplace safety. Attendees, most of whom are pictured here, included SIU members Gerald “Mike” Alford, James Bates, Seller Brooks, Glenn Davis, Bebiana Eason, Russell English, Ralph Garner, Tesfaye Gebregziabher, Joseph Grandinetti, James Gregory, Carl Herrmann, Michael Hilton, Elizabeth Ibanez, Randolph Jemmott, Melvin Kennedy, Karl Mayhew, Eileen Mendiola, Andrew Peprah, Terrence Sawyer, Damar Shaw, Jerry Stillman, Brett Sunderland, Ira Thomas, Mario Torrey, James Walker and Don Williams, and shore-side employees Dennis Houghton, Wayne Solomon, Robert Dziegielewski, Al Veek, Rick Kaser and Woody Garber. July 2012 11765_July_2012.indd 9 Seafarers LOG 9 6/21/2012 9:03:23 PM �Pictured in the photo at left (from left to right) are Hawaii Port Maritime Council President Randy Swindell, U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa (D-Hawaii), Luke Kaili of MEBA and SIU Port Agent Hazel Galbiso. In the photo above are Chief Cook Henry Wright, an MM&P member, Bosun Ernesto Lomboy, Congresswoman Hirono, AB Antonio Miana and QMED Getolio Medallo. Honolulu-Area SIU Members Back Pro-Maritime Candidates Dozens of Seafarers in Honolulu are turning out for weekly demonstrations of support for pro-maritime political candidates. The photos on this page were taken in and around the union hall during two different “sign-waving” gatherings, in early and mid-April. Seafarers showed their backing of U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), who is running for the United States Senate; U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa (D-Hawaii), seeking reelection; and former Honolulu Mayor Mufi Hannemann, Democratic candidate for the state’s Second Congressional District. Recertified Steward James Brockington (left in photo above) poses with Mayoral Candidate Kirk Caldwell (center) and Port Agent Hazel Galbiso. In photo at left, Congressional Candidate Mufi Hannemann (center, shaking hands) greets Seafarers at the hall. Demonstrating their support for U.S. Representative Colleen Hanabusta (D-Hawaii) in her reelection effort (photo below) are QMED Butch Lumansoc (left), OMU Cresente Gumanas, and MFOW Port Agent Bonny Coloma. SA Nicanor Sereno (left in photo above) took to the streets with Chief Cook Robert Borroin to support U.S. Representative Mazie Hirono. Following suit in the photo at right were AB Antolin Avorque (left), and Wiper Arturo Reyes. Seafarers and other supporters (photo above) pose with Congresswoman Hirono at the hall. In the photo at right, OS Michael Fincannon (left) shakes hands with the congresswoman as SA Melchor Ganir (second from left) and others look on. 10 Seafarers LOG 11765_July_2012.indd 10 July 2012 6/21/2012 9:03:30 PM �Shovel components (photo above) are lifted aboard the SIU-crewed ship in Milwaukee. (Photo by Betty Nowak). In the photo at right, the Maersk Illinois sails from Detroit on its way down the St. Lawrence Seaway. (Photo by Chuck Wagner) Maersk Illinois Makes Historic Port Call Cargo ships are a common sight at the Port of Milwaukee, but the arrival of the SIU-crewed Maersk Illinois on May 31 stood out among the port’s typical marine traffic. The Maersk Illinois, a multipurpose vessel with heavy-lift cranes, became the first American ship to load cargo in Milwaukee for an overseas destination in more than 30 years. As an oceangoing vessel, the Maersk Illinois’ navigation of the St. Lawrence Seaway demonstrated its versatility and flexibility, according to the ship operator. “The loading in Milwaukee simplified the logistics of an otherwise complicated move, and it has served to demonstrate the value of our service to U.S. exporters,” noted Dave Harriss, director of ship management and chartering at SIU-contracted Maersk Line, Limited (MLL). The shipment of two P&H rope shovels, financed by the U.S. Export-Import Bank, required the U.S.-flag vessel to carry nearly 8,000 cubic meters of machinery bound for a Siberian mining project. According to the port’s spokesman, Jeff Fleming, the Maersk Illinois is the first U.S.-flag vessel since 1981 to arrive in Milwaukee by way of the St. Lawrence Seaway, marking an achievement of historic significance. SIU members sailing aboard the ship during the notable voyage included Bosun Leslie Jacobs, AB Alvin Clark, AB Peter Westropp, OS Angela Corbitt, OS Ronnie Hamilton, QMED Stanley Jackson, QMED Mining shovels like this one were transported aboard the Maersk Illinois. (Photo by Mark Dietz) Terrance Maxwell, QMED James Demouy, GVA Gary Boyd, GUDE Mahare Kidane, GUDE William Drummond, Steward/Baker Theodore Quammie and ACU Gregory Brown. MLL noted that the Maersk Illinois’ voyage to Milwaukee attracted the attention of U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood, who pointed out the benefits of U.S. Export-Import Bank financing in a blog post by Ocean Shipholdings Honors Seafarers Two SIU members working for the Seafarers-contracted company Ocean Shipholdings, Inc. (OSI) were recently given awards for their professionalism and skills. This year’s Peter Hulsebosch Shipmate of the Year award was given to AB Iqbal Kosar and Steward/Baker Caezar Mercado. Kosar, who recently sailed aboard the USNS Soderman, was noted in the award announcement for being a “kindhearted shipmate with the patience and professionalism to perform his job with excellent results.” Kosar’s award this year can be added to his pile of accolades for a job well done; he was honored with the Shipmate of the Year award last year as well. Mercado recently sailed aboard the USNS Red Cloud and was credited for maintaining a positive, cheerful, and Celebrating the awards are (from left) SIU Port Agent Mike Russo, Steward/Baker Caezar Mercado, Ocean Shipholdings VP of Operations Robert Sheen, AB Iqbal Kosar and SIU Asst. VP Jim McGee. Mercado and Kosar are this year’s main honorees. July 2012 11765_July_2012_X.indd 11 professional attitude all year. Mercado was acclaimed for keeping the galley operating at a high standard throughout the year and keeping the crew well-fed with nutritious meals. The Peter Hulsebosch Shipmate of the Year award is presented each year to OSI employees who “embody good seamanship, professionalism, cooperation and teamwork,” according to a message from the company announcing the award winners. The award was created in memory of Chief Mate Peter Hulsebosch who began his career with the SIU as an AB and eventually worked his way through the ranks to chief mate. Hulsebosch passed away in 2008, but served throughout his life as an exemplary worker and union member, according to those who knew him. The award was established in his honor to recognize others who possessed these and other positive characteristics. In addition to Mercado and Kosar who were the outright winners, several other SIU members were given honorable mentions. Those Seafarers are AB Beltran Cahapay, QMED John Fichter, Chief Electrician Lowell Lemm, QE Tyler Womack and Electrician Kashmir Dhillon. highlighting the Milwaukee port call. Ship photographers and aficionados have followed the vessel’s historic trek, posting various images of Maersk Illinois online, the company also pointed out. The mining shovels aboard the Maersk Illinois are part of an ongoing relationship between Milwaukee-based P&H and Joy Global with the Russian Federation’s coal industry. A third shovel is slated for transport from Milwaukee in September, to be carried by the same vessel or its twin, the SIU-crewed Maersk Texas. The Maersk Illinois and Maersk Texas are the vessels making up Maersk-Rickmers U.S. Flag Project Carrier, or Maersk-Rickmers for short. Maersk-Rickmers is a partnership between MLL and Rickmers-Linie (America), Inc., and it “combines the capabilities of both companies to form a reliable global carrier for large and heavy cargo.” The Maersk Illinois reflagged under the Stars and Stripes in December, completing two voyages to West Africa before its most recent journey. Subsequently, the ship is slated to carry commercial cargo to the Middle East. MLL reported that the Illinois left Milwaukee on June 5; the voyage to Russia’s west coast was expected to take about two weeks. Upon the ship’s arrival, the shovels were to be loaded onto rail cars to complete their journey to the Kuzbass coal mine in western Siberia. Attention Seafarers: Another New Ship! SPAD Works For You! Contribute to the Seafarers Political Activity Donation SPAD Seafarers LOG 11 6/22/2012 9:32:14 AM �AB Robert Buzard OS Rich Swirtz, Bosun Munassar Ahmed, QMED/Electrician Chris Eason Third Mate Ed McDonnell, AB Arthur Quinney SIU-Crewed USNS Stockham Helps Maintain Strength of Military Prepositioning Program For SIU crew members working aboard prepositioning ships like the USNS GYSGT Fred W. Stockham, being part of America’s fourth arm of defense is all in a day’s work. Operated by Maersk Line, Limited, the Stockham is a key asset in the U.S. Military Sealift Command’s (MSC) prepositioning program. The agency describes that program as “an essential element in the U.S. military’s readiness strategy. Afloat prepositioning strategically places military equipment and supplies aboard ships located in key ocean areas to ensure rapid availability during a major theater war, a humanitarian operation or other contingency.” SIU-crewed prepositioning ships including the Stockham support not only the Navy and Marine Corps but also the Army, Air Force and Defense Logistics agency. MSC notes that the 30 vessels in the program “provide quick and efficient movement of military gear between operating areas without reliance on other nations’ transportation networks. These ships give U.S. regional combatant commanders the assurance that they will have what they need to quickly respond in a crisis – anywhere, anytime.” The Stockham is 906 feet long and has a beam of nearly 106 feet. It can sail at up to 24 knots. Third Mate Ed McDonnell, who submitted the photos accompanying this story, said the ship recently had been prepositioned in Diego Garcia when it received instructions to sail “down and around South Africa and up to Jacksonville, Fla., to download USMC equipment. Following that, the ship proceeded north to the shipyard in Philadelphia for a regular shipyard period.” 11765_July_2012_2X.indd 12-13 SA Cliff Simril OS Mutea Alnuzely Whether delivering cargo to our troops or bringing it home, Seafarers have a long and proud tradition of serving as part of the nation’s fourth arm of defense. Bosun Munassar Ahmed, Third Mate Ted Dodson, OS Rich Swirtz Cargo operations continue while the vessel is docked in Jacksonville. American military leaders consistently say that utilizing U.S.-crewed, U.S.-flag ships to carry materiel for our troops – like this assortment of cargo pictured in Jacksonville, Fla. – is both reliable and cost-effective. 12 Seafarers LOG The vessel’s roll-on/roll-off capabilities help make it a valuable part of MSC’s prepositioning program. Shipboard cranes enhance the Stockham’s versatility. July 2012 July 2012 The SIU-crewed USNS Stockham is operated by Maersk Line, Limited. Seafarers LOG 13 6/22/2012 6:55:22 PM �14 Seafarers LOG 11765_July_2012.indd 14 July 2012 6/21/2012 9:03:52 PM �August & September Membership Meetings Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea May 16, 2012 - June 15, 2012 Port Total Registered All Groups A B C Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Deck Department 10 10 1 7 7 1 5 6 12 2 2 1 0 1 0 1 1 3 3 1 7 4 1 5 6 1 3 6 9 1 12 7 1 11 12 0 17 18 18 1 3 5 2 1 3 2 1 3 7 0 9 3 1 4 5 2 1 16 5 3 43 20 4 26 9 0 17 89 29 3 37 25 3 26 20 2 17 65 41 2 4 5 2 2 5 2 1 4 3 1 16 5 1 5 1 0 1 22 8 3 13 3 1 9 2 1 6 25 8 5 42 13 6 39 17 0 20 81 29 8 21 13 8 11 17 1 6 30 43 10 18 8 3 12 9 1 6 36 11 3 4 5 1 2 3 1 2 11 7 0 1 2 0 1 0 0 0 2 4 0 15 2 2 5 2 1 0 17 10 4 35 13 5 21 7 3 11 66 28 6 4 0 2 2 0 1 1 5 3 2 38 12 3 26 21 1 27 55 42 11 334 156 47 216 146 21 143 560 320 66 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Engine Department 4 2 3 2 2 1 1 3 2 3 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 3 2 1 0 4 1 2 9 6 1 12 5 1 7 3 0 7 12 7 1 2 0 0 2 0 0 0 2 0 0 9 4 1 5 1 1 3 11 9 3 20 11 4 16 5 1 10 36 24 3 24 19 3 18 12 1 17 38 31 3 6 3 0 3 2 0 1 4 0 0 6 2 1 5 2 0 1 15 4 1 7 2 2 3 1 0 2 11 3 3 18 15 1 12 10 0 10 37 18 2 6 9 2 4 6 0 2 38 16 4 10 6 0 4 5 0 4 19 12 0 9 3 0 6 0 0 1 10 4 0 3 3 0 2 0 0 0 4 4 1 4 2 0 5 6 0 3 4 8 1 24 15 2 11 12 1 6 27 17 1 0 4 1 1 1 0 0 2 3 1 10 14 3 6 6 2 8 17 30 6 177 121 25 112 80 8 78 299 198 34 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Steward Department 2 4 4 3 2 5 3 4 4 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 4 2 1 9 4 0 7 4 0 4 16 5 0 2 1 1 0 1 0 0 4 2 1 10 3 0 14 1 0 4 16 5 0 17 2 0 15 4 0 5 23 10 0 17 5 1 12 4 0 10 26 3 1 1 2 0 0 3 0 0 1 2 0 5 0 0 1 2 0 0 12 2 1 4 2 0 3 1 1 2 10 4 1 22 5 1 20 5 1 15 36 7 0 9 14 0 10 8 1 9 15 22 0 15 4 0 14 2 1 9 29 7 2 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 3 2 0 4 3 0 4 1 0 3 5 2 0 25 3 0 12 4 0 10 34 6 0 1 1 0 2 0 0 1 1 2 1 32 2 2 25 4 1 13 47 4 2 180 58 9 142 47 10 88 288 92 11 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Entry Department 0 14 13 2 7 10 4 3 18 23 0 2 1 0 1 0 1 0 3 1 0 3 4 0 1 0 0 0 7 5 0 7 1 0 4 0 1 2 13 4 0 3 0 0 1 0 0 0 5 0 5 8 3 2 5 0 0 3 12 8 5 11 2 0 9 0 1 6 20 5 2 11 8 2 6 0 1 3 24 26 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 1 3 0 0 2 0 1 2 4 3 0 2 5 0 1 0 0 3 3 7 3 25 10 2 14 6 1 11 53 25 0 16 22 0 11 2 0 0 32 46 3 12 3 1 7 2 2 3 20 9 0 3 3 0 1 1 0 1 3 5 0 11 20 0 6 15 1 0 7 11 1 3 1 0 0 0 0 3 4 3 9 7 4 1 7 1 2 9 26 9 0 1 0 0 2 0 0 0 2 0 3 15 7 0 10 2 3 7 50 20 32 157 107 10 95 39 18 56 306 212 GRAND TOTALS: 723 492 188 480 368 78 327 1,203 916 323 Piney Point........Monday: August 6, *Tuesday, September 4 Algonac...............................Friday: August 10, September 7 Baltimore.........................Thursday: August 9, September 6 Guam............................Thursday: August 23, September 20 Honolulu...........................Friday: August 17, September 14 Houston..........................Monday: August 13, September 10 Jacksonville......................Thursday: August 9, September 6 Joliet.............................Thursday: August 16, September 13 Mobile......................Wednesday: August 15, September 12 New Orleans.....................Tuesday: August 14 , September 11 New York..........................Tuesday: August 7, September 4 Norfolk.............................Thursday: August 9, September 6 Oakland........................Thursday: August 16, September 13 Philadelphia..................Wednesday: August 8, September 5 Port Everglades............Thursday: August 16, September 13 San Juan...........................Thursday: August 9, September 6 St. Louis............................Friday: August 17, September 14 Tacoma.............................Friday: August 24, September 21 Wilmington.......................Monday: August 20, September 17 * Piney Point change created by Labor Day holiday Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Absentee Ballot Procedures Elections for the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU are scheduled for later this year. As in past SIU election years, a comprehensive guide will be published in the Seafarers LOG prior to the balloting. In the case of members eligible to vote who believe they will be at sea during the Nov. 1 through Dec. 31, 2012 voting period or who otherwise think they will need absentee ballots, absentee ballots will be available. The SIU constitution ensures that members who are eligible to vote and who find themselves in this situation may vote. Procedures are established in the SIU constitution to safeguard the secret ballot election, including the absentee ballot process. Here is the procedure to follow when requesting an absentee ballot: 1. Make the request in writing to the SIU office of the secretary-treasurer, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 2. Include in the request the correct address where the absentee ballot should be mailed. 3. Send the request for an absentee ballot by registered or certified mail. 4. The registered or certified mail envelope must be postmarked no later than midnight, Nov. 15, 2012 and must be received at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 no later than Nov. 25, 2012. 5. The secretary-treasurer, after confirming eligibility, will send by registered mail, return receipt requested, to the address designated in the request, a ballot, together with an envelope marked “Ballot” and a mailing envelope no later than Nov. 30, 2012. 6. Upon receiving the ballot and envelope, vote by marking the ballot. After voting the ballot, place the ballot in the envelope marked “Ballot.” Do not write on the “Ballot” envelope. 7. Place the envelope marked “Ballot” in the mailing envelope which is imprinted with the mailing address of the bank depository where all ballots are sent. 8. Sign the mailing envelope on the first line of the upper lefthand corner. Print name and book number on the second line. The mailing envelope is selfaddressed and stamped. 9. The mailing envelope must be postmarked no later than midnight, Dec. 31, 2012 and received by the bank depository no later than Jan. 5, 2013. ATTENTION SEAFARERS Help The Seafarers Polical Activity Donation (SPAD) Help You... Contribute Often! July 2012 11765_July_2012_X.indd 15 Total Shipped All Groups Trip A B C Reliefs Registered on Beach All Groups A B C Seafarers LOG 15 6/22/2012 9:32:15 AM �Inquiring Seafarer Seafarers International Union Directory 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 Kermett Mangram, 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 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 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 Editor’s note: Responses to this month’s question were provided by upgraders at the unionaffiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime and Education in Piney Point, Md., who were attending the steward recertification course. Question: What are some of the most effective measures you have seen implemented over the years to improve shipboard safety? James Brockington Recertified Steward The shipping companies have become more proactive in stressing safety. One company has a policy that allows anyone who sees a job being done in an unsafe manner to stop the job until the safety issue has been resolved. Another has implemented a cash reward and employee recognition program for reporting unsafe conditions. This same company also requires that the ship submit five near-miss incidents monthly. The culture of safety is very strong among us mariners. We all want to come back home in the same condition we left. Pedro Castillo Recertified Steward Education has been the most effective measure that I’ve seen over the years to enhance safety. It is advocated in all union meetings as well as aboard ship. As mariners, our expertise on safety is a direct result of education. Gene Von Flotow Recertified Steward Some companies mandate daily safety meetings. In the steward department, we have informal morning exchanges wherein we remind one another to employ good safety practices in all of our duties. One example is to always make sure that meat slicers are kept clean. Several companies out there are providing PPE equipment to help ensure that our work is done more safely. Donna Rye Recertified Steward Increased safety drills and more meetings aboard ship are some of the things that I have seen take place to enhance safety. I’ve also seen the increased implementation of ISO-ISM standards and practices. All of these have had very positive impacts. Just Self Recertified Steward Some of the most effective safety measures that I have seen implemented include safety observations, near-miss reporting, [specialized] training and safe foodhandling practices. In addition, I’ve seen the benefits of job hazard analysis partnerships. When this happens, on-site supervisors and crew members jointly assess job risks in order to eliminate potential accidents, injuries and other harmful factors from the work environment. The staff and crews of the Alaska Tanker Company, as well as (SIU Asst. VP) Archie Ware from the Port of Jacksonville do a great job constantly stressing safety awareness and excellence in the workplace. Juan Vallejo Hernandez Recertified Steward Education is the most critical measure in maintaining a safe work environment aboard ship. An educated mariner is a safe mariner. The president of our union as well as the staff and instructors at the Paul Hall Center are always advocating this to our membership. This is the best school in our industry for preparing seamen to do their jobs safely. Edvaldo Viana Recertified Steward I’ve been coming to upgrade at the Paul Hall Center constantly since I joined the SIU. On each occasion, I have noticed various improvements that have been implemented to enhance safety and the membership’s understanding of its importance and necessity. This is visible all around the school and especially at the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School. Both do a great job preparing the membership to work safely aboard all union-contracted vessels. Pic-From-The-Past NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 499-6600 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 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (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) 549-4000 Members of the SIU-affiliated United Industrial Workers have been employed for decades aboard the floating hotel Queen Mary in Long Beach, Calif. Standing left to right in this 1979 photo (taken in the Lady Hamilton Restaurant aboard the famed former ocean liner) are union members Chris Stratton, Carol Leydon and Carol Tomich (all waitresses) and Harriet Tomich (hostess). 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 16 Seafarers LOG 11765_July_2012.indd 16 July 2012 6/21/2012 9:04:01 PM �Welcome Ashore 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 waterways 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. DEEP SEA ALEJANDRO ALDAIZ Brother Alejandro Aldaiz, 65, became an SIU member in 1974 while in Houston. He sailed in both the inland and deep sea divisions. Brother Aldaiz originally worked with Dixie Carriers. He was born in Corpus Christi, Texas. Brother Aldaiz was a member of the deck department. He last shipped on the Liberty Pride. Brother Aldaiz calls San Antonio home. JOHN BURGER Brother John Burger, 65, joined the SIU in 1988. He initially sailed aboard the Dewayne T. Williams. Brother Burger shipped in the deck department. His final trip was on the Nedlloyd Holland. Brother Burger lives in Hilham, Tenn. LARRY CLAGHORN Brother Larry Claghorn, 69, donned the SIU colors in 1986. The deck department member’s first ship was operated by Steuart Transportation Company. In 2005, Brother Claghorn took advantage of educational opportunities at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. He most recently worked aboard the Sumner. Brother Claghorn resides in Ingleside, Texas. PAUL DORNES Brother Paul Dornes, 60, signed on with the Seafarers in 1969. He originally sailed aboard the Windjammer Janeen. Brother Dornes worked in the deck department. He attended classes often at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Prior to his retirement, Brother Dornes sailed on the El Yunque. He is a resident of Jacksonville, Fla. KONSTANTY DUCZYMINSKI Brother Konstanty Duczyminski, 71, began sailing with the union in 1998. His first trip was on the Steven L Bennett. Brother Duczyminski worked in the July 2012 11765_July_2012.indd 17 deck department. He upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school. Brother Duczyminski’s most recent voyage was aboard the Maersk Utah. He makes his home in Tigard, Ore. ROBERT HUDAS Brother Robert Hudas, 66, started his SIU career in 1968. He initially worked in the Great Lakes division with American Steamship Company. Brother Hudas was born in Michigan. He shipped in the deck and engine departments. Brother Hudas’ last trip was on the Sgt. William R. Button. He settled in Eastpointe, Mich. KENNY JOHNSON Brother Kenny Johnson, 60, became an SIU member in 1969. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Johnson enhanced his seafaring abilities in 2001 at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. His final ship was the Terrapin Island. Brother Johnson resides in Edgewater, Fla. ALFREDO SILVA Brother Alfredo Silva, 66, donned the SIU colors in 1998 while in Baltimore. His first vessel was the Global Mariner; his most recent, the Sunshine State. Brother Silva was a member of the engine department. He upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Silva calls Hialeah Gardens, Fla., home. TERRY TVEIT Brother Terry Tveit, 65, joined the Seafarers in 1965. He initially sailed with Alcoa Steamship Company. Brother Tveit worked in the deck department. He most recently shipped aboard the Great Land. Brother Tveit lives in Shoreline, Wash. INLAND ANDRES BRITO Brother Andres Brito, 70, signed on with the union in 1980. He sailed mostly in the inland division but made his last few trips aboard deep sea vessels. Brother Brito first sailed aboard vessels operated by Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jacksonville, Fla. The steward department member last sailed on the USNS Denebola. He makes his home in Jacksonville. FARRELL FRAZEE Brother Farrell Frazee, 59, began his SIU career in 1973. His first ship was the Sabine. Brother Frazee worked in the engine department. His final trip was aboard a Seabulk Tanker Inc. vessel. Brother Frazee is a resident of Beaumont, Texas. ROBERT JOINER Brother Robert Joiner, 55, started sailing with the SIU in 1979. He initially shipped with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jacksonville. Brother Joiner was a member of the engine department. He most recently sailed on the Vision. Brother Joiner resides in Ethel, Miss. CRAIG MELWING Brother Craig Melwing, 62, was born in New York. He joined the union in 1986 while in the port of Wilmington, Calif. Brother Melwing originally sailed in the deep sea division. His first ship was the USNS Algol. Brother Melwing upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Prior to his retirement, he worked with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Wilmington. Brother Melwing settled in Harbor City, Calif. WILLIAM ROSE ROBERT SAID Brother William Rose, 57, became a Seafarer in 1980. His first trip was aboard the Oceanic Independence. Brother Rose attended classes on numerous occasions at the SIU-affiliated school. He sailed in both the steward and deck departments. Brother Rose last worked with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Wilmington. He calls Pahoa, Hawaii, home. Brother Robert Said, 65, was born in Yemen. He became an SIU member in 1989. Brother Said’s earliest trip was aboard the Southdown Challenger. The deck department member’s most recent ship was the Alpena. Brother Said is a resident of Coldwater, Mich. WILLIAM TRAVIS Brother William Travis, 55, donned the SIU colors in 1975. His earliest trip to sea was on the Sabine. Brother Travis was a deck department member. His most recent vessel was operated by Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jacksonville. Brother Travis lives in Nederland, Texas. GREAT LAKES DANIEL NATTO Brother Daniel Natto, 63, signed on with the union in 1988. He initially sailed with Dunbar & Sullivan. In 1997, Brother Natto took advantage of educational opportunities at the Piney Point school. He last shipped with Great Lakes Towing Company. Brother Natto makes his home in Cleveland, Ohio. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION JAMES CALHOUN Webster, Texas. Brother James Calhoun, 64, began his career with the NMU in 1974. The Alabamaborn mariner last shipped on the Chilbar. Brother Calhoun resides in ARTHUR TAYLOR Brother Arthur Taylor, 65, joined the NMU in 1966. He is a South Carolina native. Brother Taylor’s most recent voyage was on the Lyra. He settled in Charleston, S.C. This Month In SIU History 1941 Following the certification by the Labor Board in the Robin Line election, the union, on July 21, signed a full agreement with the company. The contract included the closed shop, hiring through the union hall and top wages and working conditions that compared favorably with the best in the industry. Opposing unions weren’t a factor in this election, as they could not get on the ballot against the SIU. 1951 On July 20, Cities Service Oil Company agreed to the same conditions and benefits as were in effect with all other SIU-contracted tanker companies. On the terms of the agreement Cities Service agreed to the same SIU industry-wide vacation plan that the union had won from its other contracted operators on June 1. First payments by the company to the vacation plan were made retroactive to June 1. In addition the new agreement provided for an increase in the stewards’ department manning scale on Cities Service tankers with one messman being added to each ship. Other working conditions were improved in order to bring the Cities Service ships in line with the remainder of the SIU fleet. 1961 The number of companies signed to new SIU contracts neared the 100 percent mark this month when Bloomfield Steamship reached agreement with the union, leaving Alcoa as the sole remaining major holdout in the dispute which last month precipitated the 18-day maritime strike. The Bloomfield agreement was considered particularly significant because Bloomfield and Alcoa were the two SIU-contracted companies which had assigned their bargaining rights to the American Merchant Marine Institute (AMMI). AMMI was the chief foe of the unions during the contract dispute. 1982 Construction on the SIU’s brand new sixstory headquarters building in Camp Springs, Md. is nearing completion. The building is located just minutes by car from downtown Washington, D.C. All of the exterior work has been completed, and interior work is moving along rapidly. The building should be ready for occupation in the next few months. The opening of this structure gives the SIU a very visible presence in Washington, where the fortune of the U.S. maritime industry is decided on a daily basis. Seafarers LOG 17 6/21/2012 9:04:04 PM �Final Departures DEEP SEA RICHARD ALMOJERA Pensioner Richard Almojera, 71, passed away Feb. 17. Brother Almojera, a New Orleans native, joined the union in 1961. He initially shipped with Seatrain Lines, Inc. Brother Almojera sailed in the engine department and was last employed by NPR Inc. He went on pension in 2001 and resided in Boynton Beach, Fla. FRANCISCO ANCHETA Pensioner Francisco Ancheta, 76, died Feb. 7. Brother Ancheta first donned the SIU colors in 1970. He originally sailed on the Pacer. The steward department member last shipped aboard the Challenger. Brother Ancheta retired in 2002 and lived in Vallejo, Calif. HOLLIS BISHOP Pensioner Hollis Bishop, 89, passed away Jan. 23. Brother Bishop became a Seafarer in 1952. He first shipped on the La Salle. Brother Bishop, who worked in the engine department, was born in Alabama. His final trip was aboard a vessel operated by Michigan Tankers Inc. Brother Bishop went on pension in 1974 and called Collierville, Tenn., home. HARRY DAVIS Pensioner Harry Davis, 91, died Jan. 29. Brother Davis was a Florida native. He began sailing with the union in 1966. Brother Davis’ first trip to sea was on the Platte. He shipped in the deck department. Brother Davis last worked aboard the Ambassador. He became a pensioner in 1986 and made his home in Jacksonville. MELVIN FERGUSON Pensioner Melvin Ferguson, 72, passed away Jan. 15. Brother Ferguson joined the union in 1968. He initially shipped aboard the Fairland. Brother Ferguson was an engine department member. His final ship was the Kodiak. Brother Ferguson retired in 2000. He was a resident of Port Orchard, Wash. VINCENT GRIMA Pensioner Vincent Grima, 91, died Feb. 13. Brother Grima was born in Malta. He started sailing with 18 Seafarers LOG 11765_July_2012.indd 18 the SIU in 1962 while in the port of New York. Brother Grima was first employed on the Steel Survey. He worked in the deck department. Brother Grima’s last voyage was aboard the Ranger. He began collecting his retirement compensation in 1985. Brother Grima settled in Brooklyn, N.Y. RICHARD JOHANSEN Brother Richard Johansen, 64, passed away Feb. 6. He first donned the SIU colors in 1998 in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Brother Johansen’s earliest trip was on the Sumner. The deck department member most recently worked aboard the Pride of Aloha. Brother Johansen was a resident of Imperial Beach, Calif. JOHN KATSOS Pensioner John Katsos, 94, died Jan. 21. Brother Katsos was born in Massachusetts. He began his seafaring career in 1955 while in Seattle. He originally shipped with Blue Stack Towing Company and primarily sailed in the steward department. Prior to his retirement in 1985, Brother Katsos worked on the Independence. He resided in Seattle. THOMAS KENNY Pensioner Thomas Kenny, 88, passed away Jan. 23. Brother Kenny became a Seafarer in 1963. His first vessel was the Commander; his last, the American Cormorant. Brother Kenny, who sailed in the deck department, went on pension in 1988 and lived in Sea Level, N.C. Martinez worked in the engine department. His last ship was the Puerto Rico. Brother Martinez went on pension in 2002. He was a resident of Bayamon, P.R. HERMINIO PACHECO Pensioner Herminio Pacheco, 87, passed away Feb. 14. Brother Pacheco, a native of Puerto Rico, began sailing with the SIU in 1951. His first voyage was aboard the Robin Kettering. Brother Pacheco was a deck department member. His final trip was on the Sealift Mediterranean. Brother Pacheco retired in 1985 and settled in York, Pa. FULGENCIO PEREZ Pensioner Fulgencio Perez, 86, died Nov. 23. Brother Perez became an SIU member in 1965. He sailed with various companies including Calmar Steamship Corporation and NPR Inc. Brother Perez, a member of the deck department, began receiving his pension in 1990 called Baltimore home. RODNEY PONTIFLET Brother Rodney Pontiflet, 53, passed away Feb. 10. He joined the SIU ranks in 1978 in Piney Point, Md. The engine department member’s first trip to sea was aboard the Finance. Brother Pontiflet last shipped on the Trader. He made his home in Antioch, Calif. DAVID RAMIREZ Pensioner Keramidas Konstantinos, 77, died Dec. 5. Brother Konstantinos joined the SIU in 1966. His first voyage was aboard the Yaka. Brother Konstantinos was born in Greece and worked in the engine department. His final trip was on the Mt. Vernon Victory. Brother Konstantinos started receiving his retirement compensation in 1986. He continued to call Greece home. Pensioner David Ramirez, 84, died Jan. 30. Brother Ramirez began his seafaring career in 1944 while in the port of New Orleans. He originally sailed aboard the Alcoa Runner. Brother Ramirez was born in Florida and worked in the deck department. He last shipped on a Michigan Tankers Inc. vessel. Brother Ramirez became a pensioner in 1978 and lived in Alabama. LUIS MALAVE JOHN RIVERA Pensioner Luis Malave, 78, passed away Jan. 28. Brother Malave was born in Puerto Rico. He began sailing with the union in 1968. Brother Malave’s earliest trip was on the Robin Locksley. The engine department member’s final trip was aboard the Motivator. Brother Malave retired in 1998 and made his home in Guayama. Pensioner John Rivera, 91, passed away Dec. 29. Brother Rivera joined the union as a charter member in 1938. He shipped with Sinclair Oil Corporation during his early years. Brother Rivera was born in Ponce, P.R. Before retiring in 1983, he sailed in both the deck and engine departments. Brother Rivera was a resident of Orlando, Fla. KERAMIDAS KONSTANTINOS DIONISIO MARTINEZ Pensioner Dionisio Martinez, 74, died Jan. 24. Brother Martinez first donned the SIU colors in 1966. He initially shipped on the Wacosta. Brother LUTHER ROBINSON Brother Luther Robinson, 54, died Feb. 15. He was born in California. Brother Robinson started sailing with the SIU in 1997 while in San Francisco. He initially shipped aboard the USNS Silas Bent as a member of the steward department. Brother Robinson’s final ship was the R J Pfeiffer. He settled in San Francisco. YAHIA SALEH Brother Yahia Saleh, 25, passed away Jan. 23. He became a union member in 2005. Brother Saleh sailed in the engine department of vessels operated by American Steamship Company including the Adam E. Cornelius and American Mariner. He called Dearborn, Mich., home. JOHN SAUERHEBER Pensioner John Sauerheber, 92, died Jan. 31. Brother Sauerheber joined the SIU ranks in 1946. He sailed with Sprogue Steamship Company, Waterman, Delta Lines and others. Brother Sauerheber was born in Collum, Ill., and worked in the deck department. Prior to his retirement in 1979, he shipped on the Anchorage. Brother Sauerheber lived in Corydon, Ind. CLAUDIO UDAN Pensioner Claudio Udan, 68, passed away Jan. 28. Brother Udan first donned the SIU colors in 1989. He initially sailed aboard the Independence. Brother Udan, a member of the deck department, was last employed on the Horizon Trader. He made his home in Fairfield, Calif. GERALD YORE Brother Gerald Yore, 76, died Feb. 10. He was a native of Oak Park, Ill. Brother Yore originally worked with Red Circle Transport Company. The engine department member last sailed on the LNG Leo. Brother Yore resided in Michigan. INLAND DAN GISCLAIR Brother Dan Gisclair, 60, passed away Dec. 27. He joined the union in 1993. Brother Gisclair primarily sailed with American Marine Corporation. He was a resident of Raceland, La. VINCENT MOORE Brother Vincent Moore, 61, died Jan. 31. He joined the SIU ranks in 1990 while in the port of New Orleans. Brother Moore mainly sailed on vessels operated by OSG Ship Management. The deck department member lived in Brandon, Miss. GREAT LAKES WILLIE CICHOCKE Pensioner Willie Cichocke, 86, passed away Jan. 24. Brother Cichocke started his SIU career in 1960 while in Detroit. He worked in the engine department of American Steamship Company vessels. Brother Cichocke was a native of Wisconsin but called Chicago home. He became a pensioner in 1990. JOHN PERRY Pensioner John Perry, 80, died Jan. 6. Brother Perry first donned the SIU colors in 1978 in Detroit. He originally worked on the Niagara. Brother Perry’s final trip was aboard the H Lee White. A member of both the deck and engine departments, he went on pension in 1996 and made his home in South Daytona, Fla. Editor’s note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU), have passed away. FRANCIS CLOTHIER Pensioner Francis Clothier, 86, passed away Jan. 26. Brother Clothier became a pensioner in 1987. He made his home in New Jersey. ARTHUR KANE Pensioner Arthur Kane, 89, died Feb. 27. Brother Kane, a New York native, started collecting his pension in 1987. He called St. Petersburg, Fla., home. HERMAN MCCOY Pensioner Herman McCoy, 85, died Feb. 5. Brother McCoy was born in Virginia. He went on pension in 1995. Brother McCoy settled in Hertford, N.C. JOHN McCORMICK Pensioner John McCormick, 85, died Feb. 14. Brother McCormick became an SIU member in 1970. He shipped with Interstate Oil Transportation Company for the duration of his career. Brother McCormick was a member of the deck department. He retired in 1988 and called Middletown, Del., home. BERNARD MILLINGTON Pensioner Bernard Millington, 89, passed away Jan. 27. Brother Millington was born in Maine. He began sailing with the union in 1969, initially working aboard an Allied Transportation Company vessel. Brother Millington shipped in the steward department. He was last employed with Mariner Towing. Brother Millington went on pension in 1990 and settled in Safety Harbor, Fla. Name Flynn, James Foo, Yue Rosario, Alejandro White, Kelvin Age 91 99 98 70 DOD Jan. 23 Feb. 15 Jan. 18 Feb. 4 July 2012 6/21/2012 9:04:07 PM �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring 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. EL MORRO (Sea Star), April 25 – Chairman Thomas W. Grosskurth, Secretary Rafael A. Cardenas, Educational Director Joseph A. Letang, Engine Delegate Kenneth L. Biddle. Chairman went over ship’s itinerary and reminded them of upcoming contract. He encouraged mariners to check expiration dates and keep documents current. Educational director urged crew to attend classes at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestions were made regarding rotary jobs. Steward department was thanked for good food. Aboard the Overseas Anacortes These photos from the double-hulled tanker Overseas Anacortes were submitted by Patrolman Nick Marrone II after a recent servicing in Crockett, Calif. Pictured from left to right in the group photo aboard the Overseas Shipholding Group vessel are SA Frances Bautista, GUDE Fausto Aranda, AB Irving Rochez, STOS Connie Adejado, GUDE Carlos Castillo, Steward/Baker Dana Paradise, Bosun Felsher Beasley, AB Edward Gavagan, STOS Orvin Mejia and QEP Cary Pratts. Pratts also is pictured at the far left while Adejado is shown at immediate left. HORIZON PACIFIC (Horizon Lines), April 30 – Chairman Augustus C. Udan, Secretary Robert P. Mosley, Educational Director John A. Osburn, Engine Delegate Larry P. Calixto, Deck Delegate Nicole Geideman, Steward Delegate Christopher W. Hyatt. Bosun expressed gratitude to fellow crew members for working safely. Seafarers were reminded to keep documents current and keep noise down while people are sleeping. He requested all crew members departing vessel to clean rooms and supply fresh linens for reliefs. Secretary encouraged members to donate to SPAD (Seafarers Political Activity Donation) and keep documents up-todate. Educational director reminded crew to get their time in and take advantage of upgrading at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Treasurer reported $341.23 in cookout fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Bosun read president’s report from Seafarers LOG, and crew members accepted and gave a vote of thanks to President Sacco and his staff. Recommendations were made pertaining to wages and wording on vacation application. Crew members thanked steward department for great food and a clean house. Next ports: Tacoma, Wash., Oakland, Calif. and Hawaii. MAERSK UTAH (Maersk Line, Limited), April 29 – Chairman Ovidio J. Santos, Secretary Daniel L. Wehr, Educational Director Troy Ancar, Engine Delegate Tsawang L. Gyume, Steward Delegate Winston W. Coburn. Chairman read and discussed president’s report from the Seafarers LOG. Educational director suggested Seafarers take advantage of courses available at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. No beefs or disputed OT reported. It was noted satellite TV would be set up in all rooms. Request was made for a small flat screen TV and DVD player for state room. Members would July 2012 11765_July_2012_2X.indd 19 also like satellite phone in the crew lounge. Next port: Newark, N.J. OVERSEAS LUXMAR (OSG Ship Management), April 29 – Chairman Albert E. Mensah, Secretary Nancy S. Heyden, Educational Director Carlos L. Sanchez, Steward Delegate George Quinn. Bosun thanked crew for their hard work and advised them to read the constitution and contract of the ship before taking a job. He asked that everyone take care on decks as they are freshly waxed. Secretary requested mariners remove empty boxes when last item is taken in the common cleaning gear locker. No beefs or disputed OT reported. The procedure for handling a beef aboard the vessel was discussed. Dishwasher and hot water pot in crew mess need to be fixed or replaced. Next ports: Houston and Corpus Christi, Texas. PRESTIGE NEW YORK (Liberty Maritime), April 15 – Chairman Elkanah B. Ladia, Secretary Lionell P. Packnett, Educational Director Timothy J. Brock, Deck Delegate Val Curtis. Chairman talked about transportation issue with apprentice. He asked crew to be courteous when washing clothes and put other member’s clothes in dryer. Secretary reminded mariners to renew necessary seafaring documents early. No beefs; disputed OT reported in deck department. It was reported the washer and dryer were not working. Crew expressed the need for commercial dryers. They would also like refrigerators in member’s rooms. Steward thanked crew for helping keep duty mess clean. Next ports: Kingston, Jamaica; Galveston, Texas; Beaumont, Texas; and Jacksonville, Fla. SULPHUR ENTERPRISE (Waterman Steamship Corporation), April 29 – Chairman Jessie L. Mixon, Secretary Abraham M. Martinez, Educational Director Glenn G. Barnes, Deck Delegate Earnest Dillard, Engine Delegate Luis Fernandez. Bosun announced payoff in Tampa, Fla. He thanked everyone aboard for a smooth voyage. Educational director urged mariners to upgrade often at the Piney Point school. He also talked about the importance of keeping documents current. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman encouraged members to read about their pension, vacation and prescription benefits. Crew asked about status of new standard contracts. LIBERTY PRIDE (Liberty Maritime), May 6 – Chairman Lionel Rivas, Secretary Sajid D. Foster, Educational Director Keith L. Carswell, Deck Delegate Lloyd Lindsey, Steward Delegate Lissette Bonilla. Chairman talked about ship’s itinerary. Educational director advised all mariners to enhance skills at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. and contribute to SPAD. He recommended they stay informed of issues affecting the union. Treasurer noted $500 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Mariners would like refrigerators in rooms. Discussion was held concerning stores and quality of provisions. Steward and bosun thanked crew and UA for their assistance with this issue. LIGHTNING (Maersk Line, Limited), May 6 – Chairman Shawn T. Evans, Secretary Ernest Polk, Educational Director Fidel C. Blanco, Deck Delegate James D. Morgan, Engine Delegate Marion M. Cruzat, Steward Delegate Wiley Owens. Bosun reported good trip and asked those departing to sign out with mate and leave keys to get discharge. Secretary thanked fellow seafarers for maintaining clean decks. Educational director suggested mariners take advantage of courses available at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. He also urged them to renew documents in a timely manner. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request was made to have direct deposit of vacation checks. Steward department was thanked for excellent meals. Next port: Los Angeles. OVERSEAS HOUSTON (OSG Ship Management), May 8 – Chairman Calvin M. Miles, Secretary Justo R. Lacayo, Educational Director Lamar A. Parker. Chairman asked crew members leaving vessel to clean rooms for next mariner. Educational director urged mariners to upgrade often at the Piney Point school. No beefs; disputed OT reported in the deck department. Vote of thanks to the steward department for good food. Next port: New Orleans. OVERSEAS TAMPA (OSG Ship Management), May 6 – Chairman Joseph J. Caruso, Secretary George Monseur, Educational Director Scott S. Fuller, Deck Delegate Antonio Miana, Engine Delegate George Galanis. Chairman congratulated crew for doing a great job and notified them of upcoming Coast Guard inspection. Educational director reminded crew to get their time in and take advantage of upgrading at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew expressed gratitude to the steward department for excellent meals. Next ports: Los Angeles, Richmond, Calif. and Honolulu. Seafarers LOG 19 6/22/2012 6:30:58 PM �Aboard the Union-Crewed Maersk Missouri in Bahrain Chief Mate Mohyeldeen El-Abbasi submitted this photo of “my deck crew aboard the Maersk Missouri at ASRY Shipyard in Bahrain.” Pictured from left are AB Abdalla Gaafar, Deck Cadet Alex Cline, Unlicensed Apprentice Jose Del Valle, Bosun Oliver Balico, AB Goducel Pascua and AB Fermin Baltazar. SIU CIVMARS Support ‘Pacific Partnership’ The hospital ship USNS Mercy, shown June 6 off the coast of Manado, Indonesia, recently mobilized for Pacific Partnership 2012, a yearly humanitarian and civic assistance mission. Unlicensed mariners aboard the Military Sealift Command vessel are members of the SIU Government Services Division. This year’s Pacific Partnership is scheduled to last longer than four months and will take the vessel to Indonesia, the Philippines, Vietnam and Cambodia. In the other photo, a group of Indonesian and multinational Pacific Partnership surgeons operates on an Indonesian patient aboard the ship early last month. (Both photos courtesy U.S. Navy) Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the 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 recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU 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 disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval 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 shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively 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 employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The 20 Seafarers LOG 11765_July_2012.indd 20 proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers 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 filing 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 SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful 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 responsibility for Sea­farers 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 OBLIGATIONS. 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 headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Conse­quently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION (SPAD). SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect 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 Michael 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. July 2012 6/21/2012 9:04:15 PM �Paul Hall Center Upgrading Course Information The following is the schedule of courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md., for the next few months. All programs are geared to improving the job skills of Seafarers and to promoting the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—the nation’s security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. 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 Able Seaman August 4 August 31 October 13 November 9 ARPA July 28 August 3 October 27 November 2 Bosun Recertification July 14 August 6 ECDIS September 29 October 5 December 8 December 14 Fast Rescue Boat July 28 August 3 GMDSS November 24 December 7 Lifeboatman/Water Survival July 21 August 3 August 18 August 31 September 15 September 28 October 13 October 26 November 11 November 23 December 8 December 21 Radar Observer July 14 July 27 October 13 October 26 June 25 June 25 Radar Renewal (One day) August 13 August 13 November 16 November 16 STOS July 14 July 27 September 15 September 28 Engine Department July 14 Adv. Refer Containers August 10 Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations (BAPO) July 21 August 17 September 15 October 12 November 10 December 7 FOWT August 18 September 14 October 13 November 9 Junior Engineer August 25 October 19 Machinist July 28 August 17 August 18 September 7 Marine Electrician October 20 December 14 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 #___________________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? o Yes o No If yes, course(s) taken____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back or relevant pages of merchant mariner credential, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested, 1995 STCW Certificate, valid SHBP Clinic Card and TWIC. July 2012 11765_July_2012.indd 21 Title of Course Start Date Date of Completion Pumpman September 8 September 21 Welding July 7 July 27 September 15 October 5 October 20 November 9 November 24 December 14 Steward Department Chief Steward July 7 August 17 October 13 November 23 Serve Safe July 7 July 13 September 29 October 5 Chief Cook These modules start every other week. The next class begins July 2. Galley Operations/Advanced Galley Operations These modules start every Monday. The next classes will begin July 2. Safety Courses Advanced Firefighting July 21 July 27 July 28 August 3 September 15 September 21 September 22 September 28 October 27 November 2 December 1 December 7 Basic Firefighting/STCW July 7 July 13 August 11 August 17 September 15 September 21 October 13 October 19 November 3 November 9 December 1 December 7 August 18 August 24 Government Vessels September 29 October 5 November 24 November 30 July 28 August 3 Medical Care Provider August 4 August 10 September 22 September 28 September 29 October 5 November 3 November 9 December 8 December 14 Tank PIC Barge December 8 December 14 Tanker Asst. Cargo DL July 14 July 27 NMC Website Provides Useful Mariner Resources The National Maritime Center (NMC), the licensing authority for the U.S. Coast Guard, offers a comprehensive website covering mariner credentialing, medical guidelines and much more. The site features a wide range of applications and forms, deck- and engine-department exam information, lists of Coast Guard-approved courses and more. Seafarers are encouraged to check out the site at:http://www.uscg.mil/nmc/ Mariners may call the NMC at 1-888-IASKNMC (1-888-427-5662). Operational hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday. (The NMC is closed for all federal holidays.) Various email forms also are available through the NMC web site. COURSE ____________________________ START DATE _______________ DATE OF 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 students, who are otherwise qualified, of 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. 7/12 Seafarers LOG 21 6/21/2012 9:04:15 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes Unlicensed Apprentice Water Survival Class 759 – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) completed this course May 11: Cris Arsenio, Jeffrey Beasley, Julian Beasley, Ahmed Mohamed Eissa, Clifford Evans, Fadhel Hussein, Andrew Johnson, Jamie Mendoza, Ingrid Oritz, Yolanda St. Clair, Brett Tiedeman, Samuel Tilles and Aurora Williams. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Medical Care Provider – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course May 18: Ahmed Abolela, Norman Arquillano, James Atwell, Sidnei Aparecido Barboza, Timothy Culwell, Kenric Henry, Leonard Johnson Jr., Karen Laycock, Frederick Kwaku Kotoku-Sackson and Jo-Vanio Sprauve. Mark Cates, their instructor, is standing at the far right. Fast Rescue Boat – Three individuals finished their requirements in this course May. 11. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: John Edwards, Angel Perez and Cesar Runatay. Class Instructor Tom Truitt is at the far right. Small Arms – Eight upgraders completed their requirements in this course May 25. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Alan Barnett, William Dowzicky, Rick James, Thomas Moore, Robert Oppel, David Sexton, Gregory White and Mariette Wright. Class Instructors Robbie Springer and Stan Beck are standing at the far left and far right, respectively. Basic and Advanced Fire Fighting – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course May 11: Ahmed Abolela, Nabil Ahmed, Aaron Anderson, James Atwell, Norman Arquillano, Sidnei Barboza, Timothy Culwell, Charles Jackson, Leonard Johnson Jr., Gerald McIntyre, John Richardson, Jo-Vanio Sprauve and Joseph Waller Jr. Class Instructor Mark Cates is standing at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) BST – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) completed this course May 18: Jason Allen, Wadeea Alnasafi, Jose Clotter, Joseph Dasteel, Eugene Evans Jr., Charles Ferguson, Edward Galbis, Jamie Guerrero, David Heindel, Sean Hernandez, Christopher Hughes, Army Leake, Demetrio Marchione, Kelly Mayo, Timothy McKibbon, Mark Rivers, Cesar Runatay, Tim Russell, Ramon Sanchez, Roy Saranthus, Kenneth Shaw, Christopher Sullivan, Richard Williams, Steven Woods and Julio Zapata. Class instructor Joe Zienda is standing at the far right in the back row. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Tankship Familiarization DL – The following students finished this course May 18. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Ahmed Yahya Ali, Brian Beasley, Justin Biggerstaff, Justin Bly, Darvin Brown, Christian Bryant, Jared Cabasug, Earl Dimmick, Scott Doxey, Cody Fox, Eric Garcia, Julius Gimutao, Rachel Janssen, Eser Kaptan, Jason Meyers, Nathan Nicholson, Stephen Nowell, Lucas Osborn, Leonard Patterson Jr., Nikita Ryshkov, Ervin Sadler II, Joshua Schwarz and Frederick Wright. 22 Seafarers LOG 11765_July_2012.indd 22 Welding – Five upgraders finished their requirements in this course May 18. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Donnell Criswell, Brian Jackson, James Orlanda, Jonathan Pampilon and Daniel Saunders. Their instructor, Buzzy Andrews, is standing at the far left in the back row. Radar Observer – Seven upgraders completed this course June 1. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Ahmed Abolela, Cleveland Foy, Eric Kjellberg, Ryan Legario, James Orlanda, Michael Presser and Mark Rivers. July 2012 6/21/2012 9:04:29 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes FOWT – Twenty three Seafarers (above) finished this course May 25: Nabil Ahmed, John Albritton, Kenneth Atkinson, Sean Branch, Ryan Brown, Corey Chandler, Michael Deren, Brandon Grace, Michael Gray, Ross Halsted, Victorino Labrilla, Antonio McAdams, Robert Noble, Roosevelt Osbourne, Michael Page, Zaza Tchitanava, Alexander Zharkoff, Major Brooks, Dhahabi Quraish, Romeo Cruda, Lucion Liles, Samuel Shuebrooks and Michael Souza. Class Instructor Tim Achorn is standing at the far left. Designated Duty Engineer- Six upgraders finished their requirements in this class May 4. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Sidnei Barbosa, Grant Gutter, Hurston Harcum, Clint Haylock, John Richardson Jr. and Larry Saunders. Their instructor, Jay Henderson, is at the far left. Water Survival – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) completed this course May 11: Ahmed Ahmed, Marcelo Alicea, Jason Allen, Joseph Dasteel, Rufino Gonzales Jr., Jamie Guerrero, David Heindel, Sean Hernandez, Christopher Hughes, Melchor Lapac Jr., Abdul Mohsen, Rodney Passapera Barbosa, Jethro Powers, Roy Saranthus, Steve Woods and Julio Zapata. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Galley Operations – Five Seafarers recently fulfilled their requirements in this course. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Efren Aguirre, Saeed Azahmadi, Robyn Majette, Ali Munsar and Tashara Newton. Chief Steward – Six steward department members recently completed the enhancement of their skills in this course. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Bebiana Eason, John Favreaux, Lisa Favreaux, Ismael Garayua, Elizabeth Ibanez and Norma West. Certified Chief Cook – Two Seafarers recently finished this course at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Eduation in Piney Point, Md. Completing their requirements (above from left) were Ismael Gonzalez and Lamond Fulton. Galley Operations – Four upgraders recently graduated from this course. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Marcelo Alicea, Sorrac Dognia, Abel Hernandez and Quentin Hood. BST HAWAII – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course May 26 at the Barbers Point, Hawaii-based Seafarers training center: Cori Bryan, Joel De Ocampo, Stephanie Johnson, Dennie Ladd, Jevon Lowery, Chelsie McRae, Kenneth Norberg, Henry Otazo, Crystal Ramsey, Benjamin Rodriquez, Jeremy Ruby, Sean Santiago, Marcelo Shah, Richard Stadlander, Ida Suardana, Kathryn Sunderhauf, Michelle Swain, Candace Tran and Andy Versoza. BST Hawaii – Twelve individuals completed this course June 2 at the Seafarers Training Facility in Hawaii. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Travis Bosshardt, Robert Chambers, Geoffrey Devine, Jeremiah Floyd, Heriberto Jimenez, Brandon Larkin, David Reimer, Joseph Roma, Sandybell Salazar, Richard Teytom Sambola, Daniel Zubovic and Richard Blough. Advanced Galley Operations – Four stewards recently graduated from this course. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Wilmer Alvarez, Charles Davis, Kim Kalua and Robert Wright Jr. Chief Cook – Three steward department members recently finished this course. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Eugenio Cabral Jr., Michael Ray and JonDa Tanner. Important Notice Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover - for whatever reason - that they can’t attend, should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. July 2012 11765_July_2012.indd 23 Seafarers LOG 23 6/21/2012 9:04:46 PM �Volume 74, Number 7 July 2012 Paul Hall Center Course Dates Page 21 SIU Wilmington Port Agent Jeff Turkus stands with U.S. Rep. Janice Hahn after the annual ceremony in San Pedro, Calif. Honoring mariners at a ceremony in Washington, D.C., are (from left) Deputy Transportation Secretary John Porcari, Associate Maritime Administrator Kevin Tokarski and MarAd Director of Ship Operations Bill Cahill. Los Angeles Councilman Joseph Buscaino was one of the featured speakers at the AMMV ceremony in San Pedro. SIU Guam Port Agent John Hoskins (left) and CDR Brian Peterson, commanding officer of MSC Ship Support Unit Guam, are pictured at the union hall on Maritime Day. Mariners Honored Across Nation Seafarers Recognized at Memorial Day, Maritime Day Events Beginning on May 22 – National Maritime Day – and continuing a week later on Memorial Day, U.S. Merchant Mariners were honored during ceremonies across the country as well as in written statements from the administration, Congress and fellow trade unionists. SIU members and officials participated in various observances in California, Texas, Guam, the nation’s capital and elsewhere. (The Washington, D.C. events of May 22 were covered in detail in the May issue of the LOG.) On Memorial Day, U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood used his “FastLane” blog to remind readers of the historic sacrifices of America’s mariners. He wrote about a ceremony one day earlier commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War, and pointed out, “Even when they are not called to active duty, many of America’s merchant mariners serve their nation through sealift operations that support our military overseas. During the Vietnam War, 172 ships were activated from the National Defense Reserve Fleet and assigned to commercial shippers to support American military forces.” He then described the dangers faced by civilian mariners supporting our troops in Vietnam. Finally, LaHood wrote that the mariners who died during the war “served on ships that brought mail, helicopters, ammunition, food, medical supplies, and more. They carried troops and brought home many of those whose names are found on the Vietnam Memorial. “U.S. Merchant Mariners have paid the ultimate sacrifice in conflicts across our nation’s history. For their service, we say thank you.” For Maritime Day, in addition to the traditional White House proclamation saluting the service and value of seafarers, communications were issued by Senator Mark Warner (D-Va.), U.S. Rep. Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), and the AFL-CIO’s Transportation Trades Department (TTD). Warner credited merchant mariners “for their dedication to promoting commerce and protecting our freedom. The United States Merchant Marine … has served our country honorably. It has met our country’s economic and security needs whether in wartime or in peace.” Hirono directed her message specifically to Aloha State maritime workers. “More than 10,000 hardworking maritime and longshore workers literally help to keep our state going by bringing in the goods we rely upon,” she stated. “Without their commitment to transporting cargo and people, our islands would come to a standstill…. We also pay tribute to the U.S. Merchant Mariners who work to transport cargo to ports around the world.  Their service and sacrifice have helped to defend our nation by connecting service members to the supplies they need, often in treacherous and unstable situations. In addition, the efforts of our merchant mariners enable American exports to enter the global marketplace, maintaining essential domestic and international trade net- works that strengthen our national economy.” She concluded, “The maritime community reminds us of the importance of the Jones Act to ensure efficient, reliable shipping to Hawaii. Warmest mahalo to all who work on our waterways and around the world on this National Maritime Day.” The TTD, in addition to thanking maritime workers, said the industry must be maintained and strengthened. “A strong maritime industry is critical to our multi-modal transportation system and economy, and it plays a critical role in protecting national security,” the department’s statement pointed out. “But because our ships and navigation channels are not as visible as congested highways, aging bridges and deteriorating transit systems, funding for our ports and waterways is far too often pushed down the priority list. This neglect must end. “We also renew our vigorous support for a strong, privately owned U.S.-flag fleet through policies such as U.S. cargo preference laws and the Jones Act. These laws are essential if the U.S. is to keep an adequate pool of trained mariners capable of meeting sealift objectives…. “The skilled employees in the maritime industry work tirelessly to keep our country and our economy moving, often in dangerous and trying circumstances. It is especially appropriate to pause today and thank these workers who risk their lives to preserve our freedom and our economic strength around the world.” Attending the observance at the American Merchant Marine Veterans Memorial in San Pedro, Calif., are (from left) GUDE Mohammad Siddiq, ACU Larry Ballard, Bosun Gerry Gianan, QMED/Electrician Anwar Muthala, Port Agent Jeff Turkus, DEU Jason Stutes, Bosun Richard Barnhart and AB George Siegel. 11765_July_2012.indd 24 The union donated this wreath for the commemoration in San Pedro, Calif. Coast Guard Captain James Jenkins addresses the crowd in San Pedro. 6/21/2012 9:04:58 PM � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2010-2019 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXII-LXXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2010-2019 Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource July 2012 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES RESCUE AT SEA HORIZON RELIANCE DOES IT AGAIN GREAT LAKES GROUP CHRISTENS TUGBOAT SEAFARERS HEALTH AND BENEFITS PLAN AWARDS $132,000 FOR 2012 COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS SIU GAINS JOBS ON BBC SEATTLE MUA: ‘FOC SHIPPING CAN BE DEFEATED’ GREAT LAKES GROUP CHRISTENS NEW TUG TSA ANNOUNCES OPTION FOR 3-YEAR ‘EXTENDED EXPIRATION DATE’ TWIC THIRD JHSV UNDER CONSTRUCTION NOAA COMMISSIONS NEW HIGH-TECH VESSEL MAERSK TEXAS CREW SAFE FOLLOWING PIRATE ATTACK COAST GUARD HONORS SIU-CONTRACTED COMPANIES CROWLEY MARITIME RECOGNIZED BY NOAA MARITIME UNIONS: COAST GUARD EDITORIAL ‘UNFAIR AND INACCURATE’ GLMTF NAMES OHIO REP. GIBBS GREAT LAKES LEGISLATOR OF YEAR ILO ELECTS RYDER TO EXECUTIVE POST JACKSONVILLE HOSTS REGIONAL, TRUSTEES MEETINGS MEMBERS THANK PRESIDENT SACCO, EXECUTIVE BOARD FOR EXHIBITING ‘EXTRAORDINARY LEADERSHIP’ U.S. MILITARY, GOVERNMENT LEADERS URGE PASSAGE OF LAW OF SEA TREATY MERCHANT MARINERS, MSC RECEIVE ACCOLADES ON DEFENSE NEWS SITE HONOLULU-AREA SIU MEMBERS BACK PRO-MARITIME CANDIDATES MAERSK ILLINOIS MAKES HISTORIC PORT CALL OCEAN SHIPHOLDINGS HONORS SEAFARERS SIU-CREWED USNS STOCKHAM HELPS MAINTAIN STRENGTH OF MILITARY PREPOSITIONING PROGRAM MARINERS HONORED ACROSS NATION SEAFARERS RECOGNIZED AT MEMORIAL DAY, MARITIME DAY EVENTS Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 07/01/20120 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 74, No. 7 http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/4c375bc544602aed189b9d39116aa982.pdf 00ffd85f5dc8cd33d44cb1bc46109b78 PDF Text Text Volume 75, Number 7 July 2013 New Tankers Ordered General Dynamics NASSCO, a union shipyard, has announced an agreement to build at least four new vessels for American Petroleum Tankers (APT), whose ships are managed by Seafarers-contracted Crowley Maritime. The contract between the shipyard and APT includes options for four additional tankers. An artist’s rendering of one of the ships is shown here. Page 3. SHBP Scholarship Winners Announced Page 7 Maersk Continues Fleet Upgrade SIU-contracted Maersk Line, Limited last month was on schedule to complete the reflaggings of eight vessels being brought under the Stars and Stripes, including the Maersk Detroit (below). The company is replacing older ships with newer, larger ones, all of which will be enrolled in the U.S. Maritime Security Program. Page 3. Seafarers Support Military Exercise ‘Dawn Blitz 2013’ SIU members aboard the prepositioning ship USNS 1st Lt. Jack Lummus recently supported our troops participating in exercise Dawn Blitz 2013. Here, cargo splashes ashore in southern California during the multinational training. The Lummus is operated by Maersk Line, Limited. (Photo courtesy U.S. Military Sealift Command) MSC Commander Salutes Mariners Page 2 15047_JULY2K13LOG_X3.indd 1 Port Council Honors ATC President Page 4 More ‘Deep Freeze’ Photos Pages 12-13 6/27/2013 8:22:06 PM �President’s Report Big Win, but Food for Peace Fight Continues The fight isn’t finished, but the SIU helped secure a significant victory for our membership and the U.S.-flag Merchant Marine in mid-June as the U.S. House of Representatives voted down an amendment that would have wiped out American jobs by essentially gutting the Food for Peace program as we know it. Our opponents are gearing up for a likely second attempt to cripple Food for Peace (also known as Public Law/PL-480) at press time, but we will not let up, either. Meanwhile, there are some important points to take from the 220-203 vote against the original amendment that was tacked on to a much larger agriculture bill which the House ultimately also rejected. The main one Michael Sacco is that our political activities, both as an individual union and in conjunction with our allies from throughout the industry, are as vital to our survival as new ships and proper training and ample cargo. That concept itself isn’t exactly breaking news, I know, but it is a timely and powerful illustration of why we’re active on Capitol Hill. This is why we support pro-maritime, pro-worker politicians no matter the party. This is why we promote SPAD and participate in the annual congressional Sail-In, among many other grassroots efforts. This is why we ask you to make sure you’re registered to vote, to meet with your elected officials and to help get out the vote. Only 17 votes stood between maintaining tens of thousands of U.S. jobs related to PL-480 and potentially wiping them out so our government could make cash payments to foreign countries. Measured another way, the margin was even smaller: If nine votes had been reversed, the damaging amendment would have passed. Those numbers show that we can’t afford to relax. It’s still mind-boggling to me that there are people in Washington who seem eager to wipe out such an effective, time-tested program that does so much good not only for Americans, but also for people around the world. But, that’s where we are, and that’s why we will work on this issue however long it takes to not only preserve the existing program but also restore the sneaky cuts that were made to it last year. This is no time for gloating but I do want to sincerely thank our rank-and-file members for your letters and phone calls to Congress leading up that vote on the amendment. Politicians pay attention to their constituents, and whether you mailed a letter or sent an email or made a phone call urging them to keep Food for Peace intact, your voices made a difference. And this was no easy victory – we faced opposition from others in addition to the usual anti-worker suspects. Even a few traditional supporters of maritime seemingly have been hoodwinked into thinking the program might be more effective by changing it to a cash scheme through which American taxpayer dollars are handed to foreign interests with no transparency or accountability. Where those specific individuals are concerned, I don’t doubt their intent, but I believe they’ve swallowed a fish story. We will continue to post updates on this fight on our website and on our social-media pages. Meanwhile, I again thank our members for your support in this critical battle, and I urge you to remain ready to answer the call again. We’re fighting for our future and our jobs. That’s a fight I have no intention of losing. New MSC Commander Shannon Salutes U.S. Merchant Mariners Rear Adm. Thomas K. Shannon recently expressed his gratitude for the countless contributions U.S. Merchant Mariners—past and present—have made toward the defense and prosperity of our country. Admiral Shannon is commander of the Military Sealift Command (MSC), the world’s largest employer of U.S. Merchant Mariners. On May 22, Shannon led a rousing round of applause that was directed to a contingent of apprentices from the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center who participated in National Maritime Day Ceremonies at the U.S. Department of Transportation in Washington, D.C. More recently, he paid tribute to mariners in his Memorial Day column which was printed in the June 2013 edition of one of his command’s authorized publications, the Sealift. Shannon, in the piece which ran under the headline “Remembering The Forgotten,” in part said: “Memorial Day is traditionally a time to honor those who not only served our United States of America, but those who in their service made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard: these are our men and women who bear arms and go in harm’s way because they are the warriors of our great nation. Each year in May, we remember and honor our warrior heroes. “But there is another important group of men and women who do not wear the uniforms of our armed forces, yet still willingly go in harm’s way for our country, and they have done so since our nation was born. “These are our brave, self-sacrificing men and women of our United States Merchant Marine.” After noting that merchant mariners from the 13 united colonies led the way to our freedom more than more two centuries ago, Shannon said that they have been part of our nation’s security and prosperity ever since. He recounted mariner’s contributions during the Civil War, World Wars I and II, and the Korean and Vietnam Wars. “Our merchant mariners unloaded cargo ships in Kuwait harbor under threat of enemy missile attack during the first Gulf War,” the admiral said while changing his In this file photo from 2012, Bosun Kissinfor Taylor (front) carries a stroke victim to safety aboard the Horizon Reliance as Chief Engineer Sean Stevens guards from behind. Rear Adm. Thomas K. Shannon, commander, Military Sealift Command, addresses the audience during the May 22 Maritime Day Ceremony in Washington, D.C. focus to the modern era. “Today, they support our Navy and our nation in Afghanistan and the Arabian Gulf, delivering life-saving mine-resistant, ambush-protected vehicles; Navy patrol boats, fuel and combat supplies to our troops.” Shannon stated that our nation has benefitted from the professionalism and expertise of civilian American mariners for 237 years. “Whenever – wherever – duty calls, they deliver, keeping our Navy on station, forward deployed and ready to face any aggressor,” he said. “Our Navy is proud of our civilian mariners, and on May 22 each year, we honor our shipmates who have crossed the bar for the last time,” Admiral Shannon concluded. “In this month of remembrance, as we honor all who have fallen in service to our nation, please remember the men and women of our U.S. Merchant Marine.” On behalf of the crew of the tug Explorer, Crowley’s Andrew Legge (left) accepts a letter of commendation from CSA Chairman Capt. Bruce Fernie. SIU-Crewed Ships Earn Safety Recognition Numerous Union-Contracted Companies Honored by CSA Volume 75, Number 7 July 2013 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org 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, Brian Ahern; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry. Copyright © 2013 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. 2 Seafarers LOG 15047_JULY2K13LOG.indd 2 As usual, the SIU and its contracted operators were well-represented at the annual safety awards gathering hosted by the Chamber of Shipping of America (CSA). This year’s event took place May 23 in New Orleans, and SIU-crewed vessels received many accolades. The Horizon Reliance and the Crowley tug Explorer took home some of the top honors awarded for rescues, while numerous union-contracted companies earned awards for operating at least the last two years without a mariner involved in a lost-time injury. The Horizon Lines vessel, in fact, received citations of merit for two separate rescues. The first saw the Jones Act ship save three people whose sailboat sank off Hawaii, while the second involved the rescue of an elderly man who suffered a stroke 1,100 miles off Oahu. The crew of the Explorer received a letter of commendation helping rescue two people from a disabled vessel 30 miles west of Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands. Altogether, the CSA represents 35 U.S.-based companies that own, operate or charter oceangoing tankers, containerships, and other vessels engaged in both the domestic and international trades. The association also represents “other entities that maintain a commercial interest in the operation of such oceangoing vessels.” During the awards ceremony, CSA President Joseph Cox pointed out that since the group first convened in 1958, there’s been tremendous growth in the number of companies earning Jones F. Devlin awards (for extended periods without lost-time injuries). “This extraordinary record is directly attributable to the professionalism of our seafarers and the dedication of shore-based company personnel to safe operation,” he said. He added that the CSA’s “involvement in safety is longstanding. We continue to represent the industry, domestically and internationally, on safety issues encompassing every facet of ship operations. It is, therefore, only fitting that an industry so focused on safety, publicly recognizes the skills and dedication of the women and men who are responsible for actions in keeping with the highest traditions of the sea – aid to those in peril.” Seafarers-contracted recipients of the 2012 Devlin awards included Alaska Tanker Company, Crescent Towing, Crowley Maritime and several of its subsidiaries, E.N. Bisso & Son, Farrell Lines, American Overseas Marine (AMSEA), Harley Marine, Higman Barge Lines, Horizon Lines, Keystone Shipping, Maersk Line Limited, Moran Towing, Ocean Shipholdings, OSG Ship Management, Patriot Contract Services, Seabulk Tankers, Seabulk Towing, Totem Ocean Trailer Express (TOTE) and USS Vessel Management. July 2013 6/25/2013 4:31:47 PM �Tanker Order Means New SIU Jobs NASSCO to Build at Least 4 Jones Act Ships for APT The NASSCO shipyard is pictured at sunrise. The yard employs union workers and has produced numerous Seafarerscontracted vessels. (Photo by Ken Wright) SMPPP Announces Positive Changes The Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan (SMPPP) recently announced a few modifications designed to improve benefits and expedite payments. In mid-June, a letter was mailed to participants (it’s also posted on the SIU website) alerting them that as of July 1, administrative functions of the SMPPP will be performed by the Seafarers Plans’ office in Camp Springs, Md. Previously, a third-party administrator handled them. Participants now may direct SMPPP inquiries through the Plan’s toll-free number: 1-800252-4674 (prompt number six on the menu choices). Another modification allows participants over the age of 70 to withdraw their full account balances in the form of a lump-sum distribution even if they continue to work in covered employment. Married employees with account balances greater than $5,000 must obtain spousal consent for the distribution. Also, a less-restrictive one-year waiting period has been adopted when it comes to eligibility for withdrawing money. Specifically, a participant is now eligible for a withdrawal benefit if he or she intends to leave the industry and has not worked for a signatory employer for at least the past 12 months. (This change essentially negates the need for hardship distributions, and with that in mind, the hardship pilot program has been discontinued.) In the letter to participants, Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen noted, “In considering these new benefit options, please be mindful that there may be tax consequences. You should discuss these potential tax implications with your tax advisor.” Based on these changes, updated forms and a revised summary plan description booklet have been posted in the Member Benefits section of the SIU website, www.seafarers.org. The guide, participant letter and enrollment form are located under the Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan tab, while the enrollment form and three separate application forms may be found under the Applications tab. July 2013 15047_JULY2K13LOG_X3.indd 3 New SIU-crewed tankers are on the way following an early June announcement from San Diego-based General Dynamics NASSCO, a union shipyard. NASSCO has signed an agreement with an affiliate of American Petroleum Tankers (APT) for the design and construction of four 50,000 deadweight ton LNG-conversion-ready product carriers with a 330,000 barrel cargo capacity. The contract includes options to build four additional ships. Seafarers-contracted Crowley Maritime manages vessels for APT. Construction of the first tanker is scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2014, with deliveries slated to start in the fourth quarter of 2015, continuing through 2016. The four-ship APT contract will add as many as 800 jobs at NASSCO during construction and a substantial number of shipboard jobs once the vessels are sailing. The 610-foot-long tankers are a new “ECO” design that offers improved fuel efficiency and incorporates the latest environmental protection features, including a ballast water treatment system. The ships will be designed by DSEC, a subsidiary of Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering (DSME) of Busan, South Korea. According to NASSCO, the tankers will have dual-fuel-capable auxiliary engines and the ability to accommodate future installation of an LNG fuel-gas system. “Credit goes to everyone involved with this project, including the SIU members who eventually will sail aboard the new ships,” stated SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker. “It’s hard to overstate the significance of new ships being built for the Jones Act trade.” Fred Harris, president of General Dynamics NASSCO (and a former union mariner), said, “By continuing to bring the most economical and environmentally sound technology to Jones Act operators, these ECO tankers show our continued commitment to be one of the most innovative shipyards in America. I am pleased to renew our partnership with APT on this exciting new program. Along with TOTE, this is the second return customer we have welcomed back to NASSCO within the past six months, which speaks to the high-quality workmanship of our skilled workforce.” Rob Kurz, CEO of APT, said, “This investment demonstrates our continued commitment to building and operating ships for the U.S. Jones Act trade. We are proud to bring new U.S.-built tonnage into the market at this exciting time, helping our country achieve its longstanding strategic objective of energy independence.” Seafarers Crew up New Maersk Containerships Company Invests Capital in Eight Newer, Larger Vessels Seafarers-contracted Maersk Line, Limited (MLL) was on schedule to complete a major upgrade in its containership fleet as this edition went to press. The company is replacing eight vessels with eight newer, larger ones by reflagging them under the Stars and Stripes. The process started in late April and was slated to wrap up in late June or early July. “The efforts of the mariners on board the transitioning vessels and colleagues ashore have been excellent, assuring a timely and smooth progression of the reflagging process,” stated MLL President and CEO John Reinhart. “We want to express our gratitude to the U.S. Transportation Command, the Maritime Administration, the U.S. Coast Guard, and our labor union partners. With their support, these eight ships will increase the versatility of the U.S.-flag fleet.” As previously reported, all eight vessels will join the Maritime Security Program (MSP) and Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement (VISA). “We are pleased to bring more modern and useful assets into the MSP and VISA fleets,” added Reinhart. “The vessels will augment our nation’s security and sustain jobs for the U.S. Merchant Marine, the fourth arm of our national defense.” The new additions are the Maersk Chicago, Maersk Denver, Maersk Detroit, Maersk Memphis, Maersk Columbus, Maersk Pittsburgh, Maersk Hartford and Maersk Atlanta. They replace the Maersk Virginia, Sealand Meteor, Sealand Champion, Maersk Wyoming, Sealand Mercury, Maersk Georgia, Sealand Eagle and Sealand Racer. The reflaggings were taking place in Jebel Ali. The vessels are joining Maersk Line’s weekly Middle East Container Line service (MECL1). According to the company, this route serves commercial customers and the U.S. military, and it transports U.S.-grown food aid. “MECL1 will be the industry’s only direct U.S.-flag service to and from the U.S. East Coast and Pakistan, and the service includes a new stop in Algeciras, Spain,” MLL announced. The company added, “Since 2000, MLL has invested more than $1.75 billion dollars to modernize its fleet in support of the U.S. government and military. The vessels are about 10 years younger than the outgoing ships, offering improved fuel efficiency and environmental performance.” The eight incoming vessels are named “in honor of American cities that have brought industrial vitality to the U.S. economy through manufacturing, finance, transportation, and exports.” The Maersk Hartford is part of MLL’s influx of newer, larger vessels crewed by SIU members. Seafarers LOG 3 6/27/2013 8:22:08 PM �ATC CEO Earns Labor-Management Award Safety, Commitment to Workers Highlighted at MTD Gathering The strong relationship between American maritime labor and Seafarers-contracted Alaska Tanker Company (ATC) was highlighted May 30 as ATC President and CEO Anil Mathur was honored with the Puget Sound Maritime Trades Port Council’s 2013 Labor-Management Award. Presented to Mathur in Seattle by SIU Tacoma Port Agent Joe Vincenzo, the award recognized Mathur’s “deep appreciation for and promotion of maritime commerce, safe marine practices, and progressive operations/labor relations on the waterfront.” In his introductory remarks, Vincenzo said Mathur was well-known and respected for his focus on safety and his dedication to ensuring mariners get the training and opportunities earned by their hard work. “If you looked at his bio, you might think someone who’s a graduate of Harvard Business School and who also has an engineering degree would look at seagoing operations as just a series of numbers and calculations and schedules. But that is not who Anil is,” Vincenzo said. “He is a compassionate leader, someone whose authority and leadership is respected even while being a true friend to his employees.” Mathur has served as ATC’s president and CEO for more than 13 years. During that time, the company – which has four Celebrating the award are (from left) ATC Labor Relations Director Bill Cole, SIU Port Agent Joe Vincenzo, ATC President/CEO Anil Mathur and Port Council President Vince O’Halloran. state-of-the-art, SIU-crewed tankers carrying crude oil from Alaska to the West Coast – has moved nearly a billion barrels without spilling a single drop of oil into the sea. Its safety record leads the industry and the company has only had one losttime injury (a finger injury) over the past 11 years. “Alaska Tanker Company has a wellearned, long-term, richly deserved identity as a safe operator every time, all the time,” Vincenzo said. “Just today I was talking with a chief steward in the ATC fleet and he said that Anil was adamant about safety and by that he meant, and I quote, ‘[Anil] really wants you to go home in one piece, the same way you came to the ship.’” That kind of leadership, said Vince O’Halloran, president of Puget Sound Maritime Trades Port Council, is something to look up to. “Anil is the kind of leader all of us working on the waterfront admire,” O’Halloran said. “He is committed to running his operation in a manner that respects the environment and the safety of his crews. He wants his people to come home to their families in as good shape as when they left – and they do, despite the often harsh environments in which they earn a living.” Touching on those harsh conditions and ATC’s impressive ability to hold such a high safety standard despite them, Vincenzo quoted Mathur himself. “It is one thing to preach safety in the controlled environment we experience in our onshore offices,” Mathur said. “It is quite another to deliver predictable, safe and environmentally sound operations day-in and day-out, in every job, in the harsh environment of our trade, for well over a decade.” That commitment to safety and the wellbeing of his employees, Vincenzo added, not only exemplifies why Mathur was given the award; it also defines his legacy. “If you ask anyone to name the first thing that comes to mind when they hear Anil’s name, they’ll all say the same word: safety,” Vincenzo said. “He cares about every single man and woman on those ships and about the loved ones they go home to when the voyage is done.” TOTE’s Planned LNG Containerships Receive Global Honors for Innovation Seafarers-contracted TOTE, Inc. early last month became the first U.S. business to take home the Next Generation Shipping award at the Nor-Shipping conference, a high-profile international maritime forum. The company was recognized for its liquefied natural gas-powered (LNG) containerships, ordered late last year and scheduled for delivery in 2015. TOTE announced the honor June 7, at the end of the four-day gathering in Oslo, Norway. An independent panel including representatives from the International Maritime Organization, The Norwegian Marine Technology Research Institute and other groups selected honorees for TOTE’s LNG-powered containerships, shown in this artist’s rendering, are scheduled to begin sailing in 2015. several awards. Construction of the LNG-powered vessels will take place at General Dynamics NASSCO in San Diego – a union shipyard. TOTE’s order is for at least two ships and includes options for up to three additional ones. “To say we are both honored and humbled by this prestigious internationally recognized award would be a significant understatement,” said Anthony Chiarello, TOTE’s president and CEO. “The team at TOTE, along with our partners at NASSCO, has spent many months working on this project, which we believe will have a lasting impact on our industry and the future of ship design. While we are proud to be the first-ever ship owner to construct LNG-powered container vessels, we are quite confident we will most certainly not be the last.” The conference takes place every other year, and the awards recognize achievement in three areas: energy efficiency, innovative ship design and young entrepreneurship. With a focus on innovation, the Next Generation Shipping award honors the most promising design for ships that will be at sea in the coming decade. According to TOTE, “The award is given to the ship project demonstrating the greatest advances in design, as assessed with respect to energy efficiency, innovation, suitability and flexibility, technology utilization, safety and security, and environmental sustainability.” The LNG-powered vessels will operate in the Jones Act market between Jacksonville, Fla., and San Juan, P.R. Each will be 764 feet long, with capacity of 3,100 20-foot-equivalent units (TEU). Construction of the first ship is slated to begin in March 2014. LNG fuel is projected to reduce ship emissions “95 percent below even the world’s most stringent air quality standards,” TOTE reported. “LNG will virtually eliminate sulfur dioxide and particulate matter, and results in reductions of carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide beyond any other fuel source.” Proudly Supporting Wounded Warrior Anglers As reported in detail in the June LOG and online, the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education on April 24 hosted the inaugural Seafarers Waterfront Classic, a fishing tournament which benefited both the school and the Wounded Warrior Anglers of America. As a result of the fundraiser, the union enthusiastically presented a check for $20,000 to Wounded Warrior Anglers officials at the organization’s headquarters in Cape Coral, Fla. SIU Port Agent Kris Hopkins (third from right) made the presentation to Wounded Warrior Anglers President and co-founder David Souders (fourth from left). Also pictured (from left) are veteran Guy Lee, caregiver Rosa Vazquez, veteran Angel Vazquez, Wounded Warrior Anglers VP and co-founder Judy Souders and veteran and board member Tony “The Judge” Rogers. Visit woundedwarrioranglers.org for more information about the Wounded Warrior Anglers of America. 4 Seafarers LOG 15047_JULY2K13LOG_X.indd 4 July 2013 6/26/2013 9:45:30 AM �Maritime, Labor Communities Mourn Late Senator Lautenberg Legislator Was Longtime SIU Ally Outgoing ITF General Secretary David Cockroft (left) poses with an award and SIU Secretary-Treasurer and ITF Seafarers’ Section Chairman David Heindel on the eve of Cockroft’s retirement from the federation. ITF Changes Leadership Outgoing International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) General Secretary David Cockroft spent his final day as the ITF’s official leader May 31 formally handing the reins over to his successor, Stephen Cotton. Cotton has served as acting general secretary since being elected by the ITF executive board in October of last year. He’s spent the time since then gradually taking over many of the day-to-day responsibilities prior to Cockroft’s official departure. “From June 1, Stephen will assume all the powers, duties and responsibilities of the post,” Cockroft said. “I am not saying that from then on he is on his own. I will continue to provide any advice which he asks for and I will participate in all the forthcoming regional conferences, but the decision and the management of the ITF secretariat will be his.” The SIU is one of the approximately 700 unions affiliated with the ITF, which is headquartered in London. Those affiliates are based in 150 countries and they collectively represent millions of transport workers. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel chairs the ITF Seafarers’ Section. Cotton praised Cockroft’s more than 20 years of leadership as the ITF’s general secretary. In a message to his ITF colleagues, Cotton said Cockroft’s reign had seen unprecedented growth in the ITF’s operations and better working conditions around the world. “He rigorously pursued international solidarity actions, no more so than when trade union leaders were victimized, assaulted or even murdered,” Cotton said. “His persistent and determined campaigns were successful on many occasions in obtaining the release of those who had been imprisoned.” Cockroft, meanwhile, said the ITF could expect big things from Cotton. “The ITF is a great organization and I have every confidence that it will continue to grow in strength and importance under Stephen’s leadership,” he said. While Cockroft’s retirement will take ITF General Secretary Stephen Cotton him out of the ITF’s day-to-day operations, the outgoing general secretary said he’ll still be available if the organization needs him. He added he still plans to fulfill some global union duties for a period of time and will attend a series of conferences later this year. “I will continue to carry some global union responsibilities for some time, and I will attend the series of regional conferences which are planned for the remainder of this year and the ITF women’s conference, which will be held in New Delhi next year,” Cockroft said. “I will also continue to serve as director of Seafarers’ Rights International, which although totally independent of the ITF is still based at ITF House.” Cotton said he appreciated Cockroft’s willingness to stay involved, adding he was ready to begin the ITF’s next phase. “I now look forward to working with all of you, as we enter a new phase in the continuing development of the ITF and in our efforts to meet the enormous challenges that face us,” Cotton said. Sen. Frank Lautenberg (D-N.J.), a longtime supporter of maritime and the labor movement, died June 3 at age 89. Lautenberg, who served as the chairman of the Senate Subcommittee on Surface Transportation and Merchant Marine Infrastructure, Safety and Security, was a leader on a variety of maritime issues, including the Jones Act, the Maritime Security Program, Coast Guard funding and shipping safety. He was also the last remaining World War II veteran serving in the Senate. “Senator Lautenberg will be greatly missed,” said SIU President Michael Sacco. “He was a dedicated public servant who fought to protect the country and keep Americans working. His support of the U.S. Merchant Marine was ironclad and he was a tireless defender of the nation’s mariners.” Lautenberg’s strong support of maritime was made clear in his keynote address during the 2011 National Maritime Day ceremonies in Washington, D.C. “I witnessed firsthand the difference the merchant marine makes. I have tremendous respect for our country’s mariners. The work that you do is vital,” Lautenberg said during his 2011 speech. “You are civilians who are patriots, and we wouldn’t be where we are today without the heroic contributions of mariners. I salute the courage and service of those who fought on merchant ships and who contribute so much to our security and economy.” Throughout his career, Lautenberg often used his position to promote maritime safety and training. He introduced legislation in 2009 that addressed the system of medical evaluations for U.S. mariners, backlogs in the documentation system and the role fatigue plays in maritime casualties. Lautenberg was first elected to the Senate in 1982 following a successful business career. While he retired from the Senate in 2000, he decided to run again in 2002 when the state’s other Senate seat became vacant. Throughout Sen. Lautenberg speaks at the 2011 National Maritime Day gathering in Washington, D.C. it all, Lautenberg was a committed supporter of the labor movement. “He never forgot his working class roots as he became enormously wealthy as an entrepreneur,” said AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka. “Until his passing, he was committed to the fight for the empowerment of workers and for ensuring equal opportunity for everyone.” Following his death, tributes celebrating Lautenberg’s service in the Senate came from all over. Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel praised Lautenberg as a “strong advocate for the men and women of our armed forces and their military families,” while Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said the nation lost a “true champion” with Lautenberg’s passing. “Frank’s tireless advocacy for transportation safety saved many lives – he truly was the Safety Senator,” LaHood said. SIU Helps Make Sail-In Successful Reminders Concerning Credentials Officials in the union’s manpower office are offering members some reminders regarding the maintenance of merchant mariner credentials (MMC). It is especially important that new endorsement stickers are placed on the next empty MMC page and added in order as numbered by the National Maritime Center (NMC). Do NOT place new endorsement stickers on pages that already have endorsements or writing on them. Please read the instructions provided by the NMC prior to adding your stickers. Also, mariners should NEVER cover up anything in their MMC with new stickers. If a mariner puts stickers over a page that already contains a sticker, their MMC is automatically void and he/she cannot ship on it until a duplicate is is- July 2013 15047_JULY2K13LOG_X2.indd 5 sued by the NMC. Manpower officials therefore urge members to take great care when adding new endorsement stickers to their credentials, making sure that they are affixed properly. Anyone requiring assistance should contact their local port agent or the admissions office at the Paul Hall Center. In addition, mariners should be sure that they are aware of what endorsements they currently hold in their MMCs, both international and domestic. This is extremely important when renewing MMCs with the Coast Guard. Be sure to check any newly issued MMC for errors which may occur in issuance. Mariners who notice an error should contact the NMC as soon as possible at 888427-5662 This year’s U.S. Maritime Industry Congressional Sail-In proved successful as SIU officials and many other representatives from throughout the industry converged on Capitol Hill. As reported in last month’s LOG and on the SIU website, 135 participants from all segments of the industry were involved in 157 meetings with members of the House and Senate or their staffs. Pictured after one of those meetings on May 8 are (from left) John Hourihan of Crowley, Nick Martine of Lockheed Martin, U.S. Rep. Steve Southerland (R-Fla.), SIU VP Nick Marrone, and Dave Weathers of AMO. Seafarers LOG 5 6/26/2013 4:39:23 PM �Piracy Report Shows Shift In Attacks to West Africa A new report on the human costs of maritime piracy has found that in 2012, the number of vessels and mariners attacked off West Africa surpassed those attacked by Somalia-based pirates (on Africa’s east coast). That’s a first in the three years since the annual reports were started. The new 50-page document was produced through joint efforts by three organizations: Oceans Beyond Piracy (OBP), the International Maritime Bureau (IMB), and the Maritime Piracy Humanitarian Response Program (MPHRP). Unveiled June 18 at a gathering in London, it is available for download at the OBP website: oceansbeyondpiracy.org The report finds that incidents of violence against mariners remain high, and while there has been an 80 percent drop of attacks off the coast of east Africa, the average period for hostages who remain captive there exceeds two years. The report also includes a statistical analysis of the violence caused by acts of piracy, analysis of seafarer interviews discussing their perception of piracy, and sections discussing the different threats and economic impacts faced by mariners off east and west Africa. According to Kaija Hurlburt of OBP, “The report shows that continued vigilance and better information sharing is needed to relieve the plight of seafarers; as long as one hostage remains in captivity, the human cost is too high.” Roy Paul of MPHRP added, “Seafarer welfare, both during and after being taken hostage, remains a huge concern and the effects of pi- racy reach far beyond the days spent in captivity.” According to Pottengal Mukundan of the IMB, “This report is unique in that it contains information submitted by flag States, online surveys of seafarer concerns regarding piracy, as well as firsthand accounts from released seafarers.” The report stated that in 2012, Somali pirate attacks were aimed at ships carrying 851 mariners, compared with 3,863 the prior year. West African pirates attacked 966 mariners last year. An introductory message in the report points out, “The challenge of piracy cannot be resolved solely at sea. Piracy needs to be addressed on shore–where it starts–if it is ever to be resolved. In both Somalia and the Gulf of Guinea region, this will require cooperation between efforts at sea and those on land to build maritime security and provide job opportunities to potential pirates…. “For our part, the Oceans Beyond Piracy team is working with Somalis to draft their maritime strategy. This will be a long-term project given the rebuilding that Somalia will need to undergo. It is clear that the cost of suppression is large and unsustainable while the cost of building Somalia offers the opportunity to develop a permanent and lasting solution…. “It is important to remember that suppressing piracy and solving piracy are very different things. In the end, piracy can only be solved effectively on shore. Only when Somalis and West Africans have greater access to jobs than to guns will they turn to work rather than to piracy.” Pilots Unanimously Approve Contract SIU Norfolk Port Agent Georg Kenny reports that the union has successfully negotiated a new five-year agreement with the Maryland Pilots Association. Members unanimously approved the contract, which calls for annual wage increases, maintains top-level health benefits, boosts seniority pay, adds personal days and includes other improvements. Kenny and Seafarer Doug Gardner (center) negotiated for the union. Also pictured are company 1st VP John Hamill (left) and President Eric Nielsen (right). Kenny credited everyone involved for amicable, productive negotiations. The contract covers 20 Seafarers. 6 Seafarers LOG 15047_JULY2K13LOG_X.indd 6 The 50-page report is available for download in PDF form at oceansbeyondpiracy.org ITF Official Calls for Fair Treatment of Workers An SIU official who also serves in a key position for the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) recently pointed to runaway flags as a prime example of the need for nations to work together to protect workers’ rights. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, who chairs the ITF Seafarers’ Section, said in a prepared statement coinciding with the G8 meeting in northern Ireland that fairness must be put at the heart of national economies. He also called for application of the same principles in the maritime industry. Heindel was echoing and building upon formal comments by Global Unions, a key international labor organization. That group urged leading nations to stop rewarding unscrupulous companies and to start standing up for workers. Heindel wrote, “The Global Unions’ statement to the G8 Lough Erne Summit makes a number of important points and valuable suggestions, particularly on the subjects of taxation and transparency. Unfortunately, we in the maritime industry are very familiar with the pitfalls of tax avoidance, offshore tax havens and meticulously planned lack of accountability on the parts of some companies. Specifically, the so-called flag of convenience (FOC) system for decades has facilitated abuse of maritime workers through those avenues. “For those who don’t know the system, it is one in which a vessel flies a flag different from that of its owner’s country,” Heindel continued. “Quite often, FOC ships also carry multinational crews supplied by agents from yet another foreign country. It’s a tricky system that has been in place for decades, and it often allows owners and operators to turn a short-term profit while crew members suffer all sorts of mistreatment. That abuse ranges from being underpaid or not paid at all, to being blackmailed into paying for jobs, to sailing on vessels that are so unsafe, they literally may cost the seafarers their lives. And lest anyone think that this isn’t all about avoidance, know that FOC ships routinely change names and registries, sometimes while in midvoyage.” He went on to describe the lack of transparency and accountability in the FOC system as “nothing short of appalling. A litany of incidents has repeatedly proven that when it’s time for negligent shipowners and operators to pay for their liabilities, nothing is simple. If a ship flies the flag of Panama, is crewed by a Greek manning agent, has ownership in Cyprus, and carries a crew of Russians, Filipinos and Indians, who’s responsible for an accident? Who can enforce basic minimum standards for shipboard safety, rest, sanitation, etc.?” Citing a recent example, he pointed out that Britain’s Maritime Investigation Branch completed a comprehensive study of the sinking of the FOC vessel Swanland. It proved that the ship hadn’t been properly maintained and was severely weakened by corrosion. “Six mariners lost their lives because people behind desks shirked their responsibilities while pursuing greater profits,” Heindel added. He concluded, “Collectively, we can and must do better. The observations and recommendations raised by the Global Unions organization are excellent starting points, and the ITF is ready, willing and able to help.” The Global Unions statement to the G8 is linked in a June 19 news post on www.seafarers.org. Among other points, the group stated, “As the social crisis escalates, fair taxation has moved to the center of the political debate. The sheer scale of the tax evasion and aggressive tax avoidance mechanisms revealed by one corporate tax scandal after the other is matched only by the injustice of workers paying for the crisis with their jobs, while corporations deny our ailing economies the revenue they so badly need.” July 2013 6/26/2013 9:45:34 AM �SHBP Awards $132,000 in Scholarships Three Seafarers and five dependents now are better equipped to pursue their respective higher education objectives thanks to grants totaling $132,000 that were given to them by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP). The SHBP Scholarship Committee, which convened May 10 in Chicago, selected Seafarers Annie Nodd, Timothy White and Harry Borden along with dependents Joederick Lata, Catherine Vu, Genebelle Ajoste, Daniel Mulcahy and Maja Sawicka as recipients of the 2013 Charlie Logan Scholarships. Nodd was tagged to receive a $20,000 grant to offset the financial challenges of a four-year degree, while White and Borden each were designated to garner $6,000 for use toward two-year degrees. All five dependents landed endowments of $20,000 to assist in realizing their educational aspirations at four-year colleges or universities. Annie Nodd SA Annie Nodd hails from Mobile, Ala. A 1996 graduate of Blount High School in Prichard, Ala., Sister Nodd signed on with the SIU in 1998 after completing the unlicensed apprentice program the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) in Piney Point, Md. She sails in the deep sea division and has upgraded her skills on at least eight occasions at the PHC, most recently in 2012. “Although I enjoyed sailing around the world (during her voyages aboard union–crewed vessels), I always dreamed of going to college,” Nodd said in her scholarship application package. “I tried to pursue that dream from 2000 to 2001 by attending Bishop State College in Mobile, Ala., and majoring in business administration.” Because of her shipping schedule, however, Nodd was able to complete only one semester of work at Bishop. As a result, she pushed her dream of higher education aside and devoted her total energies toward her career at sea. “Since recently upgrading at the PHC, my desire to further my education again has become a major priority,” she said. “I would like to pursue a degree in business administration with a minor as a registered nutritionist.” Sister Nodd hopes to continue her education at Bishop State Community College or Faulkner University. Timothy White AB Timothy White signed on with the union in 2007 in the port of Norfolk. He currently sails in the deep sea division aboard Maersk Line, Limited’s Maersk Virginia. Born in Portsmouth, Va., Brother White’s secondary education background includes stints at Green Run High School and Kempsville High School. He earned his GED from the Virginia Beach, Va.based Adult Learning Center. After obtaining his GED, Brother White initially was employed by Tickmaster. He then moved on to a painter position at the Norfolk Shipbuilding and Drydock Corporation. White initially sailed as a wiper during the dawn of his career as a Seafarer. “My dream was to become a QMED or an engineer,” White said in his scholarship application package. As time passed, however, his outlook changed and he decided that the deck department was a better fit for his interests. “Within the last two years, I successfully upgraded to able-bodied seaman,” he said. White pointed out that although he never planned on becoming a merchant mariner, he has no regrets in his decisions. “My career as a merchant mariner has been exciting,” he said, adding that he has been able to explore the world and meet many people from a variety of cultures. “Six years into my career as a Seafarer, I’m steadily moving up the union,” he continued. “I plan on becoming a bosun in a couple of years.” White added that he is a forward thinker and is constantly exploring avenues to enhance his career and further his education. He is on a mission to become the first in July 2013 15047_JULY2K13LOG.indd 7 his family of three siblings to earn a college degree. White praised the union for reaching out to the membership by making the opportunity to land a scholarship possible. If selected to receive one, White said, “I would take full advantage of the Seafarers Scholarship and conduct myself responsibly. I think that this is an amazing opportunity for people such as me to better ourselves and our careers.” Brother White’s goal is to become a computer engineer. He has applied to Advanced Technology Institute, Tidewater Tech and Tidewater Community College. Harry Borden ABG Harry Borden joined the SIU in 2002 in the port of Ft. Lauderdale following his completion of training at the PHC. He sails in the deep sea division. Born in New York, Brother Borden is a 1979 graduate of Suffern High School. While in high school, he was active in martial arts, track and field and bodybuilding. Brother Borden was lauded for his writing and artistic abilities during high school and spent a great deal of his free time assisting in theater productions in his home town. Following his graduation, Brother Borden joined the U.S. Navy. After being honorably discharged, he worked in several firms in New York’s financial district. At one juncture, “I was attending a company-sponsored course to become a broker,” he said in his scholarship application package. “After the crash (stock market) of 1987, that ceased, but I found that I had a love for the workings of the financial markets.” In the years that followed, Brother Borden continued on his quest to find his true niche. This pursuit took him to Miami where he served as manager for two South Beach restaurants. During his off-duty time, he worked with fashion photographers and sound production engineers to satisfy his appetite for creative pursuits and the arts. Brother Borden has accumulated college credits at Rockland Community College, State University of New York and Miami Dade College. He will pursue his degree at Broward Community College, Florida Atlantic University, or one of several Florida-based art institutes. Joederick Lata Joederick Lata was born in Maui, Hawaii, and is the son of deep sea Chief Cook Joey Lata (and mother, Merill, a secretary). Lata has one brother and a sister. He is a 2013 graduate of Auburn Riverside High School in Auburn, Wash., where he finished with an overall 3.976 grade point average. Lata was a member of the National Honor Society, held membership in his school’s Key and Student Leadership Clubs, and participated in track and field and gymnastics. He held the offices as key club treasurer, junior class president and sophomore class secretary. Lata was exceedingly active his community and did volunteer work at the Auburn Food Bank, the Humane Society and at the Auburn Children’s Home. His ambition is to protect and preserve the world’s environment. “For as long as I can remember, the need to take care of the world around me has been a top priority in my life,” he said in in his scholarship application package. Lata moved from his native Hawaii to Washington when he was six years of age. “Coming straight from Hawaii and living in a brand new state was frightening to a young 6-year-old,” he said. “I found comfort in the outdoors…. I loved the feel of warm ocean water and the crispness of the Washington air. While the people in my life came and left, nature was always there.” One day while brainstorming in one of his high school classes, Lata recalls calculating the amount of trash that would be produced in the world annually if a single classroom like his generated five pounds daily and his school comprised 100 classrooms. Based on the fact that the world’s population is about 7 billion people and a significant number of them attend school daily, he reasoned that the amount of trash produced annually would be astronomical. What really registered with him, however, were the questions: what happens to all of that trash, how it was disposed of and what impact did its disposal have on the environment? “From then on, I made the decision not to go into the medical field like I planned, but instead to follow my passion to pursue a career in civil/environmental engineering,” he said. “I want to find ways to keep the world as pure as it can be. It’s a lofty dream, but one person can make a difference.” Lata will pursue his degree in civil/environmental engineering at the University of Washington in Seattle, at California Polytechnic State University or at Seattle University. Catherine Vu Catherine Vu is the daughter of FOWT Allen Newgen (and mother Tiffany, a hair stylist). Born in Guam, she has one sister. Vu is a 2013 graduate of Garden Grove High School in Garden Grove, Calif. She posted an overall 4.02 grade point average and ranked 35th in her class of 617 students. Vu was a member of the National Honor Society, was active in the California Scholarship Federation and held office in a number of school and civic organizations. In the athletic arena, she was a four-year member of Garden Grove’s volleyball squad. She also was a member of the track team during her sophomore and senior years. Vu hopes to receive her degree in engineering or mathematics while studying at the University of California, Los Angeles; the University of California, San Diego; or the University of California, Berkeley. Genebelle Ajoste Genebelle Ajoste was born in the Republic of the Philippines and is the daughter of deep sea GUDE Eugene Ajoste (and mother, Belinda, a homemaker). She has three siblings: two brothers and one sister. Ajoste is a 2013 graduate of Long Beach Polytechnic High School in Long Beach, Calif. She finished her upper secondary education experience with an overall 3.88 grade point average. Besides being a standout student, Ajoste was highly involved in a number of school and community activities. She was active in the student senate where she helped generate financial assets for her graduating class. She also was a member of the American Red Cross Club on campus where she assisted in organizing events and participated in various fund raising endeavors. Additionally, Ajoste held membership in the California Scholarship Federation which generated capital that supported scholarships for seniors. Finally, she was energetic in both the PACE Program and the Invisible Children Club. The former program helped raise money for the school’s accelerated academy while the latter helped spread awareness of LRA (Ugandan Lord’s Resistance Army) atrocities and child trafficking in Africa. Because of her deep-seated desire to help people, Ajoste’s lifelong aspiration is to become a nurse. “From a very young age, I’ve always known what I wanted to be when I grow up: a nurse,” she said in her scholarship application package. “Nursing is the ideal career path for me because it is a field I have always been passionate about, a reliable source of income and my dream job. ” Once she becomes a nurse, Ajoste’s desire is to work in locations where underserved populations reside. “I grew up in a working class area,” she said. “I have seen firsthand what happens to people who are unable to receive the proper care they need and are entitled to. People in these cases or similar low-income areas could benefit from basic health and disease education. I would like to take full advantage of my education and use it to provide this necessary service to my community and those like it.” Ajoste has been accepted for admission to the University of California Irvine, California State University Long Beach and San Diego State University. According to her application package, she has decided to earn her degree by completing the nursing program at California State University Long Beach. Daniel Mulcahy Daniel Mulcahy is 2012 graduate of Orange Park High School in Orange Park, Fla. He is the son of Great Lakes Recertified Bosun William Mulcahy (and mother, Maria, a chef). Born in Michigan, Mulcahy ranked 18th in his high school class of 404 students. He posted an overall 4.192 grade point average and was very involved in student activities including his school’s drama club and PrePharmacy Society. He spent many after-school hours assisting in fund raisers to support the Relay for Life Movement and fostering awareness for the same. Mulcahy currently is a student at the University of Central Florida where he has accumulated 30 credits toward his degree. He is majoring in health sciences with a minor in Biology. “My post-undergraduate school goals are to attend pharmacy school,” said Mulcahy, who is a brother in Delta Epsilon Mu, the nation’s lone coed professional prehealth fraternity. “I have plans to join the executive board (of Delta Epsilon Mu) … with hope to represent my fraternity by becoming its president one day,” he said. “Throughout the years, my parents have supported my education and other endeavors,” he added. “My father has dedicated his life to providing me everything I need including a superior education. I hope that one day I am able to give back to my parents everything they’ve provided me.” Maja Sawicka Maja Sawicka is the daughter of inland GVA Jacek Sawicki (and mother Mariola, a physical therapist). Born in New Bedford, Mass., Sawicka is a 2011 graduate of Clifton Park, N.Y.’s Shenendehowa High School. Following high school, she enrolled in a six-year program at Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences in Albany, N.Y. She has completed three semesters of work and earned 56 credits. Ultimately, she hopes to secure her Doctor of Pharmacy degree. “I decided to pursue a Doctor of Pharmacy degree when I was a junior in high school,” Sawicka said in her scholarship application package. During the same period, Sawicka said her grandmother was battling for her life against cancer – a fight which she eventually lost. “The disease weakened my grandmother, but I also noticed that her medications seemed to be doing more harm than good. “I didn’t understand why this was happening,” she continued. “After all, how could I? I had never exchanged more than a few words with my own pharmacist. What could I know about medications?” It was at that point that Sawicka began searching for her own answers. Not long thereafter, doors began to open for her. She was accepted as an early assurance student at the institution she currently attends and she was well on her way to not only realizing her ambition, but also positioned to aggressively pursue plausible explanations if not answers to the questions that had haunted her since her grandmother’s demise. At the time she submitted her application package for the SHBP scholarship, she had already began to make major strides toward achieving her goal. “At the beginning of this academic year, I became a resident assistant,” she said. “My job (resident assistant) has allowed me to organize and provide programs for my fellow students. It also has provided me with a unique leadership position among my peers. “My school has also allowed me to mentor local underprivileged kids from a nearby inner city school,” Sawicka continued. “Helping these young scholars has been the most rewarding experience of my lifetime. It has showed me that helping others is what I really long to do.” Following graduation, she looks forward to joining Doctors Without Borders. “This organization would allow me to bring medical aid and assistance to impoverished or conflictstricken areas,” she concluded. Seafarers LOG 7 6/25/2013 4:31:59 PM �CONGRATULATIONS, GRADUATE – At the May membership meeting, upgrader Robert Sale (right) received his high school diploma, which he earned through the longstanding program at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. The engine-department Seafarer is pictured celebrating the achievement with SIU President Michael Sacco. COMPLETING NEW STCW COURSE – A group of apprentices last month became the first students to finish one of the school’s newly approved courses leading to the able seafarer-deck endorsement. Two of the trainees are pictured here. Certain classes (including ratings forming part of a navigational watch or RFPNW, where these photos were shot) have been modified because of the most recent amendments to the STCW convention. The Coast Guard’s National Maritime Center approved the curriculums earlier this year, as reported in detail in the June LOG and on the SIU website. Pics and a Poem from Piney Point UNION BOOKS PRESENTED – Port Agent Pat Vandegrift (right in each photo) presented books to members last fall and winter. Seafarers Walter Wise and George Miller received A-seniority books, while Rolando Pangan and Enoch Winrod picked up their B-books and George Box received a full book. Rolando Pangan, Pat Vandegrift George Miller, Pat Vandegrift Walter Wise, Pat Vandegrift Log-A-Rhythm On a Crest By William C. Russell, Apprentice Such are the sea-raised, jagged men donning burdens of the land, that they stride by the ocean’s call to leave the lash of impatient sands. There again the shuffling squids who look up to see no sun but think only deeper in their sync to the spin of the great mirrored ball. George Box, Pat Vandegrift Enoch Winrod, Pat Vandegrift There return the tipped-cap sailors who free their eagles from tight-strapped leashes, watching the gulls floss their feathers and the worries that scatter upon the wake. Some imagine themselves chaste by demons, who play back love and twist them sick, till new romance appears... in the pipe, the twine, the leeward skip. Mumbled prayers for the strakes and themselves in a system of duty and slim bribes, manners worn as occasional costumes when the captain’s cane stamps his three-legged waltz. He steadies his lean with shared breaths – in for his wife and out for the sea, his secret bride at Triton Light humming in the lap of still-born currents. When the land brings him noble grief, from inner corners comes a salty swell, but understand that a sailor’s tear is naught but the sea herself. 8 Seafarers LOG 15047_JULY2K13LOG.indd 8 HONORED FOR PATRIOTISM – The SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center (PHC) recently was recognized by the National Society of the Sons of the American Revolution (NSSAR) (Thomas Stone Chapter) for “exemplary patriotism in the display of the Flag of the United States of America.” Pictured from left to right in the front row are PHC Trainee Commandant Ray Talley, Thomas Stone Chapter VP Joe Gardner, Chapter President David Langford, PHC VP Don Nolan and PHC Manpower Director Bart Rogers. The school received a certificate at its Piney Point, Md., campus. July 2013 6/25/2013 4:32:04 PM �Jones Act Opponents Trumped By Facts Things aren’t looking good for those hoping to undo the Jones Act. Their well-funded, coordinated attacks of the Jones Act are coinciding with a set of developments that are debunking their dubious claims and reminding the country why the law is so badly needed in the first place. The voices of prominent supporters of the Jones Act and U.S. Merchant Marine are growing louder in the face of criticism, while the recent release of government reports and international situations continue to illustrate how misguided Jones Act opponents are in their attacks. For nearly 100 years the Jones Act has been a staple of the maritime industry. It mandates that only vessels built, crewed and owned by Americans can ship cargo between U.S. ports; it has been embraced by politicians on both sides of the aisle. Aside from accounting for more than 500,000 American jobs and more than $100 billion in annual economic input, the Jones Act also serves as a vital tool for national security and defense. Thanks to the Jones Act, foreign-flagged vessels don’t sail on America’s inland waterways or from one U.S. port to another. The law also helps ensure the military has a well-trained collection of U.S. civilian mariners to call on in times of national need and crisis. Those merchant mariners have answered that call many times before and, as long as the Jones Act and other vital maritime programs remain in effect, will be able to answer the call in the future. Despite these benefits, the Jones Act has endured criticism from a small, well-funded movement aimed at getting rid the law and the American jobs that come with it. Their efforts, however, have been hindered by hard truths and the Jones Act’s proven effectiveness. Those truths were highlighted during a recent hearing by the House Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation. During that hearing prominent committee members of both parties defended the Jones Act and criticized anti-Jones Act forces. “The Jones Act continues to come under attack by critics, despite the fact that Jones Act trades constitute a What is the Jones Act? Also known as the Merchant Marine Act of 1920, the Jones Act stipulates that vessels transporting cargo between American ports are U.S.-built, U.S.-flagged, U.S.-owned and U.S.-crewed. It also restricts any foreign-flagged ships from navigating U.S. inland waterways. Some Benefits of the Jones Act n Helps sustain 500,000 good-paying American jobs n Generates more than $100 billion in annual economic input for the country n Helps maintain a well-trained, reliable pool of U.S. Merchant Mariners available to serve the country in times of need n Potentially dangerous foreign-flagged ships are prevented from navigating United States waterways substantial component of U.S. shipyard activity, which as everyone here knows, is a necessity to maintain our national defense capability,” said Rep. John Garamendi (D-Calif.), who serves as ranking member on the subcommittee. An editorial by Tony Munoz published in Maritime Executive touched on the situation and illustrated how the country’s security needs outweigh the desire of Jones Act opponents to allow foreign-flag vessels into America’s ports and waterways. “As the Korean Peninsula continues to become a tinderbox and China and Russia spend billions of dollars building their military capability, providing open-access U.S. coastlines and inland waterways is not a good idea,” Munoz wrote. “[Jones Act opponents] would have us believe that foreign shipping companies are as patriotic as American companies.” With Seafarers Aboard Overseas Tampa This photo aboard OSG’s Overseas Tampa was taken earlier this year in Hawaii. Pictured aboard the tanker are (from left) GUDE Rezk Mohamed, GUDE Peter Gonda, SA Mohamed Omar and OS Carlos Bonnilla. In a recent report on the Jones Act, the nonpartisan Government Accountability Office (GAO) stated the law was essential to employing the American workers and crews who would come to the aid of the country in times of need. “A decline in the number of U.S.-flag vessels would result in the loss of jobs that employ skilled mariners needed to crew the U.S. military reserve and other deep-sea vessels in times of emergency,” the report read. “According to DOD (Department of Defense) officials, to the extent that Jones Act markets are unable to sustain a viable reserve fleet, DOD would have to incur substantial additional costs to maintain and recapitalize a reserve fleet of its own.” In a recent letter to the House Subcommittee on Seapower and Projection Forces, the SIU-affiliated American Maritime Partnership (AMP) cited that GAO study and reminded the committee members of the Jones Act’s importance to national security. “As you know, DOD and the U.S. Navy rely on commercial mariners, including many from the U.S. domestic fleet for a variety of critical national security roles,” AMP wrote. “DOD has previously estimated that replacing the commercial maritime industry with military vessels would cost billions of dollars.” Aside from reaffirming the Jones Act’s importance to national security, the GAO study also debunked allegations that the Jones Act is costly and inconvenient. The study, which analyzed the law’s impact on the American island of Puerto Rico, found that the Jones Act provided top-notch service while prices actually went down. “The [Jones Act] has helped to ensure reliable, regular service between the United States and Puerto Rico – service that is important to the Puerto Rican economy,” the report read. In a statement following the report’s release, AMP said the findings clearly dispelled a series of falsehoods perpetrated by Jones Act critics. “GAO disproved charges that the Jones Act raises prices for consumers in Puerto Rico,” AMP said. “GAO’s report confirmed that previous estimates of the co-called ‘cost’ of the Jones Act are not verifiable and cannot be proven.” High School ROTC Cadet Receives SIU Honor Honolulu SIU Port Agent Hazel Galbiso (left) presents Naval Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (NJROTC) Cadet Mark Bardon with the Seafarers International Union’s Good Shipmate Award during the NJROTC’s annual award ceremony at James Campbell High School in Hawaii. Longtime Seafarer, Army Vet Publishes Poetry SA Shawn Canon is a published poet. The longtime Seafarer has poems appearing in “Bellwether Messages,” the 2013 edition of the Savant Poetry Anthology. He has also been published in previous editions. Canon has been with the SIU since the early 1980s. He previously served in the Army during the Vietnam War. Included here are some examples of his work. SA Shawn Canon’s poetry will appear in “Bellwether Messages,” the 2013 edition of Savant Poetry Anthology. July 2013 15047_JULY2K13LOG_X.indd 9 An Incidental Reverie Aggregated amongst volumes of technical lanes Segregates my side of the fence with Big Brother. If by some enchanting jest of Merlin’s legerdemain I would transmute every manuscriptual bother Into realms of melodious gleams… Namely Country, Blues, Jazz and Classics (the mother). Ge’me Some Recovery “What you get?” says the alcoholic addict Acting like a macbook ipad robot. Cautiously I look and walk further, An onerous homeless comes up to the strip His push cart house seems somewhat lost. So I ponder places I have lived before By antiquated rustic dwelling places Along in vogue rainbow city lights From cozy rivers by the beach Up winding misty mountain tops Then finally reaching ‘Recovery’ day by day. Yes, I’m searching now for something Unquestionably true and surely genuine In picnic brunches, long walks, beach trips and mini hikes And I say this clearly: “Could this be you?” Seafarers LOG 9 6/26/2013 9:45:36 AM �At Sea And... VP MEETS MEMBERS ON WEST COAST – SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker recently met with Seafarers at the Wilmington, Calif., hall and aboard vessels including the Crowley-operated Cape Isabel. He also conferred with personnel at a Seafarers-contracted health clinic in Long Beach, Calif., as part of the recent expansion. Pictured aboard the Cape Isabel (photo at immediate right, from left) are GVA Jovita Carino, GVA John Yi, Tricker, Chief Engineer (SIU Hawsepiper) John Gomard, and QMED Stanley Golden. Among those pictured with the SIU official outside the union hall (top center) are Chief Cook Jimmy Williams, QEE Dimarko Shoulders, QMED Clinton Cephas and AB Dannal Williams. With Tricker at the hall in photo above is Mate Tom Crawley. The photo at the far right was taken at the health clinic. ABOARD ATB VISION – Patrolman Nick Marrone II submitted these photos from an early May servicing of the Crowley ATB Vision in Martinez, Calif. Among the members pictured are Steward Utility Bradley Palmer, AB Cory Gardner, Master Robert Albe, Duty Engineer Edison Lalin and Chief Engineer Jimmy Lipscomb. Among other subjects, Marrone and the members discussed the new health clinic system, which several mariners stated would be beneficial to them. A-BOOK IN NORFOLK – AB Dinh Thong (left) picks up his A-seniority book from Port Agent Georg Kenny at the SIU hall in Norfolk, Va. Thong most recently sailed aboard a Maersk Line, Limited vessel. 10 Seafarers LOG 15047_JULY2K13LOG.indd 10 HORIZON PRODUCER ADDS STOP – Horizon Lines in late May announced that the SIU-crewed Horizon Producer, which carries containerized cargo between Houston and San Juan, P.R., on a 14-day roundtrip schedule, will begin stopping at Jacksonville, Fla., en route to San Juan. July 2013 6/25/2013 4:32:12 PM �... Ashore With The SIU ABOARD EVERGREEN STATE – Bosun Greg Jenkins took these photos of fellow Seafarers aboard Crowley’s Evergreen State. The crew recently presented a life ring (made by the bosun) to the seamen’s club in Diego Garcia. Pictured in the group photo above are GVA Santos Miguel, Chief Steward Donna Rye, AB John McElhaney, AB Emilio Gonzalez, AB Isaac Garrido, Pumpman Jake Diefenbach, AB Manny Wilson and SA Mohamed Nagi. Left to right in the photo below are AB Ahmed Mohammed Galeb, AB Nestor Rapusas and AB Luvertis Alford. HAPPY RETIREMENT – Seafarers gathered at the hall in Wilmington, Calif., May 30 to offer happy retirement wishes to longtime dispatcher Nick Rios (center). He is flanked by Port Agent Jeff Turkus (right) and Patrolman Abdul Al Omari. ON WATCH IN BALTIMORE – AB Hussen Mohamed is pictured in Baltimore aboard the Watermanoperated Green Bay. A-BOOK IN WILMINGTON – QMED Reynaldo Abella (left) displays his newly acquired A-seniority book with Patrolman Abdul Al Omari at the hall in Wilmington, Calif. Abella recently sailed on the USNS Bowditch, operated by 3PSC for Maersk. LABOR RALLY IN PHILLY – Seafarers and members of the SIU-affiliated United Industrial Workers joined in a rally for workers’ rights May 22 in Philadelphia. Pictured from left to right in photo at the immediate right are SIU members Elliott Kolner, Ryan Papa, and Isaac Amoah. In the photo above are (from left) UIW members Kim Lisacek, Kassy Schmidt, Agnes Alisio and Joyce Dudley. A-BOOK IN OAKLAND – AB Rolando Dinong (right in photo at right) receives his A-seniority book from Patrolman Nick Marrone II at the union hall in Oakland, Calif. Dinong regularly sails aboard the Pride of America, the only deep-sea U.S.-flag cruise ship. July 2013 15047_JULY2K13LOG.indd 11 Seafarers LOG 11 6/25/2013 4:32:17 PM �Chief Steward Robert Bostick, ACU Isabel Sabio AB Michael Dooley SIU members and officers gather for a group photo aboard the vessel. SIU Members Deliver for Key U.S. Program Ocean Giant Carries Vital Cargoes for Operation Deep Freeze SIU members have gone a long way, for a long time, to support the National Science Foundation’s U.S. Antarctic Program. Most recently, Seafarers from the Ocean Giant (operated by Crowley for Intermarine) and the Maersk Peary (operated by Maersk Line, Limited) helped deliver important cargoes in this year’s Operation Deep Freeze, a yearly resupply mission to McMurdo Station in Antarctica. The Ocean Giant carried approximately seven million pounds of supplies ranging from food to vehicles to electronic gear, while the Maersk Peary delivered more than six million gallons of gasoline, jet fuel and diesel fuel. The tradition of civilian mariners supporting the resupply mission dates to 1955, and SIU crews have participated in a large number of those voyages. Typically, the route includes passage through a 15-mile ice channel that’s more than 13 feet thick in some places. This year, according to the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC), civilian mariners helped deliver “100 percent of the fuel and about 80 percent of the supplies that researchers and support personnel in Antarctica need to survive and work over the course of a year.” As previously reported, the ships also returned with cargo from the station, including “ice core samples carried back to the United States in sub-zero freezer containers, as well as trash and recyclable materials for disposal and equipment no longer required on station.” Because of the weather in Antarctica, Deep Freeze takes place from January to March (summer in that part of the world). It’s a “very critical mission for the people who live and work in Antarctica,” said Capt. Sylvester Moore, commander AB Matt Baptist AB German Nunez, AB Henry Oculan MSC Pacific. “Without this resupply mission, all operations in Antarctica would end, and the scientific community would lose the opportunity to conduct research and study not only the continent of Antarctica, but its impact on our global climate.” Editor’s note: For more coverage of Operation Deep Freeze, see the April issue of the Seafarers LOG and the online photo galleries both at seafarers.org and on our Facebook page. The ship docks at McMurdo Station to deliver vital cargo. Seafarers have supported the U.S. Antarctic Program for decades. 12 Seafarers LOG 15047_SeafarersLog_cxs2_lores 15047_JULY2K13LOG.indd 12 12-13 The Ocean Giant early in the year sailed from Port Hueneme, Calif., carrying nearly seven million pounds of supplies such as frozen and dry food stores, building supplies, vehicles and electronic equipment. July 2013 6/25/2013 4:32:19 PM July 2013 15047_JULY2K13LOG.indd 13 Seafarers LOG 13 6/27/13 8:35 PM 6/25/2013 4:32:27 PM �Navy vehicles and equipment are loaded aboard the prepositioning ship USNS 2nd Lt. John P. Bobo. The HSV 2 Swift gets underway from Key West, Fla., to conduct a series of at sea capabilities tests for an unmanned blimp and another unmanned aerial vehicle. Fourth Arm of Defense Steps Up for Exercises Seafarers continue to build on their longstanding reputation for delivering the goods for America’s Armed Forces. Earlier this year, SIU members aboard four Military Sealift Command (MSC) owned vessels—the USNS Dahl, HSV 2 Swift, USNS 2nd Lt. John P. Bobo, and USNS Pililaau—participated in three-high profile U.S. Navy exercises. African Lion 13 The SIU crew aboard the USNS Dahl, along with members of MSC Europe and Africa’s Navy Reserve Expeditionary Port Unit 107, participated in Exercise African Lion 13. Conducted in Agadir, Morocco, during early April, the exercise was designed to improve the interoperability and mutual understanding of each nation’s tactics, techniques and procedures. The Dahl delivered more than 250 short tons of equipment for this exercise. Cargo included everything from seven-ton trucks, armored Humvees and howitzers to Meals, Ready to Eat. A large, medium-speed, roll-on/roll-off ship, the Dahl is operated for MSC by Ocean Ships, Inc. Operation Martillo Seafarers aboard the HSV 2 Swift on May 1 departed Key West, Fla., to participate in Operation Martillio, a multi-national, interagency and joint military operation to combat aerial and maritime drug trafficking off Central America’s coasts. Prior to getting underway for the exercise, the Swift completed the at-sea testing of an unmanned blimp and another unmanned aerial vehicle. Because of their unique capabilities as demonstrated during the tests, both aircraft could serve as future platforms to thwart trafficking operations. The Swift is operated for MSC by unioncontracted Sealift, Inc. Line, Limited-operated 2nd Lt. John P. Bobo and AMSEA-operated USNS Pililaau took part in the Combined Joint Logistics Over the Shore (CJLOTS) exercise. A segment of Foal Eagle 2013, CJLOTS took place off the shore of Pohang, Republic of South Korea (ROK) and involved 2,200 Navy, Marine Corps, Army and Coast Guard personnel and partners from the ROK military, who trained to deliver and redeploy military cargo from ships anchored two miles off Pohang’s Dogu beach. The Bobo and Pililaau served as supporting platforms for cargohandling Battalion One Sailors and Marines from Okinawa-based III Marine Expedition- ary Force who safely loaded and backloaded the vessels. Both vessels are part of MSC’s prepositioning fleet. They are based principally in Guam and Saipan. These ships deliver military cargo ashore even if a port is damaged, destroyed or doesn’t exist at all. MSC operates more than 100 noncombatant, U.S. merchant mariner-crewed ships (the vast majority manned by Seafarers) that replenish U.S. Navy ships, conduct specialized missions, strategically preposition combat cargo at sea around the world, and move military cargo and supplies used by deployed U.S. forces and coalition partners. CJLOTS Exercise On May 8, SIU crews from the Maersk The RO/RO USNS Pililaau arrives in Pohang, South Korea, carrying equipment in support of the Combined Joint Logistics Over the Shore exercise. The USNS Dahl is anchored in Agadir, Morocco, during Exercise African Lion 13. Summary Annual Report for SIU Pacific District Seafarers Medical Center Fund This is a summary of the annual report of the SIU Pacific District Seafarers Medical Center Fund, EIN 94-2430964 for the year ended June 30, 2012. The annual report has been filed with the Department of Labor, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Benefits under the plan are provided by the SIU Pacific District Seafarers Medical Center Fund, a trust fund. Basic Financial Statement The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $(89,348) as of June 30, 2012, compared to $78,132 as of July 1, 2011. During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $11,216. During the plan year, the plan had total income of $617,282, including employer contributions of $613,413, earnings from investments of $133 and other income of $3,736. Plan expenses were $628,498. These expenses included $161,796 in administrative expenses and $466,702 in benefits paid to participants and beneficiaries. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: n An accountant’s report; n Financial information and information on 14 Seafarers LOG 15047_JULY2K13LOG.indd 14 payments to service providers; and n Assets held for investment. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of SIU Pacific District Seafarers Medical Center Fund, 730 Harrison St., Suite 400, San Francisco, CA 94107, (415) 392-3611. The charge to cover copying costs will be $2.00 for the full annual report or $.25 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan at 730 Harrison Street, Suite 400, San Francisco, CA 94107, and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, DC, or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to: Public Disclosure Room, N-1513, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20210. Summary Annual Report for SIU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc. This is a summary of the annual report of the SIU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc., EIN 94-1431246, for the year ended July 31, 2012. The annual report has been filed with the Employee Benefits Security Administration, as required under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA). Benefits under the Plan are provided by the SIU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc., a Trust Fund. Basic Financial Statement The value of plan assets, after subtracting liabilities of the plan, was $299,616 as of July 31, 2012, compared to $270,015 as of August 1, 2011. During the plan year, the plan experienced a decrease in its net assets of $29,601. This decrease includes unrealized appreciation or depreciation in the value of plan assets; that is, the difference between the value of the plan’s assets at the end of the year and the value of the assets at the beginning of the year or the cost of assets acquired during the year. During the plan year, the plan had total income of $9,494,912, which included employer contributions of $9,493,441, realized losses of $5,648 from the sale of assets, and earnings from investments of $7,119. Plan expenses were $9,524,513. These expenses included $411,062 in administrative expenses and $9,113,451 in benefits paid to participants. Your Rights to Additional Information You have the right to receive a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, on request. The items listed below are included in that report: n An accountant’s report; n Financial information and information on payments to service providers; n Assets held for investment; and n Transactions in excess of 5 percent of plan assets. To obtain a copy of the full annual report, or any part thereof, write or call the office of SIU Pacific District Supplemental Benefits Fund, Inc., at 730 Harrison Street, Suite 400, San Francisco, CA 94107, telephone number (415) 764-4990. The charge to cover copying costs will be $4.00 for the full annual report or $0.25 per page for any part thereof. You also have the right to receive from the plan administrator, on request and at no charge, a statement of the assets and liabilities of the plan and accompanying notes, or a statement of income and expenses of the plan and accompanying notes, or both. If you request a copy of the full annual report from the plan administrator, these two statements and accompanying notes will be included as part of that report. The charge to cover copying costs given above does not include a charge for the copying of these portions of the report because these portions are furnished without charge. You also have the legally protected right to examine the annual report at the main office of the plan at 730 Harrison Street, Suite 400, San Francisco, CA 94107, and at the U.S. Department of Labor in Washington, DC, or to obtain a copy from the U.S. Department of Labor upon payment of copying costs. Requests to the Department should be addressed to Public Disclosure Room, Room N1513, Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20210. July 2013 6/25/2013 4:32:30 PM �3 On the Job Aboard the SBX-1 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea May 16, 2013 - June 15, 2013 Total Registered AB Victor Mariano runs a forklift aboard the TOTE-operated SBX-1 in Hawaii. The SBX-1 features an advanced X-Band radar mounted aboard an oceangoing, semi-submersible platform. August & September 2013 Membership Meetings Piney Point.................Monday: August 5, *Tuesday: September 3 Algonac.........................Friday: August 9, September 6 Baltimore........................Thursday: August 8, September 5 Guam.........................Thursday: August 22, September 19 Honolulu..........................Friday: August 16, September 13 Houston............................Monday: August 12, September 9 Jacksonville.....................Thursday: August 8, September 5 Joliet............................Thursday: August 15, September 12 Mobile..........................Wednesday: August 14, September 11 New Orleans........................Tuesday: August 13, September 10 New York.......................Tuesday: August 6, September 3 Norfolk...........................Thursday: August 8, September 5 Oakland.............................Thursday: August 15, September 12 Philadelphia........................Wednesday: August 7, September 4 Port Everglades..................Thursday: August 15, September 12 San Juan..................................Thursday: August 8, September 5 St. Louis.....................................Friday: August 16, September 13 Tacoma..................................Friday: August 23, September 20 Wilmington............................Monday: August 19, September 16 * Piney Point change created by Labor Day holiday Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Attention SEAFARERS Keep Us On Your Radar Screen Contribute to the Seafarers Political Activity Donation SPAD July 2013 15047_JULY2K13LOG.indd 15 All Groups B C Total Shipped A All Groups B C Trip Reliefs Registered on Beach A All Groups B Port A C Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu 1 Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Deck Department 15 4 2 8 4 1 3 15 7 2 2 1 1 2 1 0 0 2 1 2 7 2 2 7 2 0 1 9 6 3 14 6 4 11 11 2 9 28 17 7 3 2 0 3 1 0 0 3 2 0 3 2 0 3 4 1 3 27 6 0 58 12 6 50 9 2 29 92 19 6 32 17 6 23 19 4 15 60 33 6 6 5 0 3 3 0 1 3 3 1 6 2 3 13 6 2 8 10 1 4 16 6 1 11 1 0 8 22 7 3 55 21 5 34 17 1 13 80 25 7 20 17 7 13 16 4 6 31 29 11 26 5 4 20 3 0 8 36 15 3 8 5 1 1 2 0 0 9 4 3 1 2 0 0 1 0 0 4 3 0 11 5 1 3 7 3 5 13 5 2 37 10 5 32 11 1 19 74 19 8 2 3 0 2 0 1 0 5 4 0 42 18 7 20 12 1 18 80 38 7 374 145 55 259 130 23 146 603 244 75 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Engine Department 2 5 4 1 8 1 2 2 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 4 0 3 3 1 2 5 8 3 6 6 1 5 7 1 7 13 8 3 3 0 0 0 1 0 0 4 0 0 8 0 2 3 5 1 1 16 10 3 15 6 1 8 5 0 6 34 16 2 25 12 2 14 16 1 11 44 31 5 2 5 0 2 0 0 0 2 6 0 7 3 1 3 1 1 1 9 5 0 6 1 0 1 2 0 2 7 0 0 17 9 4 11 7 0 5 31 15 5 12 9 2 10 6 2 1 20 16 2 6 6 2 5 7 3 3 16 3 3 2 1 0 4 2 0 2 1 3 3 1 2 0 0 1 0 0 4 5 0 4 5 1 0 6 0 4 4 7 1 19 10 0 17 8 1 10 28 11 1 4 0 1 0 0 1 0 6 3 1 16 11 2 8 10 0 6 20 27 4 157 95 23 95 95 13 63 266 175 38 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu 1 Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Steward Department 3 1 0 0 1 0 0 3 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 0 1 2 0 0 4 3 0 13 1 2 8 0 3 3 22 3 3 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 3 2 1 8 3 1 5 24 4 0 12 6 0 16 3 0 10 33 7 1 24 5 1 15 3 1 6 31 10 1 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 3 1 5 1 0 0 1 0 0 8 2 1 6 0 2 4 3 0 5 9 0 4 23 8 1 13 5 0 3 27 14 1 16 8 3 12 6 1 3 21 12 3 23 3 1 10 2 2 6 31 7 2 4 0 1 1 0 0 0 5 0 1 6 2 0 2 2 0 2 7 2 0 4 4 0 0 3 1 2 6 3 0 17 3 1 13 3 0 7 32 5 1 1 1 1 0 0 1 1 3 2 0 28 4 3 17 3 1 11 48 7 4 199 53 18 120 42 11 64 315 87 23 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Entry Department 5 11 14 1 7 7 5 5 17 19 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 1 0 0 0 0 1 3 4 0 1 2 0 3 0 2 1 9 6 0 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 0 3 4 12 1 7 8 0 2 10 18 4 9 4 3 7 3 2 7 18 13 2 11 14 2 10 6 2 2 16 19 0 0 3 0 0 1 0 0 0 4 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 2 2 3 0 2 4 2 3 0 2 2 2 6 8 19 9 0 15 12 3 11 38 24 1 11 35 1 14 11 6 0 24 43 4 8 5 1 6 1 0 6 24 13 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 1 1 1 0 0 24 0 1 5 4 0 1 21 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 0 1 11 13 4 4 7 3 5 9 18 7 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 9 15 17 3 10 6 4 14 45 31 51 112 150 19 93 64 35 67 231 233 GRAND TOTAL: 781 405 246 493 360 111 308 1,251 737 369 Seafarers LOG 15 6/25/2013 4:32:32 PM �Inquiring Seafarer Seafarers International Union Directory 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 Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services Editor’s note: This month’s question was answered by individuals who are enrolled in upgrading courses at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Question: Do you think it’s important for Seafarers to upgrade their skills? 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 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 JOLIET 10 East Clinton St., Joliet, IL 60432 (815) 723-8002 MOBILE 1640 Dauphin Island Pkwy, Mobile, AL 36605 (251) 478-0916 Gerald Scott FOWT Alfredo Mendoza Oiler I have upgraded here at Piney Point about six times. The purpose of having a maritime career is to go up the ladder when you’re aboard a ship … you don’t want to do the same job all of the time. I see a lot people who do that, though … one person stayed a wiper for 20 years. To me upgrading is very important because you improve yours skills and make more money. I recommend that everybody who goes through the unlicensed apprentice program here to return and upgrade. I sail out of the port of Mobile and am here upgrading to junior engineer. I’ve been sailing now for about two and one-half years and have upgraded several times before. Upgrading to me is a no-brainer because in doing so you not only help yourself and your situation but also the union. There is a significant difference between the money you can make if you continue to upgrade as opposed to not doing it. I’d recommend that all of our brothers and sisters, especially those who are just starting out, upgrade as early and as often as possible. Clifford Simril Chief Cook I sail out of Wilmington and am here upgrading in the steward department. I have been here on two previous occasions to upgrade. Upgrading is very important if you want to keep your skills current and ensure that you will have a good career. The other thing is that you make good money. In my opinion, people who don’t upgrade really are kidding themselves. They are selling themselves short because they don’t take full advantage of the opportunities to advance their careers. Tina Knox Recertified Steward I’ve been sailing for about 14 years now and I’m here upgrading in the government vessels course. I’m here quite frequently because to do otherwise would be detrimental to my career. Although I’m a recertified steward, I want to do Serve Safe and to do that, you have to retest every five years. So basically, I upgrade to keep all of my certifications current. I suggest that everyone who has an opportunity to upgrade to do so, because this is how you advance in your career. The more you advance, the greater you enhance your chances to make more money. Charles Hill Recertified Bosun I’ve been sailing for about 15 years and I’m here upgrading in the tanker assistant course. I’ve been going to sea aboard containerships for a long time and I did not have this certification. I wanted to get it so that I could hopefully work and stay closer to home. I would recommend the school for anyone … I’ve come here a number of times. They have a great facility and the opportunities are endless, especially for young people who want to get into this industry; it’s a great place to start. Kelly Mayo QMED Pumpman I’ve been sailing since 1978 and am currently homeported here at Piney Point. I just got off of the ship and I’m here today looking into the upgrading classes that may be available. I’ve been here numerous times in the past to upgrade. I think it’s important for everyone to take advantage of the upgrading opportunities that the school offers. Aside from opening the doors to new job opportunities, upgrading your skills places you in a better position to make more money. It can really make a difference in your career. Pic-From-The-Past NEW ORLEANS 3911 Lapalco Blvd., Harvey, LA 70058 (504) 328-7545 NEW YORK 635 Fourth Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11232 (718) 499-6600 Government Services Division: (718) 499-6600 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 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (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) 549-4000 Pictured aboard the tanker SS Zapata in southern California in the summer of 1976 are (from left) SIU rep Pat Marinelli and Seafarers Leonard Viles, Oswaldo Irizarry, John Young and Louis Vidal. The 711-foot-long vessel reportedly was built at a cost of about $16 million. 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 16 Seafarers LOG 15047_JULY2K13LOG.indd 16 July 2013 6/25/2013 4:32:36 PM �Welcome Ashore 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 waterways 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. DEEP SEA STEVEN BUSH Brother Steven Bush, 65, started sailing with the Seafarers in 1979. He was originally employed aboard the Perry. Brother Bush was a deck department member. He upgraded frequently at the SIU-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Bush’s most recent ship was the Horizon Falcon. He is a resident of Kirkland, Wash. LEON CATLIN Brother Leon Catlin, 67, became an SIU member in 2001 when the NMU merged into the Seafarers International Union. He was employed with Keystone Shipping Services for the duration on his career. Brother Catlin shipped in the steward department. He resides in Mobile, Ala. CARDEL DUNN Brother Cardel Dunn, 56, signed on with the SIU in 1977 while in Piney Point, Md. The Californiaborn mariner initially shipped on the Westward Venture as a member of the engine department. Brother Dunn enhanced his skills often at the Paul Hall Center. He concluded his career aboard the Grand Canyon State. Brother Dunn settled in Elsobrante, Calif. MICHAEL FREEBURN Brother Michael Freeburn, 65, began sailing with the union in 1967. He initially shipped aboard the Reiss Brothers. Brother Freeburn sailed in the deck department. In 1972 and 1981, he attended classes at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Freeburn’s final ship was the Marketer. He calls Marana, Ariz., home. DAVID LA FRANCE Brother David La France, 65, joined the SIU ranks in 1966. His first ship was the Depauw Victory; his most recent, the Aquarius. Brother La July 2013 15047_JULY2K13LOG_X2.indd 17 France worked in the deck department. On two occasions, he took advantage of educational opportunities available at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Maryland. Brother La France resides in Newville, Pa. NELSON LAZO Brother Nelson Lazo, 66, was born in Chile. He became an SIU member in 1990, initially sailing on the Independence. Brother Lazo worked in the engine department, most recently aboard the Overseas Maremar. He upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Lazo lives in Houston. LARRY PHILLIPS Brother Larry Phillips, 63, donned the SIU colors in 1966. He first sailed aboard the Del Rio. Brother Phillips shipped in the engine department. In 1996 and 2001, he upgraded at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Phillips’ most recent trip was on the Coast Range. He was born in Mobile, Ala., and settled in Rocky Creek, Miss. NORMAN ROGERS Brother Norman Rogers, 65, started shipping with the union in 1996 while in Mobile, Ala. He sailed aboard vessels including the Little Hales and the SBX. Brother Rogers was born in Detroit. He sailed mostly as an MDR. Brother Rogers resides in Bronx, N.Y. CARL SANDS Brother Carl Sands, 65, joined the SIU in 1978 in the port of Houston. The deck department member was born in Tacoma Park, Md. Brother Sands first sailed on the Montpelier Victory. He upgraded frequently at the Piney Point school. Brother Sands last shipped aboard the Commitment. He calls Brooklyn, N.Y., home. ALVIN SOLOMON Brother Alvin Solomon, 65, signed on with the union in 1978. His first voyage was aboard the Santa Magdelena. Brother Solomon was a steward department member. His final trip was on the Philippines. Brother Solomon makes his home in Fairfield, Calif. INLAND RONALD BROWDER Brother Ronald Browder, 62, began his seafaring career in 1977. He primarily worked aboard Marine Contracting & Towing Company vessels. Brother Browder is a native of South Carolina. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Browder lives in Awendaw, S.C. RICHARD DOZIER Brother Richard Dozier, 59, first donned the SIU colors in 1970. His earliest trip was with Michigan Tankers Inc. Brother Dozier was born in Norfolk, Va., and sailed in the deck department. He attended classes often at the Seafarersaffiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Dozier last shipped on an Allied Towing vessel. He calls Portsmouth, Va., home. GLENN HOLDEN Brother Glenn Holden, 56, became a union member in 1976. He was employed with Allied Towing Company for the du- ration on his career. Brother Holden was born in North Carolina. The deck department member enhanced his skills often at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Holden resides in Wilmington, N.C. FRANK INGELLIS Brother Frank Ingellis, 56, signed on with the SIU in 1976 while in Piney Point, Md. He mostly shipped aboard Allied Towing vessels as a member of the engine department. Brother Ingellis enhanced his skills on three occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point. He lives in Baltimore. CARLOS RIVERA Brother Carlos Rivera, 62, joined the union in 1977. He worked with Crowley of Puerto Rico. Brother Rivera sailed in the engine department and makes his home in Toa Baja, P.R. PAUL WILLS Brother Paul Wills, 62, began sailing with the SIU in 1979. He was originally employed aboard the Overseas Anchorage. Brother Wills worked in the deck department. He upgraded on two occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Wills’ most recent trip was aboard a Crowley Towing of Jacksonville vessel. He resides in his native state, Pennsylvania. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION JESSE CHILES Brother Jesse Chiles, 65, started shipping with the NMU in 1977. He was a deck department member. Brother Chiles most recently sailed on the Victory Texas. Brother Chiles lives in Bronx, N.Y. DEVLIN MILLER Brother Devlin Miller, 55, sailed with the NMU prior to the 2001 merger with the Seafarers International Union. Brother Miller sailed in the deck department. He calls Jacksonville, Fla., home. This Month In SIU History Editor’s note: The following items are reprinted from previous editions of the Seafarers LOG. tion, Congress voted an additional $1 million for providing medical care to seamen, government workers and many other groups. 1950 The SIU has signed agreements with its contracted operators providing that Seafarers aboard contracted ships in the five zones along the Chinese coast will be protected against war risks by terms of riders supplementing the ships’ articles. The riders will be attached to all ships’ articles until agreement is reached with the operators on adequate bonus payments, personal effects allowances and attack bonuses. The agreement on the war bonus payment was made retroactive to the date that the Korean hostilities broke out. Crew members of the affected ship will receive in addition to basic wages and allowances, 100 percent of their base wages while in the five specified areas rendered unsafe, including the waters around Korea. 1964 The new SIU hall in Norfolk was dedicated last week in ceremonies attended by officers of the SIU, members, representatives of the trade union movement and representatives of government. A part of the SIU’s continuing building program, the new Norfolk hall is a direct consequence of the increased deep-sea cargo movements and the parallel rise in membership of the SIU throughout the Hampton Roads-Norfolk area. The new fully air-conditioned building includes an expanded hiring hall, a general meeting hall capable of handling 300 persons, new recreational facilities and accommodations for a snack bar-cafeteria area. 1953 Vigorous action by the SIU has insured that the Public Health Service Hospital at Savannah, Georgia, will be kept open. In the face of the concerted effort of the SIU and its affiliates, the Department of Health, Education and Welfare has canceled its plans to close the hospital. This will ensure that the thousands of patients the hospital serves on the southeastern coast of the U.S. will continue to receive quality medical care. In addi- 1967 In a report to the Atlantic and Gulf membership during the regular July membership meeting at headquarters, SIU President Paul Hall told members that facilities for the training and upgrading of seamen were being expanded. In addition to local training sites in New York and other outports, the SIU has recently purchased a 28acre site at Piney Point, Md., to train young men for entry-level jobs aboard American-flag ships. This will be in addition to upgrading training to enable working seamen to qualify for promotions after specialized training. Seafarers LOG 17 6/26/2013 4:18:07 PM �Final Departures DEEP SEA MICHAEL BORDERS Pensioner Michael Borders, 58, died Jan. 3. Brother Borders started shipping with the union in 1971. He first worked with James River Transport. Brother Borders was born in Virginia and sailed in the deck department. Prior to his retirement in 2008, he sailed on the Performance. Brother Borders called Norfolk, Va., home ALEXANDER BROSSEUK Pensioner Alexander Brosseuk, 92, passed away Oct. 14. Brother Brosseuk began sailing with the union in 1974. He originally worked on the Ft. Hoskins. Brother Brosseuk was a member of the engine department. Before retiring in 1988, he sailed on the OMI Columbia. Brother Brosseuk made his home in Long Beach, Calif. VIRGIL CARROLL Brother Virgil Carroll, 51, died Dec. 7. He became a union member in 1981. Brother Carroll’s first ship was the Long Beach; his last was the USNS Wyman. He sailed in the steward department. Brother Carroll resided in Brooklyn, N.Y. CHARLES CURLEY Brother Charles “Chuck” Curley, 58, passed away Jan. 16. Born in Roanoke Rapids, N.C., he began sailing with the union in 1980. Brother Curley first sailed on the Del Oro. He was a steward department member. Brother Curley’s final ship was the APL Agate. He was a resident of Gaston, N.C. WALDEMAR GAJC Brother Waldemar Gajc, 56, died Nov. 29. He signed on with the SIU in 2003. Brother Gajc’s earliest trip was with Marine Personnel & Provisioning. He was a member of the deck department. Brother Gajc most recently shipped aboard the USNS Stockham. He called Watervliet, N.Y., home. JORGE GARCIA Brother Jorge Garcia, 94, passed away Dec. 12. He donned the SIU colors in 1959 while in the port of New York. Brother Garcia initially sailed with States Steamship Company. He was born in Puerto Rico and shipped in the steward department. Brother Garcia last worked aboard the President Polk. He continued to live in Puerto Rico. 18 Seafarers LOG 15047_JULY2K13LOG.indd 18 FRANCIS GOMEZ Pensioner Francis Gomez, 92, died Dec. 28. Brother Gomez started shipping with the union in 1944. He first worked on the Alcoa Runner. Brother Gomez was a member of the engine department. Prior to his retirement in 1976, he sailed on the Ft. Hoskins. Brother Gomez was born in the West Indies; he made his home in Mobile, Ala. COY HENDRICKS Pensioner Coy Hendricks, 91, passed away Jan. 1. Brother Hendricks was born in Daisy, Ga. He started his SIU career in 1951. Brother Hendricks was a steward department member. He originally shipped on the Southern States. Brother Hendricks’ final ship was the OMI Star. He went on pension in 1993 and was a resident of Brooksville, Fla. ROBERT LAGASSE Brother Robert Lagasse, 89, died Jan. 27. He became an SIU member in 1943. Brother Lagasse sailed in the engine department. Before retiring in 1985, he sailed on the St. Louis. Brother Lagasse was born in Dover, N.H. and lived in Venice, Fla. KARL LEITER Brother Karl Leiter, 54, died Dec. 26. He began sailing with the SIU in 1989 while in Honolulu. Brother Leiter was originally employed aboard the Independence. He was born in Toronto and primarily worked in the engine department, in addition to working as a patrolman. Brother Leiter’s last trip was on the Horizon Reliance. He called Jacksonville, Fla., home. GARY LOWRY Brother Gary Lowry, 56, passed away Dec. 29. He first donned the SIU colors in 1997. Brother Lowry’s first voyage was aboard the USNS Able. He was a member of the deck department. Brother Lowry’s final trip was on the Integrity. He made his home in Virginia Beach, Va. BILLY MITCHELL Pensioner Billy Mitchell, 78, died Dec. 3. Brother Mitchell was born in Texas. He joined the union in 1973, initially sailed aboard the RamBam. The steward department member last sailed on the Wilson. Brother Mitchell started collecting his pension in 1999. He was a resident of Stone Mountain, Ga. STANLEY PARKER Pensioner Stanley Parker, 60, passed away Jan. 26. Brother Parker signed on with the SIU in 1974. His earliest trip was aboard the Overseas Juneau. Brother Parker, a member of the deck department, last sailed on the Oakland. He became a pensioner in 2012. Brother Parker was born in California and made his home in El Cerrito, Calif. BOB RACKLIN Pensioner Bob Racklin, 71, died Dec. 31. Brother Racklin started sailing with the Seafarers in 1970. He originally shipped aboard the Afoundria. The Alabama-born mariner worked in the steward department. Brother Racklin’s most recent vessel was the Maersk Alaska. He began receiving compensation for his retirement in 2004. Brother Racklin settled in San Bruno, Calif. RAMON TORRES Pensioner Ramon Torres, 83, died Jan. 5. Born in Puerto Rico, he began shipping with the union in 1965. Brother Torres first sailed on the Platte. He was an engine department member. Brother Torres’ final ship was the San Juan. He retired in 1995 and continued to live in Puerto Rico. INLAND WILLIAM CARLTON Pensioner William Carlton, 81, passed away Jan. 7. Brother Carlton was born in Atlanta. He started sailing with the SIU in 1972. Brother Carlton first shipped with Virginia Pilot Corporation. He worked in both the steward and deck departments. Brother Carlton last sailed aboard an OSG Ship Management vessel before going on pension in 1994. He called Virginia Beach, Va., home. ELTON MERRITT Pensioner Elton Merritt, 80, passed away Dec. 21. Brother Merritt became an SIU member in 1977. He first shipped with Norfolk Baltimore. Brother Merritt, a member of the engine department, last sailed aboard an Allied Towing vessel. He went on pension in 1994 and resided in Cheriton, Va. VIRGIL QUILLEN Pensioner Virgil Quillen, 69, passed away Jan. 13. Brother Quillen joined the union in 1965. He was a native of Delaware. Brother Quillen shipped with Moran Towing of Philadelphia for the duration of his career. He worked in the deck department. Brother Quillen became a pensioner in 2005. He was a resident of Bucks County, Pa. Editor’s note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU), have passed away. SAMUEL AYLER Pensioner Samuel Ayler, 85, died Dec. 12. Brother Ayler was born in Alabama. He went on pension in 1993. Brother Ayler made his home in Mobile. LORENZO BROWN Pensioner Lorenzo Brown, 91, passed away Oct. 15. Brother Brown, a native of Mobile, Ala., started collecting his retirement compensation in 1987. He lived in Atlanta. TEODORO CABALLERO Pensioner Teodoro Caballero, 82, died Nov. 30. Born in Honduras, Brother Caballero became a pensioner in 1995. He called Odessa, Fla., home. ROBERTO CRUZ Pensioner Roberto Cruz, 80, passed away Dec. 9. Brother Cruz was born in Puerto Rico. He retired in 1997 and resided in Bronx, N.Y. WILLIE DAVIS Pensioner Willie Davis, 80, died Dec. 10. Brother Davis was a native of Crockett, Texas. He began receiving his pension in 2003. Brother Davis lived in Houston. NASER ELJAHMI Pensioner Naser Eljahmi, 88, passed away Nov. 20. Brother Eljajmi, a native of Yemen, went on pension in 1986. He made his home in Dearborn, Mich. RUDOLPH FONTANA Pensioner Rudolph Fontana, 83, died Nov. 29. Born in New York, Brother Fontana started receiving his retirement compensation in 1988. He lived in Tampa, Fla. ANTONIO HERNANDEZ Pensioner Antonio Hernandez, 85, passed away Dec. 15. Brother Hernandez retired in 1992 and settled in Honduras. HOOVER HYNDS Pensioner Hoover Hynds, 81, died Nov. 27. Brother Hynds, a native of Honduras, started collecting his retirement com- pensation in 1995. He lived in Marrero, La. FRANCIS MALVEIRA Pensioner Francis Malveira, 84, passed away Nov. 29. Brother Malveira was a native of Woburn, Mass. He became a pensioner in 1983 and called McKinney, Texas, home. ARTHUR NUNN Pensioner Arthur Nunn, 88, passed away Dec. 13. Brother Nunn, a native of Texas, began collecting his pension in 1987. He resided in Emeryville, Calif. HUEY ORTEGO Pensioner Heuy Ortego, 84, died Dec. 2. Born in Louisiana, Brother Ortego went on pension in 1988. He lived in Ville Platte, La. JUSTO PAZ Pensioner Justo Paz, 88, passed away Oct. 10. Brother Paz was born in Honduras. He retired in 1986 and was a resident of Los Angeles. PEDRO PIZARRO Pensioner Pedro Pizarro, 80, died Nov. 7. Brother Pizarro was born in Santurce, P.R. He became a pensioner in 1988. Brother Pizarro called Lakeland, Fla., home. HENRY STRICKLAN Pensioner Henry Stricklan, 82, passed away Nov. 10. Brother Stricklan, a native of San Francisco, went on pension in 1987. He settled in Portland, Ore. MILTON THOMAS Pensioner Milton Thomas, 91, passed away Nov. 20. Brother Thomas was born in Alabama. He began collecting compensation for his retirement in 1981. Brother Thomas made his home in Mobile, Ala. GEORGE VASILIKIS Pensioner George Vasilikis, 79, died Dec. 4. Born in Greece, Brother Vasilikis started receiving his pension in 1968. He continued to live in Greece. EDWIN WRIGHT Pensioner Edwin Wright, 85, died Nov. 16. Brother Wright began receiving his retirement pay in 1967. He was a resident of Manahawkin, N.J. Editor’s note: Sufficient information was not avaiable to develop writeups on the following NMU brothers who also have passed away: Name Age DOD Calderon, Ernesto Carrilho, Carlo De la Espriella, Anibal Dos santos, Antonio Guerra, Ruben Isles, Marlon Laidlow, Ansil Lugo, Juan Mattocks, Wallace Walker, Tilton 90 85 81 80 84 94 103 77 90 87 Dec. 4 Nov. 9 Nov. 21 Dec. 31 Nov. 21 Dec. 15 Oct. 25 Nov. 10 Nov. 19 Nov. 28 July 2013 6/25/2013 4:32:42 PM �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings CHARLESTON (USS Transport), April 28 – Chairman Willie M. Marsh, Secretary Catherine M. Hays, Educational Director Kevin E. Hall, Deck Delegate Eddie Major, Engine Delegate Peter Joseph. Bosun went over ship’s itinerary. He reminded everyone to renew documents early and take advantage of Paul Hall Center. Educational director discussed eventual VPDSD requirement and why to obtain it. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion was made to change seatime requirements for retirement. Members talked about recent changes to clinic system. Next ports: Philadelphia, Houston and Corpus Christi, Texas. CHAMPION (Maersk Line, Limited), April 19 – Chairman Trevorous M. Ellison, Secretary Carlos L. Olascoaga, Educational Director Dennis R. Baker, Deck Delegate Demetrio Marchione, Engine Delegate David Terry. Chairman reported smooth voyage. He urged mariners to read the Seafarers LOG and take advantage of upgrades to SIU website. Crew members were advised to contribute to SPAD and keep all documents current. Educational director explained ship’s flag-out status. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members requested more information on medical and retirement benefits. Next port: Newark, N.J. EAGLE (Maersk Line, Limited), April 27 – Chairman Michael J. Proveaux, Secretary Johnnie B. McGill, Educational Director Ronald M. Pheneuf, Deck Delegate Marc A. Marcus, Engine Delegate James D. Corprew, Steward Delegate Marcus Logan. Chairman explained ship’s upcoming schedule. Secretary reminded fellow members about importance of upgrading at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Educational director went over how to care for messhall reefer. Crew was asked to keep doors closed and properly latched. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Mariners were reminded to have common courtesy when using computer (limit time so others have opportunity to use). Crew thanked steward department for a job well done. Next port: Elizabeth, N.J. GLOBAL SENTINEL (Transoceanic Cable Ship), April 29 – Chairman Lee H. Hardman, Secretary Shawn R. Fujiwara, Educational Director Lothar Wick, Deck Delegate Rayann Williams, Steward Delegate Robert J. Haggerty. Bosun expressed his gratitude to crew members for keeping ship clean and more than 900 July 2013 15047_JULY2K13LOG.indd 19 days accident-free sailing. He relayed that the TWIC office in Portland, Ore., relocated to Vancouver, Wash.; another office is in Fife, Wash. Crew discussed need for mariners to obtain new STCW security endorsement for their MMDs by January 1, 2014. Secretary stated $1,900 in ship’s fund. Educational director reminded crew members to get their time in and take advantage of upgrading at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department was thanked for lunchtime BBQ. GREEN BAY (Waterman Steamship), April 16 – Chairman Nagi A. Musaid, Secretary Joseph C. Welle, Educational Director Arlie B. Villasor, Steward Delegate Louie C. Aceridano. Chairman talked to the captain and union hall about status of retro wages. Secretary asked crew departing vessel to leave rooms how they would want to find them. Educational director suggested crew take advantage of courses available at maritime training center in Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Next ports: Savannah, Ga. and Baltimore. The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring 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. With Seafarers Aboard USNS Button AB Samuel Thatcher emailed these photos of fellow Seafarers aboard the prepositioning ship USNS Sgt. William R. Button. The mariners are shown enjoying a cookout in Diego Garcia. The Button is operated by Maersk Line, Limited, for the U.S. Military Sealift Command. OS Walid Nasser, Bosun Greg Jackson, OS Angel Sanchez HORIZON ENTERPRISE (Horizon Lines), April 21 – Chairman George B. Khan, Secretary William E. Bryley, Educational Director Jonathan A. Stratton. Bosun discussed changes to clinic system including numerous new locations where physicals can now be taken. He thanked everyone that came to the two burials at sea and gave kudos to captain for great job reading scriptures. Dayman Fadhl Said won safety sailor of the month. Importance of SPAD was talked about especially since the Jones Act is under attack again. Secretary reminded departing mariners to make sure rooms are clean and clean linens are ready. Educational director reminded fellow members to keep an eye on document expiration dates, allow plenty of time for renewals, and also head to Piney Point to upgrade. No beefs or disputed OT reported. New drinking fountain requested in crew lounge. Vote of thanks was given to Chief Cook Erni Lizada for a job well done. Kudos also given to SA Tom Gingerich for keeping dining area clean and well stocked. Next ports: Honolulu, Tacoma, Wash. and Oakland, Calif. on time. He reported Kodiak bear with cubs was spotted by longshoremen in Kodiak, Alaska; be careful and aware of your surroundings ashore. Secretary recommended members go to SIU website to see their seatime, dues, eligibility of benefits, etc. Educational director encouraged fellow Seafarers to upgrade at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point. Treasurer reported $5,000 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion was made to increase pension benefits and return one blanket day off every 42 days. Crew also discussed potential effects of sequestration on shipping. Next ports: Tacoma, Wash., Anchorage, Alaska and Kodiak, Alaska. HORIZON KODIAK (Horizon Lines), April 7 – Chairman Garry D. Walker, Secretary Lovie L. Perez, Educational Director Alfonso D. Bombita, Deck Delegate Mark Pesola, Engine Delegate Gebar Ogbe, Steward Delegate Strode V. Call. Chairman reminded crew members to pay their dues MAERSK WYOMING (Maersk Line, Limited), April 28 – Chairman Frank L. Thompson, Secretary Kenneth A. Hagan, Educational Director David Vega. Chairman reviewed ship’s itinerary and talked about importance of keeping track of vacation pay stubs QMED Randy Corey, QEE Jovanii Sprauve AB Bill Matthews SA Charles Kent, Chief Cook Gizelle Jones, Chief Steward Edwin Bonefont to use as proof of earnings when applying for pension benefits. Chief steward read the new protocol for CHSi physical and explained major new points. Educational director encouraged everyone to upgrade, obtain a rating and get an A-book. You have to be competitive, jobs are tight. No disputed OT; beef reported in deck department. OVERSEAS SANTORINI (OSG), April 21 – Chairman Stephen J. Argay, Secretary John W. Hale, Educational Director Edwin Feliciano, Deck Delegate Franklin B. Akins. Chairman reported good trip and thanked crew for separating their trash. He reminded them to get tour of duty letter when they sign off ship. Secretary reminded crew to enhance skills at Piney Point school and keep all necessary seafaring documents current. Mariners were reminded to leave rooms clean and supplied with fresh linen. Educational director suggested members check out changes to SIU website. Treasurer stated $1,500 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew expressed concerns about amount of provisions. Entire crew reported safe voyage. Galley gang was thanked for job well done. Next port: Corpus Christi, Texas. ST. LOUIS EXPRESS (Crowley), April 28 – Chairman Billy G. Hill, Secretary Richard A. Riley, Educational Director Daniel G. Ramirez, Deck Delegate Paul Dooley. Chairman announced payoff in Houston May 7. He reported injuryfree trip and thanked crew for their professionalism. Secretary suggested mariners read the Seafarers LOG to stay informed on union activities. Educational director urged crew to upgrade whenever possible at Paul Hall Center and stay current with documents. No beefs or disputed OT reported. New treadmill and washer are working well. Thanks were given to Port Agent Mike Russo for explaining changes in member’s yearly physical exams. Seafarers LOG 19 6/25/2013 4:32:45 PM �Letters To The Editor Maritime Day in Florida On Saturday, May 25, I had the honor of attending a National Maritime Day Service held on the water at Port Canaveral, Fla. The event was sponsored by the Navy League Cape Canaveral Council and supported by the Propeller Club of Port Canaveral, Port Canaveral Pilots Association, Ocala Chapter of the American Merchant Marine Veterans and the Military Sealift Command retiree group. At 10 a.m., we were warmly received by Kurt Ronstrom, past president (and a former merchant seaman) who led the group in the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by an invocation from the Rev. Mike Hoffman of the Space Coast Seafarers Ministry. Then the names of all of our comrades who “crossed the bar” in the past year were read aloud, and friends and family members remembered each individual. At 11a.m., about 40 attendees boarded a large pontoon boat docked at Rusty’s Seafood Restaurant for a trip out of the harbor to the jetties. A local pilot gave an excellent guided tour of the ships, piers and facilities and we watched as a pilot undocked a large tanker and sailed her for sea. We were escorted by a pilot boat and local law enforcement. Then myself and another retired SIU sailor tossed the wreath into the water as Taps sounded played by Lt. Cmdr. Waddell of the Courageous Division Sea Cadets. We then returned to the dock for a very good meal courtesy of Rusty’s and an opportunity to swap sea stories. Most of the attendees were retired sailors who sailed during World War II. I met ones from the Sailors’ Union of the Pacific, Seafarers Fishermen’s Union, a retired Staten Island Ferry captain, Armed Guard, graduates of Sheepshead Bay, a Panama Canal pilot as well as retirees from the Seafarers International Union. It was a good day and a good feeling to be able to participate in an event that takes place in many of our ports in U.S. cities on Maritime Day.   Harry T. Scholer SIU/AMO Ret. Article Evokes Memories I read an article by Ed Woods in the May Letters may be edited for conciseness and clarity. Submissions may be mailed to 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 or e-mailed to webmaster@seafarers.org. 2013 issue of the LOG and enjoyed it very much because of similar circumstances, so I thought I’d tell my similar story, as follows. After completing my first year of college in 1945 I got my Army draft notice. Then later I saw a poster at the post office that said “join the merchant marine.” I followed up and joined. They sent me to Catalina Island for training. At that time if you had 36 months of sea time you were draft deferred. I was sent to an SIU hall and got on a freighter. Then in January 1946 I got on a Liberty ship that went to Bremerhaven, Germany We docked across from the submarine pens (intact). I believe the tide was 70 feet. On the dock was an active AA gun, workable. No ammo, though. The German guard on the gangway was a very interesting fellow. We were there seven days and got to talk to him about the war, etc. He spoke very good English. He said he was an armored vehicle driver for Herman Goering. He said he saved his life during a bombing raid and Herman gave him his watch as souvenir. On the back of the watch was inscribed Herman Goering. I offered five cartons of cigarettes for it and he said no, not even a case, he would die with it. I gave him a free carton of cigarettes for telling us war stories. He offered to walk my buddy and me to his folks’ house about two miles from the dock. This house had minor damage. He introduced us to his dad, who was a sub commander. On the wall was a picture of his sub with about eight American flags painted on the tower. What an eerie feeling. His dad would not talk to us. We left immediately. After hours the guard took us, walking, to a bar about a mile away. Five of us Americans and the guard plus about 50 other Germans were there. Music stopped when we arrived. Our guard had to convince the bartender we were all OK and buy each a beer. We were not welcomed and left shortly after. After I had 38 months’ sea time I got a letter from the government stating we were no longer draft deferred and should re-register ASAP. I got drafted in October 1950 along with 70 percent or so of the other mariners in our group. We had guys that had ships sunk and were on life rafts for seven days. What sea stories. We collectively were not cooperative with the Army command and we got penalized, by keeping us “recruits” at no additional pay for 12 months. I was radio operator and Jeep driver for our company commander for 20 months. Perfect record despite the cooperation issue, discharged as a private. My military occupational specialty (MOS) paperwork stated I was a sergeant. Six months after discharge the government said they changed my MOS to sergeant, but there was no retroactive pay. Have a good day. F.J. Indihar Merritt Island, Fla. Mariner-Friendly Business I completed the recertified steward program at Piney Point in 1999 and also attended Charles County Community College through the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan scholarship program about 12 years earlier. That same year (1987), I registered in Seattle and waited to be assigned as a steward/baker. I was allowed to assist the patrolman for a couple of weeks in the hall to understand shipping from another perspective. In 1998 I registered with a junior college in Scranton, Pa., to study building dynamics in order to become a commercial and residential building inspector. I completed the studies in 2001. The idea was (and is) to consult and offer project management services, including economic and community development, to the brethren and their families nationwide, particularly to help them make sound decisions when they purchase homes and buildings. My company, Bessinspection LLC, understands that we seamen spend our time making a living at sea and when we have unfinished business on shore, it’s important that people are looking out for our best interests. I also understand that paychecks are required to pay the bills while off the ship, too. Lovell McElroy Recertified Steward (205) 481-1502 bessinsp@me.com Shipboard Remembrance SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone (third from right) and Asst. VP Nick Celona (left) got together with mariners aboard the Cape Orlando as part of the National Maritime Day happenings in California. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the 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 recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters 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 disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval 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 shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively 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 employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt 20 Seafarers LOG 15047_JULY2K13LOG.indd 20 requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers 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 filing 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 SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful 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 responsibility for Sea­farers 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 OBLIGATIONS. 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 headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Conse­quently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION (SPAD). SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect 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 Michael 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. July 2013 6/25/2013 4:32:47 PM �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, Md., for the next few months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and—in times of conflict—national security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. 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 Title of Start Date of Course Date Completion Marine Electrician July 27 September 20 Marine Refer Tech September 28 November 8 Pumpman November 30 December 13 Welding July 27 August 16 September 14 October 4 October 26 November 15 November 30 December 20 Deck Department Lifeboatman/Water Survival July 20 August 2 August 17 August 30 September 14 September 27 October 12 October 25 November 9 November 22 December 7 December 20 STOS (RFPNW) July 20 August 16 September 14 October 11 November 9 December 6 Able Seaman August 24 September 20 October 12 November 8 November 16 December 13 Radar Renewal (One day) August 26 August 26 December 16 December 16 Radar Observer September 7 September 20 ARPA September 21 September 27 Bosun Recertification July 13 August 5 Fast Rescue Boat August 3 August 9 Engine Department Designated Duty Engineer Prep July 27 Safety Upgrading Courses Advanced Firefighting July 13 July 19 August 17 August 23 September 14 September 20 Basic Firefighting/STCW August 10 August 16 September 7 September 13 October 19 October 25 November 15 November 22 Government Vessels July 20 July 26 September 14 September 20 October 12 October 18 November 9 November 15 Medical Care Provider July 20 July 26 August 24 August 30 September 21 September 27 Tank PIC Barge (DL) October 14 October 18 Tanker Assistant (DL) July 27 August 9 Steward Department Upgrading Courses Chief Steward October 5 November 15 August 9 Serve Safe August 31 September 6 November 23 November 29 Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations (BAPO) July 20 August 16 September 14 October 11 Galley Operations November 9 December 6 These modules start every Monday. FOWT August 17 September 13 Chief Cook October 12 November 8 These modules start every other week. The next class will begin July 8. Junior Engineer August 24 October 18 Advanced Galley Operations October 26 December 20 These modules start every Monday. 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 #___________________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? o Yes o No If yes, course(s) taken____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back or relevant pages of merchant mariner credential, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested, 1995 STCW Certificate, valid SHBP Clinic Card and TWIC. July 2013 15047_JULY2K13LOG.indd 21 COURSE ____________________________ START DATE _______________ DATE OF 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 students, who are otherwise qualified, of 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. 7/13 Seafarers LOG 21 6/25/2013 4:32:47 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class #772 – The following Phase I and Phase III unlicensed apprentices (above, in alphabetical order) completed this course May 10: Mark Cabasag II, Edrick Cruz, Tiffany Davis, Bobby Dunn Jr., Frank Harris III, Anthony Heck, Patrick Herz, Mark Jones, Fernando Marques Ortiz, Kyle Miller, Derak Minnix, Paul Nelson, John Reyes, Sergio Valentin, Jakeem Simmons and Brock Wilbur. Class Instructor Ben Cusic is at the far left. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Apprentice Water Survival Class #772 – Two upgraders completed this course May 10. Graduating (above from left) were Arturo Reyes and Lorenzo Tifre. Radar Observer – Seven upgraders graduated from this course May 10. Finishing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Romeo Codillero, Johnny Dozier III, Ernest Frank, Elijah Huff, John Mensah, John Nersten and Victor Nunez. Tank Barge (DL) – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course May 10: Manuel Alicaway, James Dixon, Felix Garcia, David Goodwin, Thomas Griffin, Casey Matheson, Julius Morala, Patrick Nyampong, Richard Oliver, Juan Ruiz, Ervin Sadler, Silas Sam, Frank Smith, Michael Thompson, Kervin Velazquez, Jovan Williams and William Yurick. Their instructor, Mitch Oakley, is at the far right. Fast Rescue Boat – Eight individuals completed the enhancement of their skills in this course May 3. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Albert Bharrat, Donte Harris, Kenneth LeDeoux, Michael Montanez, Efren Pahinag, Michael Souza, Philip Valentine and Bryant Wesley. Their instructor, Stan Beck, is standing fifth from the left. 22 Seafarers LOG 15047_JULY2K13LOG.indd 22 Welding – Five upgraders graduated from this course May 24. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Mutea Alnuzely, Dudley James, Andre Mitchell, Andrus Rochez and Roberto Sabio. Their instructor, Buzzy Andrews, is second from the right in the back row. Specially Trained Ordinary Seaman – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) completed this course May 10: Mohamed Alomari, Patrick Bethel, Rhod Deleon, Nagi Obad, Wilfredo Rivera Jr., and Jason Wagner. Class Instructor Bernabe Pelingon is at the far left. Government Vessels – Fourteen upgraders finished their requirements in this course May 10. Those graduating (above, in no particular order) were Arthur Bailey, Fontanos Ellison, Victor Febres, Danilo Fullante, Steven Garrett, Donald Hutchens, Leslie McGirt, Johnnie Owens Jr., Alexander Rodriguez, Anthony Sabatini, Nathaniel Sherrill, Peter Williams, Robert Borro and Luis Santiago. Class Instructor Mark Cates is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Tankship Familiarization (DL) – Two classes of Phase III apprentices graduated from this course May 10. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Jarvis Atkins, Sylvestre Bautista, Robert Bell Jr., Tyler Burton, Daniel Diagle, Cory Devine, Christopher Dudley, Graham Duggins, Jonamie Encarnacion Rivera, Matthew Friend, Mohamed Gazaly, Dion Langley, Jenny Marcelin, Keith Miller, Steven Miller, Craig Nebbia, Jose Panlilio, Clinton Perrett, Adam Poole, Musa Salem, Ethan Sims, Connor Wambach, Edward Wright and John Zotti. (Note: Not all are pictured.) July 2013 6/25/2013 4:32:53 PM �Paul Hall Center Classes FOWT – Fourteen upgraders graduated from this course May 17. Finishing their requirements (left), in alphabetical order) were: Vasil Cholakovski, Oscar Cordero, Randall Craig, Matt Dalgetty, Sean Hernandez, Jeremy Jendrusiak, Jade Kellar, Todd Lander, Joseph Loguidice, Yahya Mohamed, Jerry Morlett, Robert Sale, Frank Sambula and Oshema Watson. Class Instructor Tim Achorn is at the far right. Notice to Students Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover - for whatever reason - that they can’t attend, should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. Electronic Chart Display Information Systems – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course May 3: Jerron Broussard, Richard Cavalier, Ryan Emmons, Mark Gaskill, Joseph Gordon, John Howard, Sean Jordan, Gerald Kehoe, Chad Macaulay and John Zarroli. Their instructor, Charles Noell III, is at the far right. Automatic Radar Plotting Aids – Eight upgraders graduated from this course May 24. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Cory Arnaud, Romeo Codillero, Johnny Dozier III, Ernest Frank, Elijah Huff, John Nersten, Victor Nunez and Erasmo Vizcaino. Steward Department Classes – Four upgraders recently finished Steward Department courses. Those completing courses and the newest area of expertise (above, from the left) were: Francisco Ocado, galley ops; Charles Rumble, advanced galley ops; Marguerite Diggs, chief cook; and Quentin Hood, chief cook. BST (SIU) – The following Seafarers (above, in alphabetical order) completed this course May 17: Manuel Alicaway, James Atwell, Justin Baehring, Arthus Bailey, Robert Borro, Eric Chisman, Jorge Corrales, Fontanos Ellison, Terrence Kane, Kenneth LeDoux, Edfebrian Lopez, Gerald McIntyre, Derek Minnix, Paul Nelson, Johnnie Owens Jr., Kevin Quinlan, Alexander Rodriguez, Juan Ruiz Manaiza, Silas Sam, Wikliam Soileau, Jovan William and William Yurick. Class Instructor Mike Steward Department Classes – Several upgraders recently completed steward Roberts is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) department classes. Those completing classes and their respective areas (above, from left) were: Ali Matari, chief steward; Florence Brinson, chief steward; Yahya Munassar, certified chief cook; and Rashaad Mangram, certified chief cook. Chief Steward – Three upgraders recently finished their requirements in this course. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Harlan Alonzo, Vincent Igneri and Andrew Andrini. July 2013 15047_JULY2K13LOG.indd 23 Chief Cook – A pair of Seafarers recently completed the enhancement of their skills in this course. Graduating were David Moses (left) and Tim Heffernan. Steward Department Classes – Several Seafarers recently completed courses in the Steward Department. Finishing their requirements (above from left) were: Algernon Ramseur, galley ops; Leslie McGirt, advanced galley ops; Charles Rumble, advanced galley ops; Nina McFall, advanced galley ops; Chris D’Andrea, advanced galley ops; and Mai Li Wang, advanced galley ops. Seafarers LOG 23 6/25/2013 4:32:59 PM �Volume 75, Number 7 July 2013 Paul Hall Center Course Dates Page 21 GALVESTON CEREMONY – SIU Houston Port Agent Mike Russo (left in group photo) represented the union at this year’s gathering in Galveston, Texas. Pictured with him from left to right are Dave Weathers of AMO, Wayne Farthing of MM&P, a WWII mariner and Tammy Lobaugh of Texas A&M. The other photos show the presentation of the colors, and an SIU-crewed G&H Towing tug participating in the ceremony. Maritime Day Celebrated Coast to Coast PORT ARTHUR CEREMONY – In Port Arthur, Texas, the SIU was well-represented for the 27th annual local celebration. SIU Asst. VP Jim McGee (photo above) and retiree Eldridge Smith (right) addressed the gathering, while SIUcrewed tugs from Seabulk Towing (below) joined in the tribute. Each year, SIU members and officials participate in National Maritime Day ceremonies honoring the centurieslong service of the U.S. Merchant Marine. For this year’s commemorations, union members and officials from coast to coast once again stepped up to not only salute the past sacrifices of mariners but also to reinforce the vital importance of maintaining a strong U.S.-crewed, U.S.-flag fleet. Last month’s LOG included detailed coverage of the traditional National Maritime Day ceremonies in Washington, D.C. (The article and related photo gallery are online at seafarers.org.) This page contains photos from two ceremonies in Texas and a moment of recognition in Guam. Congress in 1933 designated May 22 as National Maritime Day. The White House issues an annual proclamation reaffirming the designation and calling on the people of the United States to mark the observance and to display the U.S. flag in their homes and communities. All ships sailing under the American flag are requested to dress ship on that day. In addition to being recognized on May 22, the U.S. Merchant Marine received strong acknowledgement less than a week later, on Memorial Day, from Deputy Maritime Administrator Paul “Chip” Jaenichen. He and other distinguished guests participated in an event at the World War II Memorial in the nation’s capital commemorating mariners, especially those who sailed during the war. TEAMING UP WITH MSC IN GUAM – At the SIU hall in Guam, Port Agent John Hoskins (right) and CDR Brian Peterson (left), commanding officer of Military Sealift Command Ship Support Unit Guam, joined in remembering the service and sacrifices of our nation’s mariners. 15047_JULY2K13LOG.indd 24 6/25/2013 4:33:06 PM � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2010-2019 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXII-LXXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2010-2019 Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource July 2013 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES NEW TANKERS ORDERED NEW MSC COMMANDER SHANNON SALUTES U.S. MERCHANT MARINERS SIU-CREWED SHIPS EARN SAFETY RECOGNITION TANKER ORDER MEANS NEW SIU JOBS NASSCO TO BUILD AT LEAST 4 JONES ACT SHIPS FOR APT SEAFARERS CREW UP NEW MAERSK CONTAINERSHIPS ATC CEO EARNS LABOR-MANAGEMENT AWARD TOTE’S PLANNED LNG CONTAINERSHIPS RECEIVE GLOBAL HONORS FOR INNOVATION MARITIME, LABOR COMMUNITIES MOURN LATE SENATOR LAUTENBERG ITF CHANGES LEADERSHIP REMINDERS CONCERNING CREDENTIALS PIRACY REPORT SHOWS SHIFT IN ATTACKS TO WEST AFRICA ITF OFFICIAL CALLS FOR FAIR TREATMENT OF WORKERS JONES ACT OPPONENTS TRUMPED BY FACTS SIU MEMBERS DELIVER FOR KEY U.S. PROGRAM OCEAN GIANT CARRIES VITAL CARGOES FOR OPERATION DEEP FREEZE FOURTH ARM OF DEFENSE STEPS UP FOR EXERCISES MARITIME DAY CELEBRATED COAST TO COAST Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 07/01/2013 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 75, No. 7 2013 Periodicals Seafarers Log http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/509cec7d99235bc2fdce27a32fc82145.pdf 4432c48854f175cf12256c0c29f50a4c PDF Text Text JULY 2014 FEB RUARY 2014 76O NO. V O L U M E VOLUME 76 o N . 72 Merchant Marine Honored in Nation’s Capital National Maritime Day Observance Salutes Past and Present Service The SIU and its affiliated Paul Hall Center made a typically strong turnout for the annual National Maritime Day ceremony May 22 in Washington, D.C. U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx (photo at right) was a featured speaker, as was Gen. Paul Selva, commander of the U.S. Transportation Command (center in photo below, with SIU President Michael Sacco, left, and American Maritime Officers President Tom Bethel). The SIU also took part in a National Maritime Day gathering in Port Arthur, Texas. Pages 11-14. Jones Act Tanker Order Means New Jobs for SIU Members A four-ship order grew by one last month as General Dynamics NASSCO (photo in background) announced an agreement to build an additional tanker for an affiliate of American Petroleum Tankers (APT). Seafarers-contracted Crowley Maritime manages vessels for APT. The order, now at five vessels, has options for three additional tankers. NASSCO is a union facility in San Diego. Page 3. (Ken Wright photo courtesy NASSCO) Union Completes Move to Jersey City The SIU is settling into its new hall in Jersey City, N.J. (photo above), following last month’s historic move from the old hall in Brooklyn, N.Y. The new facility is located at 104 Broadway, and the phone number is (201) 434-6000. The last job call at the Brooklyn hall (photo at right) took place June 13. Port Agent Bob Selzer (left) and Safety Director Osvaldo Ramos made the call. Ramos received his first job called by Selzer from the same podium more than 20 years earlier. AOTOS Honorees Announced Page 7 19992_Seafarers_X.indd 1 Seafarers Give Back to Community Page 9 Snapshots from Hawaii Page 24 6/27/2014 5:51:22 PM �Wait for Weapons Likely Over For Cape May President’s Report SIU-Crewed Vessel Part of Effort to Destroy Syrian Stockpiles U.S. Shipbuilding Thrives Recently, I received a brief report on American shipbuilding that really highlighted both the industry’s strength and its potential. Like those of us on the seagoing side, I know our brothers and sisters in the shipyards face their share of challenges in keeping the industry afloat. But even though I read just about all the maritime news I can get my hands on, I have to admit being a little surprised at just how well the domestic shipbuilding industry is doing. Seeing the construction orders in one chart really drove home the point. More than 20 containerships and tankers are on order or already under construction in U.S. yards (most of them union facilities), with options for many more, according to the U.S. Maritime Administration. That is the biggest surge in almost 20 years. Most of them are being built for SIU-contracted Michael Sacco operators, so new jobs are on the horizon for our members. Those ships include a combination containership/ RO-RO due out this year for Pasha Hawaii, two LNG-powered containerships for TOTE, three tankers and an ATB for Seabulk, and two containerships for Matson. Also on order are four tankers and two combination containership/RO-ROS for Crowley plus five tankers for an affiliate of American Petroleum Tankers (ultimately managed by Crowley). That’s a total of 19 vessels with SIU crews, and that’s not counting options or other existing orders. It also doesn’t count other construction orders that help sustain this vital part of our manufacturing base and our economy. For instance, in 2012, according to the report, U.S. shipbuilders delivered 1,260 patrol boats, tugs, barges, ferries and other vessels. Those same yards generated $20 billion in revenue. The tanker orders are directly related to ongoing support for the Jones Act, one of the most important maritime laws in our nation’s history. As many of you know, the Jones Act requires cargo moving between domestic ports to be carried on vessels that are built, crewed, flagged and owned U.S. It doesn’t cost our nation a cent but it does help sustain nearly half a million jobs while pumping billions of dollars into the economy. Without strong bipartisan backing of the Jones Act, there’s no way companies would invest in all those American-built tankers. It’s that simple, and it’s a powerful example of why the Jones Act is great public policy. Our friends on the shipbuilding side can’t afford to let up, though. I recall another report, delivered at a Maritime Trades Department meeting a couple of years ago, which compared shipbuilding trends in the U.S. and United Kingdom. That presentation revealed that since the early 1950s, we’ve lost more than 300 shipyards, both commercial and naval. We now have around 100. The UK, following a similar decline, had five. That’s not a position we should ever face, and the SIU will continue doing all we can to support our brothers and sisters from Aker Philadelphia to General Dynamics NASSCO and every union shipyard in between. As we celebrate the United States’ 238th anniversary of Independence Day this month, let us not forget the vital roles performed by U.S. mariners and shipbuilders in securing and maintaining that independence. Historic Move This month’s message wouldn’t be complete without acknowledging our historic recent move from Brooklyn to Jersey City. It’s the right move for several reasons, but it’s also kind of stunning to realize this is the first time in our union’s 76-year history that we do not have a formal presence in New York City. It’s not our first time operating a hall in Jersey City, though. Our affiliated United Industrial Workers union for many years had a hall in another part of the city, so this is a homecoming of sorts. We’ll make sure the new SIU hall is a first-class facility that serves the members well, and I know we’ll be a vital part of the community. There are bound to be a few hiccups as we set up our operation, but it’s going to be worth it. FEBRUARY 2014 VOLUME 76 Volume 76 Number 7 o NO. 2 The wait for the Seafarers-crewed MV Cape Ray to destroy shipments of Syrian chemical weapons could soon be over. According to the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), Syria’s final chemical weapons stockpile was shipped out of the Syrian port of Latakia on June 23. The weapons are expected to be brought aboard the Cape Ray, which will take them into international waters for destruction. “A major landmark has been reached today,” OPCW Director-General Ahmet Uzumcu said in a statement, adding there was a possibility of “undeclared” weapons remaining in the country. “We cannot say for sure it has no more chemical weapons,” Uzumcu said. “All we can do is work on the basis of verifying a country’s declarations of what they have.” Docked in Rota, Spain, since February, the Keystone-operated Cape Ray left Portsmouth, Va., in January with a crew consisting of 36 civilian mariners, more than 60 U.S. Army chemical weapons specialists, a security team and representatives from the U.S. European Command. Members of the Machinists union were on board, too. The plan has the Cape Ray traveling from Rota to the Italian port of Giora Tauro to receive the chemical weapons from Danish and Norwegian ships. The Cape Ray will then take the weapons to an undisclosed at-sea location where it will use the state-of-the-art equipment outfitted on the vessel to safely destroy the weapons. Deadlines to transport the weapons had passed for the Syrian government, however, and the mission has been delayed several times. Prior to the June 23 announcement that all weapons had been transported out of the country, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon told the UN Security Council Syria would be missing a June 30 deadline to have the weapons destroyed. According to the Associated Press (AP), the Syrian government was reportedly saying the final shipment of chemicals could not be safely transported. “It is imperative that the Syrian Arab Republic concludes remaining removal operations as quickly as possible, as the authorities have pledged to do,” Ban said in a letter obtained by the AP. “However, it is now evident that some activities related to the elimination of the chemical weapons program of the Syrian Arab Republic will continue beyond June 30, 2014.” Syria previously missed an April 27 deadline to have all of the weapons out of the country. Crew members on the Cape Ray deploy an evacuation system as part of a safety drill April 12 in Rota, Spain. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Desmond Parks) Adm. Zukunft Becomes USCG Commandant Adm. Paul F. Zukunft is the new commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard. Zukunft assumed command as the service’s newest commandant May 30 when he relieved Adm. Bob Papp during a change of command ceremony at the Douglas A. Munro Coast Guard Headquarters Building in Washington, D.C. Papp, the Coast Guard’s 24th Commandant, had occupied the service’s top post since May 25, 2010. “Admiral Papp’s leadership and resolve have left an indelible mark on the service,” said Kukunft during the ceremony. “The Coast Guard is more proficient, more capable and more resilient due to his contributions and I wish him fair winds and following seas. “To the men and women of the Coast Guard, I’m humbled to stand before you as your 25th Commandant,” added Zukunft. “You embody the world’s best July 2014 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org 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, Brian Ahern; Photographer, Harry Gieske; Administrative Support, Misty Dobry; Content Curator, Mark Clements. Copyright © 2014 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. The Cape Ray’s deployment stemmed from an international agreement in August 2013 to destroy Syria’s chemical weapons after the country allegedly used the weapons against its own people. Following its deployment, the Cape Ray has received praise from high-ranking officials, including Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel. There was also a hearing of the Senate Subcommittee on Emerging Threats and Capabilities in April where Defense Department officials praised the speed at which the crew of the Cape Ray leapt into action. Adm. Paul Zukunft (right) is congratulated by outgoing Commandant of the Coast Guard Adm. Bob Papp during a change of command ceremony May 30 in Washington, D.C. Looking on (center) is Department of Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson. (U.S. Coast Guard photo by Petty Officer 2nd Class Patrick Kelley) Coast Guard.” Zukunft also unveiled the guiding principles which will frame his direction for the Coast Guard over the next four years. He identified them as service to the nation, duty to people, and a commitment to excellence. A 1977 graduate of the United States Coast Guard Academy, Zukunft reports to his new post from Alameda, Calif., where he served as the Coast Guard Pacific Area Commander since 2012. In this capacity, he was the operational commander for all Coast Guard missions from the Rocky Mountains west to the east coast of Africa. Prior to that post, the admiral commanded five other units and served extensively in the cutter fleet where he commanded the Cape Upright, Harriet Lane and Rush. In 2010, Zukunft served as the federal onscene coordinator for the Deepwater Horizon spill. In this position, he directed more than 47,000 responders, 6,500 vessels and 120 aircraft during the largest oil spill in U.S. history. A flag officer since 2006, Zukunft also served as commander, Defense Force West following tours as commander, Eleventh Coast Guard District, and director, Joint Interagency Task Force West. The Coast Guard is the largest component of the Department of Homeland Security, comprising 41,700 active duty, 7,800 reserve and 8,300 civilian personnel. More than 31,000 volunteer Coast Guard auxiliarists will also be under his command. Papp received the Homeland Security Distinguished Service Medal from Secretary of Homeland Security Jeh Johnson during the change of command ceremony. In addition, he received the Defense Distinguished Service Medal from Gen. James Amos, commandant of the U.S. Marine Corps. A loyal ally of the U.S. Merchant Marine and the U.S. maritime industry in general, Papp retired following 39 years of service to his country. He will be largely remembered for securing funding for the Coast Guard’s prized National Security Cutter program, which will bring eight new 420-foot cutters into the fleet. Reversed to White Reversed to White 2 Seafarers LOG 19992_Seafarers.indd 2 July 2014 6/27/2014 9:58:59 AM �Order for Extra Product Tanker Means New SIU Jobs NASSCO Building Additional Jones Act Vessel for APT The SIU welcomed a mid-June announcement from General Dynamics NASSCO – a union shipyard in San Diego – that eventually will mean addi- tional jobs for Seafarers. NASSCO reported an agreement to build an additional product carrier for an affiliate of American Petroleum Tank- An artist’s rendering of the new tanker is pictured above. ers (APT). Seafarers-contracted Crowley Maritime manages vessels for APT. The original order, announced last summer, called for the design and construction of four ships, with options to build up to four additional vessels. These ships will be 50,000 deadweight ton, LNG-conversion-ready tankers with 330,000 barrel cargo capacity. Construction of the first tanker is slated to begin this summer, with deliveries scheduled to start in the fourth quarter of 2015, continuing into 2017. The ships will sail in the Jones Act trade, carrying cargo between domestic ports in the United States. In last month’s announcement about the fifth tanker, the shipyard reported, “This new 610-foot-long tanker is a continuation of the ECO MR tanker design, which delivers improved fuel efficiency and incorporates the latest environmental protection features, including a ballast water treatment system. Including this order, NASSCO is now under contract for the design and construction of eight tankers: five for American Petroleum Tankers and three for Seabulk Tankers, Inc.” Seabulk also is an SIU-contracted company. NASSCO further noted all eight ships are being designed by DSEC, a subsidiary of Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering (DSME) of Busan, South Korea. “DSEC’s ECO design achieves improved fuel efficiency through several features…. The tankers will have conversion-capable, dual-fuel-capable engines and the ability to accommodate the future installation of an LNG fuel-gas system and … LNG tanks,” the yard reported. Rob Kurz, president of APT, stated, “We are very excited to be building an additional tanker at NASSCO. This new order clearly demonstrates APT’s and Kinder Morgan’s continued commitment to the Jones Act tanker market.” APT is a wholly owned subsidiary of Kinder Morgan Energy Partners, L.P. The Jones Act, a crucial foundation of the American maritime industry that helps maintain nearly 500,000 U.S. jobs, requires that cargo moving between domestic ports be carried on vessels built, crewed, owned and flagged American. Seafarers, SIU-Contracted Companies Receive Awards SIU crews and Seafarerscontracted companies were honored recently as the Chamber of Shipping of America (CSA) conducted its annual spring safety awards gathering. The event took place May 29 in New Orleans, with more than 200 people in attendance. The CSA has sponsored this program since 1958. It’s a vehicle for recognizing “outstanding feats of safety that contribute to saving a life, a ship or other property” as well as honoring “vessels that have operated for at least two years without a seafarer involved in a lost-time injury,” according to the association. CSA President Joseph J. Cox told the audience, “We continue to represent the industry, domestically and internationally, on safety issues encompassing every facet of ship operations. It is, therefore, only fitting that an industry so focused on safety, publicly recognizes the skills and dedication of the women and men who are responsible for actions in keeping with the highest traditions of the sea – aid to those in peril.” Speaking about the accidentfree voyages, he added, “This extraordinary record is directly attributable to the professionalism of our seafarers and the dedication of shore-based company personnel to safe operation.” This year’s honorees included the SIU-crewed articulated tug-barge (ATB) Achievement/650-8, which was involved in two rescues in 2013. The Crowley ATB overcome adverse weather while rescuing an injured man near the base of the Sunshine Skyway Bridge in Tampa, Fla. Seafarers from the Achievement/650-8 also helped save four individuals aboard a 30-foot fishing boat taking on water 35 miles offshore from Clearwater, Fla. Recognition for incident-free operations comes in the form of Jones F. Devlin awards (named in memory of a late executive from United States Lines). SIU-contracted companies earning the awards at the most recent gathering included Alaska Tanker Company, Crescent Towing, Crowley Maritime and several of its subsidiaries, E.N. Bisso & Son, Farrell Lines, General Dynamics-American Overseas Marine (AMSEA), Harley Marine, Higman Barge Lines, Horizon Lines, Keystone Shipping, and Maersk Line, Limited. Additional Seafarers-contracted companies earning awards included Moran Towing, Ocean Shipholdings, OSG Ship Management, Pasha Hawaii, Patriot Contract Services, Sea Star Line, Seabulk Tankers, Seabulk Towing, and TOTE Services, Inc. The CSA represents 35 U.S.based companies that own, operate or charter oceangoing tankers, containerships, and other merchant vessels engaged in both the domestic and international trades and other entities that maintain a commercial interest in the operation of such oceangoing vessels. Important Benefits Notice New summary plan description (SPD) guides were recently added to the Seafarers website for Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) CorePlus and Core Levels (revised June 2014) and the Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan (SMPPP) (revised May 2014). Eligible participants will also receive these SPDs in a future participant mailing. They’re posted in the Member Benefits section of www.seafarers.org July 2014 19992_Seafarers_X.indd 3 Sen. Mary Landrieu (D-La.) Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-Calif.) MSP ‘Critical to Our Military’ Landrieu, Hunter Speak Up for Vital Program Sen. Mary Landrieu (D-La.) and Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-Calif.) were among those recently voicing support for full funding of the Maritime Security Program (MSP). Last month, the House passed an appropriations bill that slashes $20 million from the MSP – a reduction that could remove six or seven vessels from the program. The Senate version of the appropriations legislation calls for full MSP funding for Fiscal Year 2015, which is $186 million. Hunter, the chairman of the House Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, spoke on the floor of the House during a June 9 debate regarding the 2015 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Bill. “The U.S.-flag fleet is critical to our military in delivering cargo overseas to our military to ensure proper readiness and sustainment,” noted Hunter. “The Department of Defense (DOD) for well over a decade has relied on MSP-enrolled vessels for sealift of necessary cargo into conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan as well as other troubled areas in the world, all at a fraction of the cost of what it would cost DOD to replicate that sealift if it had to build its own vessels. “These military-sensitive cargoes are handled by U.S.-flag ship operators and mariners that must meet DOD and Homeland Security standards,” he continued. “They have a demonstrated record of delivering these cargoes efficiently and safely.” The congressman concluded his remarks by calling on the House to bring the program’s fund- ing level to the same $186 million mark that was “appropriated in [Fiscal Year] 2014, authorized by the Armed Services Committee, and requested by the president.” Landrieu, who serves on the Senate Appropriations Committee and chairs its Subcommittee on Homeland Security, said in a written communication June 14 she was “proud to report that the bills we passed out of the Senate Appropriations Committee this week offset cuts to critical maritime programs that were included in the House of Representatives’ version. Our bill protects the Maritime Security Program from a $20 million reduction that would compromise our ability to maintain a U.S.-flag merchant fleet crewed by U.S. citizens to serve both the commercial and national security needs of the nation.” Since its inception in 1996, the MSP has received strong bipartisan backing in Congress and the White House, while receiving praise from military officials. The program provides an annual stipend to ensure 60 militarily useful U.S.flag, U.S.-crewed ships are available in times of war or national emergencies. Companies that are contracted under the MSP or through the related Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement make their infrastructure available to the military as needed, too. MSP backers describe the program as one of the best public-private partnerships in government. The DOD has estimated that replicating the sealift capability provided by the MSP would cost the government billions of dollars, for both ships and operating expenses. Seafarers LOG 3 6/27/2014 5:51:26 PM �SIU officials and other participants meet with veterans to promote the industry. (Photo courtesy Jacksonville Port Authority) The event drew hundreds of military veterans. SIU Joins Outreach to U.S. Military Veterans The SIU and its affiliated school in southern Maryland contributed to the success of a recent event in Jacksonville, Fla., aimed at helping U.S. military veterans find work. A collaborative effort titled “Military to Maritime,” the June 4 gathering at the Jaxport Cruise Terminal attracted hundreds of veterans along with representatives from the SIU and other maritime unions, Seafarers-contracted companies, government agencies, trade associations and many other organizations. Most of the event happened indoors, but it also offered tours of the SIU-crewed Crowley tug Defender nearby. SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker, Assistant Vice President Contracts Archie Ware, Port Agent Mike Russo and Director of Manpower Bart Rogers participated in the job fair, organized by the coalition American Maritime Partnership (AMP, to which the SIU is affiliated) and Seafarers-contracted Crowley Maritime. AMP suggested that the convergence of military veterans and the maritime industry in the Sunshine State carries great potential. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than 720,000 servicemen and women are still out of work since finishing their respective tours of duty in the military. Florida, meanwhile, “has an especially vibrant maritime industry and ranks second among all states in domestic maritime jobs, according to a new study by PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) for the Transportation Institute,” AMP reported. and fix the navigational hazard at Mile time industry includes approximately “Supported by the Jones Act, which en- Point. A deeper river means that large 40,000 vessels, which support almost sures vessels operating in our domestic cargo container ships will be able to move 500,000 jobs, and have an annual ecowaterways are U.S.-built, U.S.-crewed and freely in and out of the region, bringing nomic impact of nearly $100 billion acU.S.-owned, the state’s 52,140 domestic more trade, jobs, and economic growth. cording to the Transportation Institute’s maritime jobs pump more than $9.6 bil- The future for this sector of our economy findings. The industry also accounts for lion annually into the Florida economy, is bright and only getting brighter.” approximately $29 billion in wages and and maritime worker income in the state Across the nation, the domestic mari- $10 billion in tax revenues. totals more than $2.9 billion.” A day before the Military to Maritime meeting, Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) described Florida’s maritime industry as “a national leader in economic opportunity and job creation, and it plays a critical part in our nation’s infrastructure. Not only does this vibrant industry provide good-paying jobs across various sectors in Florida, it also represents a natural fit for our veterans looking for a second career after they have dutifully served our country. I am thankful that the industry is working to support our veterans, and I encourage our heroes who have returned home to take advantage of this unique opportunity.” U.S. Rep. Ander Crenshaw (R-Fla.) stated, “Jacksonville and Florida’s high ranking for U.S. domestic maritime job growth is no surprise to me. I am a longtime supporter of the Jones Act, which has protected 52,140 maritime jobs in the state and 9,670 in my district. Northeast Florida and the state can look forward to even more employment and economic growth with U.S. House authorization of SIU AB Jordan Kareklas welcomes guests aboard the Crowley tug Defender as part of the legislation to deepen the St. Johns River Military to Maritime gathering. (Photo courtesy Jacksonville Port Authority) CIVMARS to Sail on 10 Joint High-Speed Vessels The U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) recently informed union officials and others from the maritime industry about a change in plans for crewing up the Navy’s joint high-speed vessels, commonly called JHSVs. In a written communication May 30, Rear Adm. T.K. Shannon, MSC commander, said all 10 of the JHSVs will be manned by civil service mariners (CIVMARS). Previously, MSC had planned to crew four or five of the ships with CIVMARS and the rest with mariners from the private sector. Explaining his rationale, Shannon cited streamlined management and a change in how the agency expects to utilize the ships. This isn’t the first time the program The USNS Spearhead is pictured in Belize June 1, offloading gear and vehicles in support of an international exercise titled Southern Partnership Station 2014. Members of the SIU has been altered. Originally, the Army Government Services Division sail aboard the Spearhead and the other JHSVs. (U.S. and Navy were going to take delivery of Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Rafael Martie) five JHSVs apiece, but the Department 4 Seafarers LOG 19992_Seafarers.indd 4 of Defense announced in 2011 that all 10 ships instead would become Navy property. The first three JHSVs – USNS Spearhead, USNS Choctaw County and USNS Millinocket – have been delivered and the fourth (USNS Fall River) was christened earlier this year. The remaining platforms are slated to be named USNS Trenton, USNS Brunswick, USNS Carson City, USNS Yuma, USNS Bismarck and USNS Burlington. The 338-foot-long JHSVs can transport up to 312 embarked mission personnel plus a crew of up to 41, along with 20,000 square feet or 600 tons of cargo at speeds in excess of 35 knots for 1,200 nautical miles, according to MSC. The JHSVs are also specially designed to operate in shallow-draft ports and waterways, providing U.S. forces added mobility and flexibility. July 2014 6/27/2014 9:59:05 AM �Maritime Industry Applauds Passage of WRRDA Bipartisan Bill Funds Much-Needed Improvements to Nation’s Waterways Just in time for National Maritime Day, the Senate overwhelmingly approved a $12.3 billion bill May 22 that improves the nation’s ports and waterways. President Barack Obama signed the legislation into law June 10. The measure – known as the Water Resources Reform and Development Act (WRRDA) – was widely praised by the maritime industry and had previously seen similar bipartisan approval in the House. The $12.3 billion in funding provided by the WRRDA will have a significant impact on the nation’s maritime industry. It includes funding for a variety of waterway construction and repair projects, including dredging operations for several East Coast ports. It also provides funding for much-needed dredg- ing projects along the Great Lakes. “This is good news for us,” said Scott Winter, vice president of the SIU-affiliated Maritime Trades Department, which is also headed by SIU President Michael Sacco. “The bipartisanship demonstrated by our elected officials to advance a WRRDA bill is a clear victory for organized labor, which will (help) maintain approximately 30 million U.S. jobs and will facilitate future job growth in maritime.” The new law also sets the nation on a path for full use of the Harbor Maintenance Tax. Established with cargo taxes to fund port modernization, the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund is sitting on billions in surpluses that continue to grow every year. That money could, and should, go toward dredging and other port modernization Servidio Takes Command in Calif. SIU Vice President West Coast Nick Marrone (left) congratulates Coast Guard Rear Adm. Joseph Servidio following a change-of-command ceremony June 5 in Alameda, Calif. Servidio, a friend of the SIU, assumed command of the 11th Coast Guard District. Previously, he was based at the agency’s headquarters in Washington, D.C., where he served as assistant commandant for prevention policy overseeing Coast Guard inspections and compliance, marine transportation systems, and commercial regulations and standards. In his new post, Servidio will oversee agency operations in California, Arizona, Nevada and Utah, and coastal and offshore operations from the California-Oregon border to the U.S.-Mexico border, among other duties. projects, according to the SIU, MTD and many other organizations and legislators. “WRRDA and the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund provide good-paying jobs with benefits, which will cultivate a robust future economy and maritime industry,” Winter added. The bill’s passage marks the first time Congress has updated the Water Resources Development Act since 2007. The SIU was among the many maritime organizations pushing for legislation that addressed the need for dredging and other repairs to the nation’s waterways. “This measure will strengthen our nation’s transportation network, keep America competitive in the global marketplace, and reform and streamline the way we move forward with improvements to our ports, locks, dams and other water resources infrastructure,” said Rep. Bill Shuster (R-Pa.), chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. “This legislation is about jobs and our country’s economic prosperity.” The bill won praise on the Senate side, as well. “This is a strong bipartisan bill,” said Sen. David Vitter (R-La.), who is one of the bill’s authors. “It’s a jobs bill that is very much needed in our weak economy. It’s what we need to do more of.” Sen. Barbara Boxer (D-Calif.) agreed. “This is a bill that rises above bipartisan politics,” she said prior to the vote. “I am glad that we will consider it expeditiously so we can quickly send it to the president for signature.” White House Honors Executive from TOTE The head of an SIU-contracted company recently was honored by the White House as a 2014 transportation industry “Champion of Change.” Anthony Chiarello, president and CEO of TOTE, Inc., was chosen for his role in “leading the U.S. maritime industry toward natural gas as fuel,” the company reported. He was one of 11 honorees at a May 14 event in the nation’s capital. Chiarello joined the other honor recipients and guests in the south auditorium of the White House to accept recognition and share insight during a panel discussion. TOTE is building the first natural gaspowered container ships in the world to serve Puerto Rico and is converting its ships in Alaska to natural gas. The experience has been both exciting and humbling for Chiarello, a fourth-generation member of the shipping and logistics industry, he said. “As a Jones Act domestic carrier, we’re uniquely positioned to create real change in the supply conundrum – availability of fuel is a big hurdle for most transportation sectors to change over to clean-burning natural gas,” Chiarello wrote in a post he prepared for a White House blog. “Our regular service routes create enough of a steady demand to entice fuel partners to build liquefaction plants in our ports of call, thus making LNG supply available to others in those markets. Supply in Jacksonville, Fla., and Tacoma, Wash., will serve the southeast and Pacific northwest with natural gas that can be used for ships, trucks, and rail.” TOTE announced plans to convert its fleet to natural gas in 2012. Since then, natural gas suppliers have begun creating Anthony Chiarello distribution networks in major U.S. ports, making gas available to all transportation modes in those markets. Natural gas-powered ships will achieve emissions reductions far below even the world’s most stringent regulatory standards. These emissions reductions are expected to have long-lasting and far-reaching positive effects on the health and safety of citizens along the U.S. coastline – particularly in Washington, Alaska and Florida – and Puerto Rico, where SIU-crewed TOTE ships are part of the critical domestic supply chain. Latest IBF Agreement Good News for Mariners Mariners working on vessels covered by International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) special agreements got good news in early June. Thanks to negotiations involving the International Bargaining Forum (IBF), mariners sailing under ITF agreements will receive a total of 6.5 percent in pay increases during the next three years. The gains were announced June 6 as the latest round of negotiations on the new IBF framework agreement finished in Indonesia. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel chaired the recent talks, which lasted for two days. In addition to his duties with the SIU, Heindel chairs the ITF Seafarers’ Section. July 2014 19992_Seafarers_X.indd 5 “Considerable progress has clearly been made from both parties over this round,” Heindel stated. “The ITF has understood the challenges facing the [employer representatives] in their ability to afford a pay increase, but it has been important to secure a pay increase for our members, to ensure a fair wage and conditions of employment.” Steve Cotton, ITF acting general secretary, congratulated both sides on their achievement and underscored that this is a victory for workers. “Both sides have worked hard to come to an agreement and negotiations have now been going on for eight months,” he said. “The hard work has been worth it. There is now a single standard of employment for IBF seafarers, and all the IBF social partners support this global standard.” The IBF was formed in 2003 as a mechanism for collective bargaining between maritime employers and maritime unions over the wages and conditions of employment for mariners serving on foreign-flag ships covered by ITF special agreements. Maritime employers are represented by the International Maritime Employers’ Council (IMEC), the International Shipping Employers’ Group (ISEG) which incorporates the International Maritime Managers’ Association of Japan (IMMAJ) and the Taiwanese company Evergreen, and the Korean Ship- owners’ Association. Together they form the Joint Negotiating Group (JNG), which allows maritime employers to present a coordinated view to the ITF. The ITF’s affiliates include 684 unions (including the SIU) in 140 countries representing more than 600,000 mariners. According to the federation, “The IBF negotiations include both central negotiations and local negotiations which allow for development of core principles which can then be incorporated into specific local arrangements. This unique approach to pay negotiations is the only example of international collective bargaining.” Seafarers LOG 5 6/27/2014 5:51:28 PM �Crew members load supplies that will replenish the USNS Safeguard, which is taking part in the U.S. recovery effort following the sinking of South Korea’s MV Sewol. Mariners from the USNS Wheeler pose while working with the vessel’s support boat, the USNS Fast Tempo. The mariners assisting in the mission include Wiper Braulio Ente (second from left), who also sailed on the Fast Tempo. Seafarers Aid in South Korean Ferry Recovery Seafarers recently took part in a search and recovery effort that grabbed headlines around the world. On April 16, a South Korean ferry, the MV Sewol, capsized during a trip between Incheon and Jeju while carrying 476 people. More than 300 have been listed as dead or still missing and the event has become an international news story. To help its South Korean allies, the United States launched an American recovery effort that included the USNS Safeguard, which is crewed with SIU Government Services mariners. The Safeguard was also assisted by the Seafarers-crewed, TOTE-operated USNS Wheeler and its support boat, the USNS Fast Tempo. Arriving at the site of the tragic Sewol sinking in late April, the Safeguard provided support to the U.S. Navy’s recovery effort, including the use of its recompression chamber. That chamber was especially useful to Navy divers as it allowed them to get used to normal conditions following their operations deep under the water. “For our part, we conducted a lot of small boat operations to move U.S. Navy dive and salvage personnel back and forth from the Korean ships in the area,” said AB Michele Stevens. Knowing that hundreds were dead and missing, the crew worked tirelessly to get the job done. AB Joseph Palomo said it was impossible not to feel the weight of the work they were doing. “Everyone here on the Safeguard felt sad for the families of the victims,” he said. “Our hearts went out to them.” Compassion for the families, added Bosun James Gage, worked to further motivate the crew as they worked through sometimes difficult conditions. “Out of respect for those who died, our involvement focused on broad area searches of the surrounding area,” he said. “The water was really cold and you could see that Maritime Labor Mourns Mantia Richard “Dick” Mantia, the longtime head of the AFL-CIO Maritime Trades Department’s (MTD) Greater St. Louis and Vicinity Port Council and a good friend of the SIU, passed away June 4 after a battle with leukemia. He was 82. Mantia joined Asbestos Workers Local 1 in 1947. He served in the U.S. Navy between 1950 and 1952 and then returned to the local. He was elected its business manager in 1966, serving in that capacity until he became the executive secretary-treasurer of the St. Louis Building and Construction Trades Council in 1972. He held that position for 20 years. “Dick Mantia helped rebuild the St. Louis Port Council,” recalled SIU President Michael Sacco, who is also MTD president. “He was a leader, a great individual, a great family man and a solid union man. You always could count on him.” During the 1970s, Sacco was based in St. Louis as an SIU vice president. “Dick Mantia was the first guy I contacted – him, Jack Martorelli and Bobby Sansone,” Sacco added. “But Mantia was the main man.” From that point, the port council grew to include two dozen locals and unions as well as hosting an annual dinner dance that draws hundreds of members, their families, elected officials and business partners. As the head of the building trades, Mantia worked with the area’s contracted employers to create a regional labor-management construction co- 6 Seafarers LOG 19992_Seafarers.indd 6 Dick Mantia is pictured at the 2013 Greater St. Louis and Vicinity Port Council awards dinner. operative called PRIDE (Productivity and Responsibility to Increase Development and Employment). Sacco said it ended years of problems between the locals and the contractors. According to the current head of the building trades, Jeff Aboussie (who received the port council’s 2014 Labor Man of the Year award), Mantia helped save the labor movement in St. Louis. there was a lot of drift current in the area. I can’t say whether or not our searches were successful, only that we safely launched and recovered our boats daily for about a month.” As the recovery effort stretched into May, another SIU-crewed operation was launched. Capt. Glenn Macario of the Wheeler said his vessel’s supply ship, the Fast Tempo, was selected to do the job. “The Safeguard was running low on some supplies and had a large backlog of mail in Busan, South Korea. Meanwhile, a large amount of trash was piling up,” Macario wrote in an email. “The MSC office in Busan floated the idea of using Fast Tempo for a re-supply run and permission was granted by MSCHQ (Military Sealift Command Headquarters) in Washington, D.C.” On May 12, the Fast Tempo, a 160-foot support boat crewed with five mariners from the Wheeler’s regular contingent, then loaded 30 sacks of mail and 17 pallets of supplies, including critical spare parts for the Safeguard’s recompression chamber. The vessel quickly made its way to the Safeguard to unload its supplies and gather the Safeguard’s trash. By 6 a.m. May 14, the Fast Tempo had returned to Busan from its supply mission. “The USNS Wheeler’s SIU crew played a role in the entire operation,” Macario wrote. “Wiper Braulio Ente made the trip to the Safeguard as part of the Fast Tempo’s crew. The 17 pallets of supplies and the dumpster were loaded and secured by Bosun Jerry Gonzaga, assisted by ABs Carlo Gentile, Tony Olaya, Edsel Renegado and Kyle Silva.” Macario added that he and the crew were glad to help in any way they could. “All hands can be proud of the fact that they played a small part in assisting our South Korean allies during this tragic event,” he wrote. Mariner Earns Safety Award A Seafarer from the USNS Wheeler has received a safety commendation from vessel operator TOTE Services recognizing the quick actions he took to extinguish an earlymorning fire aboard the ship. Presented with the TOTE Safety Award during a May 16 ceremony attended by the entire crew of the Wheeler, Chief Steward Ramon Tolosa was praised by Capt. Glenn Macario for putting his safety training to good use. “Thanks to his swift and proper actions, Ramon Tolosa prevented what could have been a much more serious incident,” Macario wrote in an email. The fire, which started April 24 shortly before sunrise while the Wheeler was anchored in Saipan, was definitely a close call. Awakening at 4:45 a.m. to the smell of smoke and a crackling sound in his stateroom, Tolosa began investigating. He discovered a small flame above his room thermostat. “The flame quickly grew to about a foot in height and was nearing the overhead,” Macario wrote. As the ship’s smoke alarm triggered the general alarm, Tolosa stepped out of his room and grabbed a 20-pound dry chemical fire extinguisher in the passageway. He then re-entered his room. “Using his prior firefighting training, he pulled the pin, aimed at the base of the flame and squeezed the handle,” Macario wrote. That short burst of dry chemicals extinguished the fire immediately. Though the rest of the crew arrived within one to two minutes of the alarm sounding, the fire was already out. Macario said an investigation found the fire was caused by a flaw in the thermostat. Luckily, he added, the fire was put out before it reached the false celling. A scorch mark discovered after the incident showed the fire was just a few inches short of reaching the ceiling. “Had the fire continued for several more minutes, it could have penetrated the false ceiling and become much more serious,” Macario said. Tolosa’s safety award was granted by TOTE Vice President Mitch Walker and included a Leatherman multi-tool, compliments of TOTE. Tolosa has taken several courses at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Md. Chief Steward Ramon Tolosa (left) receives the TOTE Safety Award from Capt. Glenn Macario May 16 aboard the USNS Wheeler. July 2014 6/27/2014 9:59:10 AM �Maritime Stalwarts Cotton, Cox, Harris Reap AOTOS Honors Three maritime industry stalwarts have been selected as this year’s recipients of the prestigious Admiral of the Ocean Sea Awards (AOTOS), presented by the United Seamen’s Service (USS). The 2014 honorees, announced June 17 by the USS, are Stephen Cotton, acting general secretary of the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF); Joseph J. Cox, president/CEO of the Chamber of Shipping of America (CSA); and Frederick J. Harris, president of the General Dynamics NASSCO shipyard (a union facility in San Diego). The awards are scheduled for presentation Nov. 7 in New York City. Recognition also will be given to American mariners “for specific acts of bravery and heroism while at sea,” according to the USS. SIU President Michael Sacco is the chairman of the awards dinner, which is considered an annual highlight in the U.S. maritime industry. Gen. Kenneth Wykle, USA (Ret.), chairman of the USS AOTOS Committee, announced this year’s top honorees. “This year’s recipients represent greatly diverse sectors of the maritime industry,” he said. “Stephen Cotton oversees a significant labor group whose mission is the wellbeing and fair treatment of the world’s seafarers. Joe Cox is well-regarded in international transportation circles and is greatly involved in safety issues. Fred Harris’ company has designed and built innovative tonnage for America’s seagoing fleet. We anticipate a good turnout for these three gentlemen.” Wykle, who is also president of the National Defense Transportation Association, will receive an AOTOS recognition award at this year’s event. Cotton has taken over the duties of general secretary of the ITF, an international association of more than 700 transportation-related unions (including the SIU) from 150 countries. He served as the ITF Maritime Coordinator until he was appointed acting general secretary in October 2012. He started at the London-based ITF in 1993, working mainly in the Seafarers’ Section as the head of the Agreements Unit. Under Cotton’s leadership, the ITF’s maritime sections made gains including expanding the organization’s team of inspectors from 35 to a total of well over 100. The results have been overwhelmingly positive, according to many in the industry. For example, in 2013, across 52 countries, a total of 9,503 vessel inspections were carried out and more than $38 million of owed wages were recovered for mariners. The number of ships covered by ITF agreements has also increased from less than 2,000 to more than 12,000. Cotton also spearheaded a new direction for the ITF Seafarers’ Section through the International Bargaining Forum. This provides an arena for discussion between the ITF, its member unions and maritime employers in the Joint Negotiating Group (JNG). (Editor’s note: See related story on page 5.) Cox graduated from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in an accelerated program, finishing his final year in 1967 to meet the need for officers in the Vietnam sealift. He sailed on Vietnam missions for two years and for several more years as second and third mate to other parts of the world. When he came ashore, he worked for the Maritime Standards Office of the U. S. Department of Labor, where he eventually became a manager of the cargo gear program. After eight years with the Department of Labor, he accepted a position at the CSA, a trade association for American shipowners. He progressed through jobs as marine coordinator, director of marine affairs, and vice president, and first was elected president/CEO in 1997. With Cox at the helm, the CSA advocates for the industry by pushing for sound public policy through legislative and regulatory initiatives promoting marine safety, maritime security, environmentally responsible policies and operating practices, along with fair treatment of mariners. Stephen Cotton Joseph Cox Harris, a former union mariner, became president of General Dynamics NASSCO and a vice president of General Dynamics Corporation in 2006. For more than four decades, Harris has worked to foster innovation and excellence in shipbuilding. His extensive experience in the maritime industry has provided him with a breadth of knowledge and a unique viewpoint in current initiatives facing the business. Harris began his shipbuilding career in 1973 as a senior engineer for Electric Boat’s Trident ballistic missile submarine program. His thorough knowledge of ship construction processes and design and build practices earned him a succession of promotions. For his accomplishments as program manager of the Virginia Class submarine design phase, Harris received the Maine Maritime Academy Outstanding Alumni Award for 2000. In 2002 he received the annual William M. Kennedy Award from the Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers. A year later, he was included on the Maine Maritime Academy’s Wall of Honor for his numerous contributions to the industry. He was the 2010 recipient of the Harold E. Saunders Award, given by the American Society of Naval Engineers, Fred Harris for his significant influence on naval engineering. Harris is currently a board member of the National Academy of Sciences’ Transportation Research Board, a board member of the Shipbuilders Council of America, and Chairman of the American Delegation of JECKU, a worldwide shipbuilding organization. He is frequently called upon to offer his perspective on revitalizing the maritime industry and associated industrial base. A graduate of Maine Maritime Academy, Harris sailed for several years, notably aboard the SS Transglobe, the most decorated American merchant ship of the Vietnam War. (The ship’s crew included members of the National Maritime Union.) Proceeds from the AOTOS event benefit USS community services abroad for the U.S. Merchant Marine, mariners of all nations, and U.S. government and military personnel overseas. The USS, a non-profit agency established in 1942, operates centers in six foreign ports in Europe, Asia, and Africa and in the Indian Ocean, and also provides seagoing libraries to American vessels through its affiliate, the American Merchant Marine Library Association. With Seafarers in San Juan Chief Cook Carmelo Calderon (left) receives his B-book from Port Agent Amancio Crespo. Deck and engine department Seafarers gather for a photo at the union hall. Pictured from left to right are Jr. Engineer Richard Vega, Bosun Roberto Flores, Bosun Abel Vasquez, Bosun Jorge Soler and Jr. Engineer Ronaldo Quinones. July 2014 19992_Seafarers.indd 7 AB Julio Perez (left) picks up his A-seniority book from Port Agent Amancio Crespo. AB Jose Crespo, QMED Enrique Velez Velez, QMED Jorge Santiago AB Adrian Surillo Diaz (right) greets Port Agent Amancio Crespo near the National Glory. AB Ricky Martin, AB Kenneth Mottley Seafarers LOG 7 6/27/2014 9:59:16 AM �LONG LIVE THE EL MORRO – The El Morro laid up in Brownsville, Texas, May 17 at the end of its final voyage. The last mariners aboard the ship included (standing, from left) Chief Engineer Richard Pusatere, SA Anthony Grant, AB Gerald Freeman, GUDE Ronnie Hamilton, Chief Mate Raymond Thompson, Captain Michael Davidson, Chief Cook John Foster, Third Mate Alejandro Berrios, OMU Ronald Williams, Second Assistant Engineer Milton Israel II, GUDE Marcus Pittman, Electrician Louis Champa, AB Janaro Jackson, First Assistant Engineer Chris Levesque, Third Assistant Engineer Joseph Bishop, (front) GUDE Juan Colon, Chief Steward Juan Vallejo, AB Victor Cortes Maldonado, Second Mate Danielle Randolph, AB Paulin Augustin and AB Danilo Fullante. Also serving as part of the last crew but not pictured were Bosun Keller Gilyard, Third Assistant Engineer Alfred Norris, OMU Daunteley Signal and OMU Danilo Fullante. The ship’s first name was El Taino. Most recently, it was operated by Sea Star Line for TOTE Services. At Sea and Ashore With the SIU CULTURAL EXCHANGE IN PHILIPPINES – SIU members from the Maersk-operated USNS 2nd Lt. John P. Bobo joined U.S. Navy personnel in May for a cultural exchange program at Gordon College in Olongapo City, Philippines. AB Jason Baker (left in photo at left below, with AB Mike Ratigan) noted, “We learned about Filipino history, culture, language, traditions, and food. Another amazingly warm welcome by the students and staff here at this local community college.” A few of the students are pictured at right, while the photo above shows students along with Navy personnel from Maritime Prepositioning Ship Squadron (COMPSRON) 3 and Navy Cargo Handling Battalion 1. ABOARD USNS RED CLOUD – Keeping fellow mariners well-fed aboard the Patriot-operated USNS Red Cloud are Chief Steward Caezar Mercado and Chief Cook Clifton Medley (above, left to right), SA Simplicia Twohie (below, left) and SA Emmanuel Matias. ABOARD MAHIMAHI – Crew members aboard Matson’s Mahimahi recently enjoyed a cookout thanks to the efforts of Recertified Steward Richard Paulson (left) and Chief Cook Yahya Munassar (above). 8 Seafarers LOG 19992_Seafarers_X.indd 8 July 2014 6/27/2014 5:51:35 PM �QE Nick Vieira uses a circular saw while building a fence outside the LifeNet4Families building. Bosun Larry Harewood pauses for a snapshot while doing volunteer work. Ft. Lauderdale Seafarers Give Back Members Donate Time, Skills to Benefit Local Charity AB Cielo Ojano (left) and SA Jose Bolbaran put together a fence. Seafarers in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., are continuing their tradition of giving back, this time lending a hand in late March to an organization known for its work with the area’s homeless. SIU Ft. Lauderdale Port Agent Kris Hopkins said members at the hall were eager to take part when they were told local charity LifeNet4Families needed some work done at their nearby headquarters. “They take care of the homeless and people who don’t have enough to eat. They also help with clothing, personal items, counseling services, legal services and provide an address to receive mail,” Hopkins said of LifeNet4Families. “We work with them a lot. We like that they give back to the community.” From building fences and railings to painting structures and making repairs, the group of Seafarers had a great time helping an organization that does so much to help those less fortunate. “We just wanted to help them out in general in any way we could,” Hopkins said. “The members are great. I’ve got a group here that I can call any time and they really enjoy it.” The SIU’s work with LifeNet4Families doesn’t end there. As in previous years, the Ft. Lauderdale hall is planning on working with the organization this winter for yet another holiday toy drive for needy kids. Hopkins said it’s all part of being community members. “We try to give back to the community whenever we have the opportunity,” he said. AB Franklin Estupinan happily pitches in. Remembering Brother Porter The ashes of NMU retiree Bill Porter were committed to the sea May 26 from aboard the SIU-crewed El Faro, as shown in these photos from the shipboard remembrance. In a letter to the family, vessel master Capt. Michael C. Davidson noted the ship (operated by Sea Star Line) was en route from San Juan, P.R., to Jacksonville, Fla., when the crew gathered. “Words were spoken in the manner seamen will speak to each other as brothers and shipmates,” he wrote. “A moment of silence was observed, for remembrance and prayers. The ship’s bosun (James Walker) gently released Bill’s remains to the sea.” Brother Porter died April 28, at age 85. He sailed in the steward department from 1979-1994; his last ship was the Jean Lykes. A U.S. Navy veteran, Brother Porter hailed from New Haven, Conn. July 2014 19992_Seafarers.indd 9 Seafarers LOG 9 6/27/2014 9:59:28 AM �7/14 10 Seafarers LOG 19992_Seafarers.indd 10 July 2014 6/27/2014 9:59:29 AM �Fr. Sinclair Oubre salutes the industry’s proud history while also pointing out its current-day importance. SIU Officials, Rank-and-File Members Salute Mariners in Port Arthur Seafarers and SIU officials joined in saluting the nation’s merchant mariners during a National Maritime Day Ceremony May 22 in Port Arthur, Texas. SIU tugboat crews from Seabulk and Moran supported the gathering from aboard their vessels nearby, while SIU Houston Safety Director Kevin Sykes and Fr. Sinclair Oubre, who has sailed with the union as an AB, were part of the ceremony ashore. Oubre, in fact, was a featured speaker – he’s the director of the Port Arthur International Seafarers Center. Brian Hill of the U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD) read this year’s National Maritime Day proclamation from the White House next to a memorial sundial erected in 1973 in honor of local mariners and particularly in memory of the Texaco Oklahoma crew. The Texaco Oklahoma was a National Maritime Union vessel; 31 of its 44 mariners perished on March 27, 1971 near Cape Hatteras, N.C., as the ship sank while sailing from Port Arthur to Boston. (It was struck by a massive wave and broke up.) Oubre said the National Maritime Day ceremony “went very well. This was the 28th year of hosting the ceremony in Port Arthur. This year, we focused on MARAD. It was an opportunity for us to look back upon the importance of the maritime industry to our community and to encourage future generations of mariners to enter the industry. It was also a chance to thank MARAD for all they do for our area.” Hill, the agency’s gateway director for the western Gulf of Mexico, also discussed southeast Texas’ crucial role in the maritime industry and pointed out that roughly 25 percent of all maritime commerce in the U.S. “moves in and out of Texas.” At a reception following the waterfront ceremony, Hill spoke about the important partnerships that exist throughout the maritime industry. He also touched on some infrastructure improvements that should bolster the industry. Addressing the gathering is Alvin Adams, a leader in the local Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla. Adams also is a retired union pipefitter and an Apostleship of the Sea ship visitor in the Sabine-Neches Waterway. Pictured from left (photo above) are Commander Jacqueline Twomey, Coast Guard Marine Safety Unit (MSU) Port Arthur; Brian Hill of MARAD; SIU Patrolman Kevin Sykes; Coast Guard Captain Joseph Paitl, MSU Port Arthur; and Fr. Sinclair Oubre. In the photo at the immediate left, Maritime Administration official Brian Hill discusses southeast Texas’ vital role in the maritime industry. SIU-crewed tugs from Moran (above, left) and Seabulk (above, right) add to the atmosphere during Port Arthur’s National Maritime Day ceremony. July 2014 19992_Seafarers.indd 11 A memorial wreath is placed in the ship channel next to Lakeshore Drive. Seafarers LOG 11 6/27/2014 9:59:33 AM �President Obama Issues Proclamation For Maritime Day Gen. Paul Selva, USAF Commander, USTRANSCOM Anthony Foxx Secretary of Transportation Rear Adm. T.K. Shannon, USN Commander, Military Sealift Command Acting Maritime Administrator Chip Jaenichen (at podium) addresses the morning gathering. He also was the featured speaker at the Propeller Club luncheon immediately afterward. Washington Honors U.S. Merchant Mariners SIU Joins in Celebration Of National Maritime Day High-ranking military and civilian leaders gathered in Washington, D.C., May 22 to honor the hard work and bravery of America’s merchant mariners. Celebrating National Maritime Day with a pair of events at Department of Transportation (DOT) headquarters, officials recounted the U.S. Merchant Marine’s storied history and called for strengthening its future. Without merchant mariners putting their lives on the line during every armed conflict in the nation’s history, the officials said in their speeches, the United States would never have achieved its position as the greatest nation in the world. “As a person who spent 35 years in the service of this nation, it is readily apparent to me that without the commitment of our merchant marine … we would not be nearly as strong as we are today,” said keynote speaker Gen. Paul Selva, commander of the U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM). “To this community we owe a debt of gratitude.” Selva was joined on stage by a cadre of Washington leaders. The event featured addresses by Acting Maritime Administrator Chip Jaenichen, Military Sealift Commander Rear Adm. T.K. Shannon and DOT Secretary Anthony Foxx. “Know that this department and our president support you in all your work – and that our support for you doesn’t just start and end with today,” Foxx said. “We’re working every day to strengthen the fleet, rebuild our ports and keep our merchant marine the finest in the world. You deserve nothing less.” The SIU also had a strong turnout at the event. The audience included SIU President Michael Sacco, Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, Vice President Contracts George Tricker, Legislative Director Brian Schoeneman and Piney Point Port Agent Pat Vandergrift. Dozens of apprentices from the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) in Piney Point, Md. were also on hand, and two of them – Will Pappas and Unta Mattox – were featured in the proceedings. Jaenichen said he was honored to work with such distinguished, patriotic Americans. “We have long depended on the contribu- SIU President Michael Sacco, USTRANSCOM Commander Gen. Paul Selva 12 Seafarers LOG 19992_Seafarers_X2.indd 12-13 tions of our American merchant mariners and the maritime industry. They have enabled our nation to build economic strength, to provide vital sealift capability and the capability to support our armed forces and advance humanitarian missions worldwide,” Jaenichen said, addressing the maritime officials and Seafarers in the audience. “We will continue to rely on our commercial ships, our maritime infrastructure. Our mariners will rise to the task without fail and without any fanfare.” He then addressed the dozens of PHC apprentices in attendance. “These trainees are a reminder that we cannot make the mistake of observing National Maritime Day only as a patriotic or historic duty,” Jaenichen said. “We need to be wise and vigilant when it comes to maintaining our merchant mariner fleet and shipyard industrial base so they can continue to serve our nation in years to come.” Selva put some hard numbers to the present day contributions made by merchant mariners. He said the recent conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan have provided a vivid picture of just how important the U.S. Merchant Marine is to the nation and the world. “If you don’t believe me, here are some of the numbers: 126 million square feet of cargo moved into ports in the Persian Gulf and on the coast of Pakistan to support our deployed sailors and Marines,” Selva said. “Twenty-six billion gallons of fuel for the fight have been moved on our merchant fleet by our merchant marine.” The results, Selva said, speak for themselves. “Without that contribution, our success in both of those operations would not be possible,” he said. “You can debate the politics all you want, but without the capability of our merchant marine we would not have brought the taste of democracy to two countries who have known nothing but tyranny for decades.” Foxx added the vital work done by the merchant marine has made an enormous impact in non-combat operations as well. Merchant mariners, he said, have aided in the recovery from natural disasters, brought food to starving people around the world and helped destroy some of the most dangerous weapons on the planet. “When the earthquake hit in Haiti, our merchant mariners were there to help. In the days after Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Sandy, they were there, too,” Foxx said. “And right now, as I speak, there are merchant mariners aboard the (SIUcrewed) Cape Ray, making it possible to destroy Syrian chemical weapons.” Foxx added that merchant mariners are doing more than just punching a clock – they are making a difference. “You are a symbol of hope,” he said. “A horn in the fog. A light on the horizon.” In his remarks, Shannon praised the bravery and sacrifices of merchant mariners past, present and future. As he rec- Paul Hall Center Apprentice William Pappas rings “eight bells” near the end of the ceremony. Members of the Naval Air Facility Washington Color Guard prepare for the ceremony. Saluting are wreath tenders Apprentice Unta Mattox (left) and IS1 Kelly Pritt, USN. Students from the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center were repeatedly described by featured speakers as prime examples of industry’s future. (Continued on Page 14) Pictured at DOT headquarters are (from left) SIU Legislative Director Brian Schoeneman, SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez, Paul Hall Center Trustee Tony Naccarato and his wife, Mary, SIU President Michael Sacco, SIU Sec.-Treas. David Heindel and SIU VP Contracts George Tricker. The Washington, D.C., National Maritime Day ceremony attracted another strong turnout. July 2014 July 2014 America’s open seas have long been a source of prosperity and strength, and since before our Nation’s founding, the men and women of the United States Merchant Marine have defended them. From securing Atlantic routes during the naval battles of the Revolutionary War to supplying our Armed Forces around the world in the 21st century and delivering American goods to overseas markets in times of peace, they have always played a vital role in our Nation’s success. During National Maritime Day, we celebrate this proud history and salute the mariners who have safeguarded our way of life. Today’s Merchant Marine upholds its generations-long role as our “fourth arm of defense.” Yet they also go beyond this mission, transporting food where there is hunger and carrying much-needed supplies to those in distress. Thanks to our dedicated mariners, people around the world continue to see the American flag as a symbol of hope. To create middle-class jobs and maintain our leading position in an ever-changing world, we must provide new marketplaces for our businesses to compete. As we expand commerce, we do so with confidence that the United States Merchant Marine will keep our supply lines secure. Because just as America’s workers and innovators can rise to any challenge, our mariners have demonstrated time and again that they can meet any test. Today, let us reaffirm our support for their essential mission. The Congress, by a joint resolution approved May 20, 1933, has designated May 22 of each year as “National Maritime Day,” and has authorized and requested the President to issue annually a proclamation calling for its appropriate observance. NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 22, 2014, as National Maritime Day. I call upon the people of the United States to mark this observance and to display the flag of the United States at their homes and in their communities. I also request that all ships sailing under the American flag dress ship on that day. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this nineteenth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand fourteen, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-eighth. BARACK OBAMA Seafarers LOG 13 6/30/2014 8:52:09 AM �The wreaths featured lists of names of mariners (retired and active) who passed away since the last National Maritime Day. SIU officials and others from throughout the industry gather at DOT headquarters. Two Events Mark Maritime Day (Continued from Page 12) ognized the apprentices in attendance as a “new generation of young men and women (who) have taken up that patriotic legacy,” he also saluted those who had died within the last year. Shannon led the unveiling of a special parchment bearing the names of those lost since last year’s National Maritime Day. “There are, and always have been, heroes whose only weapons are hard work, integrity and patriotism. Today we honor American merchant mariners for the sacrifices they made for our great nation,” Shannon said. “They have never shied away from duty because it puts them in harm’s way. They have served in every war since our nation began.” Following Shannon’s speech, PHC unlicensed apprentice Unta Maddox was among those tending the memorial wreath, while fellow apprentice Will Pappas rang eight bells in honor of those who died. In an address at a Propeller Club luncheon following the ceremony, Jaenichen echoed earlier sentiments, adding that events honoring the U.S. Merchant Marine and American maritime industry could not be more important. “The best contribution we can give our U.S. Merchant Marine is widespread cultural recognition,” Jaenichen said. “We have to get the word out. Every mention of the maritime industry is important. We can never miss an opportunity to educate people on what the maritime industry is all about.” Several organizations and maritime allies used National Maritime Day as an opportunity to do just that. In statements, press releases and editorials, those familiar with the maritime industry called on everyone to recognize just how important the U.S. Merchant Marine is to the nation’s economic and national security. One of the highest-profile examples was an editorial written by Rep. John Garamendi (DCalif.) for The Hill newspaper. In his editorial, Garamendi – who serves as the top Democrat on the House Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation – echoed Jaenichen’s call to get the word out about the industry. “Our recognition today of our identity as a maritime nation has to be more than a celebration – it must be a rallying cry,” Garamendi wrote. “Let this National Maritime Day mark our commitment to revive the industry that has come to the aid of our armed forces in times of war, delivered food aid to hungry nations in times of peace and promoted our trade and commerce.” One driver of that revitalization, Garamendi wrote, could be found in the growing natural gas industry. He added that many new ships could be used for exports – an activity that should happen exclusively on American-made vessels with American crews. “If we are to succeed in the fight for good U.S. jobs, strategic opportunities, and the future of the U.S. Merchant Marine, it will take the active participation and energy of all stakeholders,” Garamendi wrote. “May a future National Maritime Day find us remembering this moment as the inflection point that sent U.S.-flag fleet numbers escalating once again.” SIU President Michael Sacco (left) greets apprentices before the event. 14 Seafarers LOG 19992_Seafarers_X.indd 14 MSC and MARAD teamed up to sponsor the ceremony and luncheon. Navy band members provide entertainment before the official start of the program. July 2014 6/27/2014 5:51:45 PM �Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea July & August 2014 Membership Meetings Piney Point...........................................Monday: July 7, August 4 Algonac..........................................Friday: July 11, August 8 Baltimore........................................Thursday: July 10, August 7 Guam.............................................Thursday: July 24, August 21 Honolulu.............................................Friday: July 18, August 15 Houston................................................Monday: July 14, August 11 Jacksonville......................................Thursday: July 10, August 7 Joliet...............................................Thursday: July 17, August 14 Mobile........................................Wednesday: July 16, August 13 New Orleans............................................Tuesday: July 15, August 12 Jersey City..............................................Tuesday: July 8, August 5 Norfolk.............................................Thursday: July 10, August 7 Oakland..........................................Thursday: July 17, August 14 Philadelphia....................................Wednesday: July 9, August 6 Port Everglades...............................Thursday: July 17, August 14 San Juan............................................Thursday: July 10, August 7 St. Louis..............................................Friday: July 18, August 15 Tacoma...............................................Friday: July 25, August 22 Wilmington............................................Monday: July 21, August 18 Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. Personal Retired Seafarer Darley Solomon wants David Laureano to call him at (954) 616-8056. Correction We misspelled the name of Brother Gilbert Allende in the Inquiring Seafarer column of the June 2014 Seafarers LOG. A U.S. Navy veteran, Brother Allende achieved the rank of chief petty officer while in uniform and is a certified chef. When he was interviewed for the Inquiring Seafarer, he was an ACU taking the certified chief cook course at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center. July 2014 19992_Seafarers.indd 15 May 16, 2014 - June 15, 2014 Port Total Registered All Groups A B C Total Shipped All Groups A B Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 13 2 4 19 5 6 70 55 8 13 15 41 21 27 7 1 10 40 2 29 388 11 2 4 6 1 1 8 19 4 5 1 16 27 8 2 4 6 8 2 10 145 2 0 2 7 0 0 1 5 4 2 0 1 2 3 1 0 1 0 0 1 32 Deck Department 13 5 1 0 1 4 12 10 2 0 6 3 29 8 39 15 7 3 9 1 7 2 29 13 14 19 19 4 5 3 0 1 6 3 34 13 2 1 32 17 267 125 2 0 0 2 0 2 1 2 2 1 0 1 2 0 0 0 2 3 0 0 20 5 1 1 12 0 2 19 25 2 4 3 19 8 3 2 0 5 21 0 18 150 16 1 11 26 5 20 100 69 6 19 22 83 25 46 10 4 16 68 4 58 609 11 4 3 17 3 3 20 39 5 7 5 22 44 16 9 4 10 20 6 41 289 1 2 2 9 0 3 6 7 3 5 2 1 6 2 2 1 0 7 0 5 64 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 1 1 6 7 1 9 23 24 1 4 5 12 14 15 5 3 2 14 2 8 157 4 0 3 5 0 4 9 20 0 1 0 7 11 11 3 3 7 6 0 10 104 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 3 0 1 0 2 2 2 1 1 1 2 0 4 22 Engine Department 1 2 0 0 3 4 7 3 0 1 7 1 13 5 21 15 3 2 3 2 1 3 16 7 5 8 12 5 3 1 1 1 1 5 14 5 2 1 11 7 124 78 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 2 2 0 1 10 1 0 1 3 0 0 11 12 0 0 1 11 3 2 1 1 3 9 1 8 68 1 0 7 12 1 22 41 43 0 9 5 23 19 19 6 1 5 25 3 19 261 6 0 4 5 0 8 10 41 1 1 2 15 29 8 3 3 10 10 1 27 184 0 0 2 2 2 5 1 3 0 1 0 3 2 3 2 1 0 1 0 1 29 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 4 0 2 10 0 7 20 16 0 5 3 16 22 21 6 2 1 17 2 36 190 1 0 2 3 1 1 7 2 3 0 3 5 6 3 0 1 4 1 1 4 48 1 0 0 0 1 0 2 2 0 1 0 0 2 2 0 2 2 0 0 2 17 Steward Department 2 0 0 0 0 0 6 2 0 1 11 3 17 7 18 4 2 3 3 0 2 2 10 3 9 4 16 5 3 1 3 2 1 4 6 2 1 0 18 4 128 47 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 3 1 2 0 0 0 0 2 9 1 0 0 3 0 5 13 10 0 2 4 6 8 8 3 2 0 3 0 11 79 4 0 5 15 1 14 33 32 0 8 8 30 25 35 3 7 6 25 4 50 305 1 0 1 3 2 6 12 10 1 0 4 7 17 6 1 0 4 4 3 5 87 1 0 0 0 1 0 5 2 0 2 0 1 2 2 0 1 2 0 0 4 23 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Joliet Mobile New Orleans New York Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS 2 0 0 1 0 2 4 5 0 0 2 7 0 3 0 0 1 7 0 6 40 15 2 4 4 0 7 11 10 1 1 3 18 19 21 0 1 0 7 1 21 146 5 0 5 2 0 6 3 7 1 0 1 3 17 8 0 2 0 3 0 15 78 Entry Department 0 6 0 0 0 2 0 4 0 2 1 4 1 7 1 5 0 4 1 2 1 1 2 8 0 7 2 13 0 0 0 1 1 0 4 6 0 2 4 13 18 87 3 0 2 1 0 3 2 8 1 1 0 3 7 9 0 2 0 2 0 8 52 4 0 1 2 0 1 4 1 1 0 2 3 1 4 0 4 0 2 0 7 37 5 0 0 1 0 1 8 6 0 3 3 9 0 3 0 0 2 6 0 9 56 18 2 4 6 0 15 17 21 2 2 2 41 32 31 3 2 0 34 2 23 257 12 0 1 3 0 7 8 26 0 1 2 16 57 22 1 1 0 11 0 40 208 GRAND TOTAL: 775 443 149 91 334 1,231 817 324 537 337 C Trip Reliefs Registered on Beach All Groups A B C Seafarers LOG 15 6/27/2014 9:59:52 AM �Inquiring Seafarer Seafarers International Union Directory 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 Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services Editor’s note: This month’s question was answered earlier in the year by six Seafarers who went on to complete the steward recertification course at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Question: What was one of your favorite voyages, and what made it so? It was a very eyeopening experience to see how people live in a Third World country. so much. We visited Japan, South Korea, Guam and Hawaii. places. It’s an eyeopener to see how other countries are. I got to meet my wife one trip to Thailand. ence. It gives you a good idea about biblical times. curious about our culture as I was about theirs. HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 ALGONAC 520 St. Clair River Dr., Algonac, MI 48001 (810) 794-4988 Christina Mateer Recertified Steward ANCHORAGE 721 Sesame St., #1C, Anchorage, AK 99503 (907) 561-4988 One of my favorite voyages was working on a bulk carrier delivering PL 480 Food for Peace cargo all along the west coast of Africa. The people were very friendly and very happy to receive the aid cargo we were supplying. 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 1221 Pierce St., Houston, TX 77002 (713) 659-5152 Zlatko Lucic Recertified Steward Charles Washington Recertified Steward My favorite voyage was aboard the Maersk Rhode Island because in a short time I got to see There are just too many to mention. I’ve been around the world so many times and been to so many Earl Castain Recertified Steward My favorite voyage was a trip to Israel – lots of history and an eyeopening experi- Derrick Moore Recertified Steward My first voyage was my favorite. I went to Dubai. To me, it was like the New York of the Middle East. The people were friendly and just as Benjamin Ines Recertified Steward I’d say one of my favorites was on the cruise ship Independence. I was sailing as second cook and it was just a great experience. I learned a lot and had fun. Pics-From-The-Past JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 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 JERSEY CITY 104 Broadway Ave., Jersey City, NJ 10321 (201) 434-6000 Government Services Division: (904) 281-2622 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 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (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) 549-4000 In the group photo directly above (first published in the LOG in 1991), ITB Frances Hammer crew members pose in Kuwait City while a U.S. Navy helicopter flies behind them. Pictured from left are SIU members James Lewis, Toyo Gonzales, Terry Jacobsen and Edward Herrera. The other photo shows a bunker outside the Kuwait City port area that barely survived the allied assault to retake the capital during Operation Desert Storm. 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 16 Seafarers LOG 19992_Seafarers_X.indd 16 July 2014 6/27/2014 5:51:50 PM �Welcome Ashore 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 waterways 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. DEEP SEA ROBERT BAKEMAN Brother Robert Bakeman, 66, became an SIU member in 1980. He initially worked aboard the Long Island. Brother Bakeman was born in Maine. He attended classes on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Md. Brother Bakeman sailed in the deck department. His most recent voyage was on the Maersk Carolina. Brother Bakeman makes his home in Brooksville, Maine. ANDREW BRZEZINSKI Brother Andrew Brzezinski, 67, joined the SIU ranks in 2001 when the NMU merged into the Seafarers International Union. He was born in Poland and worked in the deck department. Brother Brzezinski’s last ship was the Maersk Hartford. He upgraded frequently at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Brzezinski resides in Brockton, Mass. WOODROW COLEMAN Brother Woodrow Coleman, 73, started sailing with the Seafarers in 2001 during the SIU/ NMU merger. Brother Coleman shipped in the deck department. His most recent voyage was aboard the Cape Domingo. Brother Coleman enhanced his skills often at the Piney Point school. He is a resident of Charleston, S.C. AUBREY DAVIS Brother Aubrey Davis, 57, signed on with the SIU in 1980. He initially shipped on the Taurus. Brother Davis sailed in all three departments. He often took advantage of educational opportunities at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Md. Brother Davis most recently sailed on the Maersk Detroit. He settled in Virginia Beach, Va. CHARLES DICANIO Brother Charles Dicanio, 55, joined the union in 1981 in New York. He worked on the shore gang in Elizabeth, N.J., for the duration of his career. Brother Dicanio lives in New Hope, Pa. July 2014 19992_Seafarers.indd 17 SHAWN EVANS Brother Shawn Evans, 60, donned the SIU colors in 1978. He originally sailed aboard the Manhattan Island. Brother Evans shipped in the deck department. Born in Omaha, Neb., he upgraded on three occasions at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. Brother Evans’ most recent trip was on the Lightning. He resides in Las Vegas. MICHAEL KELLEY Brother Michael Kelley, 60, joined the Seafarers in 1977. He sailed in both the deck and engine departments and was first employed with the Construction Aggregates. In 1989 and 2008, Brother Kelley attended classes at the SIU-affiliated school in Maryland. His most recent ship was the Prentiss Brown. Brother Kelley was born in Michigan and now makes his home in Sault Ste. Marie, Mich. ABDUL MOHAMED Brother Abdul Mohamed, 68, began sailing with the union in 1990. He initially shipped aboard the Independence. Brother Mohamed was born in Yemen. The steward department member was last employed on Maersk ship. He is a resident of Dearborn, Mich. GERARD ROGERS Brother Gerard Rogers, 61, joined the SIU in 1971. His first trip was aboard the Trans Indiana. Brother Rogers upgraded in 2009 at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Md. He sailed in both the deck and engine departments. Brother Rogers last worked on the Maersk Texas. He was born in New York City and calls Southwest Ranches, Fla., home. JAMES SKOWRONEK Brother James Skowronek, 61, became an SIU member in 1972. His earliest trip was aboard the Steel T Crapo. Brother Skowronek most recently shipped on the Alpena. He is a Michigan native and worked in both the deck and engine departments. Brother Skowronek lives in Alpena, Mich. LOREN WATSON Brother Loren Watson, 61, signed on with the Seafarers in 1970 in New York. A member of the deck department, Brother Watson was first employed aboard the Yorkmar. He upgraded on numerous occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Watson’s final vessel was the Horizon Kodiak. He was born in Seattle and now resides in Clinton, Wash. Brother Jones was born in North Carolina. He worked in the deck department. Brother Jones calls St. Paul, N.C., home. INLAND Brother Noel Lopez, 62, joined the union 1987. His first trip was with Crowley of Puerto Rico. Brother Lopez last sailed with Crowley Towing and Transportation of Jacksonville. He is a resident of Aguada, P.R. HOWARD BLOUNT Brother Howard Blount, 57, started sailing with the union in 1977. His earliest trip was with Virginia Pilot Corporation. Brother Blount often attended classes at the union-affiliated school. The deck department member’s most recent vessel was operated by Allied Towing. Brother Blount makes his home in Virginia Beach, Va. TERRY JONES Brother Terry Jones, 63, began shipping with the SIU in 1975 in Norfolk, Va. He primarily sailed with the Association of Maryland Pilots. tional opportunities at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Rushing settled in Aransas Pass, Texas. ANDREW SMITH NOEL LOPEZ DAVID RUSHING Brother David Rushing, 61, began sailing with SIU in 1979 in Houston. He was born in Texas. Brother Rushing worked with G&H Towing and Moran Towing. In 1998 and 2001, the engine department member took advantage of educa- Brother Andrew Smith, 61, became an SIU member in 1979. He sailed with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jacksonville for the duration of his career. Brother Smith worked in the deck department. He upgraded frequently at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Smith makes his home in Wrightsville, Ga. GREAT LAKES HIZAM AL ZAWKARI Brother Hizam Al Zawkari, 68, signed on with the union in 1970. His first ship was the Peter Reiss; his last was the Nicolet. Brother Al Zawkari was born in Arabia and sailed in the deck department. Brother Al Zawkari lives in San Francisco. This Month In SIU History Editor’s note: The following items are reprinted from previous editions of the Seafarers LOG can cargoes go in U.S. ships, repeal would have forced the lay-up of scores of ships and caused heavy unemployment among seamen. 1942 Twenty-four SIU brothers owe their lives to the coolness and courage of Earnest Oxley, chief steward. Oxley, under almost impossible circumstances, singlehandedly launched a life boat after his ship had been torpedoed and one-by-one pulled his shipmates into the boat from the waters of the Caribbean. At 5 p.m. June 17, a large SIU freighter was attacked in the Caribbean by a Nazi sub, which sent a single torpedo crashing into the No. 4 hold. Many men were trapped below deck and were killed. Those above were thrown into complete confusion because of the complete lack of direction from any of the officers. Some men had been blown overboard by the explosion, others jumped over, some hacked desperately at the lines holding the life rafts . . . but none went near the life boats. Oxley ran quickly to the boat. It was swung out but lashed against the ship. Oxley hacked at the lines, cutting himself in the process, and swung the boat free just as the ship listed sharply to port. The [boat] fell free. Oxley jumped into the boat and shoved it away from the sinking ship. 1969 SIUNA President Paul Hall has urged Congress to expand the role of American-flag shipping in commerce with Soviet-bloc nations. Testifying before the Senate Banking and Currency Committee, Hall called for language that would “clearly set forth that at least 50 percent of all this cargo – and more, if possible – should move aboard American-built, American-owned and American-manned merchant vessels.” Hall was sharply critical of language inserted in the bill by the Subcommittee on International Finance, which would have denied to the president the right to stipulate the use of American-flag merchant ships for the carriage of cargo to the Soviet Union and its satellites. 1955 American seamen and the maritime industry won a major victory when the House of Representatives crushed a repeal move against the “50-50” law by a vote of 181 to 51. The key vote came in the course of debate on the government’s foreign aid program for the 1955-56 fiscal year. The vote represented a stunning defeat for foreign shipping lobbyists aided and abetted by elements in the State Department. The foreign lobbyists had attempted to line up an administration-farm bloc coalition to upset the “50-50” law. Since the law requires that at least half of Ameri- 1981 President Ronald Reagan indicated at a White House meeting with SIU President Frank Drozak and 13 other union presidents that he will live up to his campaign promise of revitalizing the American merchant marine. Reagan did not say specifically what we had in mind, but he did express an interest in providing the merchant marine with an increased role in naval military and auxiliary work. After making his pitch on his tax plan, Reagan passed the ball around the table for comments and suggestions. When the bill got to Drozak, the talk quickly shifted to problems facing America’s merchant marine. Drozak suggested, among other things, that the Reagan administration support the concept of bi-lateral shipping agreements with our major trading partners. He also made President Reagan aware of the SIU’s belief that all naval auxiliary work should be performed by the private merchant fleet. Seafarers LOG 17 6/27/2014 9:59:59 AM �Final Departures DEEP SEA ROCCO BOCCHETTA Pensioner Rocco Bocchetta, 100, died Jan. 3. He joined the Seafarers in 1957. Brother Bocchetta initially sailed on the Del Mar. He was born in Italy and shipped in the steward department. Brother Bocchetta was last employed aboard the Del Monte. He retired in 1983 and called Rochester, N.Y., home. CLARA DENTON Pensioner Clara Denton, 92, passed away Dec. 11. Born in Idaho, she began sailing with the union in 1978 while in San Francisco. Sister Denton first sailed on the Santa Mercedes. She was a steward department member. Sister Denton’s final trip was aboard the Lurline. She started collecting her retirement compensation in 1986. Sister Denton was a resident of Bonita, Calif. JAMES FAIR Pensioner James Fair, 78, died Jan. 11. Brother Fair originally shipped on the American Seaocean. He worked in the engine department. Brother Fair most recently sailed aboard the Overseas Juneau. He went on pension in 1997. Brother Fair was born in Tennessee and made his home in Guerneville, Calif. RAUL IGLESIAS Pensioner Raul Iglesias, 85, passed away Jan. 18. Brother Iglesias joined the SIU in 1956 in the port of New York. He first shipped with Ore Navigation. Brother Iglesias was a deck department member. Prior to his retirement in 1994, he worked on the Overseas Philadelphia. He was a resident of Egg Harbor Township, N.J. STEVE KRKOVICH Pensioner Steve Krkovich, 89, died Dec. 27. Brother Krkovich was born in Pennsylvania. He started shipping with the Seafarers in 1943 from New York. Brother Krkovich’s first vessel was the Lafayette; his last, the Liberty Star. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Krkovich became a pensioner in 1988 and settled in Japan. RONALD MAKOWIECKI Pensioner Ronald Makowiecki, 76, passed away Dec. 31. He began 18 Seafarers LOG 19992_Seafarers.indd 18 sailing with the union in 1979 in Norfolk, Va. Brother Makowiecki was first employed with Tug Management Corporation. The deck department member last shipped on the USNS Regulus. Brother Makowiecki was a native of Groton, Conn. He began collecting his retirement compensation in 2003. Brother Makowiecki lived in Norfolk, Va. JAMES MARRINER Pensioner James Marriner, 78, died Dec. 26. Brother Marriner joined the union in 1956. He initially sailed aboard the Overseas Ulla. Brother Marriner was born in Virginia and worked in the steward department. Before his retirement in 1996, he shipped aboard the Stonewall Jackson. Brother Marriner lived in Kill Devil Hills, N.C. LUIS NIEVES Pensioner Luis Nieves, 74, passed away Jan. 3. Brother Nieves started sailing with the SIU in 1961. One of his first ships was the New Orleans. Brother Nieves was a member of the engine department. He last sailed on the Elizabeth. Brother Nieves went on pension in 2000 and resided in Jersey City, N.J. LANCELOT RODRIGUES Pensioner Lancelot Rodrigues, 84, died Jan. 5. Born in Guyana, Brother Rodrigues began sailing with the Seafarers in 1964. His first ship was the Olga. Brother Rodrigues sailed in the deck department. His final voyage was aboard the Humacao. Brother Rodrigues became a pensioner in 1994 and called Puerto Rico home. INLAND JOHN DAUGEREAU Brother John Daugereau, 91, passed away Dec. 30. He signed on with the union in 1963. Brother Daugereau sailed in the deck department. He was employed with Hvide Marine for the duration of his career. Brother Daugereau was born in Church Point, La. He retired in 1988 and made his home in Bridge City, Texas. DANIEL GAYLOR Pensioner Daniel Gaylor, 81, died Jan. 11. Brother Gaylor first donned the SIU colors in 1990. He was a member of the deck department. Brother Gaylor was a Bedford, Mass. native. His first trip was on the USNS Triumph. Brother Gay- lor last sailed aboard the Red Circle. He went on pension in 2001 and lived in Ball, La. ROY HARRISON Pensioner Roy Harrison, 80, passed away Jan. 4. Born in Alabama, he started sailing with the union in 1967. Brother Harrison worked with Dravo Basic Materials Company. He became a pensioner in 1995 and resided in Flomaton, Ala. RONALD SHAW Pensioner Ronald Shaw, 86, died Dec. 13. Brother Shaw joined the SIU in 1969. He initially worked on the Western Clipper. Brother Shaw was born in Union, N.J. The steward department member’s final ship was the Northerly Island. Brother Shaw started collecting his retirement pay in 1994. He was a resident of Lehigh, Pa. HOMER SHIPES Pensioner Homer Shipes, 74, passed away Jan. 7. Brother Shipes joined the union in 1965. He worked for Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jacksonville. Brother Shipes was born in Georgia and sailed in the deck department. He retired in 2002 and made his home in Odum, Ga. GREAT LAKES AUGUSTIN KUHL Pensioner Augustin Kuhl, 87, died Jan. 7. Brother Kuhl was born in the Ukraine. He started working with American Steamship Company in 1977 and sailed with them until his retirement in 1991. Brother Kuhl was a steward department member. He settled in Sanborn Township, Mich. Editor’s note: The following brothers, all former members of the National Maritime Union (NMU), have passed away. RAYMOND COOPER Pensioner Raymond Cooper, 90, died Nov. 14. Brother Cooper became a pensioner in 1974 and called Pequannock Township, N.J. home. NOEL DE CASTRO Pensioner Noel De Castro, 90, passed away Dec. 12. Brother De Castro, a native of Spain, began collecting his pension in 1987. He resided in Vero Beach, Fla. JOHNNIE FARROW Pensioner Johnnie Farrow, 75, died Nov. 22. Brother Farrow was born Garwood, Texas. He went on pension in 1997. Brother Farrow lived in Galveston, Texas. pension in 1991. Brother Nunez sailed in the steward department and called Tampa, Fla., home. JOHN GILMARTIN ANGEL RIVERA Pensioner John Gilmartin, 81, passed away Dec. 5. Born in Queens, N.Y., Brother Gilmartin retired in 1987. He resided in Rockaway Park, N.Y. Pensioner Angel Rivera, 78, died Nov. 12. Brother Rivera, a native of San Juan, P.R., began collecting his pension in 1997. He made his home in Ridgewood, N.Y. MAGNO GUILLEN AHMED SALEH Pensioner Magno Guillen, 74, died Nov. 5. Brother Guillen became a pensioner in 2005. He was a resident of Honduras. FRANK HOWELL Pensioner Frank Howell, 95, passed away Oct. 29. Brother Howell was born in the West Indies. He retired in 1966 and settled in Brooklyn, N.Y. BERNARD JOSEY Pensioner Ahmed Saleh, 74, passed away Oct. 3. Brother Saleh was born in Yemen. He went on pension in 2000. Brother Saleh called Dearborn, Mich., home. NEVILLE SANDIFORD Pensioner Neville Sandiford, 96, died Dec. 2. Born in Trinidad, Brother Sandiford retired in 1970. He resided in Brooklyn, N.Y. JOSEPH SANTOS Pensioner Bernard Josey, 87, died Nov. 6. Brother Josey was a native of Boston. He started receiving his retirement pay in 1997. Brother Josey made his home in Galveston, Texas. Pensioner Joseph Santos, 85, passed away Nov. 27. Brother Santos, a native of Nicaragua, started collecting his retirement compensation in 1996. He lived in Metairie, La. RODGER KEARNEY Pensioner Raymond Shea, 76, died Dec. 10. Brother Shea was born in Boston. He became a pensioner in 2005. Brother Shea called Sandown, N.H., home. Pensioner Rodger Kearney, 83, passed away Nov. 11. Brother Kearney was born in Philadelphia. He began receiving his pension in 1986 and lived in Bedford, Pa. JOHN MALDONADO Pensioner John Maldonado, 77, died Dec. 30. Brother Maldonado, a native of Manhattan, N.Y., started collecting his retirement compensation in 1994. He resided in Houston. JUAN MARTINEZ Pensioner Juan Martinez, 92, passed away Nov. 13. Born in Puerto Rico, Brother Martinez went on pension in 1976. He made his home in Chapel Hill, N.C. CHON MUNOZ RAYMOND SHEA DILLARD SHELTON Pensioner Dillard Shelton, 86, passed away Nov. 27. Born in North Carolina, Brother Shelton retired in 1997. He made his home in Marshall, N.C. ARNOLD SMITH Pensioner Arnold Smith, 78, died Nov. 14. Brother Smith was born in Paramaribo, Suriname. He went on pension in 2006 and settled in Atlantic City, N.J. LOUIS SMOTHERS Pensioner Chon Munoz, 91, died Nov. 16. The Honduras native became a pensioner in 1984. Brother Munoz settled in Gretna, La. Pensioner Louis Smothers, 87, passed away Nov. 30. Born in Baltimore, Brother Smothers became a pensioner in 1989. He resided in Jacksonville, Fla. JOSEPH MUSORAFITE ARTHUR TOWLER Pensioner Joseph Musorafite, 84, passed away Dec. 18. Born in New York, Brother Musorafite started receiving his retirement compensation in 1996. He lived in Pike, Pa. Pensioner Arthur Towler, 88, died Nov. 13. Brother Towler was a native of Illinois. He began receiving his pension in 1968. Brother Towler lived in Rossmoor, Calif. BENOIT NOEL ANTONIO VIDAL Pensioner Benoit Noel, 91, died Dec. 17. Brother Noel was born in the West Indies. He began collecting his pension in 1968 and made his home in East Elmhurst, N.Y. Pensioner Antonio Vidal, 94, passed away Dec. 12. Brother Vidal went on pension in 1969. He made his home in Woodside, N.Y. LAZARO NUNEZ Pensioner Lazaro Nunez, 87, passed away Nov. 17. He was a native of Cuba and started receiving his July 2014 6/27/2014 10:00:01 AM �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings JEAN ANNE (TOTE Services), April 31 – Chairman Daniel J. Davenport, Secretary Samuel P. Sinclair, Educational Director Martin M. Hamilton, Deck Delegate Billy Cooley, Engine Delegate Rosalio Cordova, Steward Delegate Stephen Avallone. Chairman discussed articles from the Seafarers LOG pertaining to new STCW requirements and medical endorsements. Members were advised to stay up-to-date with requirements and keep documents current. Praise was given to the steward department for doing a great job. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Suggestion was made to purchase a new coffee machine. INDEPENDENCE II (Crowley), April 27 – Chairman Larry H. Harwood, Secretary Patricia A. Sullivan, Educational Director William McCrory, Engine Delegate Joseph Spencer, Steward Delegate Patricia Ricks. Bosun reported a safe voyage. He informed crew members that brochures, pamphlets and applications for vacation benefits and upgrading were available. Secretary reminded mariners of sanitary inspection scheduled for April 28. She asked those departing vessel to leave cabins clean. Educational director encouraged mariners to upgrade at the Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request was made for cable TV and TVs in crew cabins. LIBERTY EAGLE (Liberty Maritime), April 14 – Chairman Willie M. Marsh, Secretary Sergio N. Castellanos, Educational Director Nathaniel Lamb. Chairman announced payoff on April 26 in Brunswick, Ga. Crew members were requested to strip and wax their room decks. Secretary informed steward department of new food handler’s certificate that must be obtained from the Coast Guard. He also talked about new information pertaining to STCW requirements. New dryer arriving in Beaumont, Texas; forklift tires will also be fixed in Beaumont. Educational director recommended training at the Piney Point school. No beefs; disputed OT reported in deck department. Motion was made to adjust how retirement benefits are calculated. Request was made for new mattresses and new washer and dryer. Thanks were given to the steward department for BBQs during voyage and deck department for their help setting up for the BBQs. Next port: Brunswick, Ga. The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring 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. Aboard Sealand Lightning Recertified Bosun Gerry Gianan submitted these recent snapshots of fellow Seafarers aboard Maersk’s Sealand Lightning. MAERSK CHICAGO (Maersk Line, Limited), April 27 – Chairman Mohamed S. Ahmed, Secretary Hugh E. Wildermuth, Educational Director Donna J. Sylvia, Deck Delegate Lucas Mejia, Steward Delegate Carlos Diaz. Bosun reported smooth trip with a crew that works well together. He stated payoff to take place in Newark, N.J. May 2. Crew was asked to leave rooms clean and supplied with fresh linens. Educational director suggested mariners upgrade at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Md. She also reminded fellow members to keep an eye on document expiration dates and allow plenty of time for renewals. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew would like new mattresses. Next port: Newark, N.J. SBX (TOTE Services), April 26 – Chairman Weldon Heblich, Secretary Larry Pugh, Educational Director Loreto Orosco, Deck Delegate Christopher Sahagan, Engine Delegate Jeffrey Stuart. Chairman advised members to renew credentials and keep up with new STCW requirements. Mariners were reminded of new medical endorsement being mailed from Coast Guard. Secretary encouraged members to register at their local union hall, update beneficiary cards and pay union Sunrise in Portland AB Benny Wright emailed this photo from the USNS Montford Point, taken at sunrise while the vessel was in Portland, Ore., earlier this year. (A larger, color version is posted on our Facebook page, linked on the SIU homepage at www.seafarers.org) Apprentice Noel Reyes, QMED Yuri Hernandez, DEU Hassan Mohamed Electrician Zachary Ross dues. Educational director encouraged crew to get time in and take advantage of upgrading at Piney Point. Treasurer reported $6,500 in ship fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendations were made regarding vacation and pension benefits. Request was made for new sofas in crew lounge. Next port: Honolulu. USNS LAWRENCE H GIANELLA (Ocean Ships), April 28 – Chairman Bernardino R. Eda, Secretary Karl E. Meyer, Educational Director Stanley M. Sporna, Steward Delegate James Martin. Chairman discussed upcoming 45-day yard period in Mobile, Ala. Call-back, if eligible, will be on or about June 15. He also talked about completion bonus for permanent, uninjured crew members for 120 days. Crew was thanked for good attitudes and hard work preparing for shipyard. Secretary went over plans for vacating rooms while vessel is in shipyard. Educational director answered questions regarding new medical requirements and suggested contacting port agent if there was still confusion. Mariners were encouraged to purchase MDLs and contribute to SPAD when they can. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Weight machine in gym needs to be fixed. Next port: Mobile, Ala. USNS RED CLOUD (Ocean July 2014 19992_Seafarers.indd 19 Chief Cook David Simon Ships), April 8 – Chairman Dana Naze, Secretary Ceazar R. Mercado, Educational Director Henry Callahan, Deck Delegate Juan Machado, Engine Delegate Arthur Shaw, Steward Delegate Clifton Medley III. Chairman announced payoff and ship turnover May 6. Sanitary inspection will be before payoff. Letter was read from company concerning all unlicensed deck and engine personnel being repatriated home after turnover. SIU representative will visit ship April 12. Secretary informed crew of BBQ April 11. Educational director encouraged crew to get time in and take advantage of upgrading at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward talked about possibility of crews overlapping and the need for overtime to accommodate extra meals. He said departing crew will be missed and he hopes they will be back soon. MAERSK DENVER (Maersk Line, Limited), May 9 – Chairman Ion Irimia, Secretary Ali A. Matari, Educational Director Nat Lamb, Engine Delegate Roger L. Dillinger. Chairman thanked crew for a smooth trip with no lost-time injuries. He reminded crew members to keep garbage room locked in port. Secretary urged mariners to contribute to SPAD. He advised crew who are getting off to leave rooms like they would like to see them when they are joining Apprentice Corbin Soto the ship. Educational director recommended training at the Piney Point school and stressed the need to get sea time in. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward delegate thanked deck and engine departments for helping keep ship clean. Suggestion was made to lower retirement age and increase pension benefits. Crew expressed gratitude to steward department for great meals and keeping ship clean. ST. LOUIS EXPRESS (Crowley), May 25 – Chairman Billy G. Hill Sr., Secretary Richard A. Ripley, Educational Director Daniel G. Ramirez, Deck Delegate Tavell Love, Engine Delegate Michael Warner, Steward Delegate Evelyn Tayag. Bosun went over ship’s itinerary. He suggested Seafarers learn as much as possible about their trade to protect your job. Secretary encouraged mariners to support our union officials, purchase MDLs and contribute to SPAD. Educational director urged members to pay attention to expiration dates and visit Piney Point school as often as possible. Treasurer reported $209 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Motion was made to lower sea-time requirements for pension and add more days for vacation pay. Chairman expressed his gratitude to crew for an enjoyable voyage, especially since this is his last ship. Seafarers LOG 19 6/27/2014 10:00:05 AM �Notice from Trustees Of Sailors’ Snug Harbor In the City of New York Seafarers Deliver Food Aid Editor’s note: The SIU is not formally affiliated with the Sailors’ Snug Harbor. This notice is being printed in the LOG as a courtesy and for general interest. We Are Looking for Retired Merchant Mariners History The Trustees of the Sailors’ Snug Harbor (SSH) was incorporated in 1806 as the result of a bequest made by Captain Robert Richard Randall, a wealthy New York merchant and sea captain. It was Captain Randall’s desire to have his estate utilized to assist “aged, decrepit and worn-out seamen…” upon his death. SSH is the oldest secular charity in the country. Who We Are SSH is a non-profit organization whose mission is to aid retired career mariners in need of assistance. SSH no longer owns or operates a retirement facility for mariners in Sea Level, N.C., Staten Island, N.Y., or anywhere else. Today, we assist mariners in their home communities where they are familiar and more likely to be near family and friends. Whom we assist We offer support to career mariners who can demonstrate they have a need for financial assistance and meet the following requirements: n 3,650 days of deep sea time proven through discharge papers (at least 50 percent on U.S.-flagged ships) n 65 years of age or older (exceptions may be made in rare cases) n A proven need for financial assistance n Assets may not exceed $50,000 (primary residence excluded) n All public benefits available to an eligible mariner must be accessed before any subsidy from SSH is approved (e.g. VA benefits, Medicaid) These photos, courtesy of vessel operator Sealift Inc., were taken in early June aboard the Advantage in Beaumont, Texas, before the ship began its voyage delivering life-saving food aid cargo to West Africa. Pictured from left to right in the group photo above are Bosun Leonard Gregg, AB Cielo Ojano, QMED George Box, OS Sam Fisher, QMED Edward Galbis, OMU Brian Thurmer, DEU Luis Ruiz and AB Steve Gagnon. The photo at right features steward department members (from left) Chief Cook Hector Sahagun, GSU Elena Hoener and Chief Steward Isabel Miranda. Each interested Mariner must complete an application that requires detailed information about present living arrangements, financial history, etc. Contact Sailors’ Snug Harbor If you have any questions or are in need of assistance, please call our mariner counselor at 1-888-257-5456. The website www. thesailorssnugharbor.org includes our application. If you do not have access to a computer, please call and we will send you an application. We look forward to hearing from you. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the 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 recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU 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 disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval 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 shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively 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 employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board 20 Seafarers LOG 19992_Seafarers.indd 20 by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers 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 filing 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 SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful 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 responsibility for Seafarers 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 OBLIGATIONS. 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 headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Consequently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect 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 Michael 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 July 2014 6/27/2014 10:00:08 AM �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, Md., for the next several months. All programs are geared toward improving the job skills of Seafarers and promoting the American maritime industry. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and - in times of conflict - national security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. 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 Course Start Date Date of Completion FOWT (Able Seafarer Engine) October 11 November 7 Junior Engineer August 30 October 24 Advanced Referigeration Containers August 23 September 19 Marine Electrician September 27 November 21 Title of Course Welding July 12 August 16 September 20 November 1 November 29 August 1 September 5 October 10 November 21 December 19 Start Date Date of Completion Deck Department Able Seafarer (Deck) September 13 November 8 October 10 December 5 ARPA September 22 September 26 Bosun Recertification July 12 August 4 ECDIS July 12 August 2 August 23 September 6 October 6 November 15 July 18 August 8 August 29 September 12 October 10 November 21 Fast Rescue Boat July 26 August 1 GMDSS July 19 September 27 August 1 October 10 July 19 August 16 September 13 October 11 November 8 December 6 August 1 August 29 September 26 October 24 November 21 December 19 Galley Operations RFPNW August 16 October 11 September 12 November 7 Certified Chief Cook These modules begin every other week. The most recent class started July 5. The next class will commence July 19. Radar Renewal (One day) August 18 September 29 August 18 September 29 Chief Steward August 9 November 1 September 19 December 12 Radar Observer September 6 September 19 Advanced Galley Operations August 2 August 30 September 27 August 29 September 26 October 24 ServeSafe August 2 September 13 October 25 December 6 August 8 September 19 October 31 December 12 Lifeboatman/Water Survival Safety Upgrading Courses Advanced Firefighting August 9 September 13 August 15 September 19 Basic Firefighting/STCW September 6 September 12 Basic Training Refresher/VPDSD July 12 August 16 July 18 August 22 Government Vessels July 19 July 25 Medical Care Provider August 16 August 22 Tank Barge (DL) September 13 September 19 Tanker Ship Familiarization (DL) September 14 September 26 Steward Department Upgrading Courses Engine Department Basic Auxiliary Plant Operations (BAPO) July 19 September 13 August 15 October 10 FOWT (Able Seafarer Engine) August 16 September 12 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 # __________________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? o Yes o No If yes, course(s) taken____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back or relevant pages of merchant mariner credential, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested, 1995 STCW Certificate, valid SHBP Clinic Card and TWIC. July 2014 19992_Seafarers.indd 21 COURSE July 19 August 16 September 13 August 15 September 12 October 10 ____________________________ START DATE _______________ DATE OF 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 students, who are otherwise qualified, of 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. 7/14 Seafarers LOG 21 6/27/2014 10:00:08 AM �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class #785 – Fourteen Phase I apprentices graduated from this course May 9. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Alejandro Cintron, Joshua Claffey, Jonathan Collier, Calvin Davidson, Justin Drayton, Lars Edvardsen, Anthony Henry, Joseph Herman Jr., Caliph Johnson II, Unta Mattox, Stephen Nelson, Ryan Ramos, Tad Van and Pomaikai Velasquez. (Note: Not all are pictured.) ECDIS – Five individuals finished this course May 23. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Jacob Frisbie, James Hoffman, Wade Poor, Steven Taylor and Cecil Wilson Jr. Their instructor, Brad Wheeler, is at left. Fast Rescue Boat – Five upgraders finished this class May 23. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Christopher Allen, Michael Harris, Charles Herrera, Todd Kasler and Steve Mathis. Class instructor Stan Beck is at left. 19992_Seafarers.indd 22 Medical Care Provider – Three upgraders finished this class May 23. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Jesse James, Timothy Hetz and Keith Reeder. Class instructor Wayne Johnson Jr. is at the far right. Advanced Stability – Great Lakes Dredge and Dry Dock Mate Wade Poor (right) completed his requirements in this course May 12. Pictured with Poor is his instructor, Brad Wheeler. Tankship Familiarization – The following Phase III apprentices (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this class May 16: Smyrno Desir, Nicole Donald, Joseph Griggs, Lauren LaFond, David Lane III, Robert Mack, Chester Piaskowski, Nicholas Selle and Ezequel Trorcoso. Each will be sailing in the deck department of SIU-crewed vessels upon the completion of their training. 22 Seafarers LOG Welding – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) completed the enhancement of their skills in this class May 23: Keith Carswell, Peter Dadzie, Joe Griggs, Christopher Shivalier and Marcel Soares. Chris Raley, their instructor, is at the far right. Tankship Familiarization – Three Phase III apprentices finished this course May 16. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Frederick Conroy, Abrahem Elsawy and Cynora Hunter. All three will work in the steward department aboard SIU-crewed vessels once they complete their training. Tankship Familiarization – Twelve Phase III apprentices, all of whom will be working in the engine department aboard SIU-crewed vessels upon the completion of their training, finished this class May 16. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Carlos Arzuaga Flores, Rodrigues Carson, Stacy Fulcher, Matthew Gilliland, Steven Horta, Tyler Jones, Imran Khan, Isacc Lesh, Jean Lozada, Carlos Mohler Vega, David Myrick and Hector Tirado-Surilo. July 2014 6/27/2014 10:14:11 AM �Paul Hall Center Classes Basic Training Refresher – Eighteen Seafarers finished this class May 21. Completing their requirements and graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Russell Cowell, Scottie Duncan, Jeffrey Fackett, Trevor Gray, Steven Jones, Garnett Leary Jr., Gary Mason, Roland Mason Jr., Brent Midgette, Byron O’Neal, Herbert O’Neal, Terry Popperwill, Todd Potter, Gil Pruitt, Jackie Pruitt, Zeffie Roberts III, Aaron Sadler and Oswald Smithwick. Class instructor Joe Zienda is at the far right. BST – Sixteen individuals completed this class May 16. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Antolin Avorque, Maurice Brodie, Clark Castrodes, Jorge Chacon Sanchez, Lars Edvardsen, Brian Magill, Steve Mathis, Sunnil Motley, Roberto Rubio, Jorge Soler, Robert Wagner, Steven White, William Winnett, Kevin Youman, Jason Young and Roberto Zepeda. Class instructors Wayne Johnson Jr., and John Thomas are standing at the far left and far right, respectively. Small Arms Training – Six Seafarers finished their requirements in this course May 16. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: William Dowzicky, Rick James, Erick Johnson, Tom Moore, Robert Oppel and Gregory White. Class instructors Stan Beck and Robbie Springer are at the far left and far right, respectively. Certified Chief Cook – Two upgraders recently completed this course at the PHC. Graduating were Paula Brookshire (left) and Keith Miller (right). Joining them in the photo is John Dobson, chef instructor. July 2014 19992_Seafarers_X.indd 23 Rating Forming Part of a Navigational Watch – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) finished their requirements and graduated from this course May 23: Joseph Evans, Bill Hunt and Marinescu Radu. Tom Truitt, their instructor, is at the left. Combined Basic and Advanced Fire Fighting – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) completed this course May 16: Brandon Albro, Thomas Bray, Charles Herrera, Timothy Hetz, Thad Hickey and Jesse James. Joe Zienda, their instructor, is at the far left. Water Survival – Two upgraders completed the enhancement of their skills in this course May 9. Graduating were Christian Haber (above, left) and Clark Castrodes. Their instructor, Ben Cusic, is at right. Steward Department Classes – Six upgraders recently finished steward department courses at the Piney Point, Md.-based PHC. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) and the classes they completed were: Bruce Johnson, advanced galley operations (ops); Yuriy Klimov, galley ops; Joe Martin, galley ops; Cliff Simril, advanced galley ops; David Stephens, advanced galley ops; and Karen Thomasson, galley ops. Galley Operations - Two steward department upgraders recently satisfied their requirements in this course at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center (PHC). Graduating (above, from left) were Jesse Kendall and Rafael Borja. Certified Chief Cook – Three steward department upgraders recently satisfied their requirements in this course at the PHC. The graduates (above, from the left) were: Joseph Hernandez, Ingrid Ortiz and Matthew Dugan.. Seafarers LOG 23 6/27/2014 5:51:55 PM �F E B R2014 UARY 2014 JULY o V O LVOLUME U M E 7 6 76 N O . 72 NO. Paul Hall Center Class Photos Pages 22-23 FOR A GREAT CAUSE – SIU members and officials regularly team up with fellow trade unionists through the Hawaii Port Maritime Council (PMC), part of the AFL-CIO’s Maritime Trades Department. The PMC raised nearly $1,400 for Special Olympics Hawaii when volunteers (after receiving safety instructions) scaled from the roof down the side of the Sheraton Waikiki Hotel. One participant, PMC Delegate Gary Aycock of the Boilermakers, is pictured in the photo at right during his descent and again (photo above) with SIU Port Agent/PMC Executive Secretary Treasurer Hazel Galbiso (right) after successfully completing the project. With Seafarers in Hawaii ABOARD HORIZON RELIANCE – Offering reliable service that benefits the residents of Hawaii, the Horizon Reliance recently called on Honolulu. Pictured aboard the vessel are AB Venerando Ramos (photo below) and OMU Frank Zoumakpe (photo above). WELCOME ASHORE – Two Seafarers recently picked up their first pension checks at the hall in Honolulu. They are OMU Mel Sison (right in photo at left above), with Patrolman Amber Akana) and ACU Sheng Jen Hsieh (right in other photo, with Shureen Yatchmenoff, secretary). Sison’s most recent ship was the Horizon Spirit, while Hsieh last sailed on the Empire State. MARITIME CAREER TALK – SIU members and representatives met with students at Farrington High School in Honolulu to discuss the American maritime industry in general and the apprentice program at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center in particular. Standing at the front of a classroom are (from left) AB Julius Udan, QEE Richard Huffman and Port Agent Hazel Galbiso. Patrolman Amber Akana, a Farrington grad, helped coordinate the meeting and also participated in it. 19992_Seafarers.indd 24 6/27/2014 10:00:24 AM � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2010-2019 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXII-LXXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2010-2019 Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource July 2014 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES WAIT FOR WEAPONS LIKELY OVER FOR CAPE MAY SIU-CREWED VESSEL PART OF EFFORT TO DESTROY SYRIAN STOCKPILES ADM. SUKUNFT BECOMES USCG COMMANDANT ORDER FOR EXTRA PRODUCT TANKER MEANS NEW SIU JOBS SEAFARERS, SIU-CONTRACTED COMPANIES RECEIVE AWARDS MSP ‘CRITICAL TO OUR MILITARY’ SIU JOINS OUTREACH TO U.S. MILITARY VETERANS CIVMARS TO SAIL ON 10 JOINT HIGH-SPEED VESSELS MARITIME INDUSTRY APPLAUDS PASSAGE OF WRRDA WHITE HOUSE HONORS EXECUTIVE FROM TOTE LATEST IBF AGREEMENT GOOD NEWS FOR MARINERS SEAFARERS AID IN SOUTH KOREAN FERRY RECOVERY MARINERS EARNS SAFETY AWARD MARITIME STALWARTS COTTON, COX, HARRIS REAP AOTOS HONORS FT. LAUDERDALE SEAFARERS GIVE BACK SIU OFFICIALS, RANK-AND-FILE MEMBERS SALUTE MARINERS IN PORT ARTHUR WASHINGTON HONORS U.S. MERCHANT MARINERS TWO EVENTS MARK MARITIME DAY Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 07/01/2014 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 76, No. 7 http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/082161f9aad3eb4eaa74660c144e0484.pdf 325f7d759b513d25671f4caae9575f58 PDF Text Text JULY F E B2015 RUARY 2014 77O NO. V O L U M EVOLUME 76 o N . 72 Washington Honors U.S. Merchant Mariners SIU Joins in National Maritime Day Celebration During U.S. Department of Transportation Event In photo at right, Paul Hall Center Apprentice Anthony Martone rings the traditional eight bells during a moment of remembrance for fallen mariners at a National Maritime Day ceremony in Washington, D.C. Below, SIU officials, Paul Hall Center apprentices and others gather following the ceremony. Among those pictured are members of the late Bill Eglinton’s family including his widow, Sharon (fourth from left); SIU President Michael Sacco (second from right); Executive VP Augie Tellez (right); VP Contracts George Tricker (far left); and Maritime Administrator Chip Jaenichen (third from left). The SIU also participated in National Maritime Day events in Texas, California, Washington State and aboard ships. Pages 11-14. Ocean Grand Reflags Under Stars and Stripes Jobs Secure in Horizon Sales Page 2 Newer tonnage entered the SIU-crewed fleet when the Industrial Grand (background photo) reflagged under the Stars and Stripes. Operated by Crowley for Intermarine, the ship is now named Ocean Grand. Page 24. New Tonnage Updates Page 3 SHBP Scholarship Winners Page 7 �President’s Report Raising Wages, Restoring American Dream Earlier this year, workers at Walmart – our nation’s largest privatesector employer – used collective action to secure a raise for more than 500,000 of their co-workers. You may have seen television commercials about it, although those ads fail to mention the driving force behind the pay increases. They also may mislead viewers by hinting the company is paying at least $15 an hour, which isn’t even close to reality. In any case, the fact that workers forced Walmart to raise wages shows that America has reached a turning point. The clear message from working people is that we deserve more, and we won’t accept a society where the wages of the top 10 percent go up and the bottom 90 percent drop. As noted recently by AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka (a longtime friend of the SIU), raising wages is about fighting inequality by boosting all Michael Sacco workers’ pay. It’s about the right to organize and bargain with our employers without fear of retaliation or dismissal. But raising wages also is about much more than that if we are to build an economy centered on improving the lives of the people who do the work. Creating a raising wages society requires a comprehensive program of action, each part of which is grounded in our collective voice. It begins with re-establishing work – and workers – at the center of the American economy. Wall Street and the economic elite have shaped this country’s economy for generations. As recently noted by the AFL-CIO Executive Council, on which I serve as a vice president, pressure from Wall Street has resulted in employers failing to uphold the promises they made to workers regarding retirement benefits. Far too many employers have failed to pay into retirement funds to keep the funds solvent (although that is definitely not the case for the SIU). Millions of workers who exchanged wage increases over the years for the simple promise of retirement security are now finding that security in jeopardy. But it does not have to be this way. In fact, I’d say it cannot continue to be this way because an economy built on wage suppression and inequality does not work. This type of economy produces weak growth, financial bubbles and financial crises and political instability. Fortunately, there is another choice – one that will produce prosperity. We can build a full-employment economy where workers’ wages rise as we create more wealth. We can ensure that the public investments we must make, from education to infrastructure, are well-funded and shared equally. We can also help ensure that the bookends of the raising wages economy – childcare and secure retirement – are guaranteed for all. Raising wages means better lives and opportunity for all. It doesn’t mean anyone is asking for handouts or free rides, contrary to what some anti-worker camps suggest. It just means that a rising tide should lift all boats, rather than just the yachts, and it means giving a fair shake to American workers. But all this will happen only if we in the labor movement make it happen. We have to continue educating legislators and the rest of the public about what has happened to our economy. We also must hold our politicians accountable, at every level of government. I’m proud of the SIU’s long history of standing up for workers’ rights, and I know we’ll do our part to help rebuild the American Dream. Raising wages is a big part of that effort, and the labor movement will remain the driving force behind it. I’m also proud of our contracts and our benefit plans. Despite the challenges facing our industry, our collective bargaining agreements consistently boost SIU members’ wages while maintaining or improving benefits. Our plans are in great shape. Our affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland, is second to none following its recent upgrades. No one’s claiming we’re perfect, but I believe our model shows that labor and management can work together in a mutually beneficial, productive, respectful way. Along with political accountability, that’s the path our nation should follow – and when we do, the American Dream won’t be something confined to history books. It’ll be a way of life again. FEBRUARY 2014 VOLUME 76 Volume 77 Number 7 o NO. 2 July 2015 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org 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, Misty Dobry; Content Curator, Mark Clements. Copyright © 2015 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. 2 Seafarers LOG Reversed to White Reversed to White Seafarer Jobs Remain Secure Aboard Horizon Lines Vessels SIU jobs remain secure aboard Horizon Lines vessels that have been acquired by Matson and, separately, The Pasha Group. The acquisitions formally were announced May 29. In a message to the affected ships, SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker noted Matson had completed its purchase of Horizon Lines’ Alaska operations, while The Pasha Group wrapped up its procurement of Horizon’s Hawaii assets. “These acquisitions are good news for the SIU, and it is business as usual for our crews aboard the seven vessels,” Tricker wrote. “Those ships are (now under the Matson umbrella) the Tacoma, Kodiak and Anchorage; and (now with Pasha, to be operated by Crowley) the Enterprise, Pacific, Reliance, and Spirit. Our standard contract still applies aboard all seven ships.” He added, “Your union worked hard not only to retain these jobs but also to keep them under the standard contract. Your continued support and professionalism were vital to our success.” Matson announced it “will continue Horizon’s long operating history in Alaska with a three-vessel deployment of diesel-powered, Jones Act-qualified containerships that provide two weekly sailings from Tacoma to Anchorage and Kodiak, and a weekly sailing to Dutch Harbor. In addition, Matson will be operating port terminals in Anchorage, Kodiak and Dutch Harbor and acquiring several reserve steampowered Jones Act containerships that may be used for dry-dock relief.” “We are pleased to have completed this strategic acquisition that substantially grows our ocean trans- portation business into the attractive Alaska market,” said Matt Cox, president and chief executive officer of Matson. “The Alaska market is a natural geographic extension of our platform as a leader serving our customers in the Pacific.” In addition to vessels, The Pasha Group has also acquired Horizon subsidiaries Hawaii Stevedores, Inc.; the California-based operations of Sea-Logix, LLC, which provides trucking services; and Sunrise Operations, a subsidiary that includes Horizon’s Hawaii trade-lane vessels and employees. “Horizon Lines, Hawaii Stevedores and Sea-Logix are companies that complement The Pasha Group’s legacy of a proud family history; a focus on innovation and service with an ability to combine competencies to provide streamlined solutions,” said George Pasha IV, president and CEO of The Pasha Group. “Like Pasha Hawaii, these companies have strong ties to the islands and the mainland, are aligned with our integrated shipping and logistics model, and share our values and community commitment.” In announcing Crowley’s selection as the operator of the four newly acquired ships for Pasha, Crowley Vice President of Ship Management Mike Golonka said, “As a long-time Jones Act carrier, Crowley is well-suited to manage these U.S.-flagged vessels. We are confident that our ability to offer company-wide resources and flexibility to work within their operational model is what set us apart, in addition to our proven experience in managing steam vessels for other companies. We look forward to working with Pasha in the management of their new ships.” Attendees converge at the Hilton Riverside Hotel in New Orleans for the awards luncheon. (Photos by Barry Champagne) Union-Contracted Companies Capture CSA Safety Awards SIU-contracted companies customarily claim a healthy share of the Chamber of Shipping of America’s (CSA) spring safety awards, and this year proved no exception. Nearly 200 people attended the CSA’s awards luncheon May 28 in New Orleans, where numerous Seafarers-contracted operators were recognized. The CSA has sponsored this program since 1958. It’s a vehicle for recognizing “outstanding feats of safety that contribute to saving a life, a ship or other property” as well as honoring “vessels that have operated for at least two years without a seafarer involved in a lost-time injury,” according to the assoJoseph J. Cox ciation. CSA President In opening remarks, CSA President Joseph J. Cox stated, “CSA’s involvement in safety is longstanding. We continue to represent the industry, domestically and internationally, on safety issues encompassing every facet of ship operations. It is, therefore, only fitting that an industry so focused on safety, publicly recognizes the skills and dedication of the women and men who are responsible for actions in keeping with the highest traditions of the sea – aid to those in peril.” Speaking about the accident-free voyages, he added, “This extraordinary record is directly attributable to the professionalism of our seafarers and the dedication of shore-based company personnel to safe operation.” SIU-contracted companied that received commendations for rescues included Harley Marine, Seabulk Tankers, Matson Navigation, and Crescent Towing. Recognition for incident-free operations comes in the form of Jones F. Devlin awards (named in memory of a late executive from United States Lines). SIUcontracted companies earning the awards at the most recent gathering included Alaska Tanker Company, Crescent Towing, Crowley Maritime and several of its subsidiaries, E.N. Bisso & Son, Farrell Lines, General Dynamics-American Overseas Marine (AMSEA), Harley Marine, Higman Barge Lines, Keystone Shipping, and Maersk Line, Limited. Additional Seafarers-contracted companies earning awards included Moran Towing, Ocean Shipholdings, OSG Ship Management, Pasha Hawaii, Patriot Contract Services, Sea Star Line, Seabulk Tankers, Seabulk Towing, and TOTE Services, Inc. The CSA represents 35 U.S.-based companies that own, operate or charter oceangoing tankers, containerships and other merchant vessels engaged in both the domestic and international trades and other entities that maintain a commercial interest in the operation of such oceangoing vessels. July 2015 �Construction Starts on Second Crowley ConRo LNG-Powered Vessels Slated To Sail in Jones Act Trade SIU-contracted Crowley Maritime Corp. in late May announced the start of construction on the Taino, the second of two liquefied natural gas (LNG)-powered, combination container – roll-on/roll-off (ConRo) ships for the company’s liner services group. Both the Taino and sister ship El Coqui are being built at VT Halter Marine in Pascagoula, Mississippi. They’re scheduled for delivery in 2017 and will sail in the Jones Act trade between the U.S. mainland and Puerto Rico. “These new vessels signify several important things, including jobs for SIU members, support for the Jones Act, and Crowley’s commitment to the U.S. Merchant Marine,” stated SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker. “They’re also environmentally friendly and state-of-the-art.” The ships are expected to replace Crow- ley’s towed triple-deck barge fleet, which has served the trade continuously since the early 1970s. Construction started on the El Coqui in October 2014. When the first steel was cut for the Taino on May 27, John Hourihan, a senior vice president with Crowley, said, “This is a momentous occasion in the history of the company and in the Commitment Class build program. These new ships embody superior technology, and will offer enhanced performance and safety while setting new standards for environmentally responsible shipping.” “We are pleased and proud to be building these superb ships for Crowley. Crowley is an outstanding company and a leader in the industry and we are delighted to be partnering with them on these cutting-edge vessels,” said Jack Prendergast, chief executive officer of VT Halter Marine. An artist’s rendering shows what the ConRo ships will look like upon completion. According to Crowley, the Commitment Class ships “have been designed to maximize the carriage of 53-foot, 102-inch-wide containers, which offer the most cubic cargo capacity in the trade.” Shipyard and company representatives celebrate the start of construction on the second Commitment Class vessel. (Photo courtesy VT Halter Marine) NASSCO Delivers USNS Puller, SIU Gains Jobs New jobs for members of the SIU Government Services Division have arrived following the June 12 delivery of the USNS Lewis B. Puller to the Navy. Built at General Dynamics NASSCO (a union shipyard) in San Diego, the Puller is a mobile landing platform. It is named in honor of the late U.S. Marine Corps Lieutenant General Lewis “Chesty” Puller, the most decorated Marine and the only one to be awarded five Navy Crosses. Construction on the USNS Lewis B. Puller began in 2013. “Today’s delivery of the USNS Lewis B. Puller to the U.S. Navy symbolizes an immense culmination of efforts made by the hard-working men and women of the General Dynamics NASSCO shipbuilding team,” said Kevin Mooney, vice president of operations at General Dynamics NASSCO shipyard. “At NASSCO we are building and delivering affordable ships that are providing new and revolutionary capabilities for America’s Navy and Marine Corps.” The Puller is 784 feet long and has a beam of 164 feet. It can sail at 15 knots. The ship features a 52,000 square-foot flight deck and accommodations for up to 250 personnel. According to the shipyard, it is capable of supporting multiple missions including “air mine counter measures, counter-piracy operations, maritime security operations, humanitarian aid and disaster relief missions and Marine Corps crisis response. The ship is designed to support MH-53 and MH-60 helicopters, and will be upgraded to sup- The ships will be 720 feet long, 106 feet wide, have a deep draft of 33 feet and an approximate deadweight capacity of 26,500 metric tons. Cargo capacity will be approximately 2,400 TEUs (20-footequivalent-units), with additional space for nearly 400 vehicles in an enclosed Ro/Ro garage. The main propulsion and auxiliary engines will be fueled by environmentally friendly LNG. LNG is a stable gas that is neither toxic nor corrosive and is lighter than air. It is the cleanest fossil fuel available. The Jones Act has protected U.S. national and economic security since its enactment in 1920. It requires cargo moving between domestic ports to be carried on ships that are crewed, built, owned and flagged American. An extensive study by PricewaterhouseCoopers concluded that the Jones Act helps sustain nearly 500,000 jobs in the U.S. while contributing billions of dollars each year to the economy. It also helps maintain a pool of reliable, well-trained American mariners who are available to sail aboard U.S. military support ships in times of need. port MV-22 tilt rotor aircraft.” Earlier this year, the commandant of the Marine Corps, General Joseph F. Dunford, Jr., was the principal speaker at the Puller’s christening ceremony. Ms. Martha Puller Downs, daughter of General Puller, served as the ship’s sponsor. The Navy has awarded NASSCO a contract for a fourth mobile landing platform, with construction scheduled to start in the fourth quarter of this year. The first two ships in the fleet, the USNS Montford Point and USNS John Glenn, are operated by SIU-contracted Ocean Shipoldings for the Military Sealift Command. The USNS Puller sails during builder’s trials in April. (Photos courtesy General Dynamics NASSCO) July 2015 Seafarers LOG 3 �Safety Training Pays off in MV Courage Incident The professionalism and superb safety training of Seafarers, which includes (among other disciplines) comprehensive instruction in basic and advanced firefighting at the union–affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland, has once again yielded huge dividends. All hands were safe following a fire aboard the car carrier MV Courage, according to news reports as well as communications from the ship. The mishap occurred June 2 as the vessel (carrying a mix of commercial and U.S. military vehicles) departed Bremerhaven, Germany, for its final destination of Baltimore. Bosun John Cedeno said that within seconds of the fire starting in a cargo hold, “We sounded the fire emergency alarm. “The crew pulled together and did a remarkable job in executing each role,” Cedeno continued in a message to the Seafarers LOG. “The fire team (Cedeno, AB Slawomir Tlalka, Oiler Justin Van Pelt OSG Boatmen Unanimously Approve Three-Year Accord SIU mariners working for Overseas Shipholding Group, Inc. (OSG) inland operations have unanimously ratified a new, three-year contract that includes wage gains each year and other improvements. The new agreement covers Seafarers who operate OSG tugs and barges primarily between Philadelphia and the Gulf Coast, and features increased longevity bonuses, overtime pay, holiday pay, and an increased pay rate for OS/Cooks on lightering fleets. The negotiating committee members from the SIU were Atlantic Coast Vice President Joseph Soresi, Philadelphia Port Agent Joseph Baselice, AB Tankerman Edmund Putro, and OS Cook Calvin Griffith. The contract covers the approximately 75 SIU members who operate 10 OSG vessels. “It’s definitely a good contract,” said Putro. “Those lon- gevity bonus increases are a great benefit, to both new employees and old. We also got holiday pay implemented, which we haven’t had in 25 years. It’s just the one holiday, to start, but it’s in the contract, and hopefully we can build on that in the future.” The new contract also includes increases in contributions to the Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan, reimbursement for disability insurance, and an increase to maintenance and cure pay rates. In addition, there is a new retention bonus for cooks, in accordance with existing plan requirements. Baselice remarked in regards to the contract, “It was a successful round of negotiations, and the result of those efforts is a great new contract. Our committee did an outstanding job in addressing the concerns of the entire membership, and now we’ve got something great.” SIU Port Agent Gets Nod For National Maritime Security Committee SIU Port Agent Tracey Mayhew has been appointed to the U.S. Coast Guard’s National Maritime Security Advisory Committee (NMSAC). She received the three-year appointment June 5. The committee was established under authority of the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002 (Public Law 107-295), and operates in accordance with the provisions of the Federal Advisory Committee Act. NMSAC makes recommendations to the secretary of the Department of Homeland Security via the commandant of the Coast Guard. The full committee normally meets at least twice a year, with working-group meetings and teleconferences taking place more Tracey Mayhew frequently. Collectively, they tackle a wide range of maritime security issues, including mariner credentialing, shore leave, maritime domain awareness and much more. Mayhew is based at the SIU hall in Anchorage, Alaska. In addition to being a regular participant in Coast Guard and Transportation Department forums in the nation’s capital, she also serves as an elected representative for the Fisheries Section of the International Transport Workers’ Federation. 4 Seafarers LOG and Oiler Andrew Delutis) were suited and ready, and our years of training definitely were put to the test. Everyone did an outstanding job.” All four of those SIU mariners have completed firefighting training at the Paul Hall Center – and in fact the entire SIU crew of the Courage has taken at least one safety course at the southern Maryland facility. They also regularly complete shipboard safety drills, and the bosun said the exercises paid off during this incident. In addition to the Seafarers who comprised the fire team, the Courage crew also consisted of the following members: ABs Robert Ameel and Arthur Quinney, Ordinary Seamen Billy Hanbury and Rudolph Jackson, Oiler Rickey Yancey, Steward/Baker Thomas Smith, Chief Cook Johnny Palencia, SA Delmis Ventura, and Apprentice Tre Hill. The Courage is operated by TOTE Services for American Roll-On/Roll-Off Carrier. Union Secretary-Treasurer Lands Labor Advisory Committee Seat SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel has been appointed to the U.S. Labor Advisory Committee for Trade Negotiations and Trade Policy (LAC). His invitation to serve on the committee came from Secretary of Labor Thomas Perez and U.S. Trade Representative Michael Froman in midMay. According to the group’s charter, the committee’s objectives include “providing information and advice with respect to negotiating objectives and bargaining positions before the United States enters into a trade agreement with a foreign country or countries; the operation of any trade agreement once entered into; and other matters arising in connection with the development, implementation and administration of the trade policy of the United States.” Specifically, the committee is tasked with advising the secretary of labor and the trade representative in addition to providing reports on trade agreements to the president and the Congress. No more than 30 people may serve on the committee at once. Other current members include AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka, Machinists President Tom Buffenbarger, Steelworkers President Leo Gerard, and AFL-CIO Secretary-Treasurer Liz Shuler. David Heindel ITF Slams Shipping Australia for Making ‘Dangerous Comments’ on FOC Inquiry The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) late last month said it “is deeply concerned by comments from the body representing flag-of-convenience shipping interests in Australia.” The federation, to which the SIU is affiliated, reported that Shipping Australia CEO Rod Nairn “has bizarrely questioned the ITF’s motives in encouraging parliamentary scrutiny of low-standard shipping following a case where three workers were very likely murdered at sea on board the Sage Sagittarius in 2012. A coronial inquest into two of the deaths on board the Panama-flagged coal carrier continued today (June 22) at the Glebe Coroner’s Court in Sydney. The third death is beyond the scope of the Australian inquest.” When the ITF issued its statement, the coroner had heard allegations that guns were being sold on board and that assaults on and intimidation of the crew were widespread. The federation further noted counsel assisting the inquiry, Philip Strickland SC, “has told the coronial inquest inquiry that it appears not much has changed when it comes to the oversight of flag-ofconvenience (FOC) shipping since the Ships of Shame Inquiry in 1992.” The Sage Sagittarius case was covered by Australia’s Four Corners television program, and the Australian Senate in mid-June decided to launch an inquiry into FOC shipping. According to the ITF, the Rural and Regional Affairs and Transport References Committee “will examine the national security, fuel security, envi- ronmental, social and economic impacts of FOC shipping and revisit the 1992 Ships of Shame Inquiry.” While the ITF welcomed the scrutiny, Nairn, who is pushing for deregulation of Australia’s shipping sector, told an international maritime news website the federation is “drawing a long bow to connect it (the inquiry) to cabotage. This is clearly a delaying tactic put together by the Maritime Union (of Australia) and the Labor Party, designed at delaying any changes to coastal shipping regulations by referring a potentially unrelated shipping matter to a senate inquiry with a reporting date of 2016,” he said. ITF General Secretary Steve Cotton said Shipping Australia overstepped the mark and demanded a retraction. “The ITF pushed for this coronial inquest and is a party to proceedings,” Cotton said. “The ITF places the safety and wellbeing of seafarers front and center, and Mr. Nairn’s outrageous comments bring the relationship between international shipowners and the ITF into jeopardy. “Mr. Nairn is the Australian champion of the FOC shipping industry and is charged with expanding their reach into the Australian domestic industry,” Cotton continued. “We expect him to resist scrutiny into the darkest practices of the system but to dismiss the investigation into three men’s suspicious deaths as a union gambit is outrageous. The ITF will continue to fight to ensure that international seafarers have adequate protection – whether it’s in Australian waters or anywhere else across the globe.” The ITF strongly believes that the removal of cabotage laws would weaken labor and safety standards and threaten thousands of domestic jobs in Australia’s maritime sector. The federation described cabotage as “a normal way to deliver domestic freight securely, safely and predictably for many maritime nations including the United States, Japan, China, Indonesia and the Philippines.” SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, who chairs the ITF Seafarers’ Section, said America’s experience with its freight cabotage law – the Jones Act – shows such regulations help support good jobs while bolstering economic and national security. “Especially in times of crisis, shipping is essential to national security and as a nation, you need to think twice about allowing essential skills to be placed in the hands of nonAustralian interests,” Heindel said. “What you don’t want to see is more flag-of-convenience ships, with their questionable standards and exploited crews, take over ports and displace Australian vessels.” He added, “Local seafarers and their shipowners and/or operators contribute to the local and state tax coffers, utilize domestic business and services, and are a part of the community. FOCs avoid all of these. And during these uncertain economic times, I would expect a government to bolster domestic jobs rather than attempt to eliminate them.” July 2015 �SIU of Canada Scores Major Wins In Mariner Rights, Cabotage Laws The SIU of Canada is reporting significant wins in the union’s ongoing efforts to protect mariners’ rights as well as Canadian cabotage laws. In late May, the union secured work for its members aboard four different vessels sailing in the domestic trade. Political action by the SIU of Canada on behalf of rank-and-file members proved essential after foreign-flag companies got waivers to transport domestic cargo. SIU of Canada President Jim Given described the union’s effort as a twoyear fight “to have Canadian temporary foreign worker rules enforced in Canadian maritime cabotage.” Given said the union received word May 27 that the Hong Kong-flagged Rotterdam was given a waiver from the Canadian Transportation Agency to run sulfuric acid between two Canadian ports on the East Coast. “As no Canadian vessel was available to move this cargo this was not a shock to us, but we have always maintained that just because we have no Canadian-flag vessel available, that does not mean we don’t have crew available,” Given stated. “Under Canadian law any foreign national wanting to work in Canada must obtain a work permit. For whatever reasons, we knew this law was not being applied fairly to the maritime industry. Companies were fast tracking the process to skirt around the edges of the law, causing economic hardship to our members.” However, immediately upon learning of the Rotterdam, the union immediately contacted all government departments involved in the situation. “Our message was clear,” Given noted. “There is absolutely no reason to issue work permits to foreign crew when SIU members are ready, willing and able to crew this vessel.” The pressure paid off, as the Rotterdam sat idle in port for five days while the operator worked with union officials to hire a Canadian crew. At the same time, the union learned of another Hong SIU of Canada members prepare to head to their new jobs aboard the Rotterdam. Kong-flagged ship, the Chemical Aquarius, which had received a waiver to run clean product from Quebec to Ontario on the Great Lakes. Again the union spoke out and quickly secured the billets on the Chemical Aquarius. The good news didn’t end there. When an SIU of Canada-contracted company brought in two Panama-flagged Panamax tankers for temporary domestic runs, they agreed to hire SIU crews. And, Given stated, SIU crews will remain with the ships when they go back to the deep sea sector, where they will reflag Canadian. “This is a major breakthrough in our fight to save Canadian cabotage and Canadian seafaring jobs,” Given concluded. “The message is loud and clear: If you want to trade in Canadian waters, no matter what your flag is, you are going to hire Canadian Seafarers. If you plan on profiting from Canadian maritime cabotage you are going to share those profits with Canadian Seafarers. This is but one step in our battle to strengthen Canadian cabotage, but it is a big step. Government and labor worked hand in hand to make sure Canadian jobs stayed Canadian!” Battle Continues for Ex-Im Reauthorization After a short-term extension was enacted by Congress last fall, the U.S. Export-Import Bank’s charter once again was up for reauthorization at the end of June. Despite support for the bank (often abbreviated as Ex-Im) from a majority of House members — almost every Democrat and several dozen Republicans – the bank’s charter was expected to lapse on June 30, barring an unforeseen development. At press time, there was no plan to introduce an Ex-Im reauthorization bill in Congress before the deadline, which U.S. Rep. Kevin McCarthy (R-California) House Majority Leader July 2015 means the SIU and its allies will keep fighting for reauthorization even in the case of a lapse in funding. If introduced, the bill would likely pass the Senate, as House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-California) said. “In the Senate, they had a semi-test vote where they had overwhelming support,” McCarthy stated. “I think what will probably happen at the end of the day, the Senate looks like they have votes. It’ll probably come to the House.” The administration strongly supports Ex-Im. This program, essential to U.S.-flag shipping, is an economic booster and a jobs creator. In 2014 (the program’s 80th anniversary), the bank supported 164,000 American jobs while approximately 90 percent of its transactions directly supported U.S. small businesses. It also supported $27.5 billion in exports at no cost to American taxpayers. Supporters of Ex-Im can be found in all industries. Recently, General Electric Chief Executive Officer Jeff Immelt predicted economic catastrophe if the United States fails to extend the charter, saying, “If we want to compete, this is what’s necessary to compete. Regardless of any of this being a Republican win or a Democratic win, it’s a loss for the country. It makes us look small. It makes us look like we are not a power.” John Arensmeyer, founder and CEO of Small Business Majority, a national nonprofit organization, recently talked about the importance of Ex-Im to America’s small businesses. “The Ex-Im Bank is important to small businesses because it gives them an edge by leveling the playing field between small firms and their larger counterparts,” Arensmeyer said. “The bank fills in the gaps offered by traditional financing, and by partnering with private-sector lenders to provide loans and credit to aid foreign purchasers in buying American-made goods. Many small businesses rely on the bank because commercial lenders typically don’t support small businesses in this area.” The Export-Import Bank was created in 1934 to promote the sale of Americanmade goods overseas. When it was chartered, President Franklin D. Roosevelt called for the bank to “aid in financing and to facilitate exports and imports and the exchange” of goods between the U.S. and the world during a period of economic distress. The Export- Import Bank is crucial for the U.S. Merchant Marine. It’s a steady source of good American jobs in the maritime industry (cargo generated by Ex-Im funding must be transported aboard U.S.-flag vessels) and in other sectors of the U.S. economy. It is self-sustaining, costing taxpayers nothing, and has contributed nearly $2 billion dollars towards paying down the national debt. OBP Releases Annual Maritime Piracy Report Oceans Beyond Piracy (OBP) has launched the fifth installment of its annual reports detailing the economic and human costs of maritime piracy: “The State of Maritime Piracy 2014”. In the report, OBP analyzed the impacts of international piracy during 2014 in the Western Indian Ocean, the Gulf of Guinea and, for the first time, in Southeast Asia. The report officially was launched on June 10 at the Army and Navy Club (the Rag) in London, where a panel of experts addressed key components of maritime piracy. The panel was moderated by Admiral Sir James Burnell-Nugent, OBP senior fellow, with an overview of the report provided by Matt Walje from OBP. Among other findings, the report concluded that at least 5,000 seafarers were attacked in Southeast Asia, the Gulf of Guinea, and Western Indian Ocean in 2014. Indeed, OBP’s analysis of pirate attacks in Southeast Asia alone documents a clear and reemerging threat to mariners. The study found that more than 90 percent of the reported attacks resulted in pirates successfully boarding target vessels, and 800 seafarers were involved in incidents in Southeast Asia where violence or the threat of violence was specifically documented. The number of reported attacks in the Gulf of Guinea remained within historic patterns. However, the region faces a variety of challenges related to chronic underreporting of incidents and an absence of prosecutions. “We have observed that up to 70 percent of piracy-related incidents in the Gulf of Guinea are never reported, so we currently lack a complete understanding of the problem,” said Pottengal Mukundan, director of the International Maritime Bureau. “This also makes it difficult to assess the extent of the threats seafarers face in this region.” In the Western Indian Ocean, OBP found that naval mandates, recommended industry self-protection practices and the size of the high-risk area remain unchanged. However, the economic costs of such mandates and measures dropped by 28 percent last year, partly because “the observed commitment of naval assets and use of vessel protection measures such as increased speed and rerouting by merchant vessels continued to decrease.” Alarmingly, the perceived reduction in the piracy threat has also resulted in more foreign fishing vessels returning to areas close to the coast of Somalia. Alan Cole, head of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime’s Global Maritime Crime Program noted, “These provocations are similar to those that triggered piracy off the coast of Somalia in the first place. We are already seeing an upturn in regional piracy incidents since the beginning of the year.” Finally, the report recognizes that mariners across the globe are the primary victims of piracy and armed robbery at sea. Stark reminders of this are the 26 high-risk hostages from the FV Naham 3 who remain in pirate captivity in Somalia today, more than three years after the initial hijacking of their ship. According to Burnell-Nugent, “The evidence shows that piracy continues to be a world-wide threat to seafarers. There are specific contexts that distinguish each region, but there is a common lesson in the need to address piracy through cooperation, vigilance, and sustained effort by all actors across the maritime sector.” While the method for calculating the economic cost of maritime piracy to the world economy is complicated, the report identified that figure for 2014 at more than $2.3 billion. Seafarers LOG 5 �SIU Mariners, Coast Guard Rescue Boaters Members of the SIU Government Services Division came to the rescue May 14 when a disabled sailboat began taking on water some 50 miles off the coast of Ocean City, Maryland. Shortly after 6 a.m., Seafarers and other mariners aboard the Military Sealift Command dry cargo/ammunition ship USNS William McLean (T-AKE-12) received a distress call from a sailboat, the S/V Solarus. The McLean was only about 10 minutes away when the two boaters aboard the Solarus reported that their craft was taking on more water than their bilge could pump out. The McLean sailed towards the disabled vessel while contacting the United States Coast Guard and apprising them of the situation. Once the cargo ship was on the scene, the Solarus reported a two-foot long crack in the hull. The McLean launched a fast rescue boat with a pump towards the damaged vessel. It was then determined that the Solarus should be moved next to the McLean, in order to shield the craft from the choppy seas while it was repaired. After the water had been pumped from the boat, the damage was assessed and a list of materials necessary for repair was passed to the deck department. Those mariners then gathered the items, and lowered them down to the Solarus in order for repairs to begin. Once the hull was tempo- rarily patched, the crew of the McLean refueled the craft and cooked a hot breakfast for the sailboat’s crew. The two vessels then moved in tandem towards a Coast Guard rescue team. After Coast Guard members had boarded the Solarus to escort the sailboat, and once the repaired craft was in radio contact with Coast Guard Station Ocean City, the McLean was released from the scene. The next day, the captain and crew of the McLean received a commendation from Rear Adm. Stephen Metruck, Commander, Fifth Coast Guard District. “Your crew worked seamlessly with the Fifth District Command Center, Sector Baltimore, Air Station Atlantic City and Station Ocean City in order to facilitate the rescue and subsequent transfer of the escort of S/V Solarus to Coast Guard Rescue 47312,” he wrote. “Although the closest Coast Guard unit was an hour away, USNS William McLean responded to call outs by the vessel in distress and arrived on scene within 10 minutes to provide dewatering pump and monitor the deteriorating situation. Your dedicated support and timely response ensured the safety of two mariners in distress. Your crew quickly responded with a rescue and assistance team enabling the Solarus’ crew to patch their two-foot hole and dewater their vessel. I commend you for your professionalism Mariners on board a fast rescue boat prepare to be lowered from the deck of the USNS William McLean to aid the damaged S/V Solarus. and flexibility.” The McLean captain also praised the efforts of the mariners, saying, “The crew performed flawlessly and was ready to go on ‘no notice’ to help out the two mariners and their sailboat.” SHBP Scholarship Winner Extends ‘Deepest Gratitude’ Chief Cook’s Daughter Earns Bachelor’s Degree Seafarer Efren Matias enjoys many aspects of his profession, but nothing tops the satisfaction he feels from taking care of his family. Matias recently experienced reinforcement of that fulfilment when his daughter Allison – a 2011 Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan scholarship winner – graduated with a bachelor’s degree from Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia. The scholarship made a big difference for the Matias family, and led to both Efren and Allison reaching out to the union to say thank you. “I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to the Seafarers International Union for their continuous support of my academic endeavors for the past four years,” Allison noted. “Through their financial assistance, I was able to attain a bachelor of science degree in biology with a minor in chemistry. I hope to one day enter medical school and continue to serve the community as a physician.” She added, “I will forever be grateful for the SIU scholarship program for being a part of this journey. Throughout the past four years, my family has stood by my side with much love and support Efren Matias 6 Seafarers LOG and I am proud to say that this accomplishment is for all of us.” Efren has sailed with the SIU for 14 years and currently ships from Norfolk. He pointed out that Allison isn’t the only college graduate in the family. “With the help of the Seafarers International Union, I have been able to provide for the college education of my three children,” he said. “Allison’s graduation from Old Dominion happened with the assistance of the SIU. Thank you for his great union.” Efren also praised the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Maryland. He most recently upgraded at the school in June. “The school gives me the opportunity to improve and helps enable me to provide for my family,” he said. “The upgrading classes provide opportunities for advancement…. There are various things I enjoy about this profession. I also like that we are given the opportunity to travel to interesting places and experience different cultures. But above all, this job gives me the opportunity for a better overall quality of life.” Allison Matias Anthony Chiarello Matt Cox James McKenna Chiarello, Cox, McKenna Receive Nod for 2015 AOTOS Awards Top executives from two Seafarers-contracted companies and the Pacific Maritime Association have been chosen for this year’s Admiral of the Ocean Sea Awards (AOTOS), which will be presented by the United Seamen’s Service (USS) Nov. 13 in New York City. The honorees are Anthony Chiarello, president and CEO of SIU-contracted TOTE; Matthew J. Cox, president and CEO of Seafarers-contracted Matson Inc.; and James C. McKenna, president and CEO of the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA). Recognition also will be given to American mariners for specific acts of bravery and heroism while at sea. Gen. Kenneth Wykle, USA (Ret.), chairman of the USS AOTOS Committee, announced the recipients in early June and noted this is the 46th annual presentation of the awards. “Anthony Chiarello is a fourth generation maritime industry veteran. Matt Cox’s leadership at Matson continues to energize the Hawaii ocean trade,” Wykle said. “Jim McKenna has successfully led PMA through negotiations that have benefited both management and labor. We are fortunate to have such accomplished AOTOS honorees.” Chiarello, already with decades of experience in transportation and logistics, joined TOTE in August 2010. He previously worked as chief operating officer and executive vice president of NYK Logistics (Americas), Inc. Prior to NYK, Chiarello was with the AP Moller/ Maersk organization for 16 years. He held various executive positions at Maersk including president of Maersk Logistics USA Inc.; president of Hudd Distribution; chairman of Maersk Customs Services; president of Maersk Equipment Service Company, Inc.; and assistant vice president of Universal Maritime Service Corporation, a previous stevedoring and terminal subsidiary of Maersk. Cox became Matson’s CEO in June 2012, and has been president since 2008. Matson has been serving the U.S. mainland/Hawaii trade for more than 100 years. Cox is responsible for overseeing the entire Matson organization, which includes Matson Navigation Company, Inc. (ocean transportation), Mat- son Logistics, Inc. (logistics) and Matson Terminals, Inc. (terminal operations in Hawaii). Along with McKenna’s pivotal role in negotiating and administering maritime labor agreements on the West Coast, he also oversees all operations, including administration of payroll and benefits, pension and training to the International Longshoremen’s and Warehousemen’s Union workforce and PMA staff. Proceeds from the AOTOS event benefit USS community services abroad for the U.S. Merchant Marine, seafarers of all nations, and U.S. government and military personnel overseas. SIU President Michael Sacco is chairing the dinner, while Tony Naccarato of American Maritime Officers Service and Joseph Cox will be AOTOS National Committee co-chairmen. The USS, a non-profit agency established in 1942, operates centers in six foreign ports in Europe, Asia, and Africa and in the Indian Ocean, and also provides seagoing libraries to American vessels through its affiliate, the American Merchant Marine Library Association. July 2015 �Seafarers, SIU Families Receive Scholarships The higher education aspirations of eight individuals – three active Seafarers and five dependents – now are more solidified thanks to the recent awarding of $132,000 in scholarships to them by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP). Seafarers Matthew Bryant, Morris Jeff, and Connie Tarplin; along with dependents Benjamin Isenhart, John Gomes, Alicia Ciliezar, Andrew Hutchens and LarissaFrances Ramilo were chosen as recipients of the 2015 Charlie Logan Scholarships by the SHBP Scholarship Committee. Following deliberations May 22 in Memphis, Tennessee, the group selected Bryant, Isenhart, Gomes, Ciliezar, Hutchens and Ramilo to receive $20,000 each for their respective pursuits of four-year college degrees. Jeff and Tarplin each will get $6,000 to be used toward twoyear degrees. Matthew Bryant Deep sea QE3 Matthew Bryant joined the SIU in 2009 and received his apprentice training (Class 712) at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) in Piney Point, Maryland. Born in St. Augustine, Florida, Bryant is a 2003 graduate of Flagler Palm Coast High School, in Palm Coast, Florida. Following his completion of apprentice training at the PHC, he went to sea aboard the NCL America-operated Pride of America as a wiper. In the years since, Bryant has upgraded his skills on several occasions at the PHC. He currently sails as an electrician aboard the Jean Anne, a car carrier operated by TOTE Services for Pasha Hawaii. “In my short time as a merchant seaman, I have seen rapid advancements in the electrical systems aboard ships we sail on,” said the Florida native. “Technology that was new today is old news tomorrow. “Up until now, I haven’t felt like I really needed further training,” he continued. “[But] as I see the advancements in technology happening faster and faster and becoming more and more complex, I know that to stay relevant in the marine electrical engineering field, I need more schooling. “My educational plans are to go to college for electrical engineering with a focus on industrial electrical systems,” Bryant said. “My ultimate goal is to design shipboard electrical power distribution systems and propulsion systems for merchant vessels. I will also use this knowledge to continue to work as a member of the union as an electrician or an engineer as I am currently studying for my third assistant engineer test.” Bryant has applied for admission to the University of Hawaii, Kapiolani Community College and Honolulu Community College. He will pursue a four-year degree in electrical engineering. Morris Jeff QMED Morris Jeff joined the SIU in 1992 and received his GED and apprentice training from the union-affiliated PHC in 1993. Born in Louisiana, Jeff has sailed for the vast majority of his career as an electrician. After he completed his apprentice training, his first ship was the Waterman Steamshipoperated USNS Matej Kocak, where he worked as a steward assistant. He switched to the engine department and then worked his way up as an electrician, frequently upgrading his skills at the Piney Point school. His most recent ship was the Alliance Norfolk, operated by Maersk Line, Limited. “I am extremely grateful for the career and livelihood that the union has provided my three children and me,” said Jeff. “Since my wife passed away of cancer in May of 2001, I could always count on the SIU to provide steady, fruitful work for (the benefit of) my kids and myself.” He added that although he will still be sailing, the two-year scholarship appealed to him because it would facilitate his opportunities to help his children with their work. Jeff is currently attending Florida State College at Jacksonville, in hopes of obtaining a two-year degree in business administration. July 2015 Connie Tarplin Chief Storekeeper Connie Tarplin joined the SIU in 2000, after joining the trainee program at the Paul Hall Center. Tarplin was born in Georgia and has been sailing for 19 years, including 15 with the SIU. She first sailed on the USNS Observation Island, which has since been decommissioned. Her most recent ship was the USNS SBX-1. “My dream and my ambition have always been to protect and serve, through being a member of law enforcement,” said Tarplin. “I’m a giving person, so I want to do whatever I can do to help others.” She is grateful to the union for offering support and opportunities, and will use what she has learned while pursuing a college degree. “I will make a difference in life (by) getting my degree in law enforcement or business administration,” she said. “I am currently sailing as a storekeeper, which provides me with experience, accountability and leadership that would help in a future career. This scholarship will also help me excel in my degree program, and help me with my mission to finish a degree program before I retire from the union.” Tarplin has applied to the University of New Orleans, Delgado Community College and Dillard University. Benjamin Isenhart Benjamin Isenhart is the son of inland Captain Randy Isenhart (and mother Chris, a school nurse). Born in Bridgeton City, New Jersey, Isenhart is a 2015 graduate of Lower Cape May Regional High School (LCMR) in Cape May, New Jersey. He ranked first in his class of 206 students and posted an overall 4.83 grade point average. Benjamin served as captain of his high school’s track and field team and held membership on the cross country team as well. He was a member of the National Honor Society, the Tri M Music Honor Society and played in the LCMR jazz band. Isenhart performed volunteer work in an elementary school library in his hometown as well as at a hospice facility. “[My father] began working on fishing boats at the age of 18, soon switching to tugboats to follow in his father’s footsteps,” said Benjamin. “Despite his achievement of a captain’s rank, my father always felt hindered by his lack of [a] college education. Thus, education has been important throughout my life.” Isenhart said that living in a resort beach town (as he does) constantly presents the temptation. “Many kids skip school to go to the beach or to go fishing,” he said. “[Some] go directly onto fishing boats after high school.” He admitted that while he has entertained similar temptations, he has avoided them in order to concentrate completely on education. “This has led me to my rank as valedictorian in our graduating class,” Isenhart said. “In this way, I hope to avoid the difficulties my father faced in not having a college degree.” Benjamin has applied for admission to Lehigh University, the University of Vermont and Clarkson University. He hopes to pursue his four-year degree in physics. “Although many people think I am crazy when I tell them I want to major in physics, I enjoy the subject,” he said. “I know that it is considered one of the most difficult fields to study, but I find it extremely interesting; and it also provides a multitude of potential careers after graduation.” John Gomes John Gomes is the son of deep sea Electrician Eufemiano Gomes and his wife, Flavia. Born in Bayonne, New Jersey, Gomes is a 2015 graduate of North Bergen High School in North Bergen, New Jersey. He was in the top 10 percent of his class, leaving school with a weighted GPA of 98.53. He was active in both the debate team and environmental club in high school, the latter of which helped foster his love of environmental sciences. “One passion I have is in natural resources, especially in forestry and marine biology,” said Gomes. “I believe it takes considerable brain power to sustainably harvest these resources to satisfy each party – the affluent, the poor, the loggers, the eco-protesters, the biosphere and Wall Street. It’s called ecosystem management, a field I find interesting because of how interdisciplinary it is, and how it combines problem solving and critical thinking to better the world, please everyone, and preserve the natural world and economy.” He has applied to DeSales University, Drew University and St. Peters University, to pursue a bachelor’s degree in natural resources or business and then continue on to graduate school. “I’m eager to study what I love in college, and hope to make the world a better place environmentally and have fun doing it,” he said. Alicia Ciliezar Alicia Ciliezar is the daughter of Steward Assistant Julio Ciliezar and Zeily, his wife. Born in Honduras, Ciliezar immigrated with her family to the United States in December 2013. She enrolled in the undergraduate program at Miami Dade College the following spring semester, and will complete her twoyear degree in psychology this summer. Her plans are to continue her education through medical school, and she hopes to eventually enter the field of internal medicine. She has a strong background in volunteering, giving her time and efforts to many different causes both in the United States and during high school in Honduras. She served as a translator to foreign medical students while they were working in Honduras, an encounter that Ciliezar says “was an enriching experience that helped reinforce my decision to pursue an academic pathway in medicine.” She was the Phi Theta Kappa president for Members of the Calendar Year 2015 SHBP Scholarship Committee met May 22 in Memphis, Tennessee, to choose this year’s scholarship recipients. Comprising the committee (above from left) were: Dr. Charles Lyons, American Association of Colleges and Universities (retired); Dr. Keith Schlender, associate vice president academic affairs, Lourdes University; Dr. Louis Fernandez, provost and vice president academic affairs, California State University; Dr. Michael Glaser, St. Mary’s College (retired); Dr. Trevor Carpenter, College of Southern Maryland (retired); and Dr. Hank Toutain, dean of students, Kenyon College. Also on the committee, but not pictured is Dr. Gayle Olson, University of New Orleans (retired). her school, and has worked for the Women’s Breast and Heart Initiative, Citizens for a Better South Florida and the Earth Ethics Institute. She also found time to play on the volleyball team. She acknowledges that a career in medicine will be challenging. To that she says, “I am determined to engage in a profession that will not only provide me personal fulfillment but also will enable me to make a positive impact in the lives of other human beings. This is my deliberate purpose and commitment in life.” She plans on applying to University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, University of Florida and Florida State University. Andrew Hutchens Andrew Hutchens is the son of AB Donald Hutchens and his wife, Cecilia. Hutchens was born in Dade County, Florida, and is a 2015 graduate of the School for Advanced Studies, one of the top 10 high schools in the country as ranked by Newsweek. He scored in the 99th percentile in both English and Reading on the ACTs, and all of his scores were above 90 percent. He graduated with more than 60 credits in advanced placement and college-level courses, which increased his GPA to a 6.51 upon graduation. He has applied to Princeton University, the University of Southern California, and University of Miami, to continue his studies in the field of aeronautical engineering. Hutchens said, “Coming from a household that has only ever managed to generate enough income to finance a stable middle-class lifestyle, the cost of attending a college or university presents a difficult obstacle to overcome. Scholarship money remains the most effective method of overcoming said obstacle. “I aim to major in aerospace engineering so as to become as completely educated in my field as possible, for without the necessary knowledge and achievement of academic goals I cannot achieve my career goals,” he continued. “Extensive classroom and practical experience at the university level will allow me to interact with both former and current professionals in the field of engineering; setting a strong base of understanding is essential to success in my career.” Larissa-Frances Ramilo Larissa-Frances Ramilo is the daughter of Oiler Francisco Ramilo and his wife, Riza. She graduated in the top five percent of her class, with a perfect 4.0 GPA. Born in Manhattan and living in Mission, Texas, Ramilo attended South Texas High School for Health Professions in Mercedes, Texas, a specialized school for pre-medical studies. At the same time, she attended classes at South Texas College. She also balanced out her studies with various volunteer endeavors, including work with Relay for Life, the Salvation Army and Habitat for Humanity. Moved by her experiences in the field, Ramilo is driven to pursue a career in medicine, ideally in epidemiology and global health. “Spending a week in the heart of the Texas Medical Center at Houston for a summer symposium opened my eyes to what my hometown lacked – specialized medical professionals and up-todate technology. Cancer patients from the Rio Grande Valley normally take a grueling six-hour trip to Houston to undergo stateof-the-art medical procedures only available at the MD Anderson Cancer Center for their illnesses, which led me to think, how about the cancer patients originating from medically underserved countries around the world?” She has been accepted into Texas A&M University’s Partnership for Primary Care program, a bachelors-to-master’s degree program through their medical school. Ramilo plans to continue volunteering throughout her college experience, saying, “During my undergraduate years, I hope to take part in international medical volunteer missions and continue to shadow doctors in order to build my experiences in the medical field.” Seafarers LOG 7 �ABOARD ALASKAN EXPLORER – Pictured on Alaska Tanker Company’s Alaskan Explorer in early June (photo above at left from left) are GUDE Isacc Lesh, GUDE Salah Alosfur, ATC Labor Relations Director Bill Cole, SIU Port Agent Jeff Turkus and QMED Peter Solis. Pictured in the photo at right are Cole, Solis and GUDE Xyla Bautista. SENATOR VISITS SIU-CREWED SHIP – Recertified Bosun Fidel Saleh welcomes U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) aboard the TOTE ship Midnight Sun May 26 in Anchorage. At Sea and Ashore With the SIU ABOARD USNS MONTFORD POINT – SIU Port Agent Hazel Galbiso submitted these photos from a mid-May stop aboard the USNS Montford Point in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. The group photo above includes (from left) Steward/Baker James Watson, OS Alan Boiser, AB Joseph Barnes, Bosun Allan Coloyan and SA Dennison Dizon. The vessel (photo at immediate right) is operated by Ocean Shipholdings. WITH SEAFARERS IN HONOLULU – In photo at immediate left, AB Baltazar Sambaoa (right) receives his full B book from Shureen Yathcmenoff, administrative assistant, at the union hall. The photo above shows local students visiting with Seafarers at the hall as part of their research into potential maritime careers. ABOARD USNS PLESS – SIU VP Contracts George Tricker and Port Agent Georg Kenny recently met with Seafarers aboard the USNS Maj. Stephen W. Pless in Norfolk, Virginia, as well as with Keystone executive David Schultze. Tricker is standing at left in photo at left, with Schultze, while Kenny and the company official are pictured in the photo at immediate right. Standing left to right in the shot above are SA Algie Mayfield, SA Peter Soriano, SA Adam Bucalo, Chief Cook Johnny Sawyer and Chief Steward Angela Robertson. 8 Seafarers LOG July 2015 �ABOARD JEAN ANNE – SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone (center) is pictured with Chief Cook Sajid Foster (left) and Steward/Baker Ingra Maddox aboard the car carrier Jean Anne in San Francisco. The vessel is operated by TOTE Services for Pasha Hawaii. TALKING MARITIME WITH CONGRESSMAN – During a maritime roundtable event in late May in New York, SIU VP Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi (left) and Liberty Maritime CEO Phil Shapiro (right) discussed key industry topics with U.S. Rep. Lee Zeldin (R), who represents New York’s First Congressional District. The congressman serves on the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee and the Veterans’ Affairs and Foreign Affairs Committees, respectively. ABOARD APL AGATE – Fellow mariners aboard the APL Agate expressed appreciation for a recent cookout provided by (from left) Chief Cook Jabr Matari, Chief Steward Ernest Carlos and ACU Jose Garcia Bulnes. At Sea and Ashore With the SIU 3 GENERATIONS AT PINEY POINT – Earlier this year, the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center hosted three generations of Seafarers – one retiree and two upgraders. Pictured from left, youngest to oldest, are SIU members Alex Roel, Dick Roel Jr. and pensioner Dick Roel Sr. Alex is Dick Jr.’s son. Dick Jr. said he absorbed some good-natured ribbing from his father about who went gray first. WITH SEAFARERS IN SAN JUAN – These snapshots from the hall in Puerto Rico feature QEE Joaquin Passapera (right in photo at left, with Port Agent Amancio Crespo) picking up his first pension check, and Engine Utility Armando Garayua (left in photo above, also with Crespo) proudly holding Old Glory at closing time. Passapera said his 45-year SIU career “has been a blessing for me and my entire family since day one.” July 2015 FULL BOOK IN MOBILE – OMU Alisia Scheurer picks up her full book at the hall in Mobile, Alabama, where she is congratulated by Port Agent Jimmy White. Scheurer is a graduate of Paul Hall Center Apprentice Class 758. Seafarers LOG 9 �Editor’s note: Beginning in September 2010, the LOG periodically has featured articles by retired mariner Ed Woods, who first shipped out during World War II, as a teenager. Most of the earlier stories were run in two series, concluding in the September 2012 edition. Stand-alone articles were published in the November 2012, May 2013 and August 2013 issues, and a two-part missive ran in March and April 2014. Most recently, the March and May 2015 LOGs, respectively, featured the first two installment of Brother Woods’ latest submission. The first piece left off following a return trip from Liverpool to New York in 1944 aboard the oil tanker SS Horseshoe. The more recent one covered voyages to Casablanca and Curacao aboard the tanker SS Brandy Station. Here’s the next segment: bars out of business, their only customers being allied personnel. Previously, there were seamen of various nationalities from all parts of the Allied world to be found in the bars and restaurants. Day and night, the bars and streets looking bar on the main street and ordered a bottle of cold beer. Within a few minutes a rather attractive young girl came out of the rear and greeted us in Spanish. I answered her the best I could with my limited knowledge of the language and fool- Coins, Paper Money, Sea Ports – Small and Big Things I Remember W ith our tanks full of cargo from the Shell Oil refinery, we were ordered to Panama. It was late in the evening of November 22, 1944 when we arrived at Cristobal, the eastern port of entry to the Canal. (Although much as been redacted, I have a copy of the S/S Brandy Station’s log that offers dates of arrivals and departures.) The following morning, Thanksgiving Day 1944, a pilot came aboard followed by a boatload of armed U.S. Marines. The Marines took stations at each of our weapons: 5-inch/38-caliber, 3-inch/50-caliber and the six 20-millimeter antiaircraft machine guns and then added their own locks to our ammunition boxes. Two Marines accompanied by their officer went up to the bridge. I was off duty and eager to transit Teddy Roosevelt’s big ditch. I asked a nearby Marine what was going on and he proved to be a friendly fellow and answered all my questions. He told me that they treated all ships the same, no matter the nationality, American or foreign. “The Canal is too important to give anyone an opportunity to commit sabotage,” he said. “It is understood that if the man at the wheel did not respond to a command from the pilot in a reasonably short time, he will be relieved at once.” I would have liked to have seen and toured Cristobal and its environs. As a youngster, I had read about and was fascinated with tales of pirates and the early settlers on the Atlantic side of Panama. However, it was not to be, as we transited the canal the following morning and arrived in Balboa on the Pacific side that evening. Balboa was the port for Panama City and I was anxious to explore both places. I didn’t know that I would visit Panama three more times before returning home to the States following three crossings of the Pacific Ocean. In 1944, Panama was divided into two sections: the Canal Zone (CZ), under American control, and the country of Panama. Panama was in de jure governed by the Panamanian Government but in de facto under American supervision. The treaty allowed the United States to supervise the sanitation conditions in Panama. This allowed the Americans to declare bars and restaurants off limits to all allied personnel. This put the Woods (left) is shown with shipmates Smithy (center) and Rudy ashore in Panama in 1945. “Rudy’s full name was Rudolph Valentino Rukki,” Woods wrote. “He said his mom was so heartbroken when the Hollywood actor Rudolph Valentino died, she promised to name her next child in his honor.” along Avenida Central (the main street) were filled with prostitutes who were required to carry identification cards showing they had been examined on a weekly basis and declared free of venereal diseases. Even at my young age of 17, I questioned the practice of weekly examinations and asked, “What about the six days between exams?” Venereal disease was a court martial offense for members of the U.S. Armed Forces. About once a week, a U.S. Navy shore patrol (SP), a U.S. Army military policeman (MP) and a Panamanian policeman would make a tour of the bars and arrest any of the women who could not show a current medical examination card. The women would be loaded on an open truck and be driven along Avenida Central to a staging area. Along the way, they would be waving and laughing to the people on the street, who in turn would wave back; it was a comical scene. On our first day ashore, my buddy Vinnie McCarville and I stopped in a clean- The note accompanying this paperwork said, “On my last visit to Panama, I was reminded that I was now 18 years old and would have to register for the draft. I was still considered a civilian whether I had already sailed in harm’s way for my country or not.” 10 Seafarers LOG ishly thought, “My first day ashore and I meet a beautiful young girl.” She asked us to buy her a drink and we nodded an OK to the bartender. He served her a small glass of what looked to be a cola and said, “That will be one dollar.” We were in a state of shock. At the time, a bottle of beer cost 35 cents. The bartender explained that the girl was a Blue Moon girl and the hostess for the day. He handed her a chip and told us that she would later receive a percentage of the chips she accumulated. Needless to say, that was the last time I ordered a drink for a Blue Moon girl. I later learned that you could accompany the Blue Moon girls upstairs for what was known as a good time. I had developed a painful ingrown toenail and my ship’s purser directed me to an Army hospital in the Canal Zone. When I arrived at the hospital, I was told I would need to go elsewhere, as the hospital did not perform minor surgery. As I was leaving, an officer entered the room; everybody stood up and said, “Good morning, General.” He looked at me and asked a nurse who I was. He then questioned me in a friendly manner about who I was, where I served and where I was from in the States. He said, “Only 17 years old,” and told the nurse to prepare me for the procedure. “The least we can do is get this boy’s toe fixed,” he added. Since then, I am always ready to tell about the day an Army General operated on my toe. I visited the Church of the Golden Altar made famous by Captain Morgan the pirate. In 1671, Morgan and his band of cutthroats were ransacking the entire city taking anything of value. The altar in the church was painted with a gold leaf and the good fathers in charge of the church knew that once Morgan saw the golden altar he would seize it. They decided to paint the altar black to hide the gold. Their ruse worked, for when Morgan entered the church he noticed nothing of value and continued his plundering of other sections of Panama. I visited my first racetrack and made my first bet on a horse. Being a city boy, I didn’t know anything about horses but I could see that these poor old nags had seen better days. I was with a shipmate and between the two of us we selected a horse for the first few races. Our bets were recorded by a man inside a window who gave us a handwritten paper slip showing our bet. Every few minutes, a young boy would race across the track and hand another man a note and he, in turn, would post the odds in chalk on a big blackboard. If I recall, we didn’t win any races but it was fun. Each time I visited Panama, I enjoyed eating at a Chinese restaurant on Fourth of July Avenue, which was the dividing line between the CZ and the city. The menu was similar to the New York Chinese restaurants and it served the most delicious ice cream. I wanted to see more of the Canal but it was off limits without a special permit. The CZ was exceptionally clean and hygienic, about the most sterile place I had ever visited. In addition to movie houses, it had post exchanges (PXs) where we could do a limited amount of shopping. The theaters inside the CZ offered the latest movies. I saw The Picture of Dorian Gray. (Odd, I can remember the name of a movie I saw almost 70 years ago.) The CZ also had banks and a post office. It was here that I first witnessed segregation. There were two lines for every transaction: one for Negros with a sign SILVER and a line for white people with a sign GOLD. This rule applied to the CZ U.S. Post Offices, banks and transports. The only Panamanians allowed inside the Zone were those with work permits and identification cards indicating whether the bearer was white, brown or black. (Segregation in the U.S. military did not end until July 1948.) The U.S. military had a holding complex in Panama City for the many foreign sailors that were quitting their jobs and staying ashore, jumping their ships. The majority of the AWOL sailors were from countries under Russian control. They did not want to return to their countries in fear of being drafted into the Russian Army. We were in need of a galley man to replace a boy who had been promoted to ordinary seaman. A man about 45 years was sent from the holding complex to take on the open berth. He was from Riga, Latvia, an engineer who had sailed on various allied ships. He asked to be called Peter. We became close friends. He said that when he learned his ship was going to Murmansk, Russia, he went AWOL. He said that if he went to Russia, as a Latvian, he would be drafted into their army. Peter was pleased with his new job and said he was earning twice his former engineer’s salary. He commented on the quality of the food served aboard ship and expressed surprise he could have all he wanted at mealtime. A bonus: He was not required to pay Social Security or income taxes. He was a master chess player and could checkmate anyone who challenged him. He taught me some great opening moves. At the end of my first visit, we said good bye to Panama and left port for a destination unknown to the crew. At the time, I thought all ship’s officers would have been told our next port of call; however, a third assistant engineer confided in me and said he never knew any more than the average crew member. He did say that he believed the chief engineer would need to know in order to control fuel consumption. Following a week of rumors, the chief mate came to the mess hall and told us we were en route to New Guinea. Excitement filled the air as the crew discussed what we could expect to see on this second largest island in the world, inhabited with primitive tribes, headhunters and exotic animal life. Please note that these events I write about above happened at different times during my three visits to Panama. I have not had the opportunity to visit Panama since I last transited the Canal in November 1945. In 1977, President Carter signed a treaty with Panama giving them control of the Canal by the year 2000. The treaty allows the United States to maintain military personnel in the country. New and modern hotels are now available and tourists are invited to visit the interior to marvel at the Continued on Page 20 July 2015 �Seafarers Observe National Maritime Day Remembrances Conducted in Texas, California, Washington State, at Sea Although the annual National Maritime Day ceremony in the nation’s capital often grabs most of the attention in the industry press, it’s not the only such remembrance honoring American seafarers past and present. SIU members and officials took part in traditional gatherings in Texas, California and Washington State to commemorate the day, and also marked the occasion aboard a number of vessels. First designated by the U.S. Congress in 1933, National Maritime Day is May 22, and it’s normally a time for recognizing both the historically vital role of the U.S. Merchant Marine and the ongoing need to maintain a strong American-flag fleet with American crews. That was the case at the yearly observance in San Pedro, California, which took place May 22 at the city’s American Merchant Marine Veterans Memorial. Keynote speaker U.S. Rep. Janice Hahn (D-California), while honoring the men and women who have sailed, also called for longoverdue payment to the World War II U.S. Merchant Marine veterans who were never awarded benefits from the GI bill. She has introduced legislation, H.R. 563 – the Honoring Our WWII Merchant Mariners Act of 2015 – which would provide a one-time payment of $25,000 to the surviving World War II U.S. Merchant Marine veterans. With many of these surviving World War II veteran mariners well into their 90s, Hahn pressed the importance of passing this legislation as soon as possible. “Time is running out for us to honor them,” she said. “We need to get this done now!” The SIU contingent in San Pedro included Port Agent Jeff Turkus. Meanwhile, this was the 29th year a National Maritime Day ceremony has taken place in Port Arthur, Texas. Featured speakers included Fr. Sinclair Oubre, who sails with the SIU and who serves as director of the Port Arthur International Seafarers Center; and Brian Hill of the U.S. Maritime Administration. Hill is the agency’s gateway director for the western Gulf of Mexico. SIU tugboat crews from Seabulk supported the gathering from aboard their vessels nearby, while SIU Houston Safety Director Kevin Sykes was part of the ceremony ashore. Seafarers also played multiple roles in facilitating the annual National Maritime Day luncheon hosted by the Puget Sound (Washington) Ports Council on May 21. Port Agent Joe Vincenzo and Maritime Trades Department Executive SecretaryTreasurer Daniel Duncan were on hand, while rank-and-file members Pat Durnin, Gil Manipon, Joe Lata and Tom Kelton handled food preparation and provided additional assistance with the event. Four days later, Duncan helped ensure the maritime industry was represented at a Memorial Day ceremony back in Washington, D.C. Attendees converge in Port Arthur (above) while SIU-crewed Seabulk tugs (wide photo below) assist with the ceremony. U.S. Rep. Janice Hahn (left) and American Merchant Marine Veterans Memorial Committee President John Pitts are pictured at the San Pedro gathering. Seafarers on the Crowley-operated Sunshine State pause to observe National Maritime Day. Erected in 1989, the American Merchant Marine Veterans Memorial in San Pedro is the site of a yearly National Maritime Day event. Saluting during the playing of Taps following a wreath placement at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers on Memorial Day are (from left) Will Fischer, executive director of the AFL-CIO Union Veterans Council; Daniel Duncan, executive secretary-treasurer of the Maritime Trades Department; Pamela Donato, community and membership outreach for the National Association of Letter Carriers; and Eric Packard, training department administrator for the United Association. July 2015 The SIU donated a wreath for the ceremony in San Pedro. The SIU team at the Puget Sound Ports Council luncheon: Recertified Steward Pat Durnin, AB Gil Manipon, Certified Chief Cook Joe Lata, AB Tom Kelton and Port Agent Joe Vincenzo Seafarers LOG 11 �President Obama Issues 2015 Maritime Day Proclamation Anthony Chiarello TOTE President/CEO Chip Jaenichen Maritime Administrator The official party salutes as the colors are presented by the Washington Math Science Tech Public High School Junior ROTC Color Guard. Maritime Day Message: Strong Merchant Marine a Must! SIU, Paul Hall Center Apprentices Participate in Annual Ceremony in Nation’s Capital The basic message conveyed by all of the Gen. Paul Selva, commander, U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM) speaks (at podium) while members of the speakers during the National Maritime Day official party look on. Pictured from left to right are Michael Rodriguez, deputy maritime administrator; Kristin Decas, chair- ceremony on May 21 in Washington, D.C., woman, American Association of Port Authorities; Anthony Chiarello, president and CEO of TOTE; and Paul Jaenichen, was perhaps best summed up by Gen. Paul maritime administrator. Selva, commander, U.S. Transportation Com- Rear Adm. T.K. Shannon Commander, U.S. Military Sealift Command Rear Adm. Anita Lopez mand: “Let me be quite simple in saying that the relationship that ties our ocean shipping industry and the mariners who sail those ships in defense of this nation is unbreakable.” The ceremony – conducted at the Department of Transportation building and featuring a typically strong turnout by the SIU and its affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) – was a shining example of those ties that bind the maritime industry together. Hosted by master of ceremonies Joel Szabat, executive director of the Maritime Administration, speakers from all components of the industry offered their remarks, including Selva; Maritime Administrator Chip Jaenichen; U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) Commander Rear Adm. Thomas K. Shannon; President and CEO of TOTE Anthony Chiarello; American Association of Port Authorities Chairwoman Kristin Decas; and Deputy Director for Operations at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Rear Adm. Anita Lopez. U.S. Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx joined the event during the reception immedi- ately afterward. With a supporting cast that included the U.S. Navy Band Brass Quartet and 23 trainees from the PHC, the speakers each brought a different perspective on the vital role played by America’s civilian mariners. Also attending the event were SIU officials including President Michael Sacco, Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, Vice President Contracts George Tricker, Legislative Director Brian Schoeneman and Piney Point Port Agent Pat Vandegrift. Apprentices Reisa Martinez Serrano and Zachary Ballard carried the memorial wreath, while Apprentice Anthony Martone sounded the traditional eight bells. Selva said the military has needs that can only be filled by seafarers. “I need 11,000 merchant mariners, ready on any given day, to sail 60 ships on 30-day cycles. I need 60 ships in the Maritime Security Program to make that work,” he said, stressing that the U.S. depends on merchant mariners to go to war effectively. He continued, explaining his “60-60-60” plan for mobilizing troops: “If we’re going to win a war against a concerted enemy, we have to sail 60 ships in the first 30 days of that fight. Those ships will come from the Ready Reserve Fleet, which is co-managed Continued on next Page Apprentices Zachary Ballard (left) and Reisa Martinez Serrano For over two centuries, proud mariners have set sail in defense of our people and in pursuit of opportunity. Through periods of conflict and times of peace, our Nation has relied on the United States Merchant Marine to transport goods to and from our shores and deliver troops and supplies around the world. On National Maritime Day, we honor the women and men who take to the seas to boost our economy and uphold the values we cherish. Our Nation is forever indebted to the brave privateers who helped secure our independence, fearlessly supplying our Revolutionary forces with muskets and ammunition. Throughout history, their legacy has been carried forward by courageous seafarers who have faithfully served our Nation as part of the United States Merchant Marine – bold individuals who emerged triumphant in the face of attacks from the British fleet in the War of 1812, and who empowered the Allied forces as they navigated perilous waters during World War II. Today, patriots who share their spirit continue to stand ready to protect our seas and the livelihoods they support. Ninety percent of the world’s commerce moves by sea, and businesses across our country rely on domestic and international trade every day. Helping to protect our vital shipping routes, Merchant Mariners are critical to our effort to combat piracy and uphold the maritime security on which the global supply chain relies. And in times of war or national emergency, they bolster our national security as a “fourth arm of defense.” Whether transporting commercial goods or military equipment, battling tough weather or enemy fire, they strive and sacrifice to secure a brighter future for all Americans. On this day, we reaffirm the importance of their contributions and salute all those who serve this noble cause. The Congress, by a joint resolution approved May 20, 1933, has designated May 22 of each year as “National Maritime Day,” and has authorized and requested the President to issue annually a proclamation calling for its appropriate observance. NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 22, 2015, as National Maritime Day. I call upon the people of the United States to mark this observance and to display the flag of the United States at their homes and in their communities. I also request that all ships sailing under the American flag dress ship on that day. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twentieth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand fifteen, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirtyninth. BARACK OBAMA Family members of the late Bill Eglinton sit in the front row of a packed crowd during the ceremony. 12 Seafarers LOG Apprentices from the Paul Hall Center pay their respect as the colors are posted. In photo at right, SIU President Michael Sacco greets the apprentices in attendance. July 2015 July 2015 Seafarers LOG 13 �Raymond Ebeling (center) receives the Merchant Marine Medal for Outstanding Achievement from Maritime Administrator Jaenichen (left) and Gen. Paul Selva, commander, U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM). John Reinhart (second from left) and his wife, Mary, accept the Merchant Marine Medal from Maritime Administrator Jaenichen (left) and TRANSCOM Commander Selva. Ocean Shipping Industry, Mariners Share Unbreakable Ties Continued from Page 13 by Military Sealift Command and the U.S. Maritime Administration. Within the next 30 days we must sail another 60 ships, which will come from the Maritime Security Program – commercially viable, militarily useful ships that ply over-ocean trade every single day. And in the following 30 days we will have to sail those first 60 ships yet again, to deploy our combat forces to whatever fight might present us.” He added, “We are forever indebted to the sailors of our United States Merchant Marine. Those mariners who every day go to sea and not only bring economic prosperity, but build the foundation for defending this nation.” Touching on the months and years ahead, Selva stated, “My commitment here today is to continue to be a force for the strength of our U.S. Merchant Marine – for the courage of those young men and women who go to sea every day to bring prosperity and security to our nation. May they always be safe on the seas, and may we always defend them and their commitment to our nation.” Jaenichen touched on the historic ser- vice of mariners and the ongoing need for a strong maritime industry. “Since our nation’s inception, the U.S. Merchant Mariners have helped to ensure our dominion over these waters. Thanks to the service and the ingenuity and the bravery of the U.S. Merchant Mariners, oceans, rivers and lakes have never held our nation back,” he said. “Maritime capabilities have fueled the economy of the United States of America, and our growth as a nation.” He continued, “President Franklin Delano Roosevelt called our merchant mariners the nation’s fourth arm of defense, and he did so for good reason. All throughout our history, merchant mariners – and I will point out that they are our nation’s first all-volunteer force – have bravely served the cause of liberty, providing vital sealift capability to globally project and sustain our armed forces, supporting our nation in times of war and in crisis, often sailing into harm’s way to deliver the required ammunition, supplies and equipment that have ensured victory. In peace, they have advanced our humanitarian missions worldwide. Today, our national security is firmly and directly tied to the Piney Point Port Agent Pat Vandegrift (left) and Paul Hall Center Apprentice Anthony Martone give Maritime Day speakers their undivided attention. 14 Seafarers LOG water. And so, too, is our economy.” He later spoke about two new programs that the Maritime Administration is rolling out. The first, U.S. Ships, would call attention to shippers who deliver more than the mandated amount of cargo for U.S.-flag vessels. The second is a program designed to accept suggestions for proper locations to display the U.S. Merchant Marine flag, such as at a school or memorial. Once the site has been approved, MARAD will ensure that a Merchant Marine flag is sent to Association; and Reinhart, a former CEO of SIU-contracted Maersk Line, Limited and current Executive Director for the Virginia Port Authority, both accepted their medals on stage, while Eglinton’s widow, Sharon, accepted his posthumous honor. Eglington worked at the PHC for 34 years and served the industry in many international capacities even after retiring. Mrs. Eglinton said a few words on behalf of her husband. “This is a bittersweet moment for my family and me. “Let me be quite simple in saying that the relationship that ties our ocean shipping industry and the mariners who sail those ships in defense of this nation is unbreakable.” - - - Gen. Paul Selva, commander, U.S. Transportation Command and displayed at that location. Chiarello gave the first keynote speech, discussing the eco-friendly initiatives that SIU-contracted TOTE has taken in recent years and touting their new LNG-powered containership as an historic achievement not just for his company, but for the transportation industry as a whole. He then offered remarks about the importance of maritime unions. “I’d like to thank the unions: the SIU and AMO, who are represented here today,” he stated. “Mike and Augie and (AMO President) Paul (Doell) and others, we so appreciate the support that you’ve given us and helped us work through the various challenges that we’ve had with this new technology. And the SIU went even beyond that: Mike Sacco actually allowed us to borrow his wife (Sophie) for a couple of days, to both christen and be the godmother for the first vessel that was launched just a few weeks ago.” He also presented a slide show that chronicled the construction of TOTE’s latest shipbuilding project, the Isla Bella, and highlighted the technological triumphs that made the LNG dream a reality. While this ceremony partly was a celebration of the bright plans for the future of the maritime industry, it also provided a solemn remembrance of the past. In between speakers, a ceremony took place awarding three Merchant Marine Medals for Outstanding Achievement to Raymond Ebeling, John Reinhart, and the SIU’s own Bill Eglinton, who passed away late last year. The medals are awarded each year to individuals who have made significant contributions to the U.S. Merchant Marine. Ebeling, founder and former chairman of SIU-contracted American Rollon/Roll-off Carrier and former chairman of the National Defense Transportation Bill would be elated to see this crowd,” she said. “My husband was a hardworking man, connected to many organizations. He was never a man to expect gratitude in return. He was an outstanding achiever, and dedicated his life to the safety of mariners.” After the award ceremony, Decas spoke about the vital importance of ports to the shipping industry. She also talked about the historical and current importance of seafarers to this nation. “The merchant marine has been a pillar of this country’s foundation, security and continued prosperity,” she said. “Our rich maritime heritage dates back to when the Mayflower first arrived on our shores, and is linked to the sea, our waterways and harbors.” Lopez offered remarks on the vital work that NOAA does for navigating our waterways and ports, as she gave the history of seafaring as it pertains to mapping and research. She praised merchant mariners, calling them “the backbone of our fleet.” Finally, Shannon discussed some of the important tasks that SIU Government Services Division mariners, among others, are currently undertaking around the world. On the topic of maritime programs, he said, “Our Jones Act, Maritime Security Program and the Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement are lynchpins to maintain our United Statesflag fleet and our trained mariners. We must have these.” He concluded, “I can think of no better way to honor our mariners – past and present – than to continue to ensure that we maintain the United States-flag sealift capability with trained American mariners. It is incumbent upon everyone – Congress, military, the government, labor unions, United States industry and you – to carry that message to anyone who will listen.” July 2015 �July & August 2015 Membership Meetings Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea May 16, 2015 - June 15, 2015 Port Total Registered All Groups A B C Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Deck Department 18 16 1 9 4 1 1 24 18 4 0 2 1 2 0 0 0 1 2 1 9 1 0 6 0 0 1 6 2 0 22 6 3 15 10 1 13 24 15 5 6 2 0 1 2 0 0 7 2 0 14 2 3 4 3 0 4 26 3 3 11 8 2 6 3 1 3 15 7 3 53 10 1 32 10 0 20 84 17 6 41 17 4 21 14 1 18 68 35 3 38 16 2 28 9 2 14 76 27 6 5 2 0 3 1 0 1 4 1 2 4 3 1 8 4 1 3 10 5 0 22 20 2 14 19 1 12 39 24 4 21 9 0 19 3 0 8 39 14 0 10 3 2 4 3 0 3 14 6 3 0 0 1 2 0 1 1 1 1 1 8 3 1 4 1 1 5 12 5 3 32 5 2 30 7 0 22 63 12 8 1 4 0 1 3 0 1 2 2 0 21 14 5 27 11 0 16 47 36 5 336 143 31 236 107 10 146 562 234 57 Piney Point..........................................Monday: July 6, August 3 Algonac...................................................Friday: July 10 , August 7 Baltimore............................................Thursday: July 9, August 6 Guam...............................................Thursday: July 23, August 20 Honolulu.............................................Friday: July 17, August 14 Houston................................................Monday: July 13, August 10 Jacksonville........................................Thursday: July 9, August 6 Joliet..............................................Thursday: July 16, August 13 Mobile........................................Wednesday: July15, August 12 New Orleans.......................................Tuesday: July 14, August 11 Jersey City.............................................Tuesday: July 7, August 4 Norfolk...............................................Thursday: July 9, August 6 Oakland.............................................Thursday: July 16, August 13 Philadelphia...................................Wednesday: July 8, August 5 Port Everglades...............................Thursday: July 16, August 13 San Juan............................................Thursday: July 9, August 6 St. Louis............................................Friday: July17, August 14 Tacoma................................................Friday: July 24, August 21 Wilmington...........................................Monday: July 20, August 17 Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. July 2015 Total Shipped All Groups Trip A B C Reliefs Registered on Beach All Groups A B C Engine Department Algonac 0 4 1 0 2 1 0 1 4 0 Anchorage 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Baltimore 4 0 1 1 0 0 0 5 4 2 Fort Lauderdale 8 3 0 4 2 0 4 16 7 2 Guam 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 Harvey 2 2 0 1 1 0 0 7 5 0 Honolulu 4 4 1 5 1 0 0 13 14 2 Houston 22 7 0 9 4 0 4 33 11 2 Jacksonville 29 15 1 19 6 0 10 47 21 5 Jersey City 7 7 1 6 5 0 8 25 20 6 Joliet 2 2 0 1 1 0 0 2 1 0 Mobile 4 2 0 3 2 0 1 6 4 1 Norfolk 15 11 2 10 6 0 4 25 23 5 Oakland 9 2 1 12 5 0 5 16 11 2 Philadelphia 6 2 0 4 1 0 1 5 1 0 Piney Point 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 1 Puerto Rico 1 3 0 0 1 0 0 1 6 1 Tacoma 10 4 2 9 1 0 4 24 9 3 St. Louis 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 3 1 0 Wilmington 9 12 2 11 4 0 8 26 22 3 TOTALS 136 81 12 96 44 1 49 258 165 35 Steward Department Algonac 4 2 0 2 1 0 1 5 1 0 Anchorage 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Baltimore 2 0 0 3 0 0 0 6 1 0 Fort Lauderdale 12 4 1 7 4 0 6 19 4 1 Guam 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Harvey 5 0 0 4 0 1 0 4 2 0 Honolulu 11 0 0 10 0 1 6 26 1 0 Houston 12 3 1 18 5 0 12 28 5 3 Jacksonville 19 8 4 11 5 1 3 36 13 5 Jersey City 15 3 0 8 0 0 3 22 9 1 Joliet 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 Mobile 6 0 0 1 0 0 0 11 0 0 Norfolk 13 10 2 14 7 0 6 23 17 4 Oakland 24 3 2 14 1 2 13 27 10 1 Philadelphia 2 0 0 1 1 0 1 3 0 0 Piney Point 2 3 0 0 1 0 0 6 3 0 Puerto Rico 2 4 0 2 1 0 1 3 11 1 Tacoma 17 1 0 12 2 0 11 23 2 0 St. Louis 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 1 0 Wilmington 23 3 1 15 3 0 5 39 10 3 TOTALS 170 44 12 122 31 5 68 286 91 20 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Entry Department 3 6 6 1 4 1 1 4 7 14 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 1 0 0 2 0 0 0 1 1 1 5 1 0 2 1 0 1 7 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 1 1 0 4 0 6 4 0 4 2 1 2 9 6 2 10 4 3 8 1 3 7 22 6 3 19 8 0 9 1 1 5 26 21 5 12 1 2 1 1 1 8 33 10 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 2 1 0 1 0 0 0 1 2 0 15 12 0 11 4 2 1 32 30 0 12 4 1 4 0 1 3 22 7 0 2 1 0 2 0 0 0 1 3 0 1 6 0 0 2 3 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 5 7 5 2 4 4 2 8 9 13 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 3 16 5 0 13 2 0 7 18 12 22 117 58 10 66 19 17 48 193 130 GRAND TOTAL: 664 385 113 464 248 35 280 1,154 683 242 Seafarers LOG 15 �Seafarers International Union Directory 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 Kermett Mangram, 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 Inquiring Seafarer This month’s question was asked to SIU members in Algonac, Michigan. Question: What are your favorite things about being a mariner? Naji Mihakel AB I enjoy everything about this job. I get to sail around the world, and learn all about different cultures. My father used to tell me stories about his time as a mariner, about how cool his experiences had been, and now I get to experience it myself. On a recent voyage I visited Spain, Japan and Morocco. It was really, really awesome seeing all the unique cultures and people in each country. I have really learned a lot about the world as a Seafarer. Haidarah Ahmed AB I like being a member of the SIU for the great benefits that come with being union. It’s a great job! On the inland Lakes, I can work for [a relatively brief time] and get paid very well. My dad was a mariner for 25 years, and I can see why he stayed a mariner for so long. HONOLULU 606 Kalihi St., Honolulu, HI 96819 (808) 845-5222 HOUSTON 1730 Jefferson St., Houston, TX 77003 (713) 659-5152 JACKSONVILLE 5100 Belfort Rd., Jacksonville, FL 32256 (904) 281-2622 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 Asker Abudaker AB What I like most about being a Seafarer is the ability to see the country. I sail on the Great Lakes, but my last voyage was a deep sea trip to Hawaii. It was a five-day run, and it was a great time. It was interesting to see the difference between deep sea and inland shipping. In all my years in the union, I’ve never had any problems with the union, only positive experiences. Mohammed Ali SA You get to sail around the world, and see so many things. Members of my family were SIU mariners, and I joined in 2012. Another great thing about the union is the possibilities for career advancement. I hope to become a chief cook soon, through the upgrading process at the Paul Hall Center. That’s what I like the most about the SIU: You get lots of chances to better your life. Larry Skowroneck AB My favorite part is getting to sail to different ports, and seeing different places all the time. I’ve stayed in the union because the wages and benefits are great, and I’ve stayed on the Great Lakes because it’s close to my home. My two brothers also sailed SIU, and I’m proud to be a Seafarer. Richard Frederick QMED Being a mariner is great because it gives you a chance to see other places, and meet a diverse group of people. The union has a lot to offer – from the education and upgrading possibilities to the great benefits – but the best part is the camaraderie. I started out in the deep sea trade, but I switched to Lakes shipping because it was close to home. I’ve gotten to know a great group of fellow mariners, and they’re the reason I’ll stay on the Lakes. Out here, I’ve met the best bunch of guys I’ve ever known. Pic From The Past JERSEY CITY 104 Broadway, Jersey City, NJ 07306 (201) 434-6000 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 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (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) 549-4000 David Madden only sailed from 1951-53, but he still fondly recalls those days and also keeps tabs on the industry. This photo from 1953 was taken aboard an SIU-crewed Seatrain ship as it passed Savannah, Georgia. Madden, age 19, was sailing as a messman. “I am proud of the SIU and to have been a part of it,” said Madden, a novelist. “I’m also proud of what merchant seamen are doing these days.” Check out his post-sailing work online at davidmadden.net 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 16 Seafarers LOG July 2015 �Welcome Ashore 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 waterways 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. DEEP SEA ROBERT BORCHESTER Brother Robert Borchester, 67, joined the SIU in 1990. His first trip was aboard the PFC William Baugh. Brother Borchester upgraded often at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Borchester last worked on the Horizon Trader. He calls Wilmington, Delaware, home. MARINO CALLEJAS Brother Marino Callejas, 65, began sailing with the SIU in 2001 when the NMU merged into the Seafarers International Union. He worked in the engine department, most recently aboard the Seabulk Pride. Brother Callejas lives in Lynnwood, Washington. JOSEPH CARRILLO Brother Joseph Carrillo, 59, became a union member in 1980. He initially worked in the inland division with G&H Towing. Brother Carrillo attended classes frequently at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Carrillo’s most recent voyage was on the Green Bay. He makes his home in Alvin, Texas. INOCENCIO DESAVILLE Brother Inocencio Desaville, 68, donned the SIU colors in 1970. He originally sailed with Michigan Tankers Inc. Brother Desaville enhanced his skills at the unionaffiliated school on three occasions. The deck department member’s last trip was on the Yorktown. He was born in the Philippines and settled in Corpus Christi, Texas. KENNETH EVETT Brother Kenneth Evett, 65, started sailing with the union in 2006. His first trip was aboard the Maj. Stephen W. Pless. Brother Evett attended classes twice at the SIU-affiliated school in Maryland. The engine department member’s most recent vessel was the USNS Algol. Brother Evett is a resident of Sparks, Nevada. NICK KEKLIKOS Brother Nick Keklikos, 65, became an SIU member in 1992. He initially worked aboard the USNS Algol. Brother Keklikos sailed in the deck July 2015 department and most recently shipped on the Houston. He upgraded frequently at the Piney Point school. Brother Keklikos resides in Houston. FERDINAND LUGO Brother Ferdinand Lugo, 76, joined the SIU ranks in 1991. He initially sailed on the Sea Fox. Brother Lugo was born in Puerto Rico. His most recent ship was the Alliance Norfolk. Brother Lugo sailed in the deck department. He calls Jacksonville, Florida, home. FORTUNE “HUMBUG” MCCANTS Brother Fortune “Humbug” McCants, 68, started shipping with the SIU in 1967. He originally worked aboard the Alcoa Marketer. Brother McCants was born in Mobile, Alabama, and shipped in the engine department. He upgraded in 1977 and 2001 at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother McCants last sailed on the Sunshine State. He continues to reside in Alabama. GERALD MCINTYRE Brother Gerald McIntyre, 57, joined the Seafarers in 1991. A native of Norfolk, Virginia, he upgraded numerous times at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother McIntyre’s first ship was the USNS Bold; his most recent, the Maersk Detroit. He sailed in both the steward and deck departments. Brother McIntyre is a resident of Chesapeake, Virginia. WILBERT MILES Brother Wilbert Miles, 61, signed on with the SIU in 1970. His first trip was on the Sagamore Hill as a member of the engine department. Brother Hall often took advantage of educational opportunities available at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. He most recently sailed aboard the Seabulk Challenge. Brother Miles settled in Mobile, Alabama. AISEA MUA Brother Aisea Mua, 72, joined the union in 2002. His first ship was the Cape Borda. Brother Mua upgraded in 2011 at the Seafarers-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. He worked in all three shipboard departments. Brother Mua last sailed on the Keystone State. He calls Alameda, California, home. ALAN NELSON Brother Alan Nelson, 63, joined the Seafarers in 1968. He was originally employed on the Newark. Brother Nelson shipped in the engine department. His most recent vessel was the USNS Stockham. Brother Nelson is a resident of Baltimore. ADAM NOOR Brother Adam Noor, 66, signed on with the union in 1990. His first ship was the Independence; his most recent was the USNS Seay. Brother Noor often took advantage of educational opportunities available at the Paul Hall Center. He sailed in the engine department. Brother Noor was born in Singapore and now lives in Brooklyn, New York. ABDULLAH OUN Brother Abdullah Oun, 65, began shipping with the Seafarers in 1978. His earliest trip was on the SeaLand Exchange. Brother Abdullah sailed in all three departments. A native of Yemen, Brother Oun enhanced his skills in 1987 at the Piney Point school. His most recent voyage was aboard the Maersk Atlanta. He is a resident of Brooklyn, New York. CRAIG PARE Brother Craig Pare, 65, became a union member in 1980. He initially sailed aboard the Cove Leader. Brother Pare shipped in the deck department. He upgraded frequently at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Pare last sailed on the Maersk Pittsburgh. He lives in Belgium. EDWIN RIVERA Brother Edwin Rivera, 65, started sailing with the SIU in 1989. His first trip was on the Anders. A member of the deck department, Brother Rivera enhanced his skills in 2001 at the Piney Point school. His most recent voyage was aboard the Edward A Carter. Brother Rivera settled in Spring Hill, Florida. ISMAEL ROMAN-RODRIGUEZ Brother Ismael Roman-Rodriguez, 70, became a union member in 1966. His first ship was the Northern Lights. Brother RomanRodriguez attended classes in 2010 at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. A native of Ponce, Puerto Rico, Brother Roman-Rodriguez shipped as a member of the engine department and last sailed on the Maersk Ohio. He resides in Cantonment, Florida. RICHARD VOLKART Brother Richard Volkart, 67, began shipping with the SIU in 1988. Brother Volkart originally sailed on the PFC Eugene A. Obregon. His most recent vessel was the Comet. The deck department member enhanced his skills in 1988 and 2001 at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Volkart now makes his home in Jefferson City, Missouri. MOTT WARREN Brother Mott Warren, 64, started his seafaring career in 1978. He initially worked in the inland division with Dixie Carriers. Brother Warren is a native of Michigan. The engine department member’s final trip was aboard the Manhattan Island. He retired to Forest, Virginia. LAWRENCE WINFIELD Brother Lawrence Winfield, 64, signed on with the SIU in 1968. He was first employed on the Oberlin Victory as a member of the steward department. Brother Winfield attended classes in 1968 and 2001 at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. He last shipped on the Maersk Hartford. Brother Winfield is a resident of Virginia Beach, Virginia. INLAND DOUGLAS CARSON Brother Douglas Carson, 60, donned the SIU colors in 1990. He first sailed in the deep sea division aboard the USNS Curtiss. Brother Carson sailed in the deck department. He attended classes on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Carson’s most recent ship was the Innovation. He resides in Canterbury, New Hampshire. GEORGE DALEY Brother George Daley, 64, started shipping with the union in 1981. He originally sailed on the Padre Island. Brother Daley, an engine department member, enhanced his skills in 1998 at the Piney Point school. Brother Daley last worked with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jacksonville. He lives in Deltona, Florida. ELWIN LEBOUEF Brother Elwin Lebouef, 66, joined the SIU ranks in 1992. He initially worked with Dixie Carriers. Brother Lebouef sailed in the steward department. He upgraded in 2002 at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Lebouef’s most recent trip was with Allied Towing. He calls Houma, Louisiana, home. MARK PENLAND Brother Mark Penland, 62, became a union member in 1996 in the port of Houston. He was first employed with Moran Towing of Texas, and sailed in the deck department. Brother Penland took advantage of educational opportunities available at the Paul Hall Center. He last worked with Express Marine Inc. Brother Penland makes his home in Panama City, Florida. ALVERTIA WEST Brother Alvertia West, 62, first donned the SIU colors in 1971. He originally shipped on the Dravo Gulf as a member of the deck department. Brother West’s most recent vessel was operated by Martin Marietta. He lives in Fairhope, Alabama. GARY WHITE Brother Gary White, 62, signed on with the union in 1971. He was born in Connecticut. Brother White shipped in the deck department, most recently aboard the Dodge Island. He upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother White calls Norfolk, Virginia, home. LAWRENCE WILBANKS Brother Lawrence Wilbanks, 62, began sailing in the deep sea division in 1991, on the Pioneer Contractor. He worked in the steward department and concluded his career with OLS Transportation. Brother Wilbanks makes his home in Picayune, Mississippi. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION LINTON ACLIESE Brother Linton Acliese, 66, joined the NMU before the 2001 merger. He attended the Piney Point school in 2001. Brother Acliese is a resident of Hawthorne, California. ZBIGNIEW PRZYBYLSKI Brother Zbigniew Przybylski, 65, was an NMU member prior to the 2001 merger with the Seafarers International Union. He calls Royal Palm Beach, Florida, home. MICHAEL SOPER Brother Michael Soper, 65, became an NMU member before the SIU/ NMU merger, in 2001. He makes his home in Kaneohe, Hawaii. Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures DEEP SEA NATHAN BENENATE Pensioner Nathan Benenate, 89, died December 18. He originally shipped on the Salem Maritime in 1951. Brother Benenate was born in New Orleans. A member of the steward department, he last sailed aboard the Robert E. Lee. Brother Benenate retired in 1987 and made his home in Laplace, Louisiana. FRANK BENEVENTO Pensioner Frank Benevento, 94, passed away November 10. He started sailing with the union in 1955. Brother Benevento’s first few voyages were aboard ships operated by Calmar Steamship and Marine Oil Service, respectively. A member of the steward department, he last sailed on a Matson Navigation vessel. Brother Benevento went on pension in 1991 and called Seattle home. THOMAS BUTERAKOS Pensioner Thomas Buterakos, 88, died December 8. Brother Buterakos became an SIU member in 1951. He initially shipped on the Steel Architect. Brother Buterakos was born in West Virginia and sailed as a deck department member. His last voyage was aboard the Santa Clara. Brother Buterakos began receiving his retirement compensation in 1982 and resided in Winchester, Virginia. JACKSON FOREST Pensioner Jackson Forest, 86, passed away November 11. He was born in Bosco, Louisiana. Brother Forest was a member of the engine department. He last shipped aboard the OMI Wabash. Brother Forest became a pensioner in 1993 and settled in El Paso, Texas. GEOFFREY MILLS Pensioner Geoffrey Mills, 90, passed away November 21. He started shipping with the Seafarers in 1953. Brother Mills first sailed with Cabin Tankers. The England native was a deck department member. Brother Mills’ final ship was the Leader. He went on pension in 1989 and lived in Wales. ARTHUR MILNE Pensioner Arthur Milne, 89, died December 15. Brother Milne joined 18 Seafarers LOG the SIU in 1942 in Mobile, Alabama. He initially worked with ISCO Inc. Brother Milne last sailed aboard the OMI Columbia. He shipped in the engine department. Brother Milne started collecting his retirement compensation in 1990. He was a resident of his native state, Alabama. CARLOS MIRANDA Pensioner Carlos Miranda, 82, passed away December 19. Brother Miranda began sailing with the union in 1966. He originally shipped with CSX Lines. Brother Miranda was born in Puerto Rico and worked in the deck department. His final voyage was on the Cape Wrath. Brother Miranda retired in 1998 and made his home in Pawtucket, Rhode Island. JESUS RODRIGUEZ Pensioner Jesus Rodriguez, 79, died October 24. He donned the SIU colors in 1981. Brother Rodriguez initially shipped aboard the Santa Mercedes. He was an engine department member. Prior to his retirement in 2000, Brother Rodriguez sailed on the Overseas Ohio. He called Moreno Valley, California, home. GEORGE SAPP Pensioner George Sapp, 78, passed away December 12. He signed on with the union in 1970. Brother Sapp’s first ship was the Steel Age; his last was the Consumer. The Georgia native sailed in the steward department. Brother Sapp began collecting his pension in 1999 and lived in Jacksonville, Florida. ALVIN SMITH Brother Alvin Smith, 92, died November 24. He joined the SIU in 1958 in San Francisco. Brother Smith was initially employed aboard the Santa Mercedes. He was born in Tennessee and worked in the steward department. He last shipped on the Santa Magdelena and settled in California. LEONARD SPIVEY Pensioner Leonard Spivey, 93, passed away December 20. Brother Spivey started sailing with the Seafarers in 1944. He was originally employed with Waterman Steamship Corporation. Brother Spivey was born in North Carolina. The deck department member last shipped aboard the Cape Hudson. He retired in 1985 and resided in Baltimore. Company. He began receiving his retirement compensation in 1982. Brother Tetro was a resident of Ozone Park, New York. born in Trinidad. He began collecting his retirement pay in 1982 and made his home in Queens Village, New York. WILLIAM TUCKER WILLIAM UMPHLETT EDMUNDO LACERDA Pensioner William Tucker, 83, died November 30. Brother Tucker became a union member in 1951. His first trip was with Sprogue Steamship Company. A native of Mississippi, Brother Tucker sailed in the deck department. He most recently worked on the Inspiration. Brother Tucker started receiving his pension in 1996. He settled in Vero Beach, Florida. Pensioner William Umphlett, 91, passed away December 14. Born in Virginia, he joined the union in 1962. Brother Umphlett originally worked with M Lee Hudgins Associates. He was a member of the deck department. Before retiring in 1990, Brother Umphlett shipped with Allied Towing. He resided in White Stone, Virginia. Pensioner Edmundo Lacerda, 89, passed away November 30. The New Jersey native retired in 1971. Brother Lacerda called Williamsburg, Virginia, home. FRANCISCO URBINA Pensioner Francisco Urbina, 89, passed away December 3. Brother Urbina began his seafaring career in 1953, initially sailing with Interocean American Shipping Company. He worked in the engine department. The Texas native last sailed aboard the Inger. Brother Urbina went on pension in 1990 and lived in Galveston, Texas. INLAND WILLIAM BOLUK Pensioner William Boluk, 73, died October 15. Brother Boluk donned the SIU colors in 1973. He originally sailed in the deck department of vessels operated by Interstate Oil Transportation Company. Brother Boluk was born in New York. He last sailed with Mariner Towing. Brother Boluk retired in 2003 and was a resident of Sebastian, Florida. HOWARD PLYBON Pensioner Howard Plybon, 69, passed away December 20. He began shipping with the union in 1979. Brother Plybon initially worked in the deep sea division aboard the USNS Potomac. He was a deck department member. Brother Plybon was last employed with Penn Maritime Inc. He made his home in Blue Ridge, Virginia. He became a pensioner in 2010. WILLIAM TETRO Pensioner William Tetro, 93, died December 13. He signed on with the union in 1960. Brother Tetro primarily shipped with Penn Central Transportation GREAT LAKES GERALD NOKLAND Pensioner Gerald Nokland, 70, died August 9. He began his union career in 1963. Brother Nokland worked with Inland Lakes Management for the duration of his career. He was born in New York and sailed in the engine department. Brother Nokland went on pension in 1999 and settled in Hubbard Lake, Michigan. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION WILLIAM CRUZ Pensioner William Cruz, 91, died November 23. Brother Cruz was born in Puerto Rico. He became a pensioner in 1967 and called New York home. WILLIAM DOUGLAS Pensioner William Douglas, 87, passed away December 6. Brother Douglas, a native of Pennsylvania, began collecting his pension in 1987. He resided in New Orleans. FRANCIS GALLO Pensioner Francis Gallo, 91, died December 10. Brother Gallo was born Pennsylvania. He went on pension in 1960. Brother Gallo lived in Milton, Delaware. RUDOLF GOLDSTEIN Pensioner Rudolf Goldstein, 82, passed away November 6. Born in Honduras, Brother Goldstein retired in 1986. He was a resident of Bronx, New York. JAMES GROSS Pensioner James Gross, 86, passed away November 23. Born in Alabama, Brother Gross started receiving his retirement compensation in 1995. He continued to live in Alabama. CLARENCE HORNE Pensioner Clarence Horne, 100, died November 17. Brother Horne was LEON LAWSON Pensioner Leon Lawson, 88, died December 19. Born in the Virgin Islands, Brother Lawson started receiving his pension in 1987. He lived in Bronx, New York. LAWRENCE LYDA Pensioner Lawrence Lyda, 84, passed away August 18. He was born in Wizard Wells, Texas, and became a pensioner in 1970. Brother Lyda settled in Beaumont, Texas. LUIS MELARA Pensioner Luis Melara, 83, died November 3. Brother Melara, a native of New York, began collecting his retirement pay in 1983. He resided in Kenner, Louisiana. ENRIQUE OLIVERAS Pensioner Enrique Oliveras, 89, passed away November 16. Born in Puerto Rico, Brother Oliveras went on pension in 1985. He continued to live in Puerto Rico. CYRIL PRESCOD Pensioner Cyril Prescod, 101, died December 13. Brother Prescod was born in the British Virgin Islands. He started receiving compensation for his retirement in 1973 and made his home in New Jersey. CORNELIUS ROBERTS Pensioner Cornelius Roberts, 73, passed away November 4. The Virginia native became a pensioner in 2000. Brother Roberts called Suffolk, Virginia, home. JOHN SIMIHTIS Pensioner John Simihtis, 93, died December 2. Brother Simihtis was born in New York. He went on pension in 1975 and was a resident of Montgomery, New York. MIGUEL VILLEGAS Pensioner Miguel Villegas, 85, passed away December 1. He was a native of Puerto Rico. Brother Villegas retired in 1987 and made his home in Bronx, New York. Name Caneja, Manuel Ciriaco, Ivan Cortes, Andres Slade, Jerome Wimberly, Billy Zunde, Karl Age 70 89 93 69 82 94 DOD Nov. 29 Dec. 8 Dec. 3 Sept. 3 Nov. 12 Dec. 17 July 2015 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings capt. steven l bennett (Sealift), March 22 – Chairman Nagi A. Musaid, Secretary Lionell P. Packnett, Deck Delegate Emmanuel Wade, Steward Delegate David Halim. Chairman reported crew compensated for lack of AC. Educational director urged everyone to enhance skills at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department was thanked for doing a great job during voyage. global sentinel (Transoceanic Cable Ship), April 27 – Chairman Lee H. Hardman, Secretary Vicki L. Haggerty, Educational Director Vladimir Tkachev, Deck Delegate David Weeks, Steward Delegate Christopher Hopkins. Bosun thanked crew for working together and urged mariners to stay up to date with necessary seafaring documents. He also reminded them about company requirement for notification about last day of work. Two bikes belonging to crew are locked on the dock. Educational director encouraged all members to take advantage of upgrading opportunities available at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew members are pleased with new chairs. horizon reliance (Horizon Lines), April 29 – Chairman Kissinfor N. Taylor, Secretary Tommy E. Belvin, Educational Director James Donohue, Deck Delegate Rene Rafer. Bosun expressed gratitude to the engine department and to the daymen for working with him in China shipyard. Secretary reported shipyard workers did a great job on the vessel and crew members are pleased. Educational director reminded mariners to upgrade at their earliest convenience. No beefs or disputed OT reported. It was reported that new washing machine was received while in China. Suggestions were made regarding vacation benefits and steward department was thanked for a job well done. With Seafarers on Alaskan Navigator Maersk Hartford (Maersk Line, Limited), April 26 – Chairman Carey J. Hatch, Secretary Johnnie B. McGill, Educational Director Nakesha L. Miller, Deck Delegate Dennis Byrne. Chairman announced payoff April 27 in Newark, New Jersey. Secretary reported smooth sailing and said fresh provisions would be received upon arrival in Newark. Educational director urged members to enhance skills at union-affiliated school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request was made for new mattresses and to have vacation checks direct deposited. MAERSK MISSOURI (Maersk Line, Limited), April 15 – Chairman John O’ Shaughnessy, Secretary Billy Gigante, Educational Director Jerome D. Culbreth, Deck Delegate Travis Long, Engine Delegate Jeffery Roddy, Steward Delegate Husain Salah. Chairman reported smooth voyage and thanked crew for hard work. Secretary reminded mariners to leave cabins clean for reliefs. Educational director recommended upgrading in Piney Point and keeping all documents up-to-date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department was credited for excellent job. Next ports: Elizabeth, New Jersey; Norfolk, Virginia; Charleston, South Carolina; Miami and Houston. OVERSEAS NIKISKI (OSG Ship Management), April 25 – Chairman Aristeo M. Padua, Secretary Amy K. Rippel, Educational Director Benjamin E. Mathews, Deck Delegate Arnel Resurreccion, Engine Delegate Ali Mohamed. Chairman expressed gratitude for all departments working well together. Educational director discussed USNS Henson Hosts Dignitaries Seafarers teamed up with AMO members aboard the Maerskoperated USNS Henson to dress ship for a VIP reception May 13 in Yokosuka, Japan. According to a report from the vessel, the reception was hosted by Rear Adm. Timothy Gallaudet, commander, U.S. Naval Meteorological and Oceanographic Command. U.S. guests included Vice Adm. Robert Thomas, commander, Seventh Fleet, and Rear Adm. William Merz, commander, Task Force 74. Japanese guests included Adm. Tomohisa Takei, chief of staff, Maritime Self-Defense Force, and the mayor of Yokosuka, Yuto Yoshida. Civilian guests included representatives from the Office of Naval Research, and representatives from the U.S. embassy in Tokyo. July 2015 The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring 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. These photos are from a May 28 servicing of Alaska Tanker Company’s Alaskan Navigator in Richmond, California. Chief Steward Albert Sison and Chief Cook Steve Concepcion are pictured in the galley (photo below), while the larger group photo above includes (from left) Patrolman Nick Marrone II, AB Michael Ostrowski, Recertified Bosun Gregorio Cudal and AB Manuel Enrico. Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan’s enhanced eligibility rules for benefits. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew would like whole bean coffee and a coffee grinder in mess hall. Steward department was thanked for keeping ship cleaned and stocked. HORIZON PACIFIC (Horizon Lines), May 25 – Chairman Manolo Delos Santos, Secretary Robert P. Mosley, Educational Director Samuel Garrett, Deck Delegate Venerando Ramos, Engine Delegate Rommel Crespo. Bosun talked about new car carrier going from San Diego to Hawaii. He thanked crew members for a job well done. Secretary mentioned importance of keeping all shipping documents updated and reminded them to donate to Seafarers Political Activity Donation (SPAD). Educational director encouraged all members to take advantage of upgrading opportunities available at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland. Treasurer reported $318 in cookout fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. President’s report from Seafarers LOG was read and discussed. Crew gave a vote of thanks to President Sacco and his staff. Members would like the option to have direct deposit of vacation pay. A recommendation was made to call vacation pay, supplemental wage. Suggestions were also made pertaining to dental and pension benefits. Steward department was thanked for great food and cookouts. Next ports: Los Angeles and Honolulu. LIBERTY GLORY (Liberty Maritime), May 31 – Chairman Mark S. Lance, Secretary Fausto D. Aranda, Educational Director Raul A. Quioto, Deck Delegate Justice Agha Kuofie, Steward Delegate Angel Bernardez. Chairman went over ship’s itinerary. Secretary expressed gratitude to all departments for helping each other. Educational director advised mariners to attend classes at the Piney Point school and watch document expiration dates. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew talked about recent decision to enhance eligibility under Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. Next port: New Orleans. MAERSK CHICAGO (Maersk Line, Limited), May 10 – Chairman Mohamed S. Ahmed, Secretary Richard K. Ward, Educational Director Reginald E. White, Deck Delegate Neftali Erausquin, Steward Delegate Charles Davis. Chairman stated payoff to take place on May 11 in Newark, New Jersey. He asked departing crew to leave rooms clean and supplied with fresh linen. Educational director urged everyone to enhance skills at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendation was made to increase pension benefits. New mattresses were requested for crew. MAERSK KENSINGTON (Maersk Line, Limited), May 16 – Chairman Abdulla R. Alwaseem, Secretary Cleto S. Lindong, Educational Director Barry C. Knowles, Deck Delegate Eddie Ebanks, Engine Delegate James Castillo, Steward Delegate Cesar Avila. Bosun thanked crew members for their hard work and professionalism. Secretary expressed gratitude for everyone helping keep ship clean. Educational director reminded mariners to upgrade at their earliest convenience, watch document expiration dates and keep dues paid. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request was made for heavy duty washing machine and dryer. Suggestion was made pertaining to vacation benefits. Seafarers LOG 19 �Retired Mariner Recalls Days at Sea Continued from Page 10 flora and fauna, much of which cannot be found elsewhere. New Guinea and the West Pacific Area We left Balboa in the early morning, and a few miles out of the harbor we were forced to drop anchor for an engine repair. It was a warm, sunny day and we received permission to go swimming. The bosun tossed a Jacob’s ladder over the side and about six or seven of us jumped overboard. The water was warm and we appreciated the chance to do a little saltwater bathing. Within a short time an officer on the bridge called down for everyone to get out of the water at once. There was shark activity in the area. It was difficult for six or seven guys to get on a Jacob’s ladder all at once, but we tried. Sharks! It was every man for himself in an attempt to get out of the water. That was the last time we went for a swim in deep waters off the side of our ship. Our first port of call in New Guinea was Lae, made famous by being Amelia Earhart’s last stop before becoming lost en route to Howland Island. We were in Lae less than a day when we were ordered north to Finschafen. From there we were ordered north to Hollandia where General McArthur’s headquarters was located. We no sooner dropped anchor when we were ordered to go further north to take on fresh water in the little port of Tamara Bay. It was Christmas Eve 1944, a hot muggy day and my first Christmas away from home – the first and only time I felt nostalgic while at sea. I wondered what my parents, brothers and sisters were doing this Christmas holiday. There was a sandy beach near the dock and the seawater looked clear and cool, and we asked permission to go for swim. The answer was an emphatic “no.” Word had been received that a few days before a sailor lost his leg to a barracuda. It was hot, very hot. We were about two degrees south of the equator. Air conditioning was unheard of and there were no portholes below the main deck. Most of the crew slept on deck in cots with an overhead waterproof canvas cover attached to their cots and supported by 2x4s. The officers’ cabins were on the main deck or above and they could open their portholes; no light at night. The Navy gunners staged an initiation ceremony for all hands who were crossing the equator for the first time. It was a relatively harmless ritual: had to crawl through a wind funnel, a few soft whacks on the behind and some whitewash on the body. When it was over we were issued the Trusty Shellback Card. It was Christmas Eve, and our benevolent captain went aboard the ship tied next to us, just as she was preparing to leave, and made a deal with her captain to buy cases of beer. Once the crew heard about this transaction, there was no shortage of volunteers to help bring it aboard. It was stored in our food refrigerator until evening when we were given the opportunity to buy as many cans as we liked for 10 cents a can. A few crew members abused the captain’s Christmas present and thereafter, the beer was handled by the U.S. Navy leading gunner’s mate, who sold it for 10 cents a can on Sunday afternoons with a limit of two cans per man. Christmas morning we got permission to go ashore, provided we stayed together and were accompanied by armed escorts. Two armed gunners went with us. Keep in mind, New Guinea had not yet been secured and wouldn’t be until the end of the war. A group of naked black children greeted us a short distance within the jungle. I thought they were pygmies due to their extended stomachs. The purser, who was with us said, “No, they’re not pygmies, they’re suffering from malnutrition.” Back on board, the chef, as a Christmas offering had repeated Sunday’s dinner and feasted us with baked ham and roast turkey. To Be Continued Some of the currency from Woods’ last stop in Panama Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the 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 recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters 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 disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval 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 shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively 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 employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. 20 Seafarers LOG The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers 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 filing 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 SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful 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 responsibility for Sea­farers 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 OBLIGATIONS. 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 headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. 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 further 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 American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect 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 Michael 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 July 2015 �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. Please note that this schedule may change to reflect the needs of the membership, the maritime industry and - in times of conflict - national security. Students attending any of these classes should check in the Saturday before their course’s start date. The courses listed here will begin promptly on the morning of the start dates. For classes ending on a Friday, departure reservations should be made for Saturday. Students who have registered for classes, but later discover - for whatever reason - that they can’t attend, should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. 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 ARPA August 8 August 14 Able Seafarer-Deck August 15 September 11 October 10 November 6 Title of Start Date of Course Date Completion Machinist September 26 October 16 Pumpman October 17 October 30 Welding August 1 August 21 September 19 October 9 October 24 November 13 Safety Upgrading Courses Advanced Firefighting August 22 August 28 November 7 November 13 Basic Firefighting/STCW July 18 July 24 August 15 August 21 September 5 September 11 September 26 October 2 October 31 November 6 December 5 December 11 Government Vessels #1 August 8 August 14 September 12 September 18 October 24 October 30 November 28 December 4 ECDIS July 18 July 24 August 29 September 4 November 14 November 20 August 29 September 4 Fast Rescue Boat July 25 July 31 Medical Care Provider November 14 November 20 August 15 August 21 GMDSS August 8 August 21 October 24 November 6 Lifeboat July 18 July 31 August 15 August 28 September 12 September 25 October 10 October 23 November 7 November 20 December 5 December 18 Radar July 25 August 7 RFPNW September 12 October 9 Tanker Familiarization DL/LG September 12 September 25 Tanker Familiarization LG July 25 July 31 August 8 August 14 October 3 October 9 December 12 December 18 Tank Pic Barge October 3 October 9 Engine Department Upgrading Courses BAPO September 12 October 9 FOWT August 15 September 11 October 10 November 6 Junior Engineer October 17 December 11 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 #___________________________________________________________________ Have you attended any SHLSS/PHC upgrading courses? oYes o No If yes, course(s) taken____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ With this application, COPIES of the following must be sent: One hundred and twenty-five (125) days seatime for the previous year, one day in the last six months prior to the date your class starts, USMMD (z-card) front and back or relevant pages of merchant mariner credential, front page of your union book indicating your department and seniority, qualifying seatime for the course if it is Coast Guard tested, 1995 STCW Certificate, valid SHBP Clinic Card and TWIC. July 2015 Steward Department Courses Advanced Galley Ops August 1 August 28 August 29 September 25 September 26 October 23 October 24 November 20 November 21 December 18 Chief Steward September 12 October 23 December 5 January 15 Galley Ops July 18 August 14 August 15 September 11 September 12 October 9 October 10 November 6 November 7 December 4 December 5 January 1 Serve Safe September 26 October 2 NMC Website Provides Useful Mariner Resources The National Maritime Center (NMC), the licensing authority for the U.S. Coast Guard, offers a comprehensive website covering mariner credentialing, medical guidelines and much more. The site features a wide range of applications and forms, deck- and engine-department exam information, lists of Coast Guard-approved courses and more. Seafarers are encour- aged to check out the site at: www.uscg. mil/nmc/ Mariners may call the NMC at 1-888-IASKNMC (1-888-427-5662). Operational hours are 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday. (The NMC is closed for all federal holidays.) Various email forms also are available through the NMC website. COURSE ____________________________ START DATE _______________ DATE OF 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 students, who are otherwise qualified, of 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. 7/15 Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class #798 – Eight Phase I apprentices finished their requirements in this course May 8. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Christopher Anderson, Phillip Best, Ryan Brandle, Mark Espinosa, Simona Evans, Matthew Hinton, Shawn Mitchell and Delia Peters. Class instructor Tom Truitt is at the far left. Water Survival – Ten upgraders graduated from this course May 8. Successfully completing all of their requisites (above, in alphabetical order) were: Travis Abbott, Elias Bonefont, Michael Cox, Corey Hann, Kacey Hare, Corey Hornig, Kyle Knickerbocker, Jonas Libang, James Rushin and John Schmidt. Class instructor Tom Truitt is in the center. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Welding – Four upgraders completed the enhancement of their skills in this course May 15. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Alexander Capellan, James Fells, Antonio McAdams and Mario Moralita. Chris Raley, their instructor, is at the far right. Marine Electrician – Four Seafarers finished their requirements in this course May 15. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Eric Cunanan, Lon Maduro, Frank Sambula and Anatoli Vetsinov. Class instructor Jay Henderson is at the far right. ECDIS – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course May 15: James Dixon Sr., Eric Dukett, Thomas Elkowitz, Gerald Freeman, Hector Guzman, Patrick Hewitt and John Jackson. Their instructor, Patrick Schoenberger, is at the far right. FOWT – Seventeen Seafarers finished this course May 22. Graduating (photo at right, in alphabetical order) were: Mahdi Ali, Arthur Bailey, Danielle Brown, Lorenzo Finley, Stacy Fulcher, David Garrett, Isaac Lesh, Jean Lozada, Demarkus McNabb, Carlos Mohler Vega, Michael Montanez, Jaquel Nesmith, James Parker, Cesar Rivera-Polanco, Anne Scott, Mario Standberry and Shewanna Stephenson. Their instructor, John Wiegman III, is in the front row at the far left. 22 Seafarers LOG GMDSS – Six upgraders graduated from this course May 29. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Hector Fernandez Curbelo, Benigno Gonzales Jr., Patrick Hewitt, Melvin Kennedy Jr., James Knute and Jarred Moylan. Class instructor Brad Wheeler is at the far right. Chief Steward – Stewatd Department Upgrader Terrell McMillian (above) graduated from this course May 5. July 2015 �Paul Hall Center Classes Basic Firefighting – Fourteen individuals finished their requisites in this course May 15. Graduating (photo at left, in alphabetical order) were: James Armer, Jason Bentz, Alfonso Bombita Jr., Jovita Carino, Stanley Golden, Eric Johnson, Bruce Korte, Nathaniel Leary, Ross Lyle Jr., Anthony Pace, Rahjahn Sorey, McKinley Thorne, Victorino Viernes and John Yi. Class instructor Mark Cates is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Special Basic Firefighting – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course May 15: Travis Abbott, Michael Cox, Kacey Hare, Kyle Knickenbocker, Patricia Ricks, James Rushin and John Schmidt. Wayne Johnson Jr., their instructor, is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Machinist – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) completed their requirements in this course May 8: Edgar Dionio, Tsawang Gyurme, Gregory Howard, Larry Locke Jr., Patrocinio Maglinte, Michael Maldonado, William Mercer, Rodolfo Opinaldo, Richard Striverson and Jimmie Williams Jr. Their instructors, Jim Shaffer and Paul Joiner, are in the back row at the far left and far right, respectively. Combined Basic & Advanced Firefighting – Seven Seafarers finished this course May 8. Those graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Anthony Goddard Sr., Benigno Gonzales Jr., Eric Johnson, Melvin Kennedy Jr., James Knute, Kreg Stiebben and Lamar Walton. Class instructor John Thomas is at the far right. Medical Care Provider – Four Seafarers completed the enhancement of their skills in this course May 15. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Benigno Gonzales Jr., Melvin Kennedy Jr., James Knute and Kreg Stiebben. Mike Roberts, their instructor, is at the far left. Tank Ship Familiarization DL/LG - The following Phase III apprentices (photo at right, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course May 15: Zarinah Bullard, Kem Burton, Marcus Carrasquillo, Luis Cordero-Fuentes, Christopher Dault, Bakari Dickerson, Jasen Flippin, Steven Gedrich, Thomas Johnson, Reisa MartinezSerrano, Martin McDonald, Ryan Melvin, Melody Mitchell, Justin Nicholson, Kenneth Otten, James Pascocello, Jophrey Pelingon, Efren Ramos-Sosa, Kalai Robledo, Dylan Sapp, Sharray Turner and Miguel White. and Damon Zschoche. July 2015 Seafarers LOG 23 �JULY F E B R2015 UARY 2014 o NO. 7 V O LVOLUME U M E 7 677 NO. 2 More from WWII Mariner Ed Woods Page 10 Seafarers George Rose, Richard Crutchfield and Robert Brooks climb the gangway. Ocean Grand Reflags American Sporting its new name, the Ocean Grand docks in Houston. AB Celso Castro OS Jing Hui Huang, AB Muafa Musad, Recertified Bosun Eddie Hall The ship is pictured earlier this year when still sailing as the Industrial Grand. AB Richard Crutchfield SIU members are sailing aboard the newly reflagged heavy lift ship Ocean Grand, a replacement vessel for the Ocean Charger. Formerly sailing under the Marshall Islands flag as the Industrial Grand, the Ocean Grand hoisted the Stars and Stripes and got a new name in Houston during a four-day period from late May to early June. Built in China and delivered earlier this year, the vessel is 560 feet long, has a beam of 83 feet and can sail at 17 knots. It is equipped with three cranes with a combined lifting capacity of up to 900 metric tons. The 20,000 DWT general cargo carrier is being operated by Crowley for Intermarine. Its trade route is worldwide, and the vessel is suitable for loading project cargo as well as military and Food Aid cargo, according to Crowley. The crew photos on this page were submitted by SIU Houston Safety Director Kevin Sykes. QMED Charles Wescott Electrician George Rose Chief Steward Robert Brooks, ACU Raford Nixon � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2010-2019 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXII-LXXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2010-2019 Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource July 2015 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES SEAFARER JOBS REMAIN SECURE ABOARD HORIZON LINES VESSELS UNION-CONTRACTED COMPANIES CAPTURE CSA SAFETY AWARDS CONSTRUCTION STARTS ON SECOND CROWLEY CONRO LNG-POWERED VESSELS SLATED TO SAIL IN JONES ACT TRADE NASSCO DELIVERS USNS PULLER, SIU GAINS JOBS SAFETY TRAINING PAYS OFF IN MV COURAGE INCIDENT OSG BOATMENT UNANIMOUSLY APPROVE THREE-YEAR ACCORD UNION-SECRETARY-TREASURER LANDS LABOR ADVISORY COMMITTEE SEAT SIU PORT AGENT GETS NOD FOR NATIONAL MARITIME SECURITY COMMITTEE ITF SLAMS SHIPPING AUSTRALIA FOR MAKING ‘DANGEROUS COMMENTS’ ON FOC INQUIRY SIU OF CANADA SCORES MAJOR WINS IN MARINER RIGHTS, CABOTAGE LAWS BATTLE CONTINUES FOR EX-IM REAUTHORIZATION OBP RELEASES ANNUAL MARITIME PIRACY REPORT SIU MARINERS, COAST GUARD RESCUE BOATERS SHBP SCHOLARSHIP WINNER EXTENDS ‘DEEPEST GRATITUDE’ CHIARELLO, COX, MCKENNA RECEIVE NOD FOR 2015 AOTOS AWARDS SEAFARERS OBSERVE NATIONAL MARITIME DAY MARITIME DAY MESSAGE: STRONG MERCHANT MARINE A MUST! SIU, PAUL HALL CENTER APPRENTICES PARTICIPATE IN ANNUAL CEREMONY IN NATION’S CAPITOL OCEAN SHIPPING INDUSTRY, MARINERS SHARE UNBREAKABLE TIES RETIRED MARINER RECALLS DAYS AT SEA OCEAN GRAND REFLAGS AMERICAN Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 07/01/2015 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 77, No. 7 http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/e5d271b0ffafa09aec7f47dae6be37a5.pdf cd1dcaa11c14a3483f1dccacd76dc9b7 PDF Text Text FJULY E B2016 R U A VOLUME RY 2014 V O L U M E 7 6 o N78ONO. . 27 SIU Observes National Maritime Day Shipboard, Shore-Side Ceremonies Honor U.S. Mariners, Stress Ongoing Need for Robust American-Flag Fleet The union took part in numerous National Maritime Day observances in May, from the traditional ceremony at U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) headquarters in the nation’s capital to other shore-side events to individual gatherings aboard ships around the world. In the group photo at the far right, SIU President Michael Sacco (right) is pictured at the DOT building with Gen. Darren McDew (center), commanding officer of the U.S. Transportation Command, and retired Rear Adm. Al Herberger, an iconic figure in U.S. maritime history. The photo below shows much of the crowd at DOT. Pages 8-10, 24. Union Gains Jobs as Ocean Glory Flags In SIU members are sailing aboard the newly reflagged heavy-lift ship Ocean Glory, an Intermarine vessel managed by Crowley. The 560-foot ship is shown hoisting cargo in Tacoma, Washington. It’s sailing under a U.S. Military Sealift Command charter. Page 3. NY Waterway: Delivering for 30 Years SIU-crewed NY Waterway boats (including the Thomas Jefferson, pictured above) transport more than 30,000 passengers daily, more than 8 million people per year. For a closer look at the nation’s largest privately operated commuter ferry company, turn to Pages 12-13. House Backs MSP Page 2 Annual Maritime Sail-In Page 4 SHBP Scholarships Awarded Page 7 �Direct Deposit Coming for Vacation Checks President’s Report Big Wins for Maritime Two recent victories for our industry in the U.S. House of Representatives firmly underscored why the SIU has always been politically active and must remain so. As reported in this edition, the House rejected an attack on the Jones Act that would have been part of a bill addressing Puerto Rico’s financial crisis and, separately, stood up for the Maritime Security Program (MSP) by rejecting an amendment intended to undermine it. No one in our union needs any reminders about the importance of grassroots political action. It’s been part of our fabric since we were chartered in 1938. But if you’re new to the SIU, take note of those wins in the House. They don’t happen without strong support on Capitol Hill – and that support doesn’t materialize out of thin air. It takes constant work to educate people in Congress and in the administration. It takes solid working relationships both within our industry and with government officials at every level, from our members and their families helping back home to cultivating relationMichael Sacco ships once he or she comes to Washington. It takes get-out-the-vote campaigns. Part of the equation also involves our union’s voluntary political action fund, SPAD. We have a great rate of participation and I’ve never taken it for granted. But if you haven’t signed up, now is the time to stop sitting on the sidelines. Your union needs your support. The U.S.-flag maritime industry needs your support. SPAD makes a difference. Again for those of you who are new to the SIU, let me be clear about SPAD. It doesn’t guarantee we’ll always get what we want, and it’s certainly not a case of us trying to buy favors. But political campaigns cost money, and politicians ask us for donations all the time. It’s not a perfect system but it’s the system our country has at the moment. And if we don’t participate, you can forget any chance of having a voice. That’s just how it is. We examine those requests with close scrutiny, and then we support the people we believe will support our industry, regardless of political party. In the recent examples I just mentioned about the MSP and the Jones Act, as usual it was a collective effort from our industry that led to the victories. But the SIU definitely did our part, and we share in the credit. Plain and simple, we wouldn’t even be in the arena without SPAD. It’s not our only weapon but it’s a vital one. If you’re already donating, thank you and keep it up. If you’re not, check with your patrolman or port agent and get on board. Every dollar helps. Speaking of politics, the SIU once again was part of the team at this year’s Sail-In in the nation’s capital. It’s only one day a year, but it’s an important opportunity for the American maritime industry to make introductions and also check in with good friends as we discuss the most critical issues we face. This year, those subjects included the MSP and the Jones Act, cargo preference and vessel discharge regulations that impede the operation of commercial ships. The fact that our Sail-In groups almost always include representatives from labor and management properly reflects the cohesion that exists in our industry. As one group member put it, we go at each other hard when we’re at the bargaining table, but at the end of the day we’re all in this together. It’s also noteworthy that we meet with many representatives on both sides of the aisle. Politics can be a complicated game, but for us it’s always been simple: We support those who support the U.S. Merchant Marine. We had a lot of serious conversations at the Sail-In, because this isn’t an easy time for the U.S.-flag fleet. We have a lot of work to do in order to build it back up. But we’ve got a fighting chance to make it happen, as reflected in those Jones Act and MSP wins, and also as clearly shown in recent comments from top military leaders. No one expects it to be easy. I know we will put in the work in order to win. FEBRUARY 2014 VOLUME 76 Volume 78 Number 7 July 2016 o NO. 2 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org 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, Misty Dobry; Content Curator, Mark Clements; Contributor, Daniel Duncan. Copyright © 2016 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. 2 Seafarers LOG As reported at the June membership meetings, in response to numerous requests from rank-and-file SIU members, the trustees of the Seafarers Vacation Plan recently approved the development of a direct deposit option for vacation checks. Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen reported, “We have been working with our system developer to put this process in place. This change requires updates to our desktop applications as well as changes to the member portal (linked on the SIU home page at www.seafarers.org). We will be updating the screens on the portal to allow members to enter their banking information for direct deposit.” She added that the updated sys- tem with the direct-deposit option is expected to be ready for use in July. Check the News section of the SIU website for any updates. U.S. House of Representatives Backs MSP The U.S. House of Representatives recently offered a major, bipartisan show of support for the U.S. Maritime Security Program (MSP), one of the pillars of American-flag shipping. Voting on an amendment that would have required an unnecessary, awkward study of the MSP based on questions that appear to have been developed by an anti-maritime think tank, the House on May 18 shot down the proposal in overwhelming fashion. The final tally was 383-41, with a dozen or so abstentions. In essence, those figures mean that 383 representatives voted in support of the MSP. In a “Dear Colleague” message before the vote, U.S. Rep. Randy Forbes (R-Virginia) and U.S. Rep. Joe Courtney (D-Connecticut) made it clear they viewed the proposed Government Accountability Office (GAO) study as a waste. Forbes is chairman of the Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee; Courtney serves as ranking member on the subcommittee. Their letter read in part: “We oppose this amendment because we believe that the GAO report it produces cannot and will not adequately address the issues of military judgement and strategy that are at the core of the case for sustaining the Maritime Security Program. For example, the amendment would require the GAO to report on the justification for the size of the Maritime Security Fleet, but this is not a question about dollars and cents. This is a question about what sealift capacity and capabilities our military contingency plans require, and the extent to which we can rely upon foreign shipping companies and foreign mariners in times of both peace and war. This strategic question is best answered by the professionals at U.S. Transportation Command, Military Sealift Command, and the Maritime Administration.” The letter continues: “The Subcommittee on Seapower and Projection Forces heard testimony from the leaders of these organizations earlier this year. Lieutenant General Stephen Lyons, the Deputy Commanding General of U.S. Transportation Command, testified that ‘the case for a US-Flag fleet is compelling’ and that several mobility capability studies done by Transportation Command have repeatedly reaffirmed the need for a 60-ship Maritime Security Fleet. Chip Jaenichen, the Maritime Administrator, testified that the Maritime Security Fleet’s ‘60-ship capability is extremely important’ and that foreign-flagged ships, which might be cheaper, cannot be relied upon for critical national security missions. “In World War II, 1 in 26 Merchant Mariners was killed—a higher rate of losses than any other service,” the letter continued. “That rate was so high that the government concealed it because they were afraid they couldn’t find enough Mariners if the true dangers of the service were known. Lieutenant General Lyons hit at the heart of this issue when he said that ‘There is no guarantee whatsoever that a foreign-flag fleet will sail into harm’s way.’ “The Maritime Security Fleet is a wartime capability that must be there when we need it,” Forbes and Courtney concluded. “It’s about military readiness and national security, not just dollars and cents. The study called for by this amendment cannot and will not adequately address the military reasons for sustaining the Maritime Security Fleet, and for that reason we urge our colleagues on both sides of the aisle to oppose this amendment.” In a related communication, U.S. Rep. Mac Tornberry (R-Texas), chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, pointed out, “Ninety percent of all U.S. military cargo moved from Iraq and Afghanistan has been by U.S.-flagged, U.S.-crewed commercial vessels enrolled in the (MSP) program.” During floor debate on the proposed amendment, U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (D-California) strongly spoke in support of the MSP. He also pointed out that during Operation Desert Storm, a foreign-flag ship that was supposed to transport cargo for American troops refused to sail. “We cannot allow that to happen ever again,” he stated. Enacted in 1996 as part of the Maritime Security Act, the MSP ensures that Department of Defense has access to a fleet of U.S.-crewed, U.S.flagged, militarily useful vessels in times of need. The program has been hailed by military leaders for its reliability and cost-effectiveness. Experts have estimated that it would cost the government billions of dollars to replicate the assets it receives through the MSP and its related Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement – and that’s not including the intangible value of well-trained, loyal, reliable, U.S.citizen crews who deliver the goods for our troops wherever and whenever needed. Salute to Congress Honors Sen. Wicker This year’s Salute to Congress, an annual event that recognizes members of Congress for their support of the maritime industry, honored Sen. Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi) for his stalwart advocacy for mariners and pro-maritime laws and programs. The honor was presented by the International Propeller Club at a dinner held at the Army Navy Country Club in Arlington, Virginia, on May 11. Attending the ceremony from the SIU were President Michael Sacco, Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, Vice President Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski, Legislative Director Brian Schoeneman and Assistant Vice President Ambrose Cucinotta. International Propeller Club President Rick Schiappacasse described Wicker as “a distinguished leader” who “has been a consistent supporter of America’s maritime industry and (who) understands its importance to our nation’s economy and as an important asset to our military. He appreciates the role of the U.S. Merchant Marine and the men and women who crew the ships, as well as the importance of our shipyards, ports and inland waterways – all of which play significant roles in the economy of his home state of Mississippi.” Wicker is the Chairman of the Senate Subcommittee on Seapower, and an effective ally in the fight to protect the Jones Act. In addition, Wicker is a member of the Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee; the Budget Committee; the Environment and Public Works Committee and the Rules Committee. A retired Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Air Force, Wicker was elected seven times in the House of Representatives before being elected to the Senate. Former Senate Majority Leader Trent Lott (R-Mississippi), a longtime friend of the SIU, gave the introduction speech for Sen. Wicker before a large gathering of industry leaders and lawmakers. Lott, who received the same award in 1997, spoke about the maritime industry, praising the effectiveness of its labor-business partnerships. “I’ve suggested to other industries that they emulate the maritime industry,” he said. “You had business and labor all in the same room. It made it easier.” In his acceptance speech, Wicker credited the maritime industry for “half a million direct jobs,” easing traffic congestion “by getting people off the roads” and being “an integral part of our national security.” This year marked the 32nd an- Sen. Roger Wicker R-Mississippi nual Salute to Congress. All Salute to Congress honorees have demonstrated consistent support for the United States-flag Merchant Marine and the maritime industry as a whole in the United States. According to Schiappacasse, “By extension, the Salute is also where the club shows its appreciation to all Members of Congress who champion the maritime community. We are committed to continuing to work together with Congress for the promotion of the maritime industry, and for the health and prosperity of our seafarers and our nation.” July 2016 �Keels Laid for 2 More SIU-Crewed Jones Act Tankers Separate ceremonies at Philly Shipyard and General Dynamics NASSCO – both of which are union yards – recently underscored the continued investment in the SIU-contracted Jones Act fleet. Philly Shipyard hosted its event May 19, as the keel was laid for the second product tanker in a four-vessel order for American Petroleum Tankers (APT), a Kinder Morgan, Inc. subsidiary. Representatives from the shipyard and Kinder Morgan placed traditional coins on one of the keel blocks as a sign of good fortune and safe travels, before the 650-ton unit was lowered into place. Philly Shipyard President and CEO Steinar Nerbovik said, “With shipbuilding milestones like keel laying and facility milestones like the opening of our training academy, we continue to propel our organization into the future. Both are significant milestones in the plan to maintain our position as both a premier shipyard and employer.” When completed in 2017, the product tanker will be 600 feet long and capable of carrying 50,000 tons of crude oil or refined petroleum products. It will join its sister ships in the Jones Act trade, and carry a crew of SIU mariners. All four ships included in the current APT order are destined to sail between U.S. ports under the U.S.-flag. According to the shipyard, “The Tier II 50,000 dead weight ton (dwt) product tankers are based on a proven Hyundai Mipo Dockyards (HMD) design which incorporates numerous fuel efficiency features, flexible cargo capability and the latest regulatory requirements. The vessels will be constructed with consideration for the use of LNG for propulsion in the future.” Across the country in San Diego, NASSCO on May 25 hosted a keellaying ceremony for the Liberty, one of three ECO Class tankers under the same construction contract with SEA-Vista LLC, a partnership between SEACOR Holdings, Inc. and Avista Capital Partners. Once delivered, the tanker will be operated by Seabulk Tankers, Inc. and crewed by SIU mariners. The Liberty is a 610-foot, 50,000 deadweight-ton, LNG-conversion-ready product tanker with a 330,000 barrel cargo capacity. As honorees, Tom Denning, Ed Hoffman, and Tom Sofyanos—all representatives of SEA-Vista LLC—welded their initials into the keel of the ship. The Jones Act requires that cargo Shipyard and SEA-Vista company personnel are pictured at the keel-laying ceremony at General Dynamics NASSCO in San Diego. moving between domestic ports be carried aboard ships that are crewed, built, flagged and owned American. The law helps sustain around a half-million American jobs while pumping billions of dollars into the U.S. economy each year. Top military leaders and government officials have identified it as vital to national, economic and homeland security. Ocean Glory Reflags under Stars and Stripes SIU Members Rescue Eleven Seafarers Sailing Aboard Heavy-Lift Dry Cargo Vessel More tonnage has entered the U.S.flag fleet, which means more jobs for SIU mariners. The Ocean Glory, a 560-foot dry cargo ship, was reflagged by Intermarine in May into U.S. registry. It is managed by Crow- ley Global Ship Management, and is operating under a Military Sealift Command charter. “It’s always a good day when we get to reflag a ship under the Stars and Stripes,” said SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker. “The Ocean Glory is a welcome addition to Seafarers-crewed fleet.” Built in 2015, the Ocean Glory is equipped to carry a wide range of containerized, bulk and project cargoes, and is strengthened for heavy cargo. It features three cranes and can sail at 16-plus knots. It has a beam of 82 feet. The Military Sealift Command’s (MSC) stated mission is to “operate the ships which sustain our warfighting forces and deliver specialized maritime services in support of national security objectives in peace and war.” SIU members sail aboard many of the agency’s 110 vessels, some of which are directly operated by MSC while others are under contract to private companies. The SIU-crewed Ocean Glory (at left and above) loads cargo in the Pacific Northwest. Seafarers lived up to the finest traditions of the Brotherhood of the Sea recently when they helped rescue 11 individuals from a disabled fishing boat. On May 29, the crew of the Maersk Kentucky received a distress call while in route to Singapore. The vessel diverted off course and sailed to the aid of the Al Yasmeen, which was taking on water and sinking. All 11 men aboard the distressed vessel were allowed to board the Kentucky, after it was deemed that they were not armed and posed no threat. They were found to be in good health overall, but extremely dehydrated and hungry. The men were provided plenty of food and water before disembarking in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The SIU crew on board the Kentucky included Bosun Eli Gonzalez Rodriguez, ABs Dennis Avila, John Daniels, Adolf Floresca, Aretta Jones and Mario Torrey, QE4 Domingo Hurtado, QEE Kareim Wright, GUDEs Kem Burton and Arnold Williams, Steward/Baker John Greubel, Chief Cook Thomas Smith and SA Delmis David. There were also two unlicensed apprentices on board during the rescue: Todd Pryor and Mark Richardson. The vessel is operated by Maersk Line, Limited. Federation Announces Endorsement of Hillary Clinton for President The AFL-CIO on June 16 announced its endorsement of Hillary Clinton for president. The federation’s general board voted to make the endorsement and noted the decision “reflects a comprehensive, democratic process initiated a year ago to capture the interests of the working people the federation represents.” “Hillary Clinton is a proven leader who shares our values,” said AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka. “Throughout the campaign, she has demonstrated a strong commitment to the issues that matter to working people, and our members have taken notice. The ac- July 2016 tivism of working people has already been a major force in this election and is now poised to elect Hillary Clinton and move America forward.” SIU President Michael Sacco is the longest-serving member of the federation’s executive council (a separate body from the general board). The SIU endorsed Secretary Clinton early this year. Lee Saunders, AFSCME president and chair of the AFL-CIO Political Committee said, “This election offers a stark choice between an unstoppable champion for working families and an unstable charlatan who made his fortune scamming them. Working people know that Hillary Clinton has the temperament and experience to unite all Americans in our fight to increase incomes at home and extinguish threats abroad.” Beginning immediately, the AFL-CIO will put in motion its ground campaign to elect Hillary Clinton and union-endorsed candidates across the country. The federation has been laying the groundwork for this campaign for months, and Trumka pledged that “we will run a sophisticated, targeted ground campaign. And with the dire consequences Donald Trump poses for America’s working families, it has to be.” Trumka further noted that, “Senator Bernie Sanders has brought an important voice to this election, and has elevated critical issues and strengthened the foundation of our movement. His impact on American politics cannot be overstated.” Trumka added, “We are ready to fight hard to restore faith in America and improve the lives of all working people. Hillary Clinton has proven herself as a champion of the labor movement and we will be the driving force to elect her President of the United States.” Seafarers LOG 3 �Sail-In Message: Nation Needs Strong Merchant Marine Given the regular turnover on Capitol Hill as well as ongoing attacks against U.S.-flag shipping, the importance of the annual Maritime Industry Congressional Sail-In arguably has never been greater. With that in mind, SIU officials and industry allies were quite motivated and enthused to deliver pro-maritime messages throughout the day June 14. During the seventh annual Sail-In, roughly 100 representatives from maritime labor and business (working in small groups) conducted more than 100 meetings with U.S. senators, congressional representatives and staff members from both parties in the nation’s capital. They took advantage of Flag Day to promote keeping Old Glory on vessels sailing the oceans, inland waterways, Great Lakes, ports and harbors. The SIU participants included Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, Vice President Contracts George Tricker, Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, Vice President Government Services Kermett Mangram, Port Agent Elizabeth Brown, Port Agent Pat Vandegrift and Legislative Director Brian Schoeneman. As in past years, the Jones Act was a main topic throughout the day. Working in teams that paired labor and business, the Sail-In crews thanked many members and Hill staff for their longtime support of the nation’s freight cabotage law, including the defeat by the House Rules Committee of an anti-Jones Act amendment to the Puerto Rican financial measure the week before. At same time, they asked the legislators and their aides to remain vigilant concerning further attempts to weaken the law. While the Sail-In was taking place, uniformed U.S. commercial flight crews were working the Hill opposing the Obama administration’s approval for Norwegian Air International’s (NAI) application for a foreign air carrier permit, which would create an airline flag-of-convenience. Sail-In participants and pilots in separate meetings told members of Congress any effort that weakens the Jones Act or allows NAI access to U.S. air space by overriding cabotage laws would cost American jobs. In addition, Sail-In groups promoted efforts already under way on the Hill to increase the annual amount being provided to U.S.-flag shipping companies involved in the Maritime Security Program (MSP). The highly successful and effective program includes up to 60 militarily useful U.S.-flag vessels which would be made readily available in time of war or national emergency, along with their intermodal components. While the MSP has been approved through 2023, it still faces an annual appropriations vote. The House OK’d $5 million per ship in its Fiscal Year 2017 budget package, but the Senate – which is still working on its document – is considering a lesser amount. The MSP has received strong bipartisan support through its 20 years of service to the country. Sail-In crews sought approval for full funding for MSP for 2017 and coming years. Members of Congress were thanked for their support of the nation’s cargo prefer- From left: MM&P President Don Marcus, SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez, Jane Sarnecky of U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker’s (R-Mississippi) office, American Maritime Congress President Jim Caponiti, American Roll-On Roll-Off Carrier President Eric Ebeling SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (left) makes a point during a meeting in the office of U.S. Rep. Tom Cole (R-Oklahoma). From left: Jim Sartucci of K&L Gates, Port Director of Monroe (Michigan) Paul LaMarre III, U.S. Rep. John Katko (R-New York), Kevin McMonagle of American Steamship, SIU VP Contracts George Tricker Pictured with Deborah Weigel (right), legislative director for U.S. Rep. Reid Ribble (R-Wisconsin) are Mark Ruge of AMP, SIU Legislative Director Brian Schoeneman and Chris Johnsen of MEBA. 4 Seafarers LOG ence laws and their successful efforts to recharter the U.S. Export-Import Bank. As with the Jones Act and the MSP, Sail-In representatives showed how all of these help maintain a strong, viable U.S.-flag fleet and reliable American crews which are critical to national defense and the economy. Sail-In groups also urged members of Congress to support the Vessel Incidental U.S. Rep. Loretta Sanchez (D-California) (third from left) meets with (from left) Capt. Joe Hartnett of the Council of American Master Mariners, MM&P Chief of Staff Klaus Luhta, SIU Port Agent Pat Vandegrift, Rick Boyle of Maersk and Ku’u Park of Matson. At the office of U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Legislative Assistant Jonathan McCracken (left) met with (from left) Carl Biersack of Liberty Maritime, John Clemons of AMO, Jim Weakley of Lake Carriers’ Association, and Terry Turner, SIU political consultant. Discharge Act currently being considered on the Hill. This measure would create a single set of regulations at the federal level for the handling of ballast and runoff water from ships within U.S. territorial waters. Presently, many states and local jurisdictions have established their own laws which may differ greatly in just a few miles, causing confusion and consternation for vessel crews and companies. One of the groups included (from left) John Jaskot of Jones Walker, SIU VP Government Services Kermett Mangram and Bryant Gardner of Winston & Strawn. Pictured from left to right are John Rothrock of AMO, U.S. Rep. Chuck Fleischman (R-Tennessee), Christopher Barber of American Roll-On Roll-Off Carrier and MTD Exec. Sec.-Treas. Daniel Duncan. Discussing American-flag maritime with U.S. Rep Dan Donovan (R-New York) (center) are (from left) Steve Wines of the Maritime Institute for Research & Industrial Development, Bill Van Loo of MEBA, SIU Port Agent Elizabeth Brown and Brian Houst of Schuyler Lines. July 2016 �Heindel: Proceed with Caution When Adopting New Maritime Technology Article Examines Potential Dangers of Increased Technological Reliance SIU Secretary Treasurer David Heindel, who These points include safe crewing levels, enforcealso serves as the Seafarers’ Section chair for the ment of maritime regulations on minimum hours of International Transportation Worker’s Federation rest and/or maximum hours of work, universal rec(ITF), recently offered his thoughts on what the ognition of the right of all seafarers to shore leave, near future of shipping might look like, given to- an onboard safety culture, and treating fatigue as a day’s advanced technologies. He penned an article serious health and safety issue. for the May issue of The Naval Architect, the princiHeindel then spoke about the increased imporpal magazine of The Royal Institution of Naval Ar- tance of improving communications coverage at chitects, which provides independent, high-quality sea, especially cellular and Internet access: “One technical information on all aspects of the interna- area where maritime technology has proved to be tional maritime industry. a world leader is communications. The challenges The ITF is a federation composed of around 700 of reliable ship-to-shore communications have been unions (including the SIU) representing more than increasingly met in recent decades. It is time now for 4.5 million transport workers from 150 countries. Its those capabilities to be shared among ships’ human aim is to promote respect for trade union and human workforces. Research undertaken by and for the ITF rights worldwide; to work for peace based on social and its charity arm the ITF Seafarers’ Trust repeatjustice and economic progress; to help its affiliated edly flags up lack of onboard Internet and mobile unions defend the interests phone access as a common of their members; to provide concern among seafarers, research and information sermany of whom are (and soon vices to their affiliates; and to all of whom will be) drawn provide general assistance to from a generation that has transport workers in diffigrown up on land taking that culty. access for granted.” In the article, Heindel He described seafaring as stated, “The first and most “lonely and isolated, and carimportant question is how ried out far from friends and they (shipboard technolofamily for months at a time.” gies) will affect safety. ArFor contact with a mariner’s guably, ship design has not family to be limited to calls yet fully caught up with the made from seafarers’ centers potential of data collection during shore leave, he says, (particularly via sensors) is no longer acceptable. in the way that it has been On the topic of unmanned adopted in the aviation inshipping, like the concepts dustry. Self-diagnostics, currently being pushed by automated alarms and postRolls Royce, he reminded accident recoverable data readers of the reality of sailstores of the ‘black box’ kind ing a vessel in unpredictable can help protect lives and the seas: Accidents happen. oceans, and are both widely He said, “The human elewelcomed and already partly ment is one of the first lines in place (or coming).” of defense in the event of He then detailed how use machinery failure and the of more advanced technolokind of unexpected and sudgies could lead to reduced den changes of conditions in David Heindel crew sizes and, ultimately, more which the world’s seas spedangerous conditions: “There is cialize. The dangers posed to hope that increasing computerization can support the environment by totally unmanned vessels are and help safeguard the (increasingly skilled) crew too easily imagined. For safety and environmental who use it. However, there is a known danger, too, reasons alone, technology should be a tool for the of ever-smaller crews and shrunken watches moni- maritime industry – not the absolute answer.” toring more and more monitors, leading, inevitably, Heindel concluded with a message for shipto overwork and dangerous exhaustion. Technology builders and owners considering unmanned vessels such as e-navigation must be there to safeguard ves- as a potentially cost-saving decision: “The possibilisels and their crews, and reduce the administrative ties are huge. The future can be bright, so long as burden placed upon them. It cannot be used as an we make it so. Safer and better vessels are within excuse for dangerous and unacceptable reductions reach; centuries of progress in ship design proves in crew numbers. These are already dangerously it. Our plea is that we do not let the possibilities for low.” change blind us to the need to include the human Next, he listed the safeguards that should be factor. For the foreseeable future ships will need to addressed with new and developing technologies be manned and technology must reinforce and supin order to ensure that mariner fatigue is mitigated. port the human role.” New ‘OT’ Rule a Big Win for Labor In a landmark decision, President Barack Obama and Secretary of Labor Thomas Perez on May 18 announced the publication of the Department of Labor’s (DOL) final rule updating overtime regulations. These new rules will automatically extend overtime pay protections to more than 4 million workers within the first year of implementation. President Obama noted the importance of this new rule when he said, “If you work more than 40 hours a week, you should get paid for it or get extra time off to spend with your family and loved ones. It’s one of most important steps we’re taking to help grow middle-class wages and put $12 billion more dollars in the pockets of hard-working Americans over the next 10 years. For generations, overtime protections have meant that an honest day’s work should get a fair day’s pay, and that’s helped American workers climb the ladder of success. That’s what middle-class economics are all about. But after years of inflation and lobbyists’ efforts to weaken overtime protections, that security has eroded for too many families.” “Our whole mission here is about strengthening and growing the middle class,” Perez said. “In order to do that, we need to ensure that middle class jobs pay middle class wages. The angst that people feel across this country is so frequently the product of the fact that they’re working hard and falling further behind.” According to AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka, “New overtime protections mark a major victory for working people that will improve the lives of millions of families across America. The new rule more than doubles the salary threshold, ensuring workers who make less than $47,500 are eligible for overtime. We applaud the Obama administration heeding the call for action to ensure working people get paid for all the hours we work. Taking this step to restore overtime is one of the many ways we are beginning to change the rules of our economy that are rigged in favor of Wall Street.” The final rule focuses primarily on updating the salary and compensation levels needed for executive, administrative and professional workers to be exempt. Specifically, the rule: n Sets the standard salary level at the DOL Secretary Thomas Perez 40th percentile of earnings of full-time salaried workers in the lowest-wage Census Region, currently the South ($913 per week; $47,476 annually for a full-year worker); n Sets the total annual compensation requirement for highly compensated employees (HCE) subject to a minimal-duties test to the annual equivalent of the 90th percentile of full-time salaried workers nationally ($134,004); and n Establishes a mechanism for automatically updating the salary and compensation levels every three years to maintain the levels at the above percentiles; and to ensure that they continue to provide useful and effective tests for exemption. Additionally, the final rule amends the salary basis test to allow employers to use nondiscretionary bonuses and incentive payments (including commissions) to satisfy up to 10 percent of the new standard salary level. Vice President Joe Biden spoke about the new rule, saying, “Right now, you’re guaranteed overtime if you’re an hourly worker, but if you’re salaried, you’re only automatically guaranteed overtime if you make less than $23,660. If you’re a manager on salary and you work an extra 10, 20, 30 hours a week – you often don’t get paid a dime more for those additional hours. That’s simply wrong. Starting in December, we’re making sure that more workers get paid fairly for the overtime hours that they work.” The effective date of the final rule is December 1, 2016. The initial increases to the standard salary level (from $455 to $913 per week) and HCE total annual compensation requirement (from $100,000 to $134,004 per year) will be effective on that date. Future automatic updates to those thresholds will occur every three years, beginning on January 1, 2020. AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka Rallying for Hillary SIU Port Agent Amancio Crespo (left in photo at left) is pictured May 17 in Bayamon, Puerto Rico, with former President Bill Clinton, the featured speaker at a Hillary Clinton campaign event. Seafarers LOG readers may remember Bill Clinton as the man who signed the Maritime Security Act (which encompasses the Maritime Security Program) into law in 1996. The SIU early this year endorsed Hillary Clinton for president. July 2016 Seafarers LOG 5 �Latest Jones Act Attack Repelled in House The latest attack on the Jones Act was thwarted late June 8 when the House Rules Committee determined an amendment to eliminate the Jones Act from trade with Puerto Rico was not germane for the bill before the House to aid the financial situation for the U.S. commonwealth. “We are very grateful to the members of the House Rules Committee for ruling that an amendment dealing with the Jones Act was not in order for the pending legislation dealing with the financial crisis in Puerto Rico,” stated SIU President Michael Sacco shortly after the decision was announced. “As the facts have clearly shown, the Jones Act does not in any way have anything to do with the unfortunate financial situation before the citizens of Puerto Rico,” he added. “This amendment was simply the latest attempt by the enemies of U.S.-flag shipping to constrain decent American seafaring, shipbuilding and transportation jobs. We have weathered these fights for generations, and will remain vigilant for future attacks.” U.S. Rep. Gary Palmer (R-Alabama), a first-term member, introduced language June 7 proposed by the right-wing Heritage Foundation to amend the Puerto Rican measure by calling for the exclusion of the Jones Act (as well as the Passenger Vessel Services Act) for carrying cargo (and passengers) between the United States and Puerto Rico. (Earlier this year, a Heritage Foundation research fellow was quoted as calling the U.S. Merchant Marine “highway robbers.”) The SIU joined with the American Maritime Partnership (which includes other maritime unions, U.S.-flag shipping companies, domestic shipyards and others in support of the industry) to launch an immediate campaign to stop the anticabotage amendment. Support came from both sides of the aisle. Immediately after Palmer testified before the committee, U.S. Rep. Garret Graves (R-Louisiana) spoke as a witness refuting point-by-point the attacks made on the Jones Act by his fellow legislator. Graves claimed the argument that shipping rates would be lower using foreignflag vessels was untrue because Jones Act rates for the island already are lower than those found on the non-U.S.-flag ships. He pointed out the last thing Puerto Ricans needed was to lose more jobs, which would be caused if the Jones Act were eliminated. President Sacco thanked Graves for standing up for the Jones Act and also credited U.S. Rep. Duncan Hunter (RCalifornia), who declared his support in an opinion piece that appeared in The Hill just before the committee met. Hunter, who serves as the chair of the House Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, wrote, “The American Maritime Industry contributes $100 billion dollars in economic benefits U.S. Coast Guard Board Wraps Up Second Round of El Faro Hearings The Coast Guard’s Marine Board of Investigation conducted a second round of hearings on the loss of the El Faro, beginning on May 16 and continuing through May 27. Throughout two weeks of testimonies from various agencies and individuals, more details began to emerge concerning the sinking of the vessel last year and the deaths of 33 crew members, including SIU and AMO members. SIU Assistant Vice President Archie Ware attended the hearings in Jacksonville, Florida, along with family members and other loved ones of the crew. The hearings covered technical information, as well as the relationship between the Coast Guard and the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), a multibillion-dollar nonprofit that sets industry standards for construction and maintenance of commercial vessels. An ABS surveyor who examined the El Faro provided testimony, as did a Coast Guard inspector who visited the vessel following the examination. The condition of the vessel was a frequent topic. Randy Kidd of Portus Services said of the El Faro and its sister ship the El Yunque: “The boats looked their age on the inside. … They were old.” Kidd said there was a “lot of rust” including on the deck, ceiling and ramps. One newly raised concern focused on the timeliness of weather reports received by the crew of the El Faro, as Jerry Hale and Rich Brown of Applied Weather Technology (AWT) provided their testimonies. AWT is the company which supplied the vessel’s subscription weather products, also used by many other commercial ships. It has been determined that the crew of the El Faro were charting a course using outdated weather information and tracking. Hale and Brown told the panel that a forecast package sent to the vessel the morning she sailed contained storm track data that had not been updated to the latest available information from the National Weather Service. “The underlying model data, the winds, the waves were all up to date. The storm track . . . data would have been out of date by . . . 10 hours,” said Brown. He believes “it was processed late, so it didn’t get into the next package,” but said that AWT had not been able to determine the exact reason. During the second week of the hearings, representatives from the Herbert Engineering Corporation, which aided in the El Faro’s conversion from the Alaskan trade to the Puerto Rico trade in 2005 and 2006, offered their testimonies. According to Rod Sullivan, a maritime attorney in Jacksonville, Florida, the ship underwent modifications to make sure it could handle the new cargo plan. During those modifications, it was discovered that the El Faro had a permanent two-degree list to the starboard side, so more cargo was loaded on the port side to compensate for the list. Captain Jack Hearn, who was at the helm of the El Faro before and after the conversion, said that after the conversion the ship was “slow to right” itself and would “lean over from rudder command alone.” He said he was concerned about a lean even without “rolling with a heavy swell.” The investigative panel also included a representative from the National Transportation Safety Board, who questioned Peter Keller, executive vice president of Tote Inc., the ship’s operator. They asked for his thoughts on possible management failures involved in the tragedy. Keller responded that he could not identify any specific failure, saying, “This tragic loss is all about an accident.” A third hearing is planned but not yet scheduled. Topics to be discussed will depend on what data the National Transportation Safety Board can retrieve from the ship’s voyage data recorder, which was found 15,000 feet underwater in April. The recorder has not yet been recovered, but a mission to retrieve it has been scheduled for July. SIU Asst. VP Archie Ware (far right) is pictured with El Faro family members outside the hearing location in Jacksonville, Florida. 6 Seafarers LOG and half million jobs to the U.S. economy. And as strong as the economic arguments are, the national security arguments are just as compelling – if not more. “The Jones Act helps ensure we will have the necessary industrial infrastructure, and skilled labor pool of welders, fitters and sailors needed to rapidly mobilize in times of war,” Hunter continued. “We must never rely on another country for this type of labor or to support U.S. force projection.” Hunter, an Iraqi War vet, lambasted the attempts of the anti-Jones Act forces for attempting “their worn-out efforts to weaken the Jones Act.” Throughout the debate on the Hill, Jones Act supporters continually referred members of the Congress to two different recent Government Accountability Office studies that found it impossible to back statements that eliminating the cabotage law would provide any cost reductions for Puerto Rico. Powerful Support For Maritime Voiced At Navy League Event In late May, the Navy League’s Sea Air Space conference convened and featured panelists and participants who discussed a wide range of issues, but the common threads were the repeated calls for the restoration by the United States of a 350-ship navy, the development of a cohesive national maritime strategy, and the importance of the Jones Act and a vibrant shipyard industrial base for both homeland and national security. “It was very promising to hear the drumbeat by our maritime leaders for the need of a national maritime strategy, and their unwavering support for and appreciation of the importance of a 350-ship Navy,” said Matthew Paxton, president of the Shipbuilders Council of America. “As representatives of the U.S. shipyard industrial base, SCA stands ready to support the Navy, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, and any other government agency pursuing similar missions.” Maritime Administrator Chip Jaenichen, in discussing the importance of the Jones Act and the build requirement to national security, said, “The Jones Act achieves a number of things. Most obvious, it supports the robust shipbuilding industry along with the U.S. Merchant Marine, which are integral to being able to make sure that we have active support of every branch of our armed forces. Without the Jones Act currently in place, we would also be faced with the impossible prospect of [monitoring vessels] throughout our U.S. waterways.” Additionally, the SCA co-sponsored a congressional breakfast during the three-day exposition, which featured U.S. Reps. Rob Wittman (R-Virginia), Joe Courtney (D-Connecticut) and included remarks from Frank Kendall, U.S. Undersecretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology and Logistics. At the breakfast, U.S. Rep. Randy Forbes (R-Virginia) received the Robert M. Thompson Award for civilian leadership. July 2016 �SHBP Awards Annual Scholarships Totaling $132,000 The financial stresses associated with the pursuit of college educations recently were greatly reduced if not eliminated for eight individuals associated with the Seafarers International Union (SIU) – two active Seafarers and six SIU dependents. The Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) Scholarship Committee on May 8 awarded Charlie Logan Scholarships totaling $132,000 to Seafarers David James and Marcus Logan, and to dependents Rewan Abdelwahab, Maurene Param, Marc Amandoron, Myckell Ronquillo, Lauren Talictic and Allison Chumpitaz. James, Abdelwahab, Param, Amandoron and Ronquillo were chosen to receive $20,000 each for their respective pursuits of four-year degrees. Logan was designated to receive an award of $12,000 while Talictic and Chumpitaz each were selected for awards of $10,000. David James Deep Sea QEE David James is a native of Jacksonville, Florida. He joined the SIU in August 1981 and graduated from the apprentice program at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland. Since completing the apprentice program, James has returned to the school on several occasions to upgrade his skills. Most recently he completed the junior engineer and marine electrician classes. At the time of his application for the union’s scholarship program, he was at the school taking courses – college mathematics being one – in pursuit of his associate’s degree in marine engineering technology. James is an alumnus of William M. Raines High School in Jacksonville where he graduated with honors and was a member of the varsity track team. In addition to being active in athletics, he was highly visible in his community, volunteering at the Eartha White Mission, a homeless shelter for men and women in downtown Jacksonville. Within a year of his high school graduation, James, who is the son of a U.S. Army veteran, joined the U.S. Navy. He attended boot camp and “A” school (Gas Turbine Electrical Technology) at Great Lakes Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Illinois. Upon graduation, he was stationed at U.S. Naval Base Norfolk in Norfolk, Virginia, where he received further training in crane repair and refrigeration repair. James completed his Navy enlistment with the rank of Petty Officer Third Class, having earned the Navy Good Conduct Medal and the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal. Since leaving the military, he completed one semester of school at Ember Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, Florida. “My goal is to return to a four-year college to study electrical engineering,” James said in his scholarship application package. “After earning a Bachelor of Science degree, I would like to return to shipping, gaining even more maritime experience. Ultimately I would like to return to Piney Point as an instructor.” James has applied for admission to Tidewater Community College in Norfolk; Florida Community College at Jacksonville; and Embry Riddle Aeronautical University. He will pursue his degree in marine engineering technology. Marcus Logan Chief Cook Marcus Logan hails from Chesapeake, Virginia, and earned his GED in 2006. He joined the union in 2009 following his completion of the PHC Apprentice Program in Piney Point, Maryland. Since graduating from the trainee program, Logan has returned to the union-affiliated school on four occasions to enhance his skills. He earned his current rating in 2012. Prior to becoming a Seafarer, Logan attended the Pennsylvania Culinary Institute in Pittsburgh, where he earned his Associate of Specialized Technology degree. While attending July 2016 the culinary institute, he spent many hours volunteering his time with “Well Spoken,” a non-profit group which had a goal of improving the spoken word of community youth and young adults. “It took years for me to get my head on straight,” Logan said in his scholarship application package. “Growing up, all I wanted to do was get by in a way that was effortless. The condition of my surroundings gave me an excuse to not apply myself. “The six years I’ve been in this union has taught me how to apply myself and that hard work and determination brings greater reward than just income,” he continued. “I had a chance to cook on the Cape Ray during the Syrian mission to aid the United Nations in the OPCW (operation that destroyed chemical weapons). That experience showed me that I could be successful in life and also be a part of something bigger.” Logan has applied for admission to Strayer University and Old Dominion University. He will seek his degree in business administration. Rewan Abdelwahab Rewan Abdelwahab hails from Minneapolis, Minnesota. She is the daughter of deep sea Able Seaman Mohamed Abdelwahab (and wife Ekram Ahmed, a math tutor). Born in Egypt, she has three siblings who are ages 25, 22 and 14, respectively. Rewan is a 2016 graduate of Southwest High School in Minneapolis where she accumulated an overall 4.0 grade point average (GPA). She ranked first in her class of 372. In addition to excelling in the classroom, Rewan also made her mark in the athletics arena by participating on her school’s varsity tennis and softball teams. She held membership in several organizations including the National Honor Society, her school’s choir and the math, debate and green teams. She was vice president of the debate team and twice served on the executive board of her school’s Earth Day Committee. She devoted many hours volunteering at Habitat for Humanity and ARC Value Village; and participated in community food as well as blood drives. “Throughout my life, I endured the inevitable obstacles of adjusting to life in the United States, one of which was the struggle of finding health care,” Rewan wrote in her application package. “Currently in the United States, over 30 million people do not have health insurance and another 40 million have inadequate health insurance, making it one of the biggest problems domestically.… “My past struggles as (a) lower-class immigrant in America has empowered me to alleviate the difficulties of deprivation and discrimination through a position of empathy and awareness,” she continued. “My dream is to start an NGO that provides health care and health services to minorities and lower-class families in America, increasing the standard of living for families … and ensuring the maintenance of good health.” To help her realize her goal, Rewan plans to study Spanish in college in order to become tri-lingual. This will enable her to cater her services to Latino and Hispanic communities. “As a first-generation immigrant from Egypt, I could already communicate with the Somali and Arab populations in Minneapolis in Arabic and want to extend my communicative abilities to the Latino population,” she said. Rewan is also interested in studying biology so that she will be able to better “understand causes and preventative measures of disease and how social, economic and political aspects influence health care reform.” She has applied for admission to St. Olaf College, Carleton College and the University of Chicago. Rewan will major in biology and Spanish. Marc Amandoron Marc Amandoran is the son of deep sea QE4 Marciano Amandoron (and wife, Flor, a registered nurse). He was born in the Republic of the Philippines, but now calls North Las Vegas, Nevada, home. Amandoron is a 2016 graduate of Las Vegas’ Northwest Career & Tech Academy where he posted a 4.529 GPA. He ranked 45 in his class of 438 students, and was a member of his school’s volleyball club. Active in his community, Amandoron did volunteer work at the Veterans Hospital and the Key Club. He also supported events for cancer and Alzheimer’s disease research. Marc’s ambition is to be someone who is strong, kind, reliable and able to help others. To fit all of these qualities into a single profession, his goal is to attend the University of Las Vegas, earn his degree in biology and later attend medical school. “When I was a kid, I admired these doctors who, with their vast knowledge and experience were able to alleviate my pain and cure my illness,” Marc wrote in his scholarship application package. “I wanted to be like them. It would be great to be addressed as Dr. Amandoron and be rewarded with a smile.” Having grown in up in a fairly strict Filipino family, Amandoron said he is well acquainted with the virtues of industriousness. “My mom and dad worked hard to get where they are,” he said. “They came from poor families and understood the value of hard work and perseverance which they drove into me as a child. “It is this motivation for self-improvement that will drive me through college,” he concluded. Amandoron has applied for admission to the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He plans to enroll in a pre-medical curriculum which ultimately will yield him a Bachelor’s degree in biology. Allison Chumpitaz The daughter of SIU AB Jose Chumpitaz (and wife Mitzi, a retail worker), Allison is an aspiring finance major from St. Augustine, Florida. She received high marks while dually enrolled in high school and a local state college, and strives to continue her voracious pursuit of knowledge at a four-year school. She is set to graduate St. Joseph Academy with a 4.67 GPA, but that’s not to say her high school career was confined to the classroom. She was also the captain of the soccer team at her school, a member of the swim team and drama club, as well as class treasurer, Spanish Club president and treasurer of the student-organized club “Students for the Poor.” One of Allison’s references, Deacon Bryan Ott, discussed the “Students for the Poor” club: “This club is run entirely by students, who organize service projects and events to help those in need in our local community. Allison has been one of the club’s most committed members. She has participated in many service events, including preparing and serving food and visiting with the homeless in a soup kitchen….” She also participated in a mission trip to the Dominican Republic, helping children, the elderly and impoverished Haitian immigrants. While on the trip, she helped to build and paint several homes for poor families. “From learning about teamwork through sports, to social awareness through community service, I will never stop learning. All my hard work during high school has paid off and has allowed me to dream about going to a great college and broadening my horizons,” Allison said in her essay. She has applied to Harvard, Columbia and the University of Southern California, where she hopes to achieve her dreams of obtaining a Doctorate degree. Maurene Param Maurene Param, the daughter of Chief Cook Marcelo Param (and wife, Irene, a purchase planner) is a 2016 graduate of the California Academy of Mathematics and Science. Maurene was born in Bellflower, California, and now lives in Long Beach. As an aspiring premedical student and graduating with a 4.16 GPA, Maurene found her calling in the STEM fields when she entered high school. As a freshman, she joined the Inspire Creativity Initiative (ICI), whose mission was to introduce the STEM subjects to underprivileged children. As part of that outreach, the ICI sent Maurene and her classmates to rural China in 2014 to educate young children. In 2015, she took on an internship at UCLA, working with a biomedical engineer. Outside the classroom, she was also on the varsity volleyball team, varsity basketball team, and managed the boys’ varsity soccer team. She was involved in student council, and volunteered at a local hospital and a local aquarium. She also has specific goals in mind for her college experience: “I want to expose myself to different realms of education by joining a study abroad program. I want to do research and shadow doctors, which is why I chose to study pre-health. Every step that I’ve taken is building blocks to my vocational plans and will help me accomplish my endeavor to earn my Ph.D.” She has applied to Tulane University, the University of Washington and both the University of California, San Diego and Santa Barbara. Myckell Ronquillo Myckell Ronquillo is the oldest son of Recertified Steward Exxl Ronquillo (and wife MaVeronidia), who has been sailing with the SIU for over 25 years. After exploring his potential career options, he’s chosen to pursue a degree in computer science. With a GPA of 4.09, he plans to stay in his home state of Maryland for his education. Myckell was involved in high school athletics, including the soccer, indoor track and lacrosse teams. In addition to his sports commitments, he also took on an unpaid internship at the Naval Air Station in Patuxent River, Maryland. There, he learned about building and programming supercomputers with the Department of Defense. “I’ve always loved to learn new things and challenge myself when problems arise,” said Myckell. He continued, “Particularly with computers, I knew when college time came I would want to major in computers. Computers have always fascinated me and I would take them apart and put them back together. What better way to combine my passion for computers and helping others than being able to fix or help them with technology.” He will be attending the University of Maryland in Spring 2017, and will attend community college this fall semester to stay on pace for graduation in 2020. Lauren Talictic The oldest daughter of Seafarer Mercurio Talictic (and wife, Imelda, a registered nurse), Lauren Talictic is a current college student at Franciscan University of Steubenville. Lauren lives in her home state, in Sugar Land, Texas, and aspires to become an early childhood educator. “Being able to attend Franciscan University of Steubenville is such a huge blessing and opportunity to further not only my educational experience, but my faith as well,” she said, before expressing her need for financial aid. “Because of the high cost of tuition, I have considered transferring to a local university to help ease the financial burden,” she noted. “With this scholarship, I would be forever grateful to the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan for helping me become the teacher I’ve always known I could be.” In addition to attaining a 4.59 GPA at William P. Clements High School, Lauren was an active volunteer in her community, helping out in a local soup kitchen and as a community center tutor. She was also active within her church, mentoring and leading youth groups. Lauren will continue to earn credits towards her goal of becoming a teacher, either at her current school or at the University of Houston. Her love of children has inspired her career path, as she says: “Children are the future of our nation and to be able to play such a critical role in their success is a reward in itself.” Seafarers LOG 7 �The DOT ceremony kicks off with the presentation of colors. One of the day’s highlights involved special recognition of retired Admiral Al Herberger (right), one of the most effective and highly respected champions of the American maritime industry. He is pictured with Maritime Administrator Chip Jaenichen. SIU Observes National Maritime Day in D.C. Ceremonies Conducted at DOT, Aboard Training Ship Freedom Star The SIU and its affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education had another strong turnout for this year’s National Maritime Day gatherings in the nation’s capital on May 23. The morning began with the traditional ceremony at U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) headquarters, where several dignitaries addressed hundreds in attendance. Representing the SIU were President Michael Sacco, Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, Vice President Contracts George Tricker, Vice President Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski, Port Agent Pat Vandegrift, Legislative Director Brian Schoeneman and Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen. In the early afternoon, the union hosted a brief ceremony aboard the SIU-crewed training vessel Freedom Star, docked a mile or so from the DOT building. Following remarks by President Sacco and Paul Hall Center Trustee Tony Naccarato, a memorial wreath was tossed from the boat. Speakers at the DOT ceremony included Gen. Darren McDew, commanding officer of the U.S. Transportation Command; Maritime Administrator Chip Jaenichen; Rear Adm. T.K. Shannon, commanding officer of the U.S. Military Sealift Command; Ed Wytkind, president of the AFL-CIO Transportation Trades Department; and Mark Barker, president of Interlake Steamship Company. Vice Adm. Albert Herberger, USN (Ret.) received a special award for his lifetime of dedication to the U.S. maritime industry, while Paul Hall Center Apprentices Simona Evans, Frank Bigornia and Thedford Jones combined to handle wreath-tending and memorial bell-ringing duties. Most of the speakers cited the U.S. Merchant Marine’s centuries of service to national and economic security. They honored the memories of those who made the ultimate sacrifice, including thousands who perished in World War II, and insisted immediate efforts are needed to bolster American-flag sealift capability along with U.S. crews. “The nation’s merchant mariners have always answered the call to man the ships and carry our country to war,” McDew stated. “This crucial capability must never be taken for granted, nor the thousands of seafarer lives sacrificed in service. Today’s ceremony reinforces our commitment to both.” He described civilian mariners as an “indispensable group of men and women who have the courage to lose sight of the shore, sail across the seas and serve their country with honor.” Touching on the World War II service of mariners, the general noted that more than 243,000 seamen combined to deliver more than 600 billion pounds of cargo and more than seven million troops. But it came at cost, as one in 26 mariners lost their lives, including more than 1,200 SIU members. McDew pointed out that mariners continued to deliver for our troops in every subsequent conflict “and I am convinced they stand ready to do so again when called.” He said the nation’s “unique capability” provided by civilian mariners “sets our nation apart from the rest of the world, and it underpins our ability to project military power anywhere on the planet. Without you, our enemies become emboldened. Without you, our commitments become less powerful. Without you, our wars can hit closer to home.” He concluded, “My number one priority as the commander of the U.S. Transportation Command is to ensure our commander in chief always has options and we always play ‘away games.’ I trust you to carry our nation’s army – that decisive force we need – no matter how dangerous the seas may be. I thank you for what you do. I thank you for who you are. I thank you for what you represent.” Shannon emphasized that the context for his remarks included “a resurgent Russia, rising China, belligerent Iran, belligerent North Continued on next page Gen. Darren McDew, commander, U.S. Transportation Command, (at podium) speaks at the DOT gathering. Pictured from left to right on the dais are Joel Szabat, DOT deputy assistant secretary for transportation policy; Ed Wytkind, president, AFL-CIO Transportation Trades Dept.; Deputy Maritime Administrator Mike Rodriguez; Maritime Administrator Chip Jaenichen; MSC Commander Rear Adm. T.K. Shannon; MARAD Chief Counsel David Tubman; and Mark Barker, president, Interlake Steamship. 8 Seafarers LOG July 2016 �President Obama Issues Maritime Day Proclamation NATIONAL MARITIME DAY, 2016 BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA A PROCLAMATION Among those pictured in the crowd are (second row, from right) SIU VP Contracts George Tricker, Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen, SIU President Michael Sacco, MTD Exec. Sec.-Treas. Daniel Duncan and (first row, second from left) SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez. Maritime Day Continued from Page 8 Korea and violent extremist organizations…. I personally believe sealift in our future will be contested.” Like other speakers, he reminded the audience that America’s founding fathers empowered Congress to build and maintain a navy. Shannon also said the need for a strong U.S. Merchant Marine has never been greater than today. “Sustained combat, be it at sea, in the air, or on the land, requires sealift,” he explained. “It cannot occur without sealift: a mission accomplished by United States Merchant Mariners aboard United States-flag ships…. Our mariners are the most skilled, qualified professionals in the industry.” He then talked about the Defense budget and asked, “What good is all of that combat power if we cannot deliver it to the fight and sustain it during the fight? As we continue a national conversation about our Defense budget, we must be mindful that the execution of our national military strategy requires a robust United States-flag Merchant Marine, a strong surge sealift capability and a deep pool of merchant mariners to literally carry out nation to war. “This requires our vigorous defense of the Jones Act,” he continued. “This requires our vigorous defense of a robustly funded, multi-year Maritime Security Program to guarantee not only sealift, but access to extensive global logistics transportation networks and to the corporate knowledge that our industry partners bring to the fight.” Shannon wrapped up his speech by underscoring the need for “cargo, cargo, cargo – not to create an unfair advantage, but to give the U.S. flag a fighting chance in a very competitive maritime industry. Make no mistake, our country’s security is at risk if we continue on our current path. Contracting out our ability to carry our nation’s combat power to war, with foreign-flag fleets is simply not a wise option.” Jaenichen stated, “Our maritime industry has fueled the economy of the United States and our growth as a nation for over 240 years. By ensuring the waterborne delivery of supplies and equipment to our military forces based or deployed overseas, and delivery of those commercial goods here at home or to other nations, these men and women have played a vital role in establishing and maintaining the American way of life. And they have done so in ways that we could not possibly recount; we owe a great debt to the merchant mariners who have served our nation throughout its history. That includes the many thousands of citizen mariners who are currently employed in the oceangoing (trades), on the Great Lakes, on our inland rivers and waterways and in marine-related shore-side jobs both here in the States and around the world. Their skills, their persistence, their innovation, their determination are the lifeblood of a nation that began with an ocean voyage.” He noted Congressional support for the industry dating back to the late 1700s. “They linked our nation’s future to systematically growing our maritime strength,” Jaenichen said. “Everything the maritime industry meant in 1789, it still means today. During times of national or international emergency, America’s merchant mariners are among the first to be called to action to help those in need, both here at home and abroad. Their efforts have been absolutely essential to our national defense.” Jaenichen noted progress in the administration’s development of a proposed national maritime strategy, and concluded, “We are committed to taking every action to sustain and grow our merchant marine. We are committed to growing our U.S.-flag fleet, upgrading and expanding our ports, better utilizing our inland rivers and waterways, and providing training, education and job opportunities – and, more importantly, job security – for American mariners.” See more Maritime Day photos on Page 10 Since America’s founding, proud mariners have selflessly dedicated themselves to protecting and advancing our interests – here at home and around the world. The patriots of the United States Merchant Marine have long served as our Nation’s “fourth arm of defense,” safeguarding the ideals that have guided our country for more than two centuries. They facilitate the transport and trade of American goods, and they put their lives on the line in times of war. On National Maritime Day, we honor our Merchant Mariners and celebrate their irreplaceable role in shaping our Nation’s narrative. President Barack Obama Whether in still or raging waters, Merchant Mariners are fundamental to guaranteeing the delivery of essential goods to far-reaching corners of our globe. These seafarers have bravely faced threats at home and abroad – including combatants and pirates, disease outbreaks and natural disasters – and they consistently heed the call to serve their fellow Americans. In World War II, their ships carried troops and much-needed support to the battlefield, thousands making the ultimate sacrifice. They were among the first to see battle, and many were among the last to return home to our shores. Carrying forward a legacy that spans generations, the United States Merchant Marine is vital to our Nation’s economic security as well. Their transportation of vital cargo has impacts far beyond America’s borders, generating trillions of dollars of economic activity each year. And when our entrepreneurs decide to embark on new ventures across oceans, mariners stand by and protect their pursuit of the American dream through tireless work to cultivate safe and open waterways. On this day, and every day, let us express our sincere gratitude to these courageous men and women for all they do for our Nation, and let us reaffirm our commitment to support them as they continue to uphold their proud tradition of service. The Congress, by a joint resolution approved May 20, 1933, has designated May 22 of each year as “National Maritime Day,” and has authorized and requested the President to issue annually a proclamation calling for its appropriate observance. NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 22, 2016, as National Maritime Day. I call upon the people of the United States to mark this observance and to display the flag of the United States at their homes and in their communities. I also request that all ships sailing under the American flag dress ship on this day. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twentieth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand sixteen, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and fortieth. Presenting the memorial wreaths at the morning event are Paul Hall Center Apprentices Frank Bigornia (front) and Simona Evans. July 2016 BARACK OBAMA   Seafarers LOG 9 �More Photos from Maritime Day Observance in D.C. Apprentice Thedford Jones (right at photo at left) sounds eight bells as SIU VP Tom Orzechowski looks on. SIU President Michael Sacco (right in photo at center above) greets apprentices before the DOT ceremony. In photo at right above, Port Agent Pat Vandegrift (second from left) chats with apprentices. Welcoming visitors to the Freedom Star are (from left) AB Joe Bowen, Bosun Willie Marsh and AB Martin Simmons Jr. The training vessel Freedom Star docked near DOT headquarters. SIU President Michael Sacco boards the Freedom Star. Paul Hall Center Trustee Tony Naccarato (fourth from left) speaks during the afternoon ceremony. Among those also pictured are (from left) Apprentices Rene Bravo and Alicia Plunkett and SIU VP Tom Orzechowski. Guests aboard the training vessel honor the memories of mariners who made the ultimate sacrifice. SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel heads to the afternoon ceremony. Directly behind him is SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez. 10 Seafarers LOG The vessel’s crew includes (from left) QMED Jahmal Jones, 3rd Asst. Engineer Stravon Jordan and AB Daniel Fields. The Freedom Star ceremony ends as apprentices toss a memorial wreath overboard. Recertified Steward Castain, Freedom Star Earl July 2016 �Longtime School VP Reflects on Career Nolan Enjoying Retirement Following 48-Year Run in Piney Point When Don Nolan started working at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland, shortly after it opened in the late 1960s, he didn’t have grand visions about its future. Having just been honorably discharged after four years of service in the U.S. Navy, Nolan was mainly interested in two things: getting a job, and avoiding a return to his hometown of Saxton, Pennsylvania, which wasn’t exactly a hotbed of activity. One could say it worked out okay. Nolan enjoyed a 48-year career in Piney Point, including a long run as the school’s top executive. He helped guide the institution through tremendous growth and seismic improvements – to the point where the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) now offers the most U.S. Coast Guard-approved courses of any school in the nation. Not bad for a guy who spent his first 10 years in Piney Point working as a cook. Late last year, Nolan quietly decided to retire. He is enjoying lots of golf and a different pace in Solivita, Florida, but still thinks of the school practically every day. “I will never, ever forget about Piney Point,” he said during an interview in May. “I can’t imagine where my life would be without it. I owe my whole life to the union and Piney Point, no doubt about it. It was a wonderful ride and there was never a day I didn’t want to go to work.” Bart Rogers, PHC assistant vice president and manpower director, worked with Nolan for 36 years. “He did almost every job possible at the school at one time or another,” Rogers recalled. “He changed the school as vice president in so many ways: new simulation, upgraded the classrooms, managed the waterfront restoration and the building of many new facilities. He upgraded the technology and beautified the entire campus. Don was dedicated to the school and its mission, which is to provide mariners with the best possible training to meet the contracted (ship) operator’s needs.” J.C. Wiegman, who worked at the school from the late 1980s until 2015 (most recently as director of training), described Nolan as “a person no one will forget and I surely won’t. Students who haven’t been to the school for 30 years come back and ask about him. He has a soft heart and he truly cared about everybody who worked at the school.” Wiegman added, “Don’s legacy was his ability to oversee massive construction efforts that included the firefighting school; the first simulator at the school, which brought (the company) Transas into the United States; rebuilding the waterfront; remodeling of the library; and the new construction that was completed shortly after I retired. I wish him all the best.” Jimmy Hanson, longtime PHC safety director and assistant vice president, stated, “Don’s career at the school includes numerous accomplishments. He is living proof that you can start at the bottom and advance. I hope his retire- Nolan (left) wore many hats at the school, literally and figuratively. SIU President Michael Sacco (right) and then-PHC VP Don Nolan survey the scene at the inaugural Seafarers Waterfront Classic in 2013. ment offers many years of good health and happiness. He deserves it.” Nolan, who turned 71 in May, had been stationed in southern Maryland for his last stretch in the Navy. He had a chance meeting with Mike Sacco – now president of the SIU, then one of the first officials tasked with getting the fledgling school into shape. “When I met Mike, he told me to come and see him when I got out of the Navy,” Nolan remembered. “I did, and he put me to work about an hour later. I really have to thank him for my career, because he believed in me. And I’d be remiss in not mentioning Frank Mongelli and Ken Conklin (both PHC vice presidents at different times), because they were also tremendously supportive.” Still, no matter how good the eventual fit, Piney Point was a tough draw in its infancy. Members and officials who remember that era usually groan when asked to describe it, and Nolan is no different. “It was a mud puddle and there was no such thing as a day off,” he said. “The union bought the property in 1967 but didn’t really start training until the following year. The labor was mostly shore gangs from New York, Philly and Norfolk. We worked seven days a week but we also had the most unique bunch I’ve ever met, and they somehow made it fun. “We basically started the school with a lifeboat program,” he continued. “We had no upgrader programs then, and once you got lifeboat, you shipped out pretty quick.” Like the school itself, Nolan grew professionally. He took courses and earned teaching certifications, and became the school’s first steward department instructor. In fact, he wrote the first curriculums for the department. It remains his favorite period at the school, though it was relatively brief (1978-80). Nolan’s other jobs included supervisor of food services, faculty supervisor, director of culinary training and more. He served as vice president (the school’s top post) from 1998 until retiring. Summarizing his career, Nolan said, “I enjoyed the people and working through problems. I always thought that was my strong suit: fixing things and making things happen. I thoroughly enjoyed the challenges. It was fun, but you know what? So is retirement.” Four Questions with Don Nolan Q: Are there any events that happened at the school that stand out in your memory? vorite job – that and working with the trainees. Of course, I learned an awful lot about construction, too. A: Our first big event was after we built the hotel in 1983, we hosted the AFL-CIO executive council. It went perfectly. AFL-CIO President Lane Kirkland was setting up a press conference in the auditorium, and somebody said he was looking for me. When I found him, he asked me to take his dog for a walk. Also, I don’t think too many maritime schools can say they hosted two United States presidents (Bill Clinton and George W. Bush). Q: Why do you think the school has survived and grown all these years? Q: You wore many hats throughout the years. Was there a favorite job? A: The steward department was always my fa- July 2016 A: The quality of the students and the staff. They’re the best you can find anywhere. I think we set the standards for the industry, and we don’t mind competition as long as it’s a level playing field. Q: What do you see in the future for the U.S. Merchant Marine? A: I think it will grow, and I think the school will also continue to grow. It’s so important for national security. Nolan welcomes delegates to a convention in Piney Point, Maryland. Seafarers LOG 11 �The ferry crews are proud to be part of the U.S. Merchant Marine, as reflected by this flag on display aboard the Thomas Jefferson. SIU members sail aboard 35 NY Waterway ferries. Capt. Rick Thornton Company founder and CEO Arthur E. Imperatore Sr. says he values his relationship with the SIU and respects his employees. SIU and NY Waterway: A Winning Team for 30 Years Passenger Ferry Operation Boasts Incredible Record of Service, Reliability, Heroism W hether cheerfully transporting passengers or stepping up to help others during emergencies, SIU crews aboard NY Waterway ferries have reliably gotten the job done throughout the company’s 30-year history. Under routine circumstances, the fleet of 35 SIU-crewed ferries is a model of efficiency and a hugely valuable asset to citizens in New York and New Jersey. NY Waterway transports more than 30,000 riders daily (8 million per year) across New York harbor and the East River, which helps reduce road congestion while saving commuters time and benefiting the environment. They consistently earn good marks from customers while receiving an astonishingly small number of complaints. Anyone familiar with the company’s history also knows of its sterling reputation in times of crisis. After the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, Seafarers aboard the ferries evacuated more than 163,000 people from Manhattan. Some of the boats operated into the next morning in order to support emergency crews, and several SIU members rescued people who’d fallen from piers into the water (likely because of little or no visibility). They played a huge part in what has been identified as the largest marine evacuation in history. More recently, SIU crews on NY Waterway boats (the company’s spoken name is New York Waterway) pulled 143 of the 155 people from the downed aircraft in early 2009 in what became known as the Miracle on the Hudson. The other 12 individuals from the US Airways plane that crash- landed in the Hudson River were secured by other rescuers, but make no mistake: NY Waterway was first on the scene and did most of the work, including retrieval of Captain Sully. NY Waterway crews also have rescued more than 200 individuals from drowning, in separate incidents throughout the years. Perhaps not surprisingly, there is a genuine camaraderie and respect among the crews, the passengers and the shore-side employees, including company President and Founder Arthur E. Imperatore, inventor of the modern commuter ferry system, who turns 91 this month and is still on the job. Don’t be fooled by the man’s age: He’s still razor-sharp, driven and very much engaged in the operation. He also holds his employees and the SIU in high esteem. “We are very value-oriented and we don’t cut corners,” he said during a recent interview in his office in Weehawken, New Jersey. “We believe in job satisfaction and job security, and that’s why we’re in such good league with the SIU. They don’t have b.s. values and neither do I…. I hope to have an ongoing relationship with the SIU for a long, long time. I have high levels of regard and respect for this union.” Deckhand George Schumpp, one of the more than 200 SIU members employed at NY Waterway (he and many others have trained at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland), has worked for the company for 28 years, almost The passenger ferries boast an on-time rate of 99 percent along with a sterling record of safety. 12 Seafarers LOG since its inception. “I didn’t know if we’d make it, but we did,” he said recently aboard the Thomas Jefferson. “We’ve all tried to do everything possible to help this place succeed.” He added that some of the job’s highlights include “having the passengers get to know you over the years and working with your fellow union brothers. People look forward to seeing you in the mornings and they even notice when you’re not there.” Schumpp also said he sees a good future for Seafarers at NY Waterway. His fellow Deckhand Edwin Montoya has been with the company for 17 years. He described his job as “the best. I love to work on the water and I can go home in the evenings and see my family…. We’re consistently growing, with more employees and boats. We have a bright future here.” Captain Rick Thornton, a 26-year employee, also expressed a great degree of job satisfaction. “The people are nice, both the passengers and the company people,” he said. “It’s steady, it’s fun driving the boat and you’re home at night.” Thornton said a key to NY Waterway’s success is its related bus service, which offers further convenience for riders. He also said the workers appreciate pats on the back from Imperatore, a tough but fair boss. “It took a special guy to make this work,” Thornton stated. SIU-crewed NY Waterway boats, like the George Washington (above) transport 30,000 passengers a day. Deckhands Edwin Montoya (left) and George Schumpp ‘Based on Integrity’ While the figurative nuts and bolts of the operation matter, Imperatore is more inclined to describe overarching principals when discussing NY Waterway’s success. “We have a clear and consistent philosophy based on integrity,” he explained. “Character matters. We’re very selective in our hiring, and there’s a wholesomeness in how we go about our business. We serve the public, and that’s a very high calling.” Considering the boats have a consistent record of operating 99 percent on time, it’s hard to argue with the results. While largely unsubsidized, the company nevertheless is regarded by many as the most reliable mass transit system in the region. “I’m very proud of what we’ve done and proud of our people,” Imperatore added. “We’re a service community, offering something worthy.” It’s fair to say he leads by example. During the World Trade Center bombing in 1993, Imperatore was on the scene assisting people onto NY Waterway ferries for 10 hours. Decades ago, Imperatore had a vision for the company that many scoffed at. Time and hard work have validated his foresight, and he sees more good things ahead. “There is good job security for our employees,” he concluded. “Working people are smart, and they want to enjoy their lives – not only a job, but something of worthiness. We have that. We have a lot of potential here and it’s back to the future, really.” For many customers, the ferries offer an option for commuting that’s usually much faster and more relaxing than driving. NY Waterway At a Glance ■ Popular passenger ferry service employing SIU captains and deckhands ■ Founded in 1986 by Arthur E. Imperatore ■ Nation’s largest privately operated commuter ferry company ■ Fleet of 35 ferries carries more than 8 million passengers per year ■ Services 21 routes between New Jersey and Manhattan; between Brooklyn, Queens and Manhattan; between Rockland and Westchester counties; and between Orange and Dutchess counties ■ Offers free, seamless connecting bus service ■ Played pivotal roles assisting others on September 11, 2001, and during the Miracle on the Hudson Deckhand Frank Gonzalez (left), SIU Patrolman Ray Henderson July 2016 July 2016 As the Thomas Jefferson docks in Weehawken, New Jersey, Deckhand Edwin Montoya prepares to welcome passengers. Seafarers LOG 13 �ABOARD USNS MAURY – Safety Director Kevin Marchand submitted these photos of Seafarers on the USMMI-operated USNS Maury in early June in Port Everglades, Florida. That’s MDR Brandon Maeda at left. Among the Seafarers serving aboard the oceanographic vessel this year after it completed acceptance trials (most of whom are pictured in the group photo) are Bosun Kwesi Adu-Gyamfi, ABs Patrick McCarthy, Demilton Wheat, Denny Lewis and Kevin Stehlik, STOSs Cameron Peake and Justin Pierce, QE4 Andrew Peprah, Oilers Corey Chandler, Leonilo Arano, Jeffrey Thrash and Hermano Sillon, Storekeeper Deanna Moore, GVAs Torrika Devine, Rey Ramos, Arlisa Williams and Francisco Ocado, Steward/Baker Sedell Reynolds, Chief Cook Toriano Brown, SA Simplicia Twohie and Maeda. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU CHECK PRESENTED TO WOUNDED WARRIOR ANGLERS – Though the fundraising component of the annual Seafarers Waterfront Classic (brainchild of SIU VP Contracts George Tricker) is overshadowed by genuine fellowship, the event does raise considerable money both for the Wounded Warrior Anglers of America and for the waterfront restoration project at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland. Recently, SIU Port Agent Kris Hopkins (second from left) presented some of the proceeds from this year’s event to Wounded Warrior Anglers President David Souders (holding check) in Florida. Also pictured are Tate Hutchinson (left) and Ralph Camp of the Wounded Warrior Anglers. WELCOME ASHORE IN HOUSTON – Longtime Seafarer Lawrence Roth (right), a captain with G&H Towing, picks up his first pension check from Patrolman Joe Zavala. Roth sailed in the union’s inland division since 1978. A-BOOK IN SAN JUAN – QMED Jose Alcaide (right) acquires his A-seniority book at the SIU hall in Puerto Rico, where he is congratulated by Port Agent Amancio Crespo. CHRISTENING IN SAN DIEGO – SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone represented the union at the christening ceremony for the Jones Act tanker Garden State on May 7 in San Diego. Built at General Dynamics NASSCO (a union yard), the 610-foot-long vessel is part of a five-ship order for American Petroleum Tankers; it’ll be operated by Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning, a Crowley subsidiary. PROGRESS CONTINUES ON NEW HOUSTON HALL – The SIU is on schedule to open a new hall in Houston later this year. The sign at the construction site (that’s SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey in front) reflects the all-union construction taking place at the intersection of Navigation and York Streets. SIU BACKS VERIZON STRIKE – Seafarers and SIU officials walked the line in La Plata, Maryland, with union brothers and sisters from the CWA and IBEW during the recent strike against communications giant Verizon. SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez and Port Agent Pat Vandegrift were among those lending their much-appreciated support. The unions won a major victory and had a tentative agreement in place at press time. 14 Seafarers LOG July 2016 �Union Constitution Outlines Absentee Ballot Procedure Elections for the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters are scheduled for later this year. As in past SIU election years, a comprehensive guide will be published in the Seafarers LOG prior to the balloting. In the case of members eligible to vote who believe they will be at sea during the Nov. 1 through Dec. 31, 2016 voting period or who otherwise think they will need absentee ballots, absentee ballots will be available. The SIU constitution ensures that members who are eligible to vote and who find themselves in this situation may vote. Procedures are established in the SIU constitution to safeguard the secret ballot election, including the absentee ballot process. Here is the procedure to follow when requesting an absentee ballot: 1. Make the request in writing to the SIU office of the secretary-treasurer, 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746. 2. Include in the request the correct address where the absentee ballot should be mailed. 3. Send the request for an absentee ballot by registered or certified mail. 4. The registered or certified mail envelope must be postmarked no later than midnight, Nov. 15, 2016 and must be received at 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 no later than Nov. 25, 2016. 5. The secretary-treasurer, after confirming eligibility, will send by registered mail, return receipt requested, to the address designated in the request, a ballot, together with an envelope marked “Ballot” and a mailing envelope no later than Nov. 30, 2016. 6. Upon receiving the ballot and envelope, vote by marking the ballot. After voting the ballot, place the ballot in the envelope marked “Ballot.” Do not write on the “Ballot” envelope. 7. Place the envelope marked “Ballot” in the mailing envelope which is imprinted with the mailing address of the bank depository where all ballots are sent. 8. Sign the mailing envelope on the first line of the upper left-hand corner. Print name and book number on the second line. The mailing envelope is self-addressed and stamped. 9. The mailing envelope must be postmarked no later than midnight, Dec. 31, 2016 and received by the bank depository no later than Jan. 5, 2017. July & August Membership Meetings Piney Point.......................*Tuesday: July 5, Monday: August 8 Algonac.............................................Friday: July 8, August 12 Baltimore.....................................Thursday: July 7, August 11 Guam.........................................Thursday: July 21, August 25 Honolulu.........................................Friday: July 15, August 19 Houston.........................................Monday: July 11, August 15 Jacksonville..................................Thursday: July 7, August 11 Joliet...........................................Thursday: July 14, August 18 Mobile...................................Wednesday: July 13, August 17 New Orleans................................Tuesday: July 12, August 16 Jersey City.................................... Tuesday: July 5, August 9 Norfolk.........................................Thursday: July 7, August 11 Oakland......................................Thursday: July 14, August 18 Philadelphia.............................Wednesday: July 6, August 10 Port Everglades..........................Thursday: July 14, August 18 San Juan.....................................Thursday: July 7, August 11 St. Louis........................................Friday: July 15, August 19 Tacoma...........................................Friday: July 22, August 26 Wilmington.......................................Monday: July 18, August 22 *Piney Point change created by Independence Day Holiday Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m. July 2016 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea May 16, 2016 - June 15, 2016 Total Registered All Groups B C Total Shipped A All Groups B Regitered on Beach C Trip Reliefs A All Groups B Port A C Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Deck Department 23 11 1 13 9 0 4 28 15 1 1 1 0 2 1 0 3 2 1 0 5 1 0 3 1 0 1 8 5 1 16 12 0 12 10 1 7 23 19 2 5 3 0 2 2 0 0 4 2 0 14 3 1 9 0 0 5 19 3 1 12 4 1 9 4 1 4 23 7 0 61 10 4 45 7 3 25 116 14 6 49 18 4 25 11 3 13 68 29 4 34 12 0 25 9 1 18 65 18 0 1 4 0 2 2 1 1 0 4 0 9 3 2 13 2 1 7 11 5 2 24 19 1 12 16 1 14 32 24 3 15 5 0 13 2 0 4 28 8 3 7 3 1 4 3 0 1 10 5 1 6 3 0 2 2 0 1 4 3 0 7 2 1 4 6 0 3 14 9 1 47 11 2 32 9 2 16 66 17 0 2 2 1 2 2 1 1 2 3 0 19 9 0 16 10 1 12 42 25 4 357 136 19 245 108 16 140 565 216 29 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Engine Department 6 2 1 1 4 1 2 7 3 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 5 3 3 1 4 4 0 7 3 1 10 8 0 6 2 0 2 13 8 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 1 2 0 3 1 0 3 0 0 1 5 1 1 9 4 1 7 4 1 2 21 6 0 17 8 1 11 5 1 8 35 11 1 22 19 1 22 11 1 11 37 28 1 13 9 0 12 6 0 8 27 8 0 1 1 0 0 2 0 0 1 1 0 3 2 2 3 0 0 3 8 5 2 10 19 3 7 10 1 6 16 27 2 10 7 1 7 1 1 2 15 7 1 4 1 0 4 0 0 1 3 2 0 1 3 0 0 4 0 1 2 2 0 2 2 0 1 1 0 0 5 6 1 17 9 0 13 2 2 8 24 10 3 0 0 0 1 1 0 1 2 2 0 12 9 1 8 8 1 4 19 13 2 146 108 15 107 65 14 60 249 145 15 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Steward Department 2 1 0 2 2 0 1 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 5 1 0 1 1 0 1 6 0 0 14 2 1 13 4 1 4 17 2 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 2 0 7 1 0 3 2 0 1 9 2 0 13 2 0 7 1 0 5 28 1 0 15 4 0 18 3 0 11 31 6 1 18 4 0 15 4 1 8 28 12 0 20 6 0 14 5 0 4 20 4 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 1 0 2 0 7 1 2 4 1 0 1 8 2 4 12 5 3 10 3 1 6 29 12 5 20 4 1 10 5 1 5 19 7 6 2 0 0 2 0 1 0 3 0 0 6 1 1 6 2 0 1 4 2 1 2 5 1 0 3 0 1 2 8 0 13 1 1 10 0 1 4 31 4 0 2 0 0 4 0 0 0 4 0 0 25 4 3 11 5 1 9 39 13 3 184 43 13 132 41 7 63 283 79 20 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Entry Department 1 8 1 0 6 2 0 3 15 4 0 1 2 0 0 1 0 0 2 3 0 2 0 0 2 1 0 0 3 0 0 3 2 0 3 5 0 1 4 2 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 1 4 0 0 1 0 0 2 4 0 1 5 7 1 8 6 1 1 8 6 5 15 2 1 8 2 1 6 40 7 3 16 18 4 13 15 1 4 24 30 4 18 2 1 9 1 2 4 29 5 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 1 2 1 1 0 1 0 0 3 0 1 16 16 1 12 7 2 1 21 20 3 13 4 2 7 2 3 2 20 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 6 0 0 4 0 1 0 3 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 8 0 0 4 6 7 0 8 5 1 4 17 10 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 2 12 11 2 9 9 1 3 47 21 26 128 73 14 92 57 13 39 243 114 GRAND TOTAL: 713 415 120 498 306 94 276 1,136 683 178 Seafarers LOG 15 �Seafarers International Union Directory 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 Kermett Mangram, Vice President Government Services HEADQUARTERS 5201 Auth Way, Camp Springs, MD 20746 (301) 899-0675 Inquiring Seafarer This month’s question was answered by members in Houston. Question: Why did you join the merchant marine? Rene Gil Chief Cook Very simple – for a better life, to travel around the world. Good money, good benefits. Now I have a couple of kids as Piney Point trainees. Willie Clemons Wiper I started with the NMU. It took me off the streets and I got to see the world. It’s a good career for a young person. I tell any young person: get a trade, see the world and make good money. Wilmer McCants QMED I have an uncle who sailed as a steward, a brother as a bosun. I like working on engines, so that’s why I went to the engine room. It’s a chance to go around the world and see how people live. Val Custis AB It was a good way to change and have a second chance at life. An opportunity to travel and make good money. It gave me an opportunity to grow and support the family. Isabel Miranda Chief Cook To take care of family. I have two kids, one in university who wants to be a registered nurse. The other is in communications. This gives them a better life. Allen C. Davis AB I was able to make better money and see the world. 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 1730 Jefferson 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 Pic From The Past 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 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (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) 549-4000 Part of the SIU Pacific District fleet, the Wyoming is launched at Avondale Shipyard in New Orleans in late 1968. The 579-footlong vessel was the fourth in a series of five cargo ships built for States Steamship Company. According to the original photo caption, at that time they were the largest ever built in New Orleans and the biggest launched in the Mississippi River. 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 16 Seafarers LOG July 2016 �Welcome Ashore 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 waterways 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. DEEP SEA CARL BARRETT Brother Carl Barrett, 65, joined the SIU in 1969. His first trip was aboard the Volusia. Brother Barrett sailed in the deck department. He upgraded in 1981 at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Barrett last worked on the Cape Orlando. He calls Livingston, Texas, home. GARY BRUBER Brother Gary Bruber, 66, became a union member in 1990. He initially worked on the USNS Harkness. Brother Bruber attended classes often at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. He sailed in both the engine and deck departments. Brother Bruber’s most recent voyage was aboard the USNS Montford Point. He makes his home in Virginia Beach, Virginia. GERARDO FREDERICK Brother Gerardo Frederick, 68, started sailing with the union in 1994. His first trip was aboard the Independence. Brother Frederick enhanced his skills frequently at the Piney Point school. The steward department member last shipped on the Liberty Promise. Brother Frederick is a native of Honduras and now calls Houston home. ROGER GRISWOLD Brother Roger Griswold, 59, joined the SIU ranks in 1980. He originally sailed on the Long Lines. Brother Griswold shipped in the steward department. He upgraded numerous times at the Seafarers-affiliated school in southern Maryland. Brother Griswold’s most recent ship was the Seabulk Challenge. He is a resident of Weare, New Hampshire. JOHN GROSSKURTH Brother John Grosskurth, 65, began sailing with the union in 1990. He was first employed on the Franklin J. Phillips. In 2001 and 2007, Brother Grosskurth en- July 2016 hanced his skills at the Paul Hall Center. The deck department member most recently worked aboard the El Yunque. Brother Grosskurth makes his home in Sanford, Florida. Kaplan attended classes in 1997 at the Paul Hall Center. He worked in the deck department, most recently on the Horizon Enterprise. Brother Kaplan resides in Hawaii. his skills frequently at the Piney Point school. He was a member of the steward department and last shipped aboard the Lightning. Brother Polk is a resident of Long Beach, California. RANCE HADAWAY JOHN KNOX ALI SHAW Brother Rance Hadaway, 69, joined the union in 2002. His first ship was the USNS Pomeroy; his most recent, the 2nd Lt. John Paul Bobo. Brother Hadaway worked in the engine department. He upgraded on two occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Hadaway resides in Moncks Corner, South Carolina. Brother John Knox, 68, first donned the SIU colors in 2001 when the NMU merged into the Seafarers International Union. He was a deck department member. Brother Knox upgraded in 2001 and 2007 at the Piney Point school. He last worked on the Seakay Spirit. Brother Knox lives in Channelview, Texas. Brother Ali Shaw, 66, signed on with union in 1970. He was first employed on the Steel Admiral. Brother Shaw was a member of both the steward and engine departments. His most recent voyage was aboard the USNS Silas Bent. Brother Shaw was born in Arabia and now resides in Hanford, California. JAMES HARRIS EUGENIO LOPEZ Brother James Harris, 58, signed on with the Seafarers in 1978. His first trip was on the LNG Aquarius. Brother Harris often took advantage of educational opportunities available at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. He primarily sailed in the steward department. Brother Harris last sailed aboard the Endurance. He lives in Mobile, Alabama. Brother Eugenio Lopez, 67, started sailing with the Seafarers in 1998. He originally sailed aboard the Global Mariner. A member of the deck department, Brother Lopez last shipped on the Green Ridge. He makes his home in Port Saint Lucie, Florida. EARL JONES Brother Earl Jones, 70, began shipping with the SIU in 1974. He initially worked in the inland division on a G&H Towing vessel. Brother Jones, who sailed in the deck department, enhanced his skills twice at the Piney Point school. His most recent voyage was aboard the Houston. Brother Jones calls Texas home. BRENDA KAMIYA Sister Brenda Kamiya, 57, joined the union in 1981. One of her first vessels was the Independence. Sister Kamiya was born in Honolulu and worked in the steward department. She upgraded numerous times at the unionaffiliated school in Piney Point. Sister Kamiya last sailed on the Pacific Tracker. She is a resident of Tacoma, Washington. TONY KAPLAN Brother Tony Kaplan, 66, signed on with the SIU in 1991. His first trip was on the Independence. Brother EDUARDO MUNIZAGA Brother Eduardo Munizaga, 65, joined the union in 1991. He initially worked aboard the Overseas Chicago. Brother Munizaga enhanced his skills in 2001 at the Piney Point school. He was born in La Serena, Gustavia, and sailed in the steward department. Brother Munizaga’s most recent ship was the APL Belgium. He resides in Torrance, California. RENE PALACIOS Brother Rene Palacios, 65, became a Seafarer in 1999. His first trip was on the Franklin J. Phillips. Brother Palacios attended classes in 2004 at the Paul Hall Center. The steward department member’s last vessel was the APL Cyprine. Brother Palacios was born in Honduras, and makes his home in Wilmington, North Carolina. ERNEST POLK Brother Ernest Polk, 65, first donned the SIU colors in 1968. One of his first ships was the Exchange. Brother Polk enhanced JAMES SPRANZA Brother James Spranza, 62, began shipping with the SIU in 1980. His initial trip was on the Sea-Land Finance. Brother Spranza upgraded in 2010 at the Paul Hall Center. He most recently sailed aboard the Horizon Pacific. The engine department member calls Daly City, California, home. INLAND DANA HALL Brother Dana Hall, 68, became a union member in 2007. He was initially employed with Allied Towing Company. Brother Hall worked in both the deck and steward departments. His most recent trip was with OSG Ship Management. Brother Hall lives in Blounts Creek, North Carolina. ANTONINO LOGONOVEACH Brother Antonino Logonoveach, 62, joined the SIU in 1994. He originally shipped in the deep sea division on the Pfc. Eugene A Obregon. Brother Logonoveach was a member of the deck department. He most recently worked with Crowley Towing & Transportation of Jacksonville. Brother Logonoveach calls Ceiba, Puerto Rico, home. ROY LUNSON Brother Roy Lunson, 65, started shipping with the union in 1991. He mainly sailed aboard vessels operated by Higman Barge Lines. Brother Lunson worked in the deck department. He makes his home in Egan, Louisiana. MICHAEL YARBROUGH Brother Michael Yarbrough, 61, started his seafaring career in 1979. He initially worked with Dravo Basic Material Company. Brother Yarbrough sailed as a member of the deck department. On two occasions, he took advantage of educational opportunities available at the union-affiliated school in Maryland. Brother Yarbrough’s most recent trip was with Crescent Towing & Salvage Company of Mobile, Alabama. He has retired to Orange Beach, Alabama. GREAT LAKES WAYNE STROPICH Brother Wayne Stropich, 62, signed on with the SIU in 1977. He was first employed with Quality Quarries, Inc. Brother Stropich was a member of engine department. He last shipped aboard an Upper Lakes Towing Company vessel. Brother Stropich resides in Rapid River, Michigan. LEONARD THOMAS Brother Leonard Thomas, 47, began shipping with the union in 1991. He originally sailed on the Alpena. Brother Thomas sailed in the deck department. His final ship was the John Boland. Brother Thomas settled in Lachine, Michigan. DARLENE WEYMOUTH Sister Darlene Weymouth, 65, started working with the union in 2002. She originally sailed on the Walter J. McCarthy. Sister Weymouth was born in St. Clair, Michigan. She was a steward department member. Sister Weymouth attended classes on two occasions at the Piney Point school. She last shipped aboard the St. Clair. Sister Weymouth made her home in Burtchville, Michigan. Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures DEEP SEA CHARLES BARKINS Pensioner Charles Barkins, 91, died February 6. He became a union member in 1947. Brother Barkins initially worked on a Delta Steamship Lines vessel. He shipped as a member of the steward department. Prior to his retirement in 1985, Brother Barkins sailed aboard the Venture. He made his home in New Orleans. WILLIAM CACHOLA Pensioner William Cachola, 89, passed away March 16. He joined the SIU in 1951, originally sailing on the Arlyn. Brother Cachola was born in Puerto Rico and shipped in the engine department. He last sailed aboard the Nuevo San Juan. Brother Cachola went on pension in 1991 and called Baltimore home. OLIVER DOTSON Pensioner Oliver Dotson, 75, died March 8. He started shipping with the Seafarers in 1988. Brother Dotson initially worked on the American Kestrel; his final ship was the American Falcon. He sailed in the deck department. Brother Dotson became a pensioner in 2006 and lived in Texas City, Texas. JOHN GRAY Pensioner John Gray, 68, passed away March 15. He began his SIU career in 2001 when the NMU merged into the Seafarers International Union. Brother Gray was a deck department member. His most recent ship was the Overseas Los Angeles. Brother Gray went on pension in 2015 and settled in Winnie, Texas. CALVAIN JAMES Pensioner Calvain James, 88, died March 7. He signed on with the union in 1951. Brother James’ first ship was the Suzanne; his last was the Maersk Carolina. He sailed in the deck department. Brother James began collecting his pension in 1999. He lived in Teaneck, New Jersey. GEORGE LIZANO Pensioner George Lizano, 85, passed away February 28. He joined the SIU in 1960. Brother 18 Seafarers LOG Lizano was born in Costa Rica. He originally sailed on the Mt. Shasta. Brother Lizano concluded his seafaring career aboard the Cove Trader. A member of the engine department, he started collecting his retirement compensation in 1994. Brother Lizano continued to reside in Costa Rica. JEROME SUMLIN Pensioner Jerome Sumlin, 65, died February 5. He began sailing with the union in 1968. Brother Sumlin first shipped on the Portmar. He worked in the engine department. Brother Sumlin’s final voyage was on the Falcon Champion. He retired in 2015 and made his home in Mobile, Alabama. INLAND ALPHONSE DIDOMENICO Pensioner Alphonse Didomenico, 82, passed away February 17. Born in Manhattan, New York, he donned the SIU colors in 1962. Brother Didomenico originally worked with Bush Terminal Railroad. Prior to his retirement in 2006, Brother Didomenico was employed with New York Dock Railway Company. He called New York home. THOMAS FARRELL Pensioner Thomas Farrell, 82, died March 12. Brother Farrell started sailing with the SIU in 1961. He was originally employed in the deep sea division aboard the Alcoa Pointer. Brother Farrell sailed in the deck department. He last shipped with OSG Ship Management. Brother Farrell retired in 1995 and resided in Elverson, Pennsylvania. WILLIAM SMITH Pensioner William Smith, 81, passed away February 11. He became a union member in 1973. Brother Smith’s first trip was with Berg Towing Company. He sailed in the deck department, most recently aboard an OSG Ship Management vessel. Brother Smith was born in Jackson, Mississippi, and called New York home. GREAT LAKES ALFRED SHANAHAN Pensioner Alfred Shanahan, 74, died February 18. Brother Shanahan began shipping with the SIU in 1969. He initially sailed with American Steamship Company. Brother Shanahan worked in the deck department. He last worked on the Consumer Powers. Brother Shanahan became a pensioner in 2007 and lived in Phoenix, Arizona. ELLIS FEURTADO Pensioner Ellis Feurtado, 95, passed away February 19. Born in Honduras, Brother Feurtado became a pensioner in 1985. He was a resident of Pearland, Texas. ROLLAND THORIN LUTHER FLOYD Pensioner Luther Floyd, 72, passed away January 18. Brother Floyd was born in Texas. He went on pension in 1992 and resided in Houston. Pensioner Rolland Thorin, 90, passed away February 27. He signed on with the union in 1964. Brother Thorin originally worked with Michigan Interstate Railway. The engine department member’s final ship was the Walter J. McCarthy. Brother Thorin retired in 1990 and made his home in Waukesha, Wisconsin. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION NICOLAS AIKANOFF Pensioner Nicolas Aikanoff, 77, died February 10. Brother Aikanoff was born in France. He went on pension in 1994 and called Webb, Texas, home. EMMETT BENJAMIN Pensioner Emmett Benjamin, 100, passed away February 18. The Louisiana native retired in 1982. Brother Benjamin lived in New Orleans. ROBERT BRYANT Pensioner Robert Bryant, 82, died February 11. The California native became a pensioner in 1998. Brother Bryant was a resident of Gulfport, Mississippi. EDWARD BURKE Pensioner Edward Burke, 91, passed away February 16. Born in Philadelphia, Brother Burke started receiving his pension in 1968. He continued to reside in Philadelphia. WILLIE CHEATHAM Pensioner Willie Cheatham, 92, died March 19. Brother Cheatham was born in Leesville, Louisiana. He went on pension in 1979. Brother Cheatham called Port Arthur, Texas, home. LYDIA CRUZ Pensioner Lydia Cruz, 91, died February 24. She was a native of New York. Sister Cruz began collecting his pension in 1989. She continued to live in New York. HENRY EASTERLIN Pensioner Henry Easterlin, 70, died February 16. Brother Easterlin was born in Greenville, Alabama. He started receiving his pension in 2010. Brother Easterlin made his home in Tacoma, Washington. ROLANDO GAYLE Pensioner Rolando Gayle, 89, died February 12. The Cuba native retired in 1988. He called Brooklyn, New York, home. LAWRENCE GUILLORY Pensioner Lawrence Guillory, 95, passed away January 12. He was a native of Reddell, Louisiana. Brother Guillory began receiving his pension in 1984. He was a resident of Mamou, Louisiana. EDWARD KOLOWSKY Pensioner Edward Kolowsky, 88, died February 18. Brother Kolowsky was born in Philadelphia. He went on pension in 1984 and resided in Lawrence, Pennsylvania. ARTHUR LAWSON Pensioner Arthur Lawson, 93, died March 14. The Brenham, Texas, native retired in 1988. Brother Lawson lived in Elmhurst, New York. RENAUD LUCCHESI Pensioner Renaud Lucchesi, 89, passed away February 1. Born in France, Brother Lucchesi started receiving his retirement compensation in 1969. He made his home in Old Saybrook, Connecticut. GEORGE MCANERN Pensioner George McAnern, 78, died March 4. He was a native of Massachusetts. Brother McAnern became a pensioner in 2004 and was a resident of Castroville, California. GIUSEPPE MEZZATESTA Pensioner Giuseppe Mezzatesta, 98, passed away March 17. Born in Rome, New York, Brother Mezzatesta retired in 1969. He resided in Clearwater, Florida. LUDWIG MILTON Pensioner Ludwig Milton, 96, died March 9. Brother Milton was born in Suriname. He went on pension in 1987 and settled in Brooklyn, New York. Brother Neth called Nottingham, Maryland, home. AURELIO PADILLA Pensioner Aurelio Padilla, 80, passed away February 15. Brother Padilla was born in Naranjito, Puerto Rico. He started collecting his pension in 1992 and was a resident of Ocoee, Florida. JOAQUIM PEREIRA Pensioner Joaquim Pereira, 98, died February 13. Brother Pereira became a pensioner in 1970. He made his home in Italy. JOSEPH POCIUS Pensioner Joseph Pocius, 87, passed away February 8. The Massachusetts native retired in 1983. Brother Pocius called Easton, Massachusetts, home. JUAN SANCHEZ Pensioner Juan Sanchez, 84, died January 9. Born in Puerto Rico, Brother Sanchez became a pensioner in 1983. He settled in Bronx, New York. HARRY SHENSKY Pensioner Harry Shensky, 86, passed away February 16. Brother Shensky was born in Norristown, Pennsylvania. He began receiving his retirement pay in 1985. Brother Shensky lived in Orange, Texas. RALPH TEEPLE Pensioner Ralph Teeple, 89, died January 26. Born in Newark, New York, Brother Teeple went on pension in 1985. He made his home in Huron, New York. WALTER WHITE Pensioner Walter White, 90, passed away February 18. The Massachusetts native retired in 1997. Brother White settled in Epsom, New Hampshire. Name Age Blake, Herbert 90 Carroll, Vernon 85 Castro, Robustiano 92 Diaz, Carlos 88 Foster, Hillard 87 Giuliani, Lino 90 Johnson, Dave 93 Kuntze, Berna 90 Leslie, Conrado 92 McQuaid, James 92 Morris, Alfred 79 Naji, Saleh 85 Patterson, William 94 Pavlik, John 89 Rigual, Rafael 99 Rosario, Juan 87 Witkowski, Stanley 92 DOD Jan 18 Mar 5 Mar 4 Jan 16 Jan 12 Jan 17 Mar 28 Jan 13 Feb 13 Mar 9 Mar 22 Feb 21 Mar 28 Mar 27 Mar 1 Jan 1 Feb 11 MALCOLM NETH Pensioner Malcolm Neth, 88, died January 28. The Pennsylvania native became a pensioner in 1993. July 2016 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings AMERICAN MARINER (American Steamship), April 30 – Chairman Scott E. Krajniak, Secretary Daniel J. Kane, Educational Director Robert T. Crosby. Chairman reminded crew to check expiration dates on necessary seafaring documents and make sure they have basic safety training endorsement to meet STCW requirements. Secretary reminded members to register at union hall within 72 hours of end of tour. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Educational director discussed benefits of upgrading at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland. Next port: Buffalo, New York. AMERICAN SPIRIT (American Steamship), April 24 – Chairman Paul S. Gohs, Secretary Bernard E. Lawes, Educational Director Michael L. Kruse. Bosun reviewed requirements for BST when renewing MMC (merchant mariner credential) after January 1, 2017. He distributed pension plan booklets to those who had requested them and read letter regarding improvements to Core Level dental plan. Discussion was held pertaining to upcoming contract negotiations. Educational director posted upgrading course information on ship’s bulletin board. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew members requested clarification regarding requirements needed to work for American Steamship Company. BUFFALO (American Steamship), April 24 – Chairman Amin A. Quraish, Secretary Theophil S. Igielski, Educational Director Mark A. MacRury. Chairman reported safe, smooth trip. Secretary advised mariners to watch expiration dates on documents. Educational director talked about STCW, BST and MMCs. Treasurer reminded everyone to keep dues upto-date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed benefit increases to Core Plus dental. OT reported. Educational director advised mariners to take advantage of upgrading opportunities available at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland. The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring 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. Atypical New Tonnage in Northeast HORIZON ENTERPRISE (Sunrise Operations), April 24 – Chairman George B. Khan, Secretary Raymond S. Garcia, Educational Director Trent R. Sterling, Deck Delegate Wilfredo Caidoy, Engine Delegate Robert Brady, Steward Delegate Mercurion Abuan. Chairman announced payoff April 29 in Los Angeles. He talked about improvements to dental benefits and stated apprentices were doing a great job. Educational director urged mariners to keep an eye on expiration dates of documents and make sure union has up-to-date mailing address. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew was reminded to keep ship clean and keep noise down while others are sleeping. Next ports: Oakland, California and Los Angeles. HORIZON PACIFIC (Sunrise Operations), April 26 – Chairman Jozef Ignaczak, Secretary Robert Mosley, Educational Director Thomas M. Flynn, Deck Delegate Samuel H. Lampshire, Engine Delegate Yahya A. Mohamed, Steward Delegate Salah M. Salah. Chairman thanked crew for doing their jobs well. He announced payoff April 28. Secretary talked about importance of donating to SPAD (Seafarers Political Activity Donation). Educational director urged members to enhance their skills at the Paul Hall Center to excel in their positions. He also advised them to keep documents current. Treasurer reported $100 in cookout fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. President’s report was read and discussed; vote of thanks was given to President Sacco and his staff. Request was made for a computer with internet and printer in crew lounge. Members would also like new couches and chairs. Mariners expressed their gratitude to the steward department for great cookouts. Crew was asked to keep noise down while people off watch are sleeping. Next ports: Honolulu, Oakland, California and San Pedro, California. The vast majority of Seafarers-contracted new tonnage is, of course, sea-based, but the union welcomes it on shore (and rail), too. Check out the new locomotive in the background at SIU-contracted New York New Jersey Rail. Pictured from left to right are SIU Safety Director Osvaldo Ramos and Donald Hutton, managing director at the company. Marcus, Educational Director Oswald N. Bermeo, Deck Delegate Albert Williams, Engine Delegate Brian A. Jackson, Steward Delegate Mark Keller. Bosun thanked crew for a safe voyage. Educational director advised mariners to enhance skills at maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Recommendation was made regarding 401K plan. Steward department was thanked for making fine food. Next ports: Newark, New Jersey, Charleston, South Carolina, Savannah, Georgia and Houston. El Faro Dedication on October 1 MAERSK IDAHO (Maersk Line, Limited), April 3 – Chairman Ronald Mena, Secretary Gregory K. Johnson, Educational Director Grant W. Schuman, Steward Delegate Mary Chris Little. Bosun reported smooth sailing and great crew. He urged them to allow ample time to obtain renewals before documents expire. Educational director recommended training at the Piney Point school. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Treasurer reported about $1,000 in ship’s fund. Crew members would like new chairs and Wi-Fi on all decks of ship. Seafarers who are in the Jacksonville, Florida, area on October 1 are invited to attend the dedication of a new El Faro memorial at the SIU hall on Belfort Road. The agenda is still in the works, but the dedication will begin at noon. We’ll publish and post reminders in the months ahead. MAERSK IOWA (Maersk Line, Limited), April 24 – Chairman Michael D. Ratigan, Secretary Robin D. Ballard, Educational Director GREAT REPUBLIC (Key Lakes IV), April 24 – Chairman Jeffery E. Eckhart, Secretary Munasser A. Ahmed, Educational Director Ali S. Musa. Chairman reminded members that contract negotiations start soon. Secretary requested SIU ship’s minutes forms and upgrading applications. No beefs or disputed MAERSK COLUMBUS (Maersk Line, Limited), April 16 – Chairman Daniel S. Save the Date July 2016 Eufemiano Gomes, Deck Delegate Allan Green. Chairman stated satellite phone was out of service. Request was made for stand-by in home port. Educational director urged mariners to keep an eye on expiration dates of documents. Treasurer reported $1,564 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Mariners would like more serving dishes, new washing machine for crew laundry and new movies. Suggestion was made pertaining to vacation benefits. Next port: Norfolk, Virginia. MAERSK OHIO (Maersk Line, Limited), April 16 – Chairman Domingo Leon, Secretary Christina A. Mateer, Educational Director Antoine L. Rainey, Engine Delegate Joel Bell, Steward Delegate Sandra Vann. Bosun reported good trip and great food. He encouraged all Seafarers to pay attention to documents’ expiration dates. Secretary asked crew to leave rooms clean and supplied with fresh linen for reliefs. Educational director urged members to register for upgrading at Piney Point early as classes fill up quick. Treasurer stated $750 in ship’s fund. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Request was made to increase food budget. Recommendations were made regarding vacation, medical, and pension benefits. Next port: Newark, New Jersey. PRESQUE ISLE (Key Lakes), April 17 – Chairman Tony S. Sivola, Secretary Walter L. Wise, Educational Director Shaker M. Abdulah, Deck Delegate Hussein Qassim. Educational director encouraged mariners to utilize Piney Point school whenever possible. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Steward department was thanked for great food and service. Members were told to contact the union hall if they had not received their summary of benefits and coverage. Clarification was requested pertaining to health benefit requirements. ST. LOUIS EXPRESS (Crowley), April 24 – Chairman Matthew T. Sagay, Secretary Marlon A. Battad, Deck Delegate Damon J. Anderson, Engine Delegate Mohammed Khan. Chairman reported good trip and acknowledged crew for their hard work. Secretary reminded members to make sure laundry machine was empty after use and thanked them for keeping pantry area clean. Educational director advised mariners to enhance skills at maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland, and pay attention to expiration dates of documents. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Treasurer noted $150 in ship’s fund. Bosun stressed the importance of safety while in port. Next ports: Charleston, South Carolina and Houston. Seafarers LOG 19 �SIU Crews Excel Aboard Crowley-Operated MSC Ships SIU and AMO crew members from six of the vessels in the Military Sealift Command T-AGOS/T-AGM fleet managed and operated by Seafarers-contracted Crowley Maritime Corporation’s government services group recently reached their first anniversaries aboard their ships. The anniversaries mark a milestone in Crowley’s management program to attract and retain crew members and offer professional development, according to the company. Through May, more than 100 members have reached anniversaries as Crowley emphasizes training, retention and promotional opportunities. “We congratulate the mariners who have continued and advanced their careers on these vessels,” said Crowley’s Mike Golonka, vice president, government services. “The men and women making their careers aboard these ships provide a critical service to our country, so providing opportunities to enrich their careers is part of our commitment to fulfilling our management role.” Crowley began fully managing the ships, which support the U.S. Navy’s Surveillance Towed Array Sensor Sys- tems (SURTASS) operations, U.S. Air Force radars and other research, between January and May of last year. The fleet consists of seven vessels – five T-AGOS vessels and two T-AGM ships with more than 250 crew members total (many of them SIU members). Crowley provides personnel, operational and technical support, equipment, provisions and supplies for the United States Naval Ships (USNS). The work anniversaries were reached on the SIU-crewed, Crowley-managed USNS Loyal, USNS Able, USNS Effective, USNS Victorious, USNS Impeccable and USNS Invincible. Crowley also began managing the SIU-crewed USNS Howard Lorenzen this year. In a news release noting the anniversaries, the company reported, “Crowley has emphasized training and professional development of mariners as well as supporting quality of life through scheduled rotations. Overall, retention for the fleet is 87 percent, including 92 percent for officers and 82 percent for unlicensed mariners. In addition, 35 promotions have taken place within the Crowley fleet, and 11 more T-AGOS members have re- The USNS Able is an SIU-crewed, Crowley-operated ship that supports U.S. military operations. ceived promotions to other fleets.” The ships have made more than 700 embarkations since Crowley took over. The vessels use SURTASS equipment to gather undersea acoustic data around the world in support of the anti-submarine warfare operations. The ships’ equipment processes and transmits data via satellite to shore for evaluation. Crowley’s ship management group provides all phases of commercial ship management, along with full technical management and government contracting. Under this U.S. Navy contract, Crowley is providing full turnkey operation and management for the fleet, including crewing, scheduled and unscheduled repair and dry-docking. With Seafarers Aboard Alaskan Explorer This snapshot was taken June 13 in Martinez, California, following a union meeting led by Patrolman Nick Marrone II. Among other topics, the crew expressed thanks for the recently announced increase in dental benefits provided through the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan. Pictured from left to right are AB Hussein Mohsen, AB Modesto Rabena, AB Russell Hayden, AB Kenneth Abrahamson, SA David Mohamed, GUDE George Washington, GUDE Lee Weygandt, Chief Cook Dennison Dizon, Bosun Michael Moore, Chief Steward John Huyett, GUDE Terence Bennett, QMED Alberto Semedo and GUDE Jonas Libang. The ship is operated by Alaska Tanker Co. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the 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 recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters 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 disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval 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 shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively 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 employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: 20 Seafarers LOG Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers 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 filing 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 SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful 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 responsibility 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 OBLIGATIONS. 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 headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Conse­q uently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect 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 Michael 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 July 2016 �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 Gap Closing Courses Title of Start Date of Course Date Completion BAPO July 16 August 12 September 10 October 7 FOWT August 13 September 9 October 8 November 4 Junior Engineer July 30 September 23 Machinist November 12 December 2 Engineroom Resource Management September 17 September 23 October 1 October 7 October 8 October 14 October 15 October 21 Marine Electrician September 10 November 4 Marine Refer Tech November 5 December 16 Pumpman July 23 August 5 Leadership and Managerial Skills September 17 September 23 December 3 December 16 October 1 October 7 Welding August 20 September 9 MEECE September 24 September 30 October 1 October 7 Steward Department Courses October 15 October 21 Advanced Galley Ops August 13 September 9 Deck Department Upgrading Courses October 8 November 4 Able Seafarer Deck August 13 September 9 October 8 November 4 AB to Mate Modules Module dates vary throughout the year. Stu- dents will be advised of dates once accepted. Advanced Meteorology August 13 September 9 ARPA December 3 December 9 Bosun Recertification July 16 August 8 Crane Familiarization August 13 August 19 Certified Chief Cook Modules run every other week. Most recent class started July 2. Chief Steward September 24 November 4 November 5 December 16 Galley Ops July 16 August 12 September 10 October 7 ServSafe August 27 September 2 November 19 November 25 Safety Upgrading Courses ECDIS July 16 July 22 September 24 September 30 December 3 December 9 Basic Training w/16hr FF July 9 July 15 July 23 July 29 August 20 August 26 Fast Rescue Boat July 16 July 22 August 13 August 19 August 27 September 2 Basic Training Revalidation GMDSS November 5 November 18 Lifeboat July 30 August 12 August 27 September 9 September 24 October 7 Radar Observer November 19 December 2 RFPNW July 16 August 12 September 10 October 7 August 13 September 9 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 application, 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. July 2016 July 29 Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation August 6 August 12 September 10 September 16 Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting July 30 August 5 August 27 September 2 Government Vessels July 16 July 22 Medical Care Provider August 6 August 12 Tank Barge - DL August 27 September 2 Tank Ship Familiarization - DL/LG July 30 August 12 November 19 December 2 Engine Department Upgrading Courses Advanced Refer Containers July 29 Tank Ship Familiarization - LG September 3 September 9 COURSE ____________________________ ____________________________ START DATE _______________ _______________ DATE OF 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 students, 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. 7/16 Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class #811 – Nine Phase I apprentices completed their requirements in this course May 20. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Christopher Baker, Kevin Hampton, Jason Hinchman, Da’vonte Junies, Joseph Parr, Ryan Raynor, Rahsean Sharp, Hayden Vogt and Edward Voskamp. Water Survival (Upgrader) – Seafarer Lamar Pinckney recently completed the enhancement of his skills in this course. He graduated May 20. Able Seafarer Deck – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course May 27: Matthew Alexander, Husein Mohsin Alrayyashi, Benjamin Carroll, Christopher Dault, Peter Hamm, Matthew Hargrove, Francisco Javier Hernandez Davila, Benjamin Howarth, Thomas Johnson, Alfred Jones, Martin McDonald, Ian McDonough, Christian Montanez Cruz, Stevie Palmer, Christian Reyes Herencia, Kalai Robledo and Rossitza Atanasova Zahariev. Government Vessels – Nineteen upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course May 27: Muniru Alhasi Adam, Mike Adorno, Kyren Ancrum, Jose Gacutan Bonita, George Borromeo, Darvin Brown, Dominic Dela Cruz Dumlao, Victor Frazier, Kenneth Hagan, Diana House, Dwight Hunt Sr., Brian Magill, Vicente Bautista Mansilungan, Ali Said Saleh Nassir, Clovis Pomare, Lateef Ojomu Sanusi, Frank Strong, Charles Toliver and Elpidio Avergonzado Toyco. Their instructor, Tom Truitt, is at the far left in the second row. Marine Refrigeration – The following Seafarers (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course May 13: Dwight Cherry Jr., Derrick Clark, Jerome Culbreth Jr., Michael Deren, Elliot Duncan, William Gibson, Darrell Goggins, Nathan Graddick, Steven Miller, Lionel Rivera and Ronald Westerfield. Class instructor Jay Henderson is at the far right in the first row. Tankship Familiarization – The following Phase III apprentices (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course May 13: Antony Chapman, Andrew Mendoza, Phillip Nichols, Hiten Shrimankar and Mackenzie Wincelowicz. Each plans to work in the deck department of American-flag vessels upon the completion of their training. Welding – Two upgraders finished their classwork and graduated from this course May 20. They are Olympia Harley (above, center) and Ferdinand Gabonada Hullana (right). Their instructor, Chris Raley, is at the left. Medical Care Provider – Eight upgraders graduated from this course May 20. Completing their requirements (above, in alphabetical order) were: Alcy Beckford, Matthew Botterbusch, Kelly Doyle, Dwight Hunt Sr., Bud Sok Khuth, Jarred Moylan, Charles Toliver and James Wunder. Their instructor, Leonard Wayne Johnson Jr., is at the far left. Tankship Familiarization – Eleven Phase III apprentices (above, in alphabetical order) completed this course May 13: Frank Bigornia, Bevan Cottone, Lionel Manuel Felix Lugo, Terren Fields, Thedford Jones Jr., Christile Lejunie, Zachary Manzi, Liam Richey, Samuel Sanders Jr., Michael Smith and Nicholas Tejada. Upon the completion of their training, each plans to work in the engine department aboard American-flag vessels. Tankship Familiarization – Phase III apprentices Simona Evans (above, right) and Tyrane Savage finished their requirements and graduated from this course May 13. Upon the completion of their training, each plans to work in the steward department while sailing aboard American-flag vessels. Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting – The following upgraders (photo at right, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course May 13: Alcy Beckford, George Borromeo, Matthew Botterbusch, Dwight Hunt Sr., Bud Sok Khuth, Gheorghe Savencu and James Wunder. Class instructor Leonard Wayne Johnson Jr., is at the far left. 22 Seafarers LOG July 2016 �Paul Hall Center Classes Basic Low Flash Point Fuel Operations – Eleven Seafarers (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course May 6: Kenneth Benton, Ronald Byrd, Hector Cumba, Anthony Grant, Michael Henry, Rudy Lopez, Christian Oding, Mark Smith, Maude Solomon, Richard Ward and Brian Wilder. Alan Tupper, their instructor, is at the far left in the back row. Basic Training (UP Basic Firefighting) – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course May 13: David Campbell, Mark Canada, Antonio Centeno, Raul Guarionnex Colon Matos, Hector Manuel Cumba, Dominic Dela Cruz Dumlao, Mauricio Pena Elopre, Leander Garrett, Anthony Grant, Daniel Harris, Michael Henry, Rudy Lopez, Jabr Ahmed Nasser Matari, Christian Oding, Sinclair Oubre, Mark Smith, Maude Solomon and Kareem Walters. Basic Training (UP Basic Firefighting) – Thirteen Seafarers (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course May 20: Kyren Ancrum, Jonathan Bennett, George Borromeo, Angel Ivan Colon Cintron, Thomas Cyrus Jr., Roy Madrio, Benedict Opaon, John O’Shaughnessy, Noel Otero, Victor Manuel Rios Lopez, Olive Stewart-Paul, Elpidio Avergonzado Toyco and Abel Vazquez Torres. Class instructors Joe Zienda and Mike Roberts are at the far left and far right, respectively. Tankship Familiarization – Four Seafarers (above, in alphabetical order) completed their requirements and graduated from this course May 13: Emmanuel Martinez Alcantara, Angel Ivan Colon Cintron, Noel Otero and Victor Manuel Rios Lopez. Advanced Shiphandling – Two individuals graduated from this course May 27: Michael Cousin (above, center) and Sean Murphy. Their instructor, John Gorman, is at right. Engine Room Resource Management – Nine individuals (above, in alphabetical order) completed the enhancement of their skills in this course when they graduated May 20: Brian Bascom, Tito Manansala Calaque Jr., Jeffrey Charette, Andrew Clarke, John McCranie IV, Jason Mixson, Robert Shaver, Oleg Ivanovich Sushkov and Mark Vicknair. Their instructor Freddie Toedtemeier, is at the far left. Engine Room Resource Management – The following upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course May 6: Steven Balelo, Eugene Browning, Martin Carpenter, Jan Gawel, Robert George, Andrew Kovacs, Bradley Singletary and Todd Smith. Freddie Toedtemeier, their instructor, is at the far right. MEECE – Eight upgraders (above, in alphabetical order) improved their skills by graduating from this course May 27: Brian Bascom, Christopher Carlson, Carl Coval, Steven Haver, Anthony McNeil, Thomas Murphy, Oleg Ivanovich Sushkov and Thomas Walsh. Freddie Toedtemeier, their instructor, is at the far left. Leadership & Management Skills – The following individuals (above, in alphabetical order) completed this course May 13: Jeffrey Altzner, Steven Balelo, Carl Coval, David Davis, Marc Fitton, Henry Gamp, Michael Gates, Robert George, David Hawkins, Steven Klare, Bryan Kneeland, Keith Shine, Thomas Stralka, Rebecca Tallman, Jonathan Terry and Mark Vicknair. Class instructor Freddie Toedtemeier. July 2016 Small Arms – Five individuals (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course May 5: William Dowzicky III, William Howell III, Rick James, Charles Searfass and Gary Torres. Robert Springer and Stan Beck, their instructors, are at the far right and far left, respectively. Steward Department Classes – Five upgraders recently completed steward department classes. Rommel Reston (above, left) finished certified chief cook module three while (starting second from left) Robert Resurreccion, Grazyna Tomaszewska, Emanuel Spain and Perry Martin Sr., graduated from the advanced galley operations course. Seafarers LOG 23 �JULY F E B R 2016 UARY 2014 o NO. V O LVOLUME U M E 7 6 78 N O .72 Paul Hall Center Class Photos Pages 22-23 Seafarers Commemorate National Maritime Day Shipboard, Shore-Side Ceremonies Honor U.S. Merchant Marine Although the National Maritime Day ceremonies in Washington, D.C., often garner more attention because of high-profile speakers, such observances definitely are not limited to the nation’s capital. Seafarers around the globe, both at sea and ashore, respectfully celebrate the day each year, and 2016 was no exception. Photos from a few of the non-D.C. gatherings appear on this page; some are also featured on the SIU and Seafarers LOG Facebook pages. Coverage of the ceremonies that took place in Washington appears on Pages 8-10. ABOARD CAPE ORLANDO – The U.S. Maritime Administration sponsored a National Maritime Day ceremony in Alameda, California, where SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona (at podium in photo above) was a featured speaker. The group photo at left on the Ready Reserve Force ship features SIU members and officials along with other crew members, guests and personnel from Patriot. ABOARD MV FREEDOM – Vessel master Capt. Shawn Hagerty submitted photos along with this write up: “The Freedom celebrated National Maritime Day on 22-May-2016 while underway at sea from Galveston, USA to Brunswick, USA. All officers and crew mustered on bow at 1300 local hours for a special ceremony. The commemoration began with alto saxophone musical arrangements by 3/M Stross of the Star Spangled Banner and God Bless America. We then listened as Deck Cadet Manning Hosea read this year’s National Maritime Day Presidential Proclamation. This was followed by a heartfelt perspective by Chief Steward Starling regarding the personal meaning of the U.S. Merchant Marine to him. Captain Hagerty then addressed the crew regarding the history and significance of National Maritime Day. To close the ceremony, we struck eight bells followed by a moment of silence to honor all those past mariners that have served and sacrificed before us and to reflect on how we can continue to honor their memory. An extra moment of silence was also observed in memory of the El Faro crew.” The SIU crew aboard the Tote Services-operated vessel included Bosun Stephen Herring, ABs Cirilo Jumamil, Stefon Otey and Ken Simmons, STOSs Radu Marinescu and Ricky Rivera Martinez, Oilers Courtney Gantt, Jose Vega Caraballo and Rafael Leon Ortiz, Chief Steward Frank Starling, Chief Cook Marco Guevara, SA Gabriel Bello and Apprentice Alan Squier. ABOARD USNS WHEELER – The SIU-crewed, Tote Services-operated vessel hosted a wreath-laying ceremony in Busan, Korea, on May 20. Vessel master Capt. Glenn Macario noted the event was hosted jointly by the Military Sealift Command and the United Seamen’s Service at Pier 8. He also pointed out that in the ship photo below, the Wheeler’s signal flags spell out E-L-F-A-RO-3-3. Pictured in the photo above, from left, are Capt. Macario, Mr. Walt Christensen, Col. Stephens, LCDR Pugh, and Chaplain Zumwalt. The ceremony featured a U.S. Navy honor guard and buglers from the Korean navy. The SIU crew included Bosun Jerry Gonzaga, ABs Brian Frederick, Kevin Hanmont, Ed Majesky and Smyrno Desir, QMED Jasper McGirt, Wiper Jarvis Carter, Chief Steward Jean Favreaux, Chief Cook Radfan Almaklani, and Apprentice Gabe Freeman. SIU members from the USNS Impeccable also attended. TEXAS HOSTS CEREMONIES – SIU Safety Director Kevin Sykes (left in photo at right) represented the union at separate events in Port Arthur and Galveston, Texas. He’s pictured with Tammy Lobaugh, executive director for operations and administration, Texas Maritime Academy, in Galveston, while a memorial wreath is shown in Port Arthur, photo at left. Visible at far right is Father Sinclair Oubre, an SIU member who runs the Apostleship of the Sea’s Beaumont, Texas, Dioceses. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2010-2019 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXII-LXXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2010-2019 Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource July 2016 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES DIRECT DEPOSIT COMING FOR VACATION CHECKS U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES BACKS MSP SALUTE TO CONGRESS HONORS SEN. WICKER KEELS LAID FOR 2 MORE SIU-CREWED JONES ACT TANKERS OCEAN GLORY REFLAGS UNDER STARS AND STRIPES SEAFARERS SAILING ABOARD HEAVY-LIFT DRY CARGO VESSEL FEDERATION ANNOUNCES ENDORSEMENT OF HILLARY CLINTON FOR PRESIDENT SAIL-IN MESSAGE: NATION NEEDS STRONG MERCHANT MARINE HEINDEL: PROCEED WITH CAUTION WHEN ADOPTING NEW MARITIME TECHNOLOGY NEW ‘OT’ RULE A BIG WIN FOR LABOR LATEST JONES ACT ATTACK REPELLED IN HOUSE U.S. COAST GUARD BOARD WRAPS UP SECOND ROUND OF EL FARO HEARINGS SIU OBSERVES NATIONAL MARITIME DAY IN D.C. CEREMONIES CONDUCTED AT DOT, ABOARD TRAINING SHIP FREEDOM STAR LONGTIME SCHOOL VP REFLECTS ON CAREER NOLAN ENJOYING RETIREMENT FOLLOWING 48-YEAR RUN IN PINEY POINT SIU AND NY WATERWAY: A WINNING TEAM FOR 30 YEARS UNION CONSTITUTION OUTLINES ABSENTEE BALLOT PROCEDURE SIU CREWS EXCEL ABOARD CROWLEY-OPERATED MSC SHIPS SEAFARERS COMMEMORATE NATIONAL MARITIME DAY Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 07/01/2016 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 78, No. 7 http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/9c16ac879de38879ec6a5d734fe58b3f.pdf a7b6bf4539d6183cd49b51084c7a61fe PDF Text Text JULY F E B2017 RUARY 2014 V O L U M VOLUME E 7 6 o 79NNO. O . 72 Standard Contracts Well Received SIU members last month were well on their way to overwhelmingly ratifying the new standard freightship and tanker agreements. Voting continued as this edition of the LOG went to press, but by late June it was clear that the proposed five-year pacts had widespread support from rank-and-file Seafarers. Among other highlights, the contracts call for annual wage increases while maintaining benefits. Some of the members who backed the new agreements are pictured below at the hall in Oakland, California, aboard the Midnight Sun, top photo at right, and at the hall in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, bottom photo at right. Pages 3, 20. Secretary Chao, SIU Help Welcome M/V Liberty To American-Flag Fleet SIU President Michael Sacco (sixth from right) and DOT Secretary Elaine Chao (seventh from right) were featured speakers at a recent naming ceremony for the M/V Liberty, a car carrier that reflagged earlier this year under the Stars and Stripes. Among those also pictured aboard the ship in Charleston, South Carolina, are crew members along with SIU VP Contracts George Tricker (fifth from left), Lt. Gen. Stephen Lyons, deputy commander of the U.S. Transportation Command (fifth from right), Eric Ebeling, president and CEO of vessel owner American RollOn Roll-Off Carrier (ARC) (seventh from left) and Ray Ebeling, retired head of ARC (fourth from left). Page 2. (Photo by Stephen Blackmon) NASSCO Delivers New Jones Act Tanker Palmetto State One of the newest additions to the SIU-crewed fleet, the Palmetto State, was delivered to American Petroleum Tankers in early June. The vessel is pictured during sea trials in late May. Page 5. (Photo courtesy General Dynamics NASSCO) Partnership Opens Door to Degrees Page 4 SHBP Scholarships Page 7 National Maritime Day Pages 8-9 �President’s Report The Powerful Case Backing Food for Peace In some ways, the budget proposal released by the White House in late May underscores the fact that our work in the nation’s capital never ends. While it’s understood that such documents are only starting points, I’m equally certain that our industry will suffer if the SIU and our allies throughout maritime don’t aggressively speak up at times like these. Of particular note to Seafarers, the budget falls severely short of the separately approved authorization level for the U.S. Maritime Security Program (MSP); it harms the Export-Import Bank; and it “zeroes out” the PL-480 Food for Peace program. While our friends on Capitol Hill assure us that they do not intend to follow through on any of these requests, we must remain forever vigilant against these kinds of foolhardy proposals. In recent years, I have often used this space to discuss the vital importance of MSP and the Michael Sacco Ex-Im Bank. Food for Peace also must not be overlooked, because it’s a cornerstone of American-flag shipping and it’s also one of the most successful aid programs in our nation’s history. On that note, I was glad to see House Agriculture Committee Chairman Rep. Mike Conaway (R-Texas) conduct a hearing in early June that focused on Food for Peace (see our coverage beginning on page 4). Signed into law by President Eisenhower in 1954, Food for Peace or PL-480 has provided American-grown food to hungry people around the world. Since its implementation, Food for Peace has fed more than 3 billion people in more than 100 countries. The food is grown by American farmers. It is moved by American transportation workers via truck, rail and/or barges to American ports where dock workers load it onto American ships. This process directly involves nearly 45,000 workers. If the other domestic jobs related to PL-480 are included, that number swells to around 100,000. In January, a coalition of U.S.-flag ship owning companies, maritime unions (including the SIU) and maritime trade associations wrote to President Trump seeking his administration’s support for Food for Peace. Known as USA Maritime, this coalition pointed out PL-480 has maintained strong bipartisan support throughout its 60-plus years “because it yields a domestic economic benefit by promoting American jobs while also serving to help others abroad. For decades, the program has been working well as it was originally intended despite relentless attacks on the agricultural and maritime communities.” Among those attacks was a pilot program a couple years ago to take some of the money used for Food for Peace and simply give it away overseas with a minimum of oversight and accountability. As USA Maritime noted in its letter, “continuation of such policies would be disastrous for American jobs and American workers.” When PL-480 cargo arrives at its foreign destination, the food is contained in bags and boxes proudly stating “From the American People.” These offerings can only help the image of the United States as the beacon of hope and freedom. In addition to the domestic jobs supported by the program, military leaders have noted it is essential to maintaining a strong and viable U.S.flag merchant fleet which is critical to providing for America’s national defense sealift capability. The SIU will continue to fight for the Food for Peace program. It is a proven winner – here at home with good American jobs and national security implications, and overseas with food given by the American people to those in need. Get Well Soon It would be an understatement to report that everyone in the SIU was very upset about what recently happened to Congressman Steve Scalise (R-Louisiana), who has been a great friend to our union and to the entire U.S. Merchant Marine. He represents what is arguably the number one Jones Act district in the country, and has stood by our side in every legislative fight over the last few years. We of course are pulling for him as he recovers from the shooting, and we’ll continue to support him as he’s always backed us. FEBRUARY 2014 VOLUME 76 Volume 79 Number 7 o NO. 2 July 2017 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org 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, Misty Dobry; Jenny Stokes; Content Curator, Mark Clements. Copyright © 2017 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. All Rights Reserved. Reflagged earlier this year under the Stars and Stripes, the Liberty is part of the U.S. Maritime Security Program fleet. M/V Liberty Formally Welcomed RO/RO Strengthens U.S. Maritime Security Program Although a few months elapsed between the time the SIU-crewed M/V Liberty entered U.S. registry and the formal commemoration of its re-flagging, fresh enthusiasm was evident June 2 at the ship’s naming ceremony in Charleston, South Carolina. U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao headlined the guestspeaker lineup – a group that also featured SIU President Michael Sacco; Lt. Gen. Stephen Lyons, deputy commander of the U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM); Jim Newsome, president and CEO of the South Carolina Ports Authority; Eric Ebeling, president and CEO of vessel owner American Roll-On Roll-Off Carrier (ARC); and AMO Assistant Vice President Christian Spain. Peggy McMaster, wife of South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster, christened the ship. SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker also attended. Built in 2006, the Liberty is 656 feet long and has a beam of approximately 106 feet. It is enrolled in the U.S. Maritime Security Program (MSP), which proponents describe as vital to America’s national defense capabilities. ARC called the vessel “one of the most versatile and militarily useful ships to the U.S.flag commercial fleet.” “On behalf of the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Maritime Administration, I congratulate the ARC team and welcome M/V Liberty to the Maritime Security Program fleet,” said Sec. Chao. “Liberty’s entry into the MSP has substantially increased our ability to meet key U.S. Department of Defense force projection requirements. And Liberty is the eighth ARC vessel to enter the MSP, joining seven others already in service. So, let me also acknowledge the contributions of ARC to the MSP, national defense, and the U.S. Merchant Marine.” Sacco pointed out that the SIU is “totally dedicated to our role as America’s fourth arm of defense, and we are committed to helping ensure the success of our contracted operators. On that note, I congratulate Eric and his whole team at ARC. On behalf of everyone at the SIU, we respect and appreciate your commitment to Americanflag shipping. We also value your partnership as we work together to SIU President Michael Sacco (at podium) addresses the gathering as U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao (left) and ARC President/CEO Eric Ebeling look on. help revitalize the U.S. Merchant Marine.” Lyons stated, “ARC plays a significant role in our nation’s commitment to the security of our nation and our NATO allies. We can’t underestimate the strategic impact of global images depicting the arrival of an armored brigade combat team on ARC’s Resolve, Endurance, and Freedom, or the arrival of a combat air brigade on Endurance and Honor. And now we are happy to welcome Liberty to the fleet.” Formerly the M/V Topeka, the M/V Liberty was re-flagged to American registry on Jan. 31 as the eighth RO/RO vessel in ARC’s fleet (all crewed by Seafarers). The reflag was conducted by the U.S. Coast Guard in the port of Bremerhaven, Germany. During last month’s ceremony, Ebeling referenced the decline of the U.S.-flag fleet in recent years from approximately 120 ships to the current 81 vessels, as cargo volumes have declined due to the changing overseas military footprint, lack of a fully functioning Ex-Im Bank, and other factors. However, he also noted, “With this incredible partnership between industry, labor, DOT and DOD … there is good cause for optimism for the renewal of the fleet, as represented by this great ship we’re celebrating here today.” In her remarks, Sec. Chao concurred, adding “I know of no better public-private partnership” than MSP.” The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. Reversed to White Reversed to White 2 Seafarers LOG SIU President Michael Sacco (second from right) meets mariners aboard the Liberty. Peggy McMaster, wife of South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster, does the honors at a replica of the ship’s bow. The Liberty can carry tracked vehicles, helicopters, trucks and other military and high and heavy project cargoes. Established as an initial 10-year program in 1996, the MSP has been extended several times, most recently to the year 2025 (through the National Defense Authorization Act of 2013). The program maintains up to 60 privately owned, U.S.-flagged, American-crewed commercial ships that are available to the Defense Department as needed. It has always enjoyed bipartisan backing, and is considered a significantly affordable bargain for the government. Through directly related agreements, the U.S. also gains access to portions of a global, intermodal transportation network. Pictured from left to right aboard the Tote Services-operated vessel are Rear Adm. Mark Buzby (USN-Ret.), former commander of the U.S. Military Sealift Command, Bosun Jerrold Foke, Oiler Rusty Stewart, AB Tony Olaya, AB Anthony Thompson and SIU VP Contracts George Tricker. July 2017 �Standard Contracts Headed for Ratification Editor’s note: Turn to the back page for additional photos of members voting on the new contracts. Five years ago, the SIU deftly defied national trends in other organizations’ collective bargaining agreements by securing standard freightship and tanker contracts that featured annual wage increases and maintained benefits – and didn’t lose a single shipboard job. The SIU has delivered a repeat performance this year. Following negotiations with vessel owners and operators that concluded in mid-May, the union last month began presenting new, five-year standard contracts for rank-and-file consideration. Like its predecessors, the new contracts boast yearly wage increases and maintain all benefits while also keeping every job. Reaction from Seafarers has been overwhelmingly favorable. As this edition of the LOG went to press, voting continued on the new pacts; but, based on tallies from dozens of SIU-crewed ships and from special meetings and regular membership meetings conducted at the halls, the contracts clearly were headed for ratification. Nearly all of the votes were in favor of the agreements, which take effect July 1 of this year and run through June 2022. “The contracts are really good,” said Recertified Bosun Ritche Acuman. “Everybody seems happy with it. I haven’t heard any complaints. I like that the wages go up every year and we still have the same benefits.” ACU Mohamed Wasel also pointed to the annual wage increases as a contract highlight. “But the whole thing is very good, it seems to me,” he said. “One thing that shouldn’t be overlooked is that because the Seafarers Plans are in such strong shape, we were able to focus on economics and putting more money in members’ pockets,” stated SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker, who teamed up with SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez to lead the union’s effort. “We also successfully turned back company efforts to expand permanency and institute selectivity.” He added, “The overall negotiations were a collaborative effort that benefited Seafarers at the hall in Honolulu show their support for the new agreements. from the strong working relationships and trust that’s been developed over the years. The contracts themselves show an appreciation for the quality and dedication of SIU crews and they clearly reflect input from Seafarers.” SIU President Michael Sacco addressed all of the negotiators immediately after the final session wrapped up May 18 at SIU headquarters in Camp Springs, Maryland. He credited them with hammering out agreements that benefit all concerned. (For these negotiations, the vessel operators work together as members of the American Maritime Association, abbreviated as AMA.) In his monthly membership report, Tricker included the following contract highlights (among others): n Company contributions for continued training at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland. n All reasonable travel expenses to and from the vessel will be paid upon submission of receipts. Pictured from left to right aboard the Maui in Oakland, California, are Port Agent Nick Marrone II, Recertified Steward Gregory Broyles, Chief Cook Freddie Castro, Patrolman Adrian Fraccarolli and OBS Roberto Firme. n Increases to wages, overtime, vacation benefits, Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan benefits and all other wage-related items of three percent on July 1, 2017; three percent on July 1, 2018; two percent on July 1, 2019; two percent on July 1, 2020; and four percent on July 1, 2021. n With the goal of improving personal safety as well as safeguarding the environment, and in response to increasing regulatory pressures, trip tours have been increased from 12 to 24 months. n Within 30 days of contract ratification, the union and the AMA will establish a “connectivity committee” that focuses on shipboard email and internet access. The subsequent timeline for the committee calls for detailed studies of existing connectivity as well as recommendations to improve it. n Significant attention is given to the newly revamped steward department curriculum at the Paul Hall Center, which is designed to promote mariners’ wellbeing while keeping up with the latest technology. Among many other stipulations, the contract calls for the related committee (which includes representatives from the union, the school and the AMA) to review its effect and make adjustments as warranted. n Signatory companies will carry Paul Hall Center apprentices when so requested, if berths are available. Negotiations for the standard contracts began early this year. Tricker added that throughout the process, the union received strong administrative support from SIU contracts department Executive Assistant Danielle Szepesi. Voting takes place aboard the Jean Anne in Hawaii. SIU officials and company negotiating team members are pictured at union headquarters shortly after the last bargaining session. Seated from left are Capt. Bob Johnston, SIU President Michael Sacco and Bill Cole. Standing from left are SIU VP Contracts George Tricker, Wendy Isaac, Ben Christian, Dennis Houghton, Ed Hanley, Danny DeFanti, Jack Craft, Tony Naccarato, Jack Sullivan, SIU Sec.-Treas. David Heindel, SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez, Ira Douglas, Melissa Serridge and Daymond Mote. July 2017 Seafarers LOG 3 �Partnership Opens Door to College Degrees Seafarers Can Benefit from Alliance Between Paul Hall Center, College of Southern Maryland The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship (SHLSS) at the unionaffiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (PHC) is now a signatory to a partnership with the College of Southern Maryland (CSM), Leonardtown Campus to offer an Associate of Applied Science degree program in Maritime Operations Technology to Seafarers. Making the alliance official June 5 during a signing ceremony at the PHC’s Piney Point, Maryland-based campus were: PHC Acting Vice President Tommy Orzechowski, Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen; CSM President Bradley Gottfried; and CSM Vice President Continuing Education and Workforce Development Dr. Dan Mosser. Each signed and exchanged copies of memorandums of agreement which outlined the parameters of the partnership. “On behalf of the Lundeberg School and Paul Hall Center, I’d like to thank CSM for providing this opportunity for this partnership,” said Orzechowski immediately following the signing ceremony. “We hope [the partnership] will extend many, many years into the future for our current Seafarers and their prospective students.” “I’d like to second your feelings,” said CSM President Gottfried. “This is very important for the college. It’s all about work force development, it’s all about working with the community. “This (the PHC) is such an important facility in Southern Maryland and for us to be able to work with you in a partnership means so much to us,” he continued. “And I know this was not easy … there have been a lot of people involved … a lot of moving parts and I want to thank everyone who made this come to fruition.” Witnessing the event were a host of officials from the union, PHC and CSM. Included were: SIU President Michael Sacco, SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, SIU Vice President Contracts George Tricker, PHC Asst. VP/Director of Manpower Bart Rogers, PHC Director of Training Priscilla Labanowski, PHC Instructional Coordinator Monica Szepesi, PHC Academic Coordinator/Registrar Dale Rausch and PHC Quality Standard System Coordinator Mike Loughran. In addition to Doctors Gotterfield and Mosser, the CSM delegation consisted of CSM Trustee Chair Dorothea Holt Smith, CSM Trustee Dr. John Roache, CSM Vice President/Dean of Leonardtown Campus Dr. Tracy Harris, CSM Assistant Vice President Student Services Regina Bowman-Goldring, CSM Director of Strategic Partnerships Barbara Ives, CSM Director of Workforce Development Programs Kelly Winters and CSM Director of Continuing Education and Workforce Development Operations Joyce Embrey. To qualify for this program, applicants must meet all basic admission requirements for Paul Hall Center resident courses. Currently, only graduates of the PHC Apprentice Program, or the school’s former entry rating program may apply. Additionally, those pursuing degrees under this program also must meet estab- The signing ceremony which made the partnership official was conducted June 5 at the Paul Hall Center. Signers of the documents (seated, from left) were: CSM Vice President of Continuing Education and Workforce Development Dr. Dan Mosser, CSM President Dr. Brad Gottfried, Seafarers Plans Administrator Maggie Bowen and PHC Acting Vice President Tommy Orzechowski. Witnessing the signing (standing, from left) were: CSM Assistant Vice President Student Services Regina Bowman-Goldring, CSM Director of Continuing Education and Workforce Development Operations Joyce Embrey, CSM Vice President/Dean of Leonardtown Campus Dr. Tracy Harris, CSM Director of Workforce Development Programs Kelly Winters, CSM Trustee Chair Dorothea Holt Smith, CSM Director of Strategic Partnerships Barbara Ives, CSM Trustee Dr. John Roache, SIU President Michael Sacco, PHC Director of Training Priscilla Labanowski, SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, PHC Academic Coordinator/Registrar Dale Rausch, PHC Instructional Coordinator Monica Szepesi and PHC Quality Standard System Coordinator Mike Loughran. lished minimal requirements for admission to the CSM. Under the terms of the partnership, the Associate of Applied Science degrees will be conferred upon individuals following their successful completion of all requirements. Degrees will be awarded under two concentrations: Nautical Science (for deck department students) and Marine Engineering (for engine department students.) With respect to curriculums for both concentrations, students must complete a combination of required academic and general education courses as well as vocational technical education classes in order to earn their degrees. CSM will provide all of the general education courses while the PHC will provide all technical courses. CSM courses will be available online. Specific information pertaining to admission requirements, costs, financial assistance and course requirements may be obtained by calling the SHLSS Academic Coordinator Dale Rausch at (301) 9940010, ext. 5411. Emails may be sent to drausch@seafarers.org. The CSM is a regional community college serving the Maryland counties of Calvert, Charles and St. Mary’s. It serves more than 25,000 credit and continuing education students at its campuses in Leonardtown, La Plata and Prince Frederick, Maryland, and its newest regional campus in Hughesville, Maryland. CSM is fully accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. General education courses completed at CSM are transferable to any public college or university in Maryland and elsewhere. Hearing Underscores Value Of U.S. International Food Aid, Agricultural Development With apprentices from the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center in attendance, the union’s legislative director recently told Congress that the nation cannot afford to abandon its international food aid programs. Brian Schoeneman testified June 7 at a hearing of the House Agriculture Committee, chaired by Rep. Mike Conaway (R-Texas). He spoke on behalf of USA Maritime, a coalition of American vessel owners and operators, trade associations and unions. The other panelists were Ron Suppes, wheat producer, on behalf of U.S. Wheat Associates; Margaret Schuler, senior vice president of the International Programs 4 Seafarers LOG SIU President Michael Sacco (right) poses with CSM President Dr. Brad Gottfried immediately following the signing of documents finalizing a partnership between the unionaffiliated Paul Hall Center and the College of Southern Maryland. Group, World Vision; Navyn Salem, founder and CEO, Edesia Nutrition; and Dr. Thomas S. Jayne, university foundation professor, Michigan State University, on behalf of the Farm Journal Foundation. The hearing was called to address “the future of international food aid and agricultural development as a continuation of the committee’s series to examine all aspects of the next farm bill.” Conaway noted, “Americans are big-hearted people and eliminating food aid programs goes against our country’s longstanding philanthropic commitment. For the past 60 years, U.S. foreign assistance has benefitted millions around the world in the form of rice, wheat, and other U.S.-grown commodities. Unlike cash-based assistance, sending commodities overseas through international food aid programs not only benefits recipients, but also contributes to jobs in the U.S. agricultural, manufacturing and maritime sectors, underscoring the role these programs play in an ‘America-first’ approach to helping others. I continue to believe there is an important place for these programs.” Schoeneman said the administration’s emphasis on American jobs “resonated Continued on next page July 2017 �The Palmetto State is pictured above during sea trials in early June and at left during its christening in late March. (Photos courtesy General Dynamics NASSCO) NASSCO Delivers Final ECO Class Tanker Union-Built Jones Act Vessel Signals New Jobs for SIU Members General Dynamics NASSCO reached a milestone in early June as the SIU-contracted tanker Palmetto State finished sea trials and was delivered to American Petroleum Tankers (APT) during a signing ceremony at the San Diego shipyard. SIU members crewed up the Jones Act vessel – built by other union members at NASSCO – in late May and early June. Formally delivered on June 7, the Palmetto State is the last of eight ECO Class vessels built on the West Coast. Four of those ships were built for APT, while the other four were constructed for SEAVista, LLC. Each ship in the class is 610 feet long, 50,000 deadweight tons, LNGconversion-ready and has a cargo capacity of 330,000 barrels. According to the shipyard, “The Palmetto State and its sister ships are the most environmentally friendly tankers to enter the Jones Act trade. The tankers’ ECO design offers 33 percent increased fuel efficiency and a corresponding reduction in ship emissions. In just under three years, NASSCO shipbuilders constructed and delivered all eight ECO tankers. During this time, the company achieved several first-time milestones, including a record throughput of 60,000 tons of steel per year and the delivery of six ships in 2016.” “The ECO Class tanker program pushed us to develop more efficient planning and production techniques, and fundamentally improved the way we perform every day,” said Kevin Graney, president of General Dynamics NASSCO. “I credit the success of this program to the thousands of hardworking men and women who contributed to the design, construction and delivery of these ships. Their dedication to continuous improvement was demonstrated by the hull-to-hull learning we saw over the course of the ECO Class program. I also thank American Petroleum Tankers and SEA-Vista, LLC for their partnership and confidence in NASSCO.” In the past decade, NASSCO delivered more than 30 ocean-going ships to government and commercial customers – including the world’s first LNG-powered containerships, the SIU-crewed Isla Bella and Perla Del Caribe. The initial crew of the Palmetto State included SIU members Recertified Bosun Robert Pagan, ABs Modival Cagaoan, Carlos Bonilla, William Carney, Angela Corbitt and James Davis, QEP William Mercer, OMU Ryan Cameron, Oiler Daquan Wallace, Recertified Steward Ronald Drew, Cook/Baker Carlos Diaz and SA Alberto Jose. American’s freight cabotage law, the Jones Act, requires cargo moving between U.S. ports to be carried on vessels that are crewed, built, flagged and owned Ameri- can. Stipulations such as these are not unique in the world, nor are they new to the United States (the Jones Act has been the law of the land for nearly a century). Cabotage principles in part are designed to guarantee the participation of a country’s citizens in its own domestic trade. These laws foster the development of a merchant marine and give preference to local labor and industry. More importantly, they support national security and protect the domestic economy. According to a study by PricewaterhouseCoopers, the Jones Act helps maintain nearly 500,000 American jobs (both shipboard and related shore-side positions) while contributing billions of dollars each year to the domestic economy. The law has always enjoyed strong bipartisan support, though it also regularly comes under attack, usually by foreignflag interests. SIU’s Legislative Director Defends Nation’s Global Food Aid Programs Continued from Page 4 deeply for those of us in America’s maritime industry…. America’s merchant mariners, some of whom are with us today in the audience, have always answered our nation’s call to bring supplies to our soldiers, commerce to our partners, and food to hungry people.” He continued, “America’s humanitarian aid programs have always put America first. From the beginning, these programs represented the best ideals America had to offer. American food, grown in American soil and harvested by American farmers, is shipped through American ports on vessels crewed by American mariners to feed millions, all through the generosity of the American taxpayer. This partnership has kept these programs strong for over 60 years.” However, so-called “food aid reformers” have tried (among other misguided tactics) to turn the programs into cash giveaways. This would hurt the U.S. work force and almost certainly harm the intended recipients of the Apprentices from the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education observe the hearing. July 2017 SIU Political and Legislative Director Brian Schoeneman (front row, second from right) speaks out for the U.S. Merchant Marine. food, according to the SIU and many others. Moreover, as Schoeneman told the committee, “I can’t put it any plainer than this: food aid is essential to the American Merchant Marine. It is one of the largest sources of cargo for our fleet today. We’ve seen what happens when we lose that cargo. In 2012, Congress reduced the percentage of food aid reserved for American flag ships from 75 percent to 50 percent. At the same time, USAID has been diverting money away from the purchase and shipment of U.S. commodities. The direct result was the loss of 25 ships – almost a quarter of the fleet – since 2011. “More important than the ships, which are easily replaceable, is the loss of jobs,” he continued. “These losses represent the equivalent of over 2,400 seafaring jobs. America depends on its merchant marine to support our warfighters overseas, and without a merchant marine, we would be held hostage to foreign interests in any future conflict. The same can be said for our foreign commerce. Our merchant mariners are a vital national and economic security asset and food aid and cargo preference help keep those mariners working in peace time so that they are available in war time. Without them, we can’t defend America. It’s that simple.” He concluded, “In the next Farm Bill, Congress should reject the calls for the elimination of these programs, and return them to their America-first roots.” Seafarers LOG 5 �Stranded Foreign Crew Finally Heads Home For nine long months, the crew of the Malta-flagged asphalt tanker NewLead Granadino remained stranded aboard the vessel. But thanks to the efforts of the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), as well as the SIU and others, those men have finally headed home. As previously reported, the vessel, owned by NewLead, arrived in the Port of Baltimore on Sept. 20, 2016, after experiencing engine problems while headed to the United States. The primary problem was discovered to be a broken crankshaft, with repairs estimated at more than $1 million. Due to the numerous mechanical issues, including a boiler which remained broken during the winter months, the vessel was detained by the U.S. Coast Guard until repairs could be made. The 18 men initially on board had been stranded at sea for days, had not been paid in four months and were running low on provisions. Along with the SIU hall in Baltimore, ITF Inspector Barbara Shipley worked closely with the mariners, and made sure the crew received regular shipments of supplies – as well as fought for their back pay. InterOrient, the manning agent for the crew, paid for provisions before Raven Ship Management (RSM) was hired to operate the vessel. RSM provided regular provisions for the crew, and began to pay the men regularly. The crew received donations from local Baltimore businesses several times – everything from food and water to clean clothes, blankets and other cold-weather gear. The men were unable to come ashore because they lacked proper documentation, but the SIU, ITF and the Baltimore International Seafarers Center (BISC) coordinated deliveries to the vessel on local, privately owned boats. Shipley said, “This crew has been amazing. The conditions they’ve lived with and tolerated are just unbelievable. They’ve ITF Inspector Barbara Shipley (second from right) and the last of the crew members are pictured in Baltimore. been so happy and so positive and it’s just a great day coming. The generosity of the people of Baltimore has been overwhelming and I’m very thankful for everyone that’s stepped up and helped out.” SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, who also serves as the ITF Seafarers’ Section chair, commented that this was another example of the vital, practical work carried out by the federation’s inspectors to help seafarers in distress. Over time, the ship’s manning level was reduced: six men were repatriated in November, with another six returned home in January. As NewLead was unable to pay for the repairs, on May 31 the vessel was sold to Eurotankers Inc. and the remaining six crew members were sent home to the Philippines. Once repairs are completed, the vessel will set sail as the Asphalt Trader with a new crew. ITF Meets to Defend Cabotage The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) recently conducted a conference in Cape Town, South Africa, during which their support of cabotage laws was reaffirmed. The meeting, attended by ITF Seafarers’ Section Chair and SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel (fourth from right), included presentations from members of the federation’s cabotage task force (including its vice chairman, Norwegian Seafarers Union President Johnny Hansen, fourth from left) along with other maritime leaders and guests. One such presentation included the results of a recent survey, which found that 67 percent of countries have cabotage protections. “As it has been a priority for the ITF for almost 70 years to better the wages and working conditions for seafarers on FOC (flag of convenience) vessels in international trade, it is equally a priority for us to defend the rights of unions to obtain and retain employment in national waters at rates that don’t undermine the ability of their members to live a decent lifestyle,” Heindel said. 6 Seafarers LOG July 2017 �SHBP Awards Scholarships Totaling $120,000 Grants to SIU Members’ Dependents Ease Financial Burden of College Six dependents of active Seafarers now are better equipped to handle the financial stresses associated with their higher education aspirations, thanks to grants totaling $120,000 given to them by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) Megan Crawford, Julia Smith, Daenielle Amandoron, Albert Tinay, Erowin Udan and Ryan Pulido all were recently named as recipients of the 2017 Charlie Logan Scholarships by the SHBP Scholarship Committee. Convening May 12 in New York, the committee selected the aforementioned dependents to receive $20,000 each to help offset the cost of obtaining four-year college degrees. Megan Crawford Megan Crawford is the daughter of inland Able Seaman Douglas Crawford (and mother Gillian, a homemaker) and was selected as first alternate for the 2015 Charlie Logan Scholarships. Born in New London, Connecticut, Crawford is a 2016 graduate of Westerly High School in Westerly, Rhode Island. She ranked 24th in her class of 196 students and registered an overall 4.14 grade point average (GPA). Megan was a member of the National Honor Society, Rhode Island Honor Society and the Distinction on Senior Project. An accomplished athlete, Crawford was a four-year member of her high school lacrosse team. She served as team captain during her junior and senior years. Off the field, she held membership in an organization called Varsity Athletes Against Substance Abuse. Additionally, Megan served as a volunteer youth lacrosse coach, a youth lacrosse referee and a junior sailing instructor. Crawford had already entered college when she applied for this year’s scholarship competition. She is attending Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C., where she made the dean’s list following the conclusion of her first semester. Crawford posted 3.94 GPA with the distinction of being in the top 10 percent of all students in Catholic’s School of Arts and Sciences. She entered Catholic as a psychology major but has since altered her focus to a career in marketing. She hopes to earn her degree in marketing research. Julia Smith Julia Smith is a 2015 graduate of Archbishop Wood High School in Warminster, Pennsylvania, and is the daughter of inland Able Seaman Scott Smith (and mother Doreen, an educational secretary and substitute teacher). Born in Philadelphia, Smith ranked 63rd in her class of 269 students and posted an overall GPA of 3.9. She was active in sports at the high school level, participating on her school’s softball teams. When not in the classroom or on the field, she gave back to her community by volunteering in humanitarian events including blood drives. Following her graduation, Julia took a job with the SIU-contracted July 2017 Crowley Maritime Corporation. At the same time, she enrolled full time at Penn State Abington in Abington, Pennsylvania, where she studied nursing. At the time of her application for SHBP Scholarship consideration, she had completed three semesters at Penn State, earned 43 credits and posted a 3.91 GPA. Julia recently received her Associates in the Letters, Arts, and Sciences. “With this degree, I now have my nursing prerequisite coursework finished,” she said. “Last December, I was accepted into the Roxborough Memorial Hospital School of Nursing (Philadelphia) Class of 2019.” In her application package, Smith shared why she wants to pursue a career in nursing. “(The) four main reasons I have selected nursing as a career would be my admiration and interest in the sciences, my empathetic desire to help heal others, my [desire] to be challenged by a diverse environment where I will continuously learn every day of my career, and the opportunity to grow in my community as a licensed medical professional.” Daenielle Amandoron Daenielle Amandoron hails from Las Vegas and is the daughter of deep sea QE4 Marciano Amandoron (and mother Flor, a registered nurse). She is a 2017 graduate of Northwest Career & Technical Academy in Las Vegas, where she posted a 4.63 GPA and ranked 31st in her class that numbered 406 students. As a high school student, Daenielle participated in volleyball and held membership in a variety of non-athletic school, civic and church organizations. She volunteered at Las Vegas-area medical care facilities including public hospitals as well as others run by the U.S. Veterans Administration. Amandoron also found time to volunteer at animal shelters. Her career aspiration is to work in the medical profession. “My interest in the medical field dates back to my years as a preschooler, where I explored the hallways of the emergency room,” she wrote in her application package for the 2017 SHBP Scholarship program. “Seeing everyone meticulously helping patients and rushing to call the doctors enticed my young mind and since then, I’ve decided that I want to become a doctor. Being exposed to the realm of medicine early on has helped me set goals for myself in order to achieve my dream career.” Daenielle has applied for acceptance to the University of Nevada Las Vegas. She hopes to pursue a degree in nursing. Albert Tinay Albert Tinay hails from Texas and is the son of deep sea Able Seaman Reynaldo Tinay (and mother Maria, a nurse). A 2017 graduate of both Lamar Academy (International Baccalaureate program) and McAllen High School in McAllen, Texas, Tinay ranked 22nd in his class of 507 students. Albert was involved in a host of civic and church organizations in his community. Among these were the ALS Club, Singing Spuds, Science Olympiad and his church choir. His dedication toward each of these endeavors was devout as evidenced by the time he committed to them and the passion with which he approached each. Given his background, such enthusiasm comes as no surprise. “As part of an immigrant family, I was fortunate to have parents who made sure that I worked hard in school,” he wrote in his application package for the SHBP Scholarship program. “At an early age, my parents encouraged me to try my hardest in whatever endeavors I pursue, whether it be academic, extracurricular, or personal. “They wanted to make sure that I attended a good college to pursue opportunities they never had, living in the Philippines,” he continued. “My parents always supported me in all endeavors, such as coming to all of my choir concerts/ shows and coming to competitions. They especially helped me in math which I excel at.” Math became one of Tinay’s favorite subjects in high school. During his junior and senior years, he took Mathematics Standard Level and Calculus as part of his International Baccalaureate curriculum. Albert’s instructor for both courses was the same individual, a teacher whom he labeled as “…one of the most intelligent mathematicians I know.” It was this instructor’s profound influence that helped mold Tinay into the person he is today: one who is hooked on mathematics. Albert has applied for admission to the University of Texas at Austin, St. John’s University, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley and Texas A&M University. He hopes to major in mathematics and minor in music. Erowin Udan Erowin Udan is a 2017 graduate of Saint Louis High School in Honolulu, Hawaii. The son of retired deep sea Able Seaman Erowin Udan (and mother Jeannette, a bank teller), Erowin recorded a 4.02 overall GPA in high school. He participated on the school’s judo and tennis teams and was part of the yearbook staff. A member of the National Honor Society, Erowin was active in the Filipino Club and participated his school’s Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps program. He dedicated numerous hours volunteering his time assisting students at local schools. “The main principle I always try to follow is to be there for those who need help,” Udan wrote in his application package for the 2017 SHBP Scholarship program. “This influenced me to pursue a career in nursing. “I learned early on that this would require a lot of study and hard work,” he continued. “I made sure to study and take my academics seriously, which allowed me to maintain a 4.0 grade point average, including being on the president’s list and entry into the National Honor Society.” Erowin said he thoroughly enjoys being able to give of himself in order to make others happy. Becoming a nurse, he said, makes such an outcome possible. Udan has as applied for admission to the University of Hawaii and Chaminade University. He will pursue his degree in nursing. Ryan Pulido Ryan Pulido is a 2016 graduate of Dulles High School in Sugar Land, Texas. He ranked 186th in his class of 543 students, posting a 4.72 GPA. The son of deep sea Able Seaman Rolonda Pulido (and mother Jennifer, a nurse), Ryan was a member of his school’s basketball team. He also was involved in a variety of non-athletic activities including the band, student council, peer assistant leadership program and the student programming board. Ryan served as cinema chair, director of the national and alumni relations groups and as a drill instructor. Extremely active in his community, Pulido volunteered numerous hours assisting elementary school students who were socially and academically challenged. “I am considering becoming a forensic psychologist,” Pulido said in his application package for the 2017 SHBP Scholarship program. “This career interests me because I want to help the world better understand individuals that commit crimes and find solutions to lessen the number of individuals who commit crimes. I believe that if we find out how criminals think and perceive the world, then it would be easier to understand them and help them with what is going on.” Ryan currently is attending the University of Houston in Houston, Texas. He is majoring in psychology and already has completed 24 credit hours. Members of the calendar year 2017 SHBP Scholarship Committee convened May 12 in New York to deliberate on this year’s scholarship winners. Comprising the committee (above, from left) were Dr. Louis Fernandez, provost and vice president academic affairs, California State University; Dr. Gayle Olson, University of New Orleans (retired); Dr. Michael Glaser, St. Mary’s College (retired); Dr. Trevor Carpenter, College of Southern Maryland (retired); Dr. Keith Schlender, dean emeritus, college of graduate studies, University of Toledo College of Medicine; Dr. Hank Toutain, dean of students, Kenyon College (retired); and Dr. Marla Kohlman, professor, Department of Sociology, Kenyon College. Seafarers LOG 7 �Taking part in the observance in San Pedro, California, are (from left in photo above) GVA Jovita Carino, Bosun Rick Barnhart and Port Agent Jeff Turkus. The SIU donated the wreath pictured in the photo at left. Mariners Honored Coast to Coast Editor’s note: Check out the June issue of the LOG for coverage of the National Maritime Day ceremony that took place in the nation’s capital. Saluting America’s maritime heritage while also underscoring the need to main- tain a strong U.S. Merchant Marine, SIU members and officials took part in a number of National Maritime Day observances May 22 both aboard ship and ashore. The gatherings included ceremonies in Norfolk, Virginia; Galveston and Port Arthur, Texas; Alameda and San Pedro, Cali- Pictured from left to right at the Norfolk, Virginia event are SIU Government Services Division Representative Sam Spain, SIU VP Gov’t Services Kermett Mangram, Mrs. Kari Mewbourne and MSC Commander Rear Adm. Dee Mewbourne. 8 Seafarers LOG fornia; Guam; and aboard various vessels around the world. The Navy’s U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) participated in a Norfolk ceremony hosted by the local chapter of the Propeller Club of the United States and the port, where the SIU was represented by Vice President Government Services Kermett Mangram and Government Services Division Representative Sam Spain. The Seafarers-crewed USNS Medgar Evers, docked nearby, served as a powerful visual reminder of the U.S. Merchant Marine’s reliability. The ship hosted public tours on May 21 to celebrate Naval Station Norfolk’s centennial. A wreath-laying ceremony and tugboat water salute were also conducted May 22 on the Elizabeth River, with participation by more than 150 members from the maritime industry at the Decker Half Moone Center in downtown Norfolk. As noted by MSC, “In 1933, Congress designated May 22 as National Maritime Day to recognize the influence of the merchant marine and the maritime industry to American economic prosperity and national defense. Merchant mariners later fought, and won, one of the greatest logistics battles in human history, moving and delivering supplies that enabled the Allied victory in World War II. As the war was reaching its final moments, General Dwight D. Eisenhower said, ‘When final victory is ours there is no organization that will share its credit more deservedly than the Merchant Marine.’” “National Maritime Day has evolved to become so much more,” said Rear Adm. Dee L. Mewbourne, MSC commander, at the Norfolk ceremony. “We now recognize the importance of the maritime industry to our nation’s economic strength as well as the service, and sacrifice, of U.S. Merchant Mariners.” He added, “While we pause to pay tribute to our merchant mariners today, we must recognize that world events continue to reinforce that we are living in a time of great uncertainty and consequence. As the maritime system becomes more heavily used, more stressed, and more contested than ever before, adaptation and innovation are needed to ensure mission accomplishment.” See more Maritime Day photos on next page. At the podium in Norfolk is Port of Virginia CEO and Executive Director John Reinhart, a longtime friend of the SIU. July 2017 �U.S. Representative Mike Kelly Recognizes U.S. Merchant Marine Editor’s note:U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-Pennsylvania) issued the following statement on May 17. Crewed by members of the SIU Government Services Division, the USNS Medgar Evers offered tours the day before the ceremony in Norfolk, Virginia. The SIU donated a wreath laid at sea in Apra Harbor, Guam, in commemoration of National Maritime Day. IN RECOGNITION OF THE UNITED STATES MERCHANT MARINERS AND THEIR CONTRIBUTIONS TO VICTORY IN WORLD WAR II Mr. Speaker, today I recognize the United States Merchant Mariners and their vital contributions to the victory of the Allies in World War II. This year, 72 years after our victory in that war, is a fitting time to recognize the contributions of our merchant mariners to the war effort. There were more than 250,000 men serving in the Merchant Marine during WWII, all volunteers. They had the distinction of being the only non-segregated service. The Merchant Marine was critical to the mission of our military service members around the world during the war. Many of the important contributions of the Merchant Marine are not well known, including the fact that they had the highest rate of casualties in the Armed Services. More than 700 merchant ships were sunk and more than 8,000 U.S. Merchant Mariners were killed during the war. The losses suffered are even more remarkable given that the U.S. Merchant Marine was not considered a military branch and was composed of volunteers classified by the government as civilians. Every invasion during the war involved the Merchant Marine. They suffered tremendous casualties during the U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly Battle of the Atlantic, the Murmansk (R-Pennsylvania) Run, D-Day, and as an integral part of every island invasion in the Pacific Theater. As we come close to Memorial Day, it is fitting to pause and remember their heroism and sacrifice. The United States built nearly 6,000 merchant vessels and naval auxiliaries in 16 shipyards with over 650,000 workers. This was an economic and military feat of enormous scale. As part of a government effort to encourage more American participation in the war effort, ships were named after famous American counties and cities. 150 colleges and universities also had Victory-class merchant ships named for them. Many of these institutions of higher education supported important military training programs on their campuses. I am proud that 13 of these Victory-class ships were named for institutions in Pennsylvania, including three in the third district: Allegheny College, Grove City College, and Westminster College. I am sure all my colleagues join me in taking great pride in the history of the United States Merchant Marine and the special place in our nation’s history associated with their ships and the men who sailed them. They have helped preserve our freedom and they deserve our gratitude. In the photo above, crew members and guests gather aboard the Patriot-operated RRF ship GTS Admiral Callaghan for a ceremony in Alameda, California. Recertified Bosun Ritche Acuman (left in photo at immediate right) and Port Agent Nick Marrone II (second from right) join U.S. Navy personnel aboard the Callaghan. Members of the Maury High School Color Guard present the colors during a Maritime Day ceremony in Norfolk, Virginia. July 2017 Seafarers LOG 9 �ABOARD ISLA BELLA – Serving up (and sampling) a Memorial Day dinner aboard Tote’s Isla Bella are (photo above at left) SA Norma Baucan and (in photo at right, from left) Chief Cook Adalberto Colon and Recertified Steward Lauren Oram. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU PROMOTING WORKERS’ RIGHTS – SIU Port Agent Kris Hopkins (right) is pictured with U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-Florida) following a recent labor council meeting in the Sunshine State. CONGRATS ON UPGRADING – At the union hall in Puerto Rico, Port Agent Amancio Crespo (center) offers a sincere “well done” to QMED Edwin Velez (left) and Chief Cook Yoaquim Gonsalez, both of whom recently completed upgrading courses at the unionaffiliated Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland. WITH SEAFARERS ON THE WEST COAST – Seafarers from the USNS Capella and USNS Algol gather for a photo after a union meeting aboard the Algol in Alameda, California. Pictured from left are GUDE Mohsin Mohamed, Port Agent Nick Marrone II, GUDE Mousa Sailan, QEE Boleslaw Szatkowski, AB Damar Shaw, GUDE Ali Mohamed, Boatswain Charles Frisella and Patrolman Adrian Fraccarolli. Both ships are operated by Ocean Duchess. AT THE JACKSONVILLE HALL – Chief Cook Allen Van Buren (left in photo at left, with Asst. VP Archie Ware) picks up his first pension check following a sailing career that dates to 1976. The remaining photos show ABs picking up their respective full books. That’s Kristopher Travis at left in photo at center, also with Ware; Smyrno Desir is at left in the snapshot at the iimmediate right, with Patrolman Joseph Koncul. 10 Seafarers LOG July 2017 �At Sea and Ashore with the SIU STEWARD CELEBRATES – Recertified Steward Gregory Broyles submitted these snapshots of his new ride, parked in front of the Oakland hall, and his “new old face.” Check out the license plate, too. In a note to the Seafarers LOG, Greg said, “I started a whole new lifestyle change…. Went on a seriously strict diet and exercise plan. I wanted to reward myself for the hard work and pay homage and thanks to Seafarers for making it happen. We have a great living, and caring individuals who themselves are inspiring.” Greg dropped 37 pounds and five inches from his waistline. WELCOME ASHORE IN JERSEY – Patrolman Ray Henderson (left) presents longtime Seafarer Amir Kasim with his first pension check at the union hall. A member of the deck department, Kasim sailed with the SIU starting in 1979 and made his last trip earlier this year. ABOARD TUGBOAT WARRIOR – Pictured from left to right in the group photo aboard the Crowley tug Warrior (photo slightly above at left) in Jacksonville, Florida, are (from left) AB Ricky Inopiquez, AB Adam Anderson, SIU Asst. VP Archie Ware, Capt. Luis Sosa, AB Cecil Williams, AB John Vaughan, AB Shawn Boone and Engineer Yosluvy Baro. The three photos immediately below also show union members in Jacksonville. ABOARD USNS MAURY – Bosun Kwesi Adu-Gyamfi treated his fellow crew members to a Memorial Day barbeque aboard the U.S. Marine Management vessel. “He grilled for hours to put many smiles on the faces of the crew and our guest scientists/techs,” reported MDR Brandon Maeda, who submitted these photos. “He was well thanked afterwards, as he went way above and beyond.” That’s the bosun at the grill (photo above), with GVA Anatalie Gamboa in the foreground. The snapshot below shows Chief Cook Casey Pearson. Adam Anderson Marquel Sapp Kyle Sweep FULL BOOKS IN HOUSTON – Picking up their respective full books at the union hall are AB Ramir Maldepena (left in photo at left with Patrolman Joe Zavala) and OMU Joshua Hicks (right in photo at right, with Patrolman J.P. Niday) . July 2017 WELCOME ASHORE IN HONOLULU – Chief Steward Wagner Pellerin (right) picks up his first pension check at the hall in Hawaii. Pellerin sailed with the SIU from 1982 through last year. He’s pictured with Port Agent Hazel Galbiso. SUPPORTING OUR TROOPS – The national ensign is hoisted above the fleet replenishment oiler USNS Pecos (crewed by members of the SIU Government Services Division) during an at-sea replenishment with the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson. The photo was taken in early May in the Pacific Ocean. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Z.A. Landers) Seafarers LOG 11 �Seafarers International Union Directory 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 Kermett Mangram, 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 Inquiring Seafarer This month’s question was answered by SIU members who were attending to business at the union hall in Jersey City, New Jersey. Question: What is your favorite type of ship to sail on, and why? Arsenio Obenza Bosun I like containerships the best. The maintenance is much easier, and you spend less time in port. I sailed on tankers for 12 years, but as I got older I wanted to sail to different places, and I can do that on containerships. Tony Bassali GUDE Containers, because the pay is a little more and I like the work on containers. The main reason is that containers always have different crews on them. I like meeting new people, and on tankers you see a lot of the same people. With containers, it’s always something and someone new.” Syed Iqbal QMED I usually like to sail on containerships, but if I get a tanker job, I’m equally happy on both. The tankers require a lot more care and precautions around the gas or other cargoes. But I’ll take any job. Abdelhak Moutmir GUDE Containerships, because they travel all over the world. Every two or three weeks, you’re in a different country, and that’s really exciting. But I’ll sail on any ship. I worked on military support vessels for a long time, and those don’t move very often, so I prefer containerships now. Basil D’Souza Recertified Bosun I like to sail on containerships, because the work is very fast. You’re always on your toes. Plus, the shorter schedules mean I can spend more time at home with my family, which is important to me. You don’t always get that type of schedule on a tanker. Joseph Gibbens AB For me, it’s the containerships. After the time I’ve put into my career, working on containerships is a much less stressful job. It’s fastmoving, always busy – and no tanks to clean out. Personally, when I have the choice I choose containers. 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 Pics From The Past 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 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Ave., Stop 16 Santurce, PR 00907 (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) 549-4000 Retired mariner Gordon P. Driscoll recently mailed these snapshots of him on a beach in Mayaguez, Puerto Rico, in 1946. He was 19 years old. Driscoll recalls he was in the midst of a voyage on the Central Victory, an American-Hawaiian Steamship Co. vessel. “We made all three ports of call in Puerto Rico: Ponce, San Juan, and Mayaguez,” he wrote. “I wonder what Mayaguez looks like now, all these years later. I know I could not go up the coconut tree now, at age 90.” Driscoll sailed for 33 years, a period he described as “a great time. I worked hard, but it was a paid vacation around the world.” He made dozens of trips to Australia, among other destinations. 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 12 Seafarers LOG July 2017 �Spotlight on Mariner Health People Should Recognize Possible Signs of Strokes, Other Health Emergencies Strokes, brain hemorrhages and transient ischemic attacks (TIA) are medical emergencies. They happen when the blood flow in your brain is interrupted. This may be caused by a clogged blood vessel (where blood cannot flow through), or a rupture or leaking of that blood vessel into the brain. Without the needed blood flow, your brain will start to die. Signs and symptoms will occur, possibly leading to very serious and long-lasting disabilities or even death. Let’s talk about some of the warning signs of the aforementioned emergencies: n You may have weakness in the face, arms or legs. If you cannot smile evenly or raise your arms/legs equally, you may be having a stroke. n You may get up and try to walk but not be able to do so, or have a sudden loss of balance. Can you stand on each leg evenly? Do you notice that you are leaning to one side? Does your leg feel extremely heavy and weak? n Is your speech garbled or are you unable to talk? Are you able to repeat a common phrase without sounding as if your speech is slurred? n Do you have a sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes? In a stroke, a person does not usually go blind, but may lose a quarter of their field of vision. n Do you feel dizzy? This can be a one-time thing or a continual occurrence. Everyone has felt lightheaded before. This can be due to stress, not eating properly, not sleeping, and standing too fast. Some medications also cause it. What makes it a warning for a possible stroke are the other symptoms that may occur at the same time (blurred vision, difficulty speaking, trouble walking). n Do you have a sudden, severe headache? Does it come out of nowhere and seem unrelated to stress, hormones, etc.? n You may feel fatigued for no reason. Do you feel exhausted even after resting? n Do you have a problem swallowing food? If your reflex to swallow something when placed on the back of the tongue is gone or diminished, this is definitely a sign of a problem. n Have you noticed that you cannot hear out of both ears equally even though you were able to do so earlier in the day? Do you hear noises that you cannot understand or explain? n Do you have chest palpitations, such as fluttering with your heart? Is there a feeling of not being able to catch your breath? Perhaps you cannot even walk a short distance before you must sit. Next time, we will discuss risk factors for a stroke, brain hemorrhages and TIA. Editor’s note: For the “Healthy Recipe” item that accompanies the foregoing Spotlight on Mariner Health article, turn to next page. July & August Membership Meetings Piney Point............................................Monday: July 3, August 7 Algonac...................................................Friday: July 7, August 11 Baltimore...........................................Thursday: July 6, August 10 Guam...............................................Thursday: July 20, August 24 Honolulu...............................................Friday: July 14, August 18 Houston...............................................Monday: July 10, August 14 Jacksonville.......................................Thursday: July 6, August 10 Joliet.................................................Thursday: July 13, August 17 Mobile..........................................Wednesday: July 12, August 16 New Orleans.......................................Tuesday: July 11, August 15 Jersey City......................*Wednesday: July 5, Tuesday: August 8 Norfolk..............................................Thursday: July 6, August 10 Oakland.............................................Thursday: July 13, August 17 Philadelphia......................................Wednesday: July 5, August 9 Port Everglades................................Thursday: July 13, August 17 San Juan............................................Thursday: July 6, August 10 St. Louis...............................................Friday: July 14, August 18 Tacoma.................................................Friday: July 21, August 25 Wilmington..............................................Monday: July 17, August 21 *Jersey City change created by Independence Day observance. Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m July 2017 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea May 16, 2017- June 15, 2017 Port Total Registered A Total Shipped All Groups B C A All Groups B C Trip Reliefs Registered on Beach A All Groups B C Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Deck Department 17 10 1 12 6 0 1 17 10 1 1 1 1 0 1 1 2 1 0 1 2 0 0 2 2 2 5 6 3 2 18 11 9 18 8 3 10 23 21 14 5 3 0 3 1 0 0 6 2 0 10 4 4 11 2 6 6 20 1 7 7 3 0 2 3 1 2 17 8 0 61 12 18 39 17 7 31 96 17 29 45 17 12 30 10 7 19 93 26 22 42 19 5 28 10 2 13 67 21 7 6 7 1 6 5 1 2 4 3 0 11 5 8 5 1 6 5 14 8 6 32 15 5 14 9 4 10 39 24 6 17 7 2 19 3 1 9 26 10 1 5 4 0 7 2 0 1 4 5 1 5 4 0 4 4 0 4 6 1 0 7 5 0 8 4 0 7 12 9 0 33 12 3 23 6 4 15 62 14 3 2 2 0 0 0 1 2 5 4 0 38 9 5 21 10 5 5 63 15 5 364 150 74 252 104 51 149 581 202 105 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Engine Department 3 3 1 0 3 1 1 4 3 0 1 0 1 0 0 1 0 3 0 0 1 2 1 1 2 0 1 5 2 2 5 5 4 4 4 1 6 10 9 5 0 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 3 4 2 0 3 0 0 6 2 3 8 3 0 9 4 0 2 12 10 0 19 7 0 14 5 2 10 35 14 2 21 17 2 15 13 1 8 39 18 4 13 4 3 9 6 1 6 27 9 3 3 4 0 2 3 0 1 1 2 0 6 2 3 5 3 0 1 8 3 4 12 11 2 5 7 4 4 26 20 4 11 5 1 6 7 0 3 14 6 3 5 1 0 2 0 0 0 7 2 0 0 7 0 0 3 0 1 0 10 0 3 1 0 2 2 0 1 5 3 0 16 5 3 7 2 2 7 30 11 5 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 4 2 0 19 11 3 11 3 4 6 28 11 4 150 94 26 93 71 17 58 264 138 39 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Steward Department 5 2 1 3 3 0 0 5 3 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 0 2 1 0 0 4 0 0 14 1 0 13 2 0 10 15 5 1 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 2 2 0 9 1 0 3 0 0 2 11 1 0 8 2 0 9 0 0 3 19 2 0 17 9 0 14 3 1 4 40 9 1 19 11 1 13 6 1 5 30 17 1 7 2 0 10 0 0 2 12 3 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 2 1 0 7 2 0 2 1 0 0 8 3 1 14 9 1 20 10 2 9 17 8 0 20 6 2 17 3 0 6 33 5 5 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 3 2 0 2 1 0 1 1 2 0 2 5 0 2 2 1 4 3 4 0 13 1 0 6 0 0 0 27 2 2 4 0 0 2 0 0 0 3 0 1 19 4 4 17 9 1 14 36 8 6 166 59 9 135 42 6 60 269 75 19 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Entry Department 1 12 5 1 6 5 3 2 11 7 0 0 5 0 0 4 0 0 0 6 4 0 0 3 0 1 0 0 1 2 1 1 4 0 2 3 3 1 6 7 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 0 0 1 2 1 0 1 0 1 1 1 2 7 3 0 1 6 1 2 10 9 6 11 12 2 8 5 2 4 20 26 4 21 34 2 5 17 3 6 27 70 2 15 4 0 7 4 4 2 31 7 0 0 0 1 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 0 2 0 0 1 1 0 0 3 2 10 23 2 8 13 0 2 26 36 3 11 9 0 10 1 1 3 19 10 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 1 0 2 3 0 1 2 0 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 6 10 10 0 3 6 2 11 17 32 0 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 2 1 17 17 3 11 11 5 16 22 34 33 120 136 15 63 81 25 50 198 256 GRAND TOTAL 713 423 245 495 280 155 292 1,164 613 419 Seafarers LOG 13 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings INDIANA HARBOR (American Steamship), April 12 – Chairman Jeremy Shenett , Secretary Bernard Lawes, Educational Director Daniel Lind, Deck Delegate Abdulwahed Alsharey, Engine Delegate Peter Morrison Jr. Chairman talked about new contract. Secretary reminded members to make sure all necessary seafaring documents were up to date. Treasurer urged crew to keep up with merchant mariner credentials. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade at the school in Piney Point, Maryland. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members indicated they have questions regarding new collective bargaining agreement. Next port: Superior, Wisconsin. MAERSK IDAHO (Maersk Line, Limited), April 27 – Chairman Ronald Mena Secretary Gregory Johnson. Educational Director Tesfaye Gebregziabher. Chairman thanked the crew for a smooth trip and thanked them for their hard work during the CYI inspection. Secretary reported new linen and linen bags provided by the SA. He also told members that the U.S. food stores will be arriving in Houston. Educational director reminded crew to upgrade at Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland, and stressed the importance of keeping documents current. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Mariners requested new mattresses. Steward department was thanked for a job well done. Next ports: Newark, New The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring 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. Healthy Recipe Grilled Lamb Skewers (Servings: 20) Thread the lamb onto the skewers 3 to 4 per skewer, with the onion slices in between. n Grill the skewers 3 to 4 min. per side, over med-high heat. Transfer to 2” hotel pans for service. Garnish with fresh chopped chives. You can also glaze with fresh honey. 5 pounds leg of lamb, cut 1” thick cubes 3 tablespoons olive oil 10 garlic cloves, minced 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped 2 1/2 tablespoons cumin, ground 1/2 tablespoon paprika, ground 3 whole red onion, cut 1” cube 1/2 tablespoon salt 1/4 tablespoon black pepper, ground 40 wooden skewers n Place the lamb in a large container. Add all of the ingredients (not the skewers) to the lamb, rub together. Marinate for at least 4 hours (overnight is preferable). Jersey, and Baltimore. LIBERTY PROMISE (Liberty Maritime), April 30 – Chairman Marco Galliano, Secretary Enrico Lamarca, Deck Delegate William Steele. Chairman reported smooth voyage without any problems. He reiterated need for members to keep an eye on document expiration dates. Educational director urged crew to upgrade at Piney Point school. No beef or disputed OT reported. Request for call-out readiness to increase in next contract. HORIZON SPIRIT (Sunrise Operations), May 2 – Chairman Hussein Mohamed, Secretary Alan Hollinger, Educational Director Benny Orosco, Deck Delegate Frederick Reich, Engine Delegate Salvador Baclayon, Steward Delegate Joey Lata. Chairman advised members to be sure that all of their documents are current. Secretary told crew an unexpected USDA inspection could occur at any time in the Port of Los Angeles. He advised everyone to help steward department keep spaces clean. Educational director recommended upgrading. No beefs or disputed overtime reported. Crew asked for clarification on rotary trip tours. They said washer in crew laundry needs to be repaired or replaced. Next port: Oakland, Nutrition Information Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 239 calories; 18g fat (66.8% calories from fat); 17g protein; 3g carbohydrate; 1g dietary fiber; 62mg cholesterol; 213mg sodium. Exchanges: 0 grain (starch); 2 1/2 lean meat; 1/2 vegetable; 2 fat. (Recipe couresy of the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Educations’s Steward Department) California. USNS BRITTIN (AMSEA), May 3 – Chairman Greyson Brantley, Secretary Erwin Renon, Educational Director Alberto Semedo, Deck Delegate Lloyd La Beach, Engine Delegate Eric Hondel, Steward Delegate Paul Diesner. Chairman noted job well done by the deck, engine and steward departments. Educational director suggested upgrading at the Piney Point school and reminded fellow mariners to make sure documents are up to date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. New TV needed in crew lounge. Next Port: Port Arthur, Texas. PHILADELPHIA EXPRESS (Crowley), May 7 – Chairman Jose Jimenea, Secretary Kenneth Whitfield, Steward Delegate Bernard Butts. Bosun thanked crew for staying safe and reminded them to upgrade at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew expressed gratitude to SIU President Mike Sacco for his steady leadership. Bosun thanked steward department for great meals and encouraged them to keep up the good work. Crew made recommendations for changes to pension requirements as well as vacation benefits. Next Port: Houston. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District/NMU makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the 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 recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters 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 disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval 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 shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively 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 employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt requested. The proper address for this is: 14 Seafarers LOG Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers 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 filing 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 SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful 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 responsibility 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 OBLIGATIONS. 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 headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Conse­q uently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION — SPAD. SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect 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 Michael 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 July 2017 �Welcome Ashore 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 waterways 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. DEEP SEA JAMES BRYANT Brother James Bryant, 68, began sailing with the SIU in 2005. He originally shipped on the Sumner. The steward department member upgraded in 2006 at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Bryant’s last vessel was the Henson. He lives in San Marcos, Texas. BRYAN DAWSON Brother Bryan Dawson, 71, first donned the SIU colors in 2003, working on the Maersk Vermont. A member of the engine department, he enhanced his skills on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Dawson last worked on the Edward Carter Jr. He calls Foxborough, Massachusetts, home. LUIS ESCOBAR Brother Luis Escobar, 69, started shipping with the Seafarers in 2003. He first sailed as a deck department member on the Green Wave. He most recently sailed aboard the Energy Enterprise. Brother Escobar took advantage of educational opportunities at the Paul Hall Center in 2010. He is a resident of Dorchester, Massachusetts. BRUCE GORDON Brother Bruce Gordon, 65, donned the union colors in 1979. He first sailed on the Potomac, and most recently shipped aboard the Julius Hammer. Brother Gordon upgraded in 1993 at the Piney Point school. He worked in the deck department and now resides in North Wales, Pennsylvania. ROBERT HEDINE Brother Robert Hedine, 61, joined the union in 1973. He first shipped aboard the Frank Denton. Brother Hedine attended classes at the unionaffiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland in 2008. He worked in the deck department. Brother Hedine concluded his career on the Indiana Harbor. He resides in Two Harbors, Minnesota. WILLIE HOWARD Brother Willie Howard, 57, became a Seafarer in 2002. The deck department member initially sailed on the Marine Chemist. Brother Howard upgraded at the Paul Hall Center. He last shipped aboard the Overseas Anacortes and lives in New Orleans. July 2017 NELSON JONES Brother Nelson Jones, 65, began sailing with the SIU in 1968. He originally worked on the Petrochem. Brother Jones took advantage of educational opportunities available at the Piney Point school by upgrading in 1975. He sailed in the steward department, and his most recent ship was the Expedition. Brother Jones resides in New Orleans. ALEXANDER KAID Brother Alexander Kaid, 65, started sailing with the union in 1973. He first shipped aboard the Long Lines. Brother Kaid attended classes in 1988 at the Paul Hall Center. He most recently worked as a member of the shore gang in Tacoma, Washington. He was born in St Louis and now calls Maple Valley, Washington, home. THOMAS LOVERN Brother Thomas Lovern, 64, began sailing with the SIU in 1973. For the majority of his career, Brother Lovern worked with the Interstate Oil Transportation company as a deck department member. He was born in New Jersey and is now settled in Etowah, North Carolina. WILFRED LUCKIE Brother Wilfred Luckie, 66, began sailing with the SIU in 1999. He first shipped on the Alaska, working in the deck department. Native to Guyana, Brother Luckie took advantage of the educational opportunities at the Piney Point School and upgraded in 2010. Before his retirement, he shipped on the Philadelphia Express. Brother Luckie resides in New Orleans. ALI MUSAID Brother Ali Musaid, 62, became a union member in 1976. He initially sailed with Cove Shipping company, working in the steward department. Brother Musaid was born in Yemen. In 1983, he upgraded at the unionaffiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. He most recently shipped on the Overseas Boston in both the deck and engine departments. Brother Musaid now lives in Stockton, California. SORIN RASCOL Brother Sorin Rascol, 66, first donned the SIU colors in 2000. A member of the deck department, Brother Rascol originally worked aboard the Global Sentinel. He last sailed on the Seabulk Pride. He makes his home in San Leon, Texas. GODOFREDO RUFO Brother Godofredo Rufo, 66, began shipping with the union in 2001, originally working on the Pride of Aloha. He upgraded in 2005 at SIU-affiliated school in Piney Pont, Maryland. Brother Rufo worked in the engine department. He most recently shipped aboard the Jack Lummus and resides in Orlando, Florida. MICHAEL SHAPPO Brother Michael Shappo, 65, started sailing with the SIU in 1971. He first shipped on the Trans Ontario, and attended classes often at the Piney Point school. Brother Shappo is a Columbus native who worked in the deck department. One of his last ships was the Maersk Wisconsin. He is a resident of Jacksonville, Florida. BRIAN SENGELAUB Brother Brian Sengelaub, 66, became a union member in 1973. He started his career working aboard the Overseas Progress. Brother Sengelaub sailed in the deck department. On several occasions, he took advantage of educational opportunities available at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Sengelaub’s most recent trip was on the Maersk Kensington. He settled in Kunkletown, Pennsylvania. JOHN WALSH Brother John Walsh, 63, signed on with the SIU in 1976. He first sailed on the Mayaguez in the engine department. Brother Walsh upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center. His final vessel was the Isla Bella. Brother Walsh resides in Jacksonville, Florida. CLARK WILLIAMS Brother Clark Williams, 66, joined the SIU in 2002. He initially sailed aboard the Cape Horn. A native of Oakland, California, Brother Williams worked in the steward department. He took advantage of training opportunities at the unionaffiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother William’s final trip was on the Alaskan Navigator. He lives in Seattle. EMMANUEL ZEPHYR Brother Emmanuel Zephyr, 68, started sailing with the union in 2003. He first shipped on the Roy Wheat. Brother Zephyr was a steward department member. He enhanced his skills in 2003 at the Piney Point school. Brother Zephyr makes his home in Newport, Tennessee. GREAT LAKES ROBERT HEDINE Brother Robert Hedine, 61, joined the union in 1973. He first shipped aboard the Frank Denton. Brother Hedine attended classes at the union-affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland in 2008. He worked in the deck department. Brother Hedine concluded his career on the Indiana Harbor. He resides in Two Harbors, Minnesota. RICHARD STROPICH Brother Richard Stropich, 62, started shipping with the SIU in 1974. He was primarily employed with Upper Lakes Towing company. Brother Stropich worked in the deck department, and enhanced his skills twice at the Paul Hall Center. He is a resident of Escanaba, Michigan. INLAND KENNETH BAKER Brother Kenneth Baker, 57, signed on with the union in 1981. The Houston native initially worked aboard the Virgo. He was a deck department member and upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center in Maryland. Brother Baker’s final vessel was the Innovation. He lives in Missouri City, Texas. KERRY DEMATOS Brother Kerry Dematos, 62, began his SIU career in 1980. He was originally employed with Alaska Constructors, Inc. Brother Dematos last worked on an Intrepid Personnel & Provisioning vessel. He was a member of the deck department and resides in Oxnard, California. DAVID DESHAYES Brother David Deshayes, 62, joined the SIU in 1976. He initially worked with CG Willis Inc. as a member of the engine department. In 1976 and 1997, Brother Deshayes took advantage of educational opportunities available at the Paul Hall Center. He was last employed with OSG Ship Management and calls Elkins, West Virginia, home. MARVIN JOY Brother Marvin Joy, 62, signed on with the union in 1983. He worked for the Delta Queen Steamboat Company for the duration of his SIU career. Brother Joy was a deck department member, and he currently resides in Fulton, Kentucky. DENNIS LLAUGET Brother Dennis Llauget, 71, donned the SIU colors in 2000. He worked for OSG Ship Management for the entirety of his SIU career. The deck department member enhanced his skills in 2008 at the Paul Hall Center in Maryland. He calls Ruskin, Florida, home. MARK MILLER Brother Mark Miller, 62, began his SIU career in 1984. He worked for Crowley Towing & Transporta- tion throughout his career and was a member of the steward department. Brother Miller resides in Dana Point, California. DENNIS PATTERSON Brother Dennis Patterson, 62, joined the SIU ranks in 1976. He initially sailed in the deep sea division aboard the Overseas Alice. Brother Patterson worked in the deck department and upgraded at the Piney Point school in 2001 – the same year he worked on his final vessel, the passenger ferry Colgate. Brother Patterson is a resident of Summit, New Jersey. DONALD PERRY Brother Donald Perry, 63, joined the SIU in 1996. He worked for Crowley Liner Services, and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 2008. Brother Perry lives in Pennsville, New Jersey. CARL POGGIOLI Brother Carl Poggioli, 55, joined the union in 1987. He first worked aboard the Courier. Brother Poggioli was a steward department member and enhanced his skills multiple times at the Piney Point school. Born in Staten Island, New York, he now makes his home in Seattle. ALVIN YORK Brother Alvin York, 63, started sailing with the union in 2000. He shipped with Crowley Towing as a steward department member. Brother York upgraded on several occasions at the Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland. He resides in Cape Canaveral, Florida. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION ROBERT EDWARDS Brother Robert Edwards, 69, was an NMU member before the 2001 SIU/ NMU merger. The South America native worked as a member of the steward department. He enhanced his skills in 2001 at the Piney Point School in Maryland. Brother Edwards lives in Portsmouth, Virginia. MITCHELL KING Brother Mitchell King, 55, sailed with the NMU prior to the 2001 merger with Seafarers International Union. His last vessel was the Green Cove, on which he worked as an engine department member. Brother King took advantage of upgrading opportunities at the union-affiliated school in Maryland in both 2001 and 2004. Born in Los Angeles, he now calls Gardena, California, home. Seafarers LOG 15 �Final Departures DEEP SEA MOHAMED AHMED Pensioner Mohamed Ahmed, 68, passed away January 15. Born in Egypt, he joined the SIU in 1994. Brother Ahmed shipped as a member of the steward department. He first sailed on the Independence. Brother Ahmed last worked on the Maersk Iowa, and became a pensioner in 2013. He resided in New Hyde Park, New York. COSME BALLESTEROS Pensioner Cosme Ballesteros, 87, died January 23. A member of the deck department, he first sailed with Coyle Lines Inc. in 1965. Brother Ballesteros’ last vessel was the Samuel L Cobb. He became a pensioner in 1988 and lived in Houston. ROBERT BUNCH Pensioner Robert Bunch, 80, passed away February 19. Born in Kentucky, he began sailing with Waterman Steamship Corporation in 1964. Brother Bunch was a member of the engine department, most recently aboard an Interocean American Shipping Corporation vessel in 1993. He became a pensioner the following year and called Knoxville, Tennessee, home. RUSSELL CARUTHERS Pensioner Russell Caruthers, 82, died February 28. Brother Caruthers’ first trip to sea was as a deck department member aboard a Rye Marine ship in 1968. He most recently sailed on the Developer and began collecting his pension in 1999. Brother Caruthers lived in Golden Valley, Arizona. GUILLERMO GRAJALES Pensioner Guillermo Grajales, 89, passed away February 20. Brother Grajales signed on with the SIU in 1951, when he sailed on the Bethore. Prior to his retirement in 1988, he sailed in the steward department aboard the Bayamon. Brother Grajales resided in Santurce, Puerto Rico. MARVIN KRAMER Pensioner Marvin Kramer, 93, died February 28. Born in Minnesota, Brother Kramer began his 16 Seafarers LOG seafaring career in 1951 with Waterman Steamship Corporation. A member of the deck department, he last sailed on the Market in 1979. Brother Kramer was a resident of San Francisco. passed away February 19. Born in Port Arthur, Texas, he joined the union in 1963. Brother Clingan worked in the steward department for HVIDE Marine throughout his career, until 1986. He resided in Groves, Texas. VICTOR PETERS Pensioner Victor Peters, 81, passed away March 31. Brother Peters embarked on his SIU career in 1962 as a deck department member on the Titan. He concluded his seafaring career aboard the Tacoma in 1996. Brother Peters resided in Seattle. THOMAS DELAUNE Pensioner Thomas Delaune, 73, died March 10. Brother Delaune signed on with the SIU in 1994 and first sailed with Westbank Riverboat Services. A deck department member, he continued with the same company for the duration of his career. Brother Delaune began collecting his pension in 2005. He settled in Marrero, Louisiana. WILLIAM REEVES Pensioner William Reeves, 85, died February 15. Born in Alabama, Brother Reeves became an SIU member in 1952, working in the deck department. His first trip was aboard the Morning Light. Brother Reeves concluded his seafaring career working on the Cove Trader. He went on pension in 1994 and settled in Mobile, Alabama. SIMEON SIMOS Pensioner Simeon Simos, 89, passed away February 22. A member of the steward department, Brother Simos began his career with the SIU in 1951, sailing with Sprogue Steamship Company. He became a pensioner in 1973 after concluding his career with Michigan Tankers Inc. Brother Simos resided in Greece. JAMES THOMPSON Pensioner James Thompson, 90, died January 20. Brother Thompson became a seafarer in 1951. The deck department member initially sailed on the Martin Behrman and concluded his career on the Overseas Chicago. Brother Thompson began collecting pension in 1988 and called Chickasaw, Alabama, home. INLAND ANDREW CLINGAN Brother Andrew Clingan, 93, WALTER HARSCHE Pensioner Walter Harsche, 73, passed away February 4. Brother Harsche began his seafaring career in 1963 with Taylor Marine Towing company. The New York native last worked with McAllister Towing of Philadelphia and went on pension in 2005. He resided in Haddon Township, New Jersey. JOSEPH LARKINS Pensioner Joseph Larkins, 81, died February 28. Born in Maryland, Brother Larkins embarked on his SIU career in 1970, working with Moran Towing of Maryland Inc. He sailed with the same company for the duration of his career and began collecting his pension in 1997. Brother Larkins lived in Glen Burnie, Maryland. NATIONAL MARITIME UNION WARREN BARROS Pensioner Warren Barros, 89, passed away January 19. Brother Barros was born in Rhode Island. He began collecting his pension in 1995. Brother Barros resided in Lawrenceville, Georgia. GEDNEY BARTEN Pensioner Gedney Barten, 88, died February 22. Brother Barten was a native of Yonkers, New York. He started receiving retirement compensation in 1984 and settled in Astor, Florida. HERBERT DEMORET Pensioner Herbert Demoret, 88, died January 4. Brother Demoret was born in Jetmore, Kansas. He went on pension in 1994 and called Marshall, Arkansas, home. CHARLES FUNK Pensioner Charles Funk, 92, passed away February 25. Brother Funk started receiving his pension in 1973. He lived in King City, Missouri. RAYMOND GIFFORD Pensioner Raymond Gifford, 82, died January 16. Brother Gifford was a native of Honduras. He went on pension in 1995 and settled in Metairie, Louisiana. JOSE HERNANDEZ Pensioner Jose Hernandez, 89, passed away January 16. Brother Hernandez was born in Bayamon, Puerto Rico. He started receiving his pension in 1971 and lived in San Juan, Puerto Rico. HERBERT LAVIN Pensioner Herbert Lavin, 93, died February 14. Brother Lavin was a native of Philadelphia. He began collecting his retirement pay in 1979. Brother Lavin resided in Vancouver, Washington. ROY MARSH Pensioner Roy Marsh, 87, passed away February 16. Brother Marsh was born in Houston and began collecting his pension in 1991. He was a resident of Lockhart, Texas. EDWARD MCFADDIN Pensioner Edward McFaddin, 80, died January 28. Brother McFaddin was a native of Manning, South Carolina. He began collecting compensation for his retirement in 1992 and lived in Philadelphia. JUAN MEDINAS Pensioner Juan Medinas, 85, passed away January 4. Brother Medinas was born in Ponce, Puerto Rico. He worked as an engine department member prior to retiring and still called Ponce home. JULIO MEJIA Pensioner Julio Mejia, 93, passed away January 15. Brother Mejia was born in Honduras. He went on pension in 1970 and was a resident of New York. MAGNOLIA RODGERS Pensioner Magnolia Rodgers, 92, passed away February 10. He was born in El Dorado, Arkansas, and went on pension in 1986. Brother Rodgers was a resident of Seattle. EUGENE SMITH Pensioner Eugene Smith, 85, died February 29. Brother Smith was a native of Staten Island, New York. He began collecting retirement income in 1990 and continued to reside in New York. JAMES STANFORD Pensioner James Stanford, 63, passed away January 6. Brother Stanford was born in Galveston, Texas. He starting receiving his pension in 2008 and continued to live in Galveston. DIEDRICH TIMM Pensioner Diedrich Timm, 92, died January 27. The Georgia native went on pension in 1989. Brother Timm continued to live in Georgia, in the city of Gainesville. LUIS VARELA Pensioner Luis Varela, 93, passed away February 1. Brother Varela was a native of Honduras and started receiving pension in 1967. He resided in New York. ELADIO VAZQUEZ Pensioner Eladio Vazquez, 96, died January 31. Brother Vazquez was born in San Juan, Puerto Rico. He went on pension in 1968 and lived in Bronx, New York. BENJAMIN WIGFALL Pensioner Benjamin Wigfall, 89, passed away January 9. Brother Wigfall began collecting his pension in 1974. He resided in Goose Creek in his home state of South Carolina. In addition to the foregoing individuals, the following union members have also passed away. Insufficient informatio was available to develop sumaries of their respective careers. Name Age Bush, Thomas 95 Gonzalez, Carmelo 91 Kane, James 91 Lugo, Fernando 94 Rivero, Orlando 94 DOD Jan. 1 Jan.10 Feb. 2 Jan. 2 Feb. 3 MAURICE PATTERSON Pensioner Maurice Patterson, 84, died February 23. Brother Patterson was a native of Bowling Green, Florida. He began receiving retirement compensation in 1988 and lived in Wauchula, Florida. July 2017 �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 Title of Start Date of Course Date Completion Gap Closing Courses Junior Engineer July 15 September 8 October 7 December 1 Engineroom Resource Management November 27 December 1 BAPO July 15 August 11 September 9 October 6 FOWT August 12 September 8 Machinist September 9 September 29 Marine Electrician August 5 September 29 Leadership and Managerial Skills December 4 December 8 Marine Refer Tech September 30 November 10 Deck Department Upgrading Courses Pumpman September 30 October 6 Able Seafarer Deck August 12 September 8 October 7 November 3 AB to Mate Modules Module dates vary throughout the year. Stu- dents will be advised of dates once accepted. Advanced Meteorology August 26 September 1 Advanced Shiphandling August 5 August 18 Advanced Stability August 19 August 25 ARPA September 30 October 6 December 9 December 15 Bosun Recertification July 22 August 7 Crane Familiarization August 26 September 1 October 21 October 27 ECDIS August 26 September 1 October 14 October 20 Fast Rescue Boat July 29 August 4 August 19 August 25 September 16 September 22 GMDSS September 2 September 15 Lifeboat July 29 August 11 August 26 September 8 Radar Observer September 16 September 29 November 25 December 8 Radar Renewal (one day) Contact the PHC Admissions Office RFPNW July 15 August 11 September 9 October 6 Engine Department Upgrading Courses Advanced Refer Containers July 22 August 4 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 application, 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. July 2017 Welding August 19 September 8 Steward Department Courses Advanced Galley Ops October 7 November 3 November 18 December 15 Certified Chief Cook Modules run every other week. The next class will start July 10. Chief Steward July 15 September 8 September 23 November 17 Galley Operations July 15 August 11 September 9 October 6 Galley Assessment Program (GAP) July 15 August 11 August 26 September 22 ServSafe August 26 September 1 Safety Upgrading Courses Basic Training w/16hr FF July 22 July 28 July 29 August 4 Basic Training Revalidation July 14 July 14 Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation September 16 September 22 Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting August 19 August 25 Government Vessels August 12 August 18 Medical Care Provider August 26 September 1 Tank Ship Familiarization - DL/LG August 5 August 18 November 11 November 24 Tank Ship Familiarization - LG July 15 July 21 September 9 September 15 December 2 December 8 COURSE ____________________________ ____________________________ START DATE _______________ _______________ DATE OF 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 students, 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. 7/17 Seafarers LOG 17 �Paul Hall Center Classes Water Survival Class #824 - The following Phase I apprentices, (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course May 19: Caleb Donovan, Samuel Fagerness, Michael Lane, Johnathan Lebeaux, Eli Lopez, Ethan Love, Tommy McGahe, Michael Musgrave, Gian Antonio Nicolo, Philip Pete and Maksim Shpylyevyy. Welding – Five upgraders improved their skills when they completed this course May 26. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Abdulaziz Mohamed Nagi Alsinai, Daniels Ebo Boye, David Garrett, Jon Mahannah and Demarkus McNabb. Chris Raley, their instructor, is at the far right. Tank Ship Familiarization (Phase III) – Five Phase III apprentices (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course May 12: Kevin Coughlin, William Doyle II, Luke Fouilloux, Will Jordan and June Kirk Bondoc Margaja. Upon the completion of their training, each plans to work in the deck department aboard SIU-contacted vessels. Fast Recue Boat – The following individuals completed the enhancement of their skills by completing this course May 26. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Ali Mohsen Alhamyari, Kevin Blackman, John Daunoras, James Kayser, Jason Keffer, Walter Ritvalsky, Gabron Turner, Brandon Urich and Sean Wilson. Tom Truitt, their instructor, is fifth from the right. Tank Ship Familiarization (Phase III) – The following Phase III apprentices (above in alphabetical order) graduated this course May 12: Daniel Bynum, Christian Cruz, Jacob Laroche, Matthew McClintock, Eddie O’Bannon III and Resean Peters. Each plans to work in the engine department aboard American-flag vessels when they complete their training. (Not all are pictured.) RFPNW – The following Phase III apprentices (above, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course April 21: Neil Donegan, Morgan Hayes, Victor Manuel Rios Rodriguez and Jose Javier Santos Montalvo. 18 Seafarers LOG Water Survival (Upgraders) – Four Seafarers completed the enhancement of their skills in this course May 19. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Sean Carter, Delmis David, Micah Gabriel Ferreira and Anthony Alexander Rivera Jr. Tank Ship Familiarization (Phase III) – Four Phase III apprentices finished their requirements in this course May 12. Graduating (above in alphabetical order) were: Christopher Baker, Robert Lanier, Ashley Khuyen Nguyenand Alan Squier. Once they finish their training, each plans to sail aboard union contracted vessels where they will work in the steward department. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Medical Care Provider – Four Seafarers improved their skills when they finished this course April 28. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Martin Baker, Norman Dauphin, Joseph Eaton II and Gilbert Johnson. Class instructor Gary Joy is at the far left. July 2017 �Paul Hall Center Classes Small Arms – Six Seafarers enhanced their skills when they completed this course April 28. Graduating (photo at left, in alphabetical order) were: William Dowzicky III, William Howell III, Rick James, Thomas Moore, Charles Searfass and Gary Torres. Class instructors John Thomas and Robert Springer are at the far left and far right, respectively. BT (Basic Firefighting) – The following upgraders (photo at right, in alphabetical order) graduated from this course April 14: Saleh Mohamed Omar Abdulrab, Richard Barnhart, Bobby Brown, Bridget Burkhalter, Larry Byrd, Stones Cooper, Scott Demerly, Susan Emmons, Teodoro Flores, Kenneth Guthjhar, Avis Hawkins, Hamdi Hassan Hussein, Gordon Major, Jennifer Ramirez, Derrick Siefke, Scott Smith, Gemini Olita Tacang, Evelyn Chiong Tayag, Jayson VelezCruz, Reginald White, Michele Woodley and Sheltia Wright. Joe Zienda, their instructor, is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) BT (Basic Firefighting) – Sixteen upgraders improved their skills by completing this course May 28. Graduating (photo at left, in alphabetical order) were: Abdul Aziz, Francisco Breton, Jose Breton, Terrence Brown, Alvin Cabahit, Peter Capo, Eduardo Rey Elemento, Micah Gabriel Ferreira, Daniel Franklin, Vijayendranauth Jainauth, Jade Kellar, Vicente Lizardo Jr., Carmelo Martinez, Alberto Rodriguez, Richard Salazar Torres, and Roberto Valdes Garcia. Class instructor Joe Zienda is at the far left. BT SUA (Basic Firefighting) – Nine upgraders completed this course April 28. Graduating (above, in alphabetical order) were: Dijon Cuffee, Jennifer Estrada-Santana, Abdel Garcia-Rivera, Dustin Haney, Darryl McCray, Shaka Merrell, Olivia Mitchum, Jose Outeiral-Rodriguez and Victor Valentin-Delgado. Joe Zienda, their instructor, is at the far left. July 2017 Tank Barge DL – The following Seafarers (above, in alphabetical order) finished their requirements in this course April 21: Arthur Bailey, Farrel Bodden, Larry Byrd, Basil D’Souza, Smyrno Desir, Joseph Eaton II and Henry Green. Their instructor, Patrick Schoenberger, is at the far left. Seafarers LOG 19 �JULY F E B R2017 UARY 2014 o V O L VOLUME U M E 7 6 79 NNO. O . 72 Paul Hall Center Class Photos Pages 18-19 Membership Votes on Standard Contracts Pictured on this page are SIU members aboard vessels and at union halls voting in favor of the new standard contracts (or shown shortly after doing so). Additional related photos appear on pages 1 and 3, and also will be published in an upcoming issue of the LOG. Pending final ratification, the new agreements take effect July 1 and last through June 2022. Voting was still underway at press time but the contracts were well on their way to overwhelming ratification. HORIZON RELIANCE MAUNAWILI MANOA BALTIMORE HALL HORIZON ENTERPRISE MAERSK KINLOSS & NJ SHORE GANG MOBILE HALL WILMINGTON HALL NEW ORLEANS HALL HORIZON SPIRIT ALASKAN LEGEND � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2010-2019 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXII-LXXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2010-2019 Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource July 2017 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES M/V LIBERTY FORMALLY WELCOMED RO/RO STRENGTHENS U.S. MARITIME SECURITY PROGRAM STANDARD CONTRACTS HEADED FOR RATIFICATION PARTNERSHIP OPENS DOOR TO COLLEGE DEGREES SEAFARERS CAN BENEFIT FROM ALLIANCE BETWEEN PAUL HALL CENTER, COLLEGE OF SOUTHERN MARYLAND HEARING UNDERSCORES VALUE OF U.S. INTERNATIONAL FOOD AID, AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT NASSCO DELIVERS FINAL ECO CLASS TANKER UNION-BUILT JONES ACT VESSEL SIGNALS NEW JOBS FOR SIU MEMBERS STRANDED FOREIGN CREW FINALLY HEADS HOME ITF MEETS TO DEFEND CABOTAGE MARINERS HONORED COAST TO COAST U.S. REPRESENTATIVE MIKE KELLY RECOGNIZES U.S. MERCHANT MARINE MEMBERSHIP VOTES ON STANDARD CONTRACTS Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 07/01/2017 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 79, No. 7 http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/40c14544039016603bebc8202a825812.pdf 99bee29be2a81b5ac4a5dbe8f4d94446 PDF Text Text JULY F E B2018 RUARY 2014 VOLUME VOLUME 7 6 o 80, N ONO. . 27 U.S. DOT Hosts Maritime Day Ceremony Secretary of Transportation Elaine L. Chao (above, left) delivers the keynote address during the May 22 National Maritime Day ceremony at U.S. Department of Transportation headquarters in Washington, D.C. The SIU had another strong turnout as a crowd of more than 200 people attended the event, including high-level leaders from the U.S. government, military and maritime transportation industry. World War II (WWII)-era Merchant Mariner William Tiernan (center, in photo at right, above), a former member of both the National Maritime Union and the Seafarers International Union, receives an award in recognition of his service to the country. Making the presentation are Gen. Darren McDew, commander, U.S. Transportation Command (left) and retired Navy Rear Adm. Mark Buzby, U.S. Maritime Administrator. Apprentices from the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education (photo below) pose with a host of dignitaries following the ceremony’s end. Included (from left to right) were WWII Merchant Mariner Robert Weagant, SIU Political and Legislative Director Brian Schoeneman, WWII Merchant Mariner Charles Mills, WWII Merchant Mariner William Tiernan, SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez, Buzby, SIU VP Contracts George Tricker, WWII Merchant Mariner Eugene Barner and SIU Port Agent Pat Vandegrift. Pages 12-14. Pro-Maritime Bill Introduced Page 3 Editorial Backs Jones Act Page 5 More Maritime Day Coverage Page 11 �SHBP Trustees Announce New Benefits for Seafarers, Spouses President’s Report Defending Cargo Preference If it seems like a month never goes by without an attack on American-flag shipping, that’s probably not far from the truth. Most recently, the SIU in late May teamed up with industry allies to forcefully defeat an attempt to kill cargo preference requirements in the Food for Peace program. The attack on cargo preference would have eliminated at least a half-dozen U.S.-flag ships – and the jobs that go with them – right off the bat, and wouldn’t have actually benefited anyone. It was just the latest misguided attempt to undermine a successful program that helps feed the needy around the world while maintaining good American jobs not only in maritime but also in other industries. While there’s never anything desirable about people trying to sink American-flag shipping, the powerful bipartisan pushback on this latest attempt sent an important message. Namely, that our country cannot and will not stand for any more Michael Sacco reductions to our U.S. Merchant Marine. America’s national, economic and homeland security depend on a viable American-flag fleet and reliable, well-trained U.S. crews. It’s no secret that our industry is at a tipping point, but it’s an ongoing task to drive that point home with some members of Congress (and some in the media). The bottom line is that America is best-served by a strong U.S.-flag maritime industry with U.S. mariners. And that means we must maintain the Jones Act and the Maritime Security Program. Our country would also benefit from ramping up our cargo preference laws, rather than simply staying with the status quo or (foolishly) weakening them. As always, the SIU is in the middle of the ring for this never-ending fight, and we’ll keep landing accurate punches. You can help us by continuing to support SPAD, the union’s voluntary political action fund. It’s a critically important tool for us in our efforts to protect your jobs. Ready Then, Ready Now Be sure to check out all the National Maritime Day coverage in this edition. May 22 was especially eventful in the nation’s capital, where the SIU participated in an afternoon press conference kicking off new legislation that would greatly boost U.S. shipbuilding and American-flag shipping. As noted in the article about the new bill (Page 3), there have been some rumblings about whether or not our civilian mariners would sail into harm’s way today if needed. That’s not a widespread question, thankfully, but I find it insulting that anyone in a position of authority would bring it up in the first place. It’s unbelievable, really, when you look at the centuries-old record of patriotism, dedication and reliability demonstrated by the U.S. Merchant Marine. We’ve always answered the call and we always will. Period. Register and Vote It may seem hard to believe, but its almost election time again. In November, the entire U.S. House of Representatives will be up for election, along with 35 U.S. Senate seats and 39 state and territorial governorships. Many other state and local elections also will take place. With that in mind, it’s definitely not too soon to make sure you’re registered to vote. Just go online to Vote.org and take it from there. The site is run by a non-profit organization and it’s very user-friendly. Seafarers know the importance of electing people who support our industry. This year is critical, as we’re facing the retirements of some longtime maritime stalwarts. It’s not easy having to constantly educate new members of Congress about the U.S. Merchant Marine, but it’s a job made simpler when we help put people in office who back us to begin with. FEBRUARY 2014 VOLUME 76 Volume 80 Number 7 o NO. 2 July 2018 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org 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 © 2018 Seafarers International Union, AGLIW. All Rights Reserved. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. Editor’s note: The following notice has been issued by the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan: New Health Benefits The Trustees of the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP) regularly evaluate the benefits available from the Plan in an effort to better serve the Plan’s participants. They have recently approved two new benefits for active employees and their spouses at the Core-Plus and Core benefit levels, and a benefit increase that applies to eligible pensioners as well as to employees at the Core-Plus and Core level. Increase in Hearing Aid Benefit In the past, the SHBP provided a $350 benefit towards the purchase of a hearing aid every five years. Effective July 1, 2018, this benefit is being increased to $3,000 every three years. This $3,000 benefit may be used toward the purchase of one or two hearing aids; however, $3,000 is the maximum benefit amount you may receive in a three-year period. The hearing aid benefit is available to eligible employees at the Core-Plus and Core benefit levels, and to eligible pensioners. Dependents are not eligible for hearing aid benefits. New Infertility Benefit Until now, SHBP did not cover services to diagnose the cause of infertility, or to treat infertility. Effective July 1, 2018, all eligible employees and their spouses at the Core-Plus and Core benefit level are eligible for benefits to diagnose infertility. The Plan will pay for these services in the same manner as the Plan pays for doctor’s visits and diagnostic tests for any other health condition. The Plan will also pay up to $10,000 per eligible employee or spouse to treat infertility. Once this $10,000 is used, the Plan will not provide any additional benefits for treatment of infertility. Dependent children, pensioners and spouses of pensioners are not eligible for this benefit. New Sterilization Benefit The SHBP previously excluded coverage for tubal ligation and for vasectomy. Effective June 1, 2018, the SHBP will provide benefits for both of these procedures. Employees and their spouses at the Core-Plus and Core benefit are eligible for these benefits. Dependent children, pensioners and spouses of pensioners are not eligible for benefits for sterilization. The Plan will not pay for the reversal of a vasectomy or tubal ligation. If you have any questions about these benefits, please contact the Plan at (800) 2524674. Rep. Wittman Lands ‘Salute to Congress’ Award A longtime backer of the U.S. Merchant Marine recently picked up a prestigious award near the nation’s capital. On May 16, U.S. Rep. Rob Wittman (R-Virginia) was honored by the International Propeller Club of the United States during the organization’s annual Salute to Congress awards ceremony, which took place at the Army Navy Country Club in Arlington, Virginia. In attendance from the SIU were Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, Vice President Contracts George Tricker, Legislative Director Brian Schoeneman and Piney Point Port Agent Pat Vandegrift. Wittman, who chairs the House Armed Services Committee’s Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee, was honored for his steadfast support of the American Merchant Marine and the U.S.-flag fleet. He founded and co-chairs the Congressional Shipbuilding Caucus because he understands the importance of protecting laws like the Jones Act and the Maritime Security Program, which in turn help to keep the nation’s waterways safe from potential threats. In his acceptance speech, he spoke of the need to strengthen the Ready Reserve Force with the addition of new ships. “We are at one of those crossroads where we must recapitalize those fleets,” he said, before expressing strong support for the “three pillars” that enable American mariners to fulfill their important role in our nation’s economy, security and national defense: the Jones Act, the Maritime Security Program and cargo preference laws. “Continued Congressional support of a healthy commercial maritime industry is essential to domestic security,” he continued. “Despite the usage of heavy lift aircraft, large oceangoing vessels remain crucial to military mobility in the 21st century. U.S. troops stationed in the Middle East and Afghanistan receive much of their supplies via U.S.-flag vessels because of their capacity and low cost. In the long term, we must find ways to rebuild the U.S. shipbuilding infrastructure and commercial shipping industry – because, in the end, it is much more strategic than lowering transportation costs. I am truly humbled to receive this award and will continue to work each day to be deserving of this honor.” Schoeneman remarked, “Not only did Chairman Wittman give a great speech, he did it without notes. He is one of the most knowledgeable members of Congress and we are fortunate to have him not only as chairman of the Seapower Subcommittee, but also as a strong maritime and SIU supporter.” “Representative Wittman has certainly earned the Salute U.S. Rep. Rob Wittman (R-Virginia) to Congress honor with his outstanding support for the U.S. maritime industry,” said the Propeller Club’s International President Rear Adm. Joel Whitehead. “We are grateful for his leadership of the Seapower Subcommittee and of the Shipbuilding Caucus.” The International Propeller Club of the United States is a non-profit, international association dedicated to the promotion of the maritime industry, commerce and global trade. Through more than 75 chapters located in port cities in the U.S. and abroad, the Propeller Club promotes the maritime industry and contributes to professional development of its members. SIU Jobs Secure Aboard Wheeler The Department of Defense in early June announced that TOTE Services has been awarded a contract for the ongoing operation of the USNS Wheeler (right) and its support ship, the USNS Fast Tempo. Including options, the new award spans 5.5 years. SIU members already sail aboard the Wheeler, and TOTE has operated it for several years, for the U.S. Military Sealift Command. The two vessels are part of what’s named an offshore petroleum discharge system. They utilize gear that can transfer fuel from tankers to depots ashore from up to eight miles off the coast. (U.S. Navy photo) Reversed to White Reversed to White 2 Seafarers LOG July 2018 �SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez (at podium) speaks in support of the bill and notes the reliability of U.S. mariners. He’s flanked by (from left) Congressman Duncan Hunter (D-California), Senator Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi) and Congressmen John Garamendi (D-California), Donald Norcross (D-New Jersey) and Alan Lowenthal (D-California). Seafarers Fully Back New Maritime Bill Tellez: Don’t Question U.S. Merchant Marine’s Willingness to Answer the Call The SIU is fully backing new, bipartisan legislation aimed at boosting America’s maritime industry. SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez spoke May 22 at a Capitol Hill press conference announcing the Energizing American Shipbuilding Act of 2018. Cosponsors U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (DCalifornia) and U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi) kicked off the conference; other members of Congress also addressed the audience, as did industry and labor spokesmen. Tellez noted that despite supportive comments from many sources leading up to National Maritime Day (observed each year on May 22), the far more important political action hasn’t matched the rhetoric. “As foe and friend alike understand this and expand their maritime prowess, we languish on the vine, operating with an international fleet that’s been reduced to a number that’s nothing short of a disgrace,” Tellez said. He also pointed out that the industry collectively was fighting against a newly hatched effort to kill America’s cargo preference laws. (The SIU and many allies prevailed in that legislative battle later in the month.) “It gets even worse,” he continued. “We now have senior folks – civilian and in uniform – questioning whether our people will go into harm’s way. To those naysayers, I say look at the record. Read your history books. From the founding of this republic to Iraq and Afghanistan, and in every crisis and conflict in between, we have shown up. And whether or not we show up for the next one is not a question of our courage and will, but of yours. Does this country have the courage and will to maintain and support a viable merchant fleet that’s going to get the job done? All we need is the capacity and the tools, and we will get the job done. This legislation is a step in that direction.” Tellez added that the new legislation “creates good-paying jobs – thousands of them, at sea and ashore.” In announcing H.R. 5893, Garamendi, the ranking member of the Subcommittee on the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, explained that the legislation seeks to rebuild America’s domestic shipbuilding and maritime industry by requiring a small percentage of exported crude oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) be July 2018 “Congress has neglected our maritime industry for too long…. This bill seeks to turn the ship around by taking advantage of America’s energy export boom to bring back American shipbuilding, shipyard and mariner jobs rather than continuing to outsource them to countries like China.” – Congressman John Garamendi (D-California) transported on U.S.-built and U.S.-flagged vessels. The bill would require the construction of more than 50 ships and would create thousands of maritime jobs, both aboard ship and ashore. Other speakers at the press conference included U.S. Rep. Duncan Hunter (R-California), chairman of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee; U.S. Rep. Donald Norcross (D-New Jersey); U.S. Rep. Alan Lowenthal (D-California); Rob Mullins of the Shipbuilders Council of America; Steelworkers official Robert LaVenture; Bob McCracken, an executive from the American Iron & Steel Institute; Alan Kaplan, national president of the Navy League of the United States; MEBA Secretary-Treasurer Bill Van Loo; and MM&P Vice President Klaus Luhta. “Rebuilding America’s shipbuilding and mariner base is an idea that unites Democrats, Republicans, metallurgical trades, the business community, labor, and our armed forces,” said Garamendi. “These industries are not only vital to our economy – they’re vital to our country’s national security. Congress has neglected our maritime industry for too long, to the point that we’re now several dozen merchant ships and 1,800 mariners short of what’s needed to guarantee sufficient sealift support in times of crisis. This bill seeks to turn the ship around by taking advantage of America’s energy export boom to bring back American shipbuilding, shipyard, and mariner jobs rather than continuing to outsource them to countries like China. I believe this bill is the start of a long-term reinvestment in the idea of America as a maritime, seafaring nation.” U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (at podium) lists the many potential benefits of the Energizing American Shipbuilding Act. “The domestic maritime industry supports hundreds of thousands of American jobs and is critical to our military readiness and national security,” said Wicker. “This bill would strengthen our shipbuilding industry and would recognize the importance of having more Americanflagged ships to transport our growing exports of oil and natural gas. China, India, and other nations are investing heavily in their shipbuilding capacity. The United States must keep up.” “We can have the best military equipment and trained warfighters in the world, but without the sealift capacity to get them to where they need to go, it doesn’t do much good,” said Hunter. “Today, the U.S. international fleet has fallen to about 80 ships from a high of more than 1,200 during World War II. Unless we reverse that trend, our nation will be forced to rely on foreign countries for force projection, a situation we cannot allow to happen. This legislation will strengthen America’s shipbuilding base by ensuring we have the necessary industrial infrastructure and skilled labor pool of welders, fitters and sailors needed to rapidly mobilize in times of conflict. This bill will have strong national security implications and I applaud its introduction.” Kaplan stated, “American mariners and the U.S. shipbuilding industrial base are a crucial part of our national security, delivering crucial armaments and supplies the warfighter needs on U.S.-built ships. This bill ensures there will be enough American mariners and U.S.-built ships in the future to support the needs of our men and women in uniform.” U.S. Rep. Rob Wittman (R-Virginia), chairman and ranking member of the House Armed Services Seapower Committee, couldn’t attend the media event but submitted this written statement: “Continued Congressional support of a healthy commercial maritime industry and U.S. Merchant Marine is essential to domestic security. Despite the usage of heavy-lift aircraft, large oceangoing vessels remain crucial to military mobility in the 21st century. U.S. troops stationed in the Middle East and Afghanistan receive much of their supplies via U.S.-flag vessels because of their capacity and low cost. Bringing manufacturing and maritime jobs back home will not only help in the event of a disaster but will also show our domestic industrial base that we support them.” Seafarers LOG 3 �Randi Weingarten President American Federation of Teachers Tim Nolan President TOTE Maritime SIU President Michael Sacco (left) congratulates U.S. Rep. Cedric Richmond (D-Louisiana) on being the recipient of one of three awards during the annual dinner-dance of the Maritime Port Council of Greater New York/New Jersey and Vicinity. The event was held June 9 in New York. Port Council Honors Nolan, Richmond, Weingarten The annual dinner-dance hosted by the Maritime Port Council of Greater New York/ New Jersey and Vicinity on June 9 celebrated the past with a compass pointing straight at the future. All three awardees – U.S. Rep. Cedric Richmond (D-Louisiana), American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten and TOTE Maritime President Tim Nolan – acknowledged what has been done by the U.S.flag maritime industry but proclaimed more is to come. The port council is part of the Maritime Trades Department (MTD), a constitutional department of the AFL-CIO. SIU President Michael Sacco also serves as president of the MTD, which has 23 affiliated unions representing approximately five million workers. Richmond not only heads the Congressional Maritime Caucus, he also chairs the Congressional Black Caucus. First elected in 2010, Richmond’s second congressional district includes more maritime workers than any other in the country. He received the port council’s Government Man of the Year Award. He told the crowd of more than 300 that his mother was a longtime union teacher in New Orleans public schools and his stepfather had been a merchant mariner. Those are some of the reasons he works to make sure “people can make a living wage.” Richmond declared, “It takes labor to protect the Jones Act and cargo preference. This has been done in no small part by the brothers and sisters in the Maritime Trades, but the whole AFL-CIO.” He said the folks of the maritime industry are people of “courage and patriotism. They are people who make a difference. They have an obligation to this country. The entire Congress is starting to understand the importance of the maritime industry. We are educating them.” SIU Political Consultant Terry Turner introduced Richmond, noting he has come far in leadership in a short time because he listens and works with all. Turner pointed out that despite their political ideologies, Richmond works closely with House Republican Whip Steve Scalise (R-Louisiana) because both of them understand the bipartisan nature of the U.S.-flag fleet. In presenting Weingarten for the Paul Hall Award of Merit, Sacco recalled how she introduced maritime to a potable water filtration program called Operation Agua during last year’s AFL-CIO Convention. “Under Randi’s leadership, from West Virginia to Arizona and in many other places, the AFT has breathed new life into the labor movement. And they’ve helped educate – no pun intended – the general public about all the great things unions stand for.: Weingarten raced to the dinner straight from the airport after visiting with an ailing AFT official. She apologized for not changing by saying, “We are family. We care and we show up where we are needed.” She remembered the fight over the Jones Act in the days after Hurricane Maria devastated Puerto Rico. “The moment people don’t want to do anything, they blame somebody,” she said. “Don’t tell me the Jones Act caused the hurricane! The people who really showed up for the Puerto Rican people is the maritime industry! The maritime industry got to the port after the storm!” Weingarten noted that “the island looked like Europe after World War II” when she arrived days after the impact to assess what needed to be done for her members. She began a process of working with others to figure out how they could help all of Puerto Rico immediately. One problem was people were scavenging for drinkable water. As part of a coalition, the Teachers worked with Kohler to have thousands upon thousands of non-electrified water filtration systems made available to the island. A major part of the coalition was the MTDaffiliated SIU, which arranged for the filters to be sent free of charge aboard U.S.-flag vessels. “By this summer, we will have reached our goal of 100,000 filters to the island. That is what America is all about! That is what you have done. I am so grateful for this partnership,” Weingarten stated. “We have to ensure the U.S.-flag industry stays alive.” From the industry side, TOTE Maritime’s newly announced president and CEO, Tim Nolan, worked directly with Operation Agua and continues to oversee relief efforts for Puerto Rico. He had been serving as president of TOTE Maritime, Puerto Rico. Nolan, the recipient of the Herb Brand Memorial Award (which goes to a U.S.-flag industry leader), reminded all what the American-flag companies already have accomplished since Maria as well as what still has to be done for the island to recover. “The U.S. maritime industry was the first to arrive. Our collective response to Hurricane Maria is what makes the U.S. maritime industry so great. The U.S. maritime industry added 50 percent more capacity after the storm,” he explained. While noting he never had the honor of meeting Brand (a former Seafarers LOG editor who worked and promoted the industry from the union and business side for more than 50 years), Nolan said, “This is what Herb Brand and others strove to achieve.” SIU Executive Vice President and MTD Executive Board Member Augie Tellez pointed out that Nolan’s character was tested as TOTE had introduced two new LNG-powered, U.S.built, U.S.-flag vessels when the hurricane struck. “He came through and stood tall,” Tellez stated. “He was an ally in Operation Agua. He came and answered the call to the people of Puerto Rico – a job that is still ongoing.” Seafarers Executive Board Salutes Mike Sacco’s Visionary Leadership Following the announced awards at the annual Greater New York/New Jersey Maritime Port Council DinnerDance on June 9, the SIU Executive Board took over the stage to make a special presentation. That is, all the board members except one. Executive Vice President Augie Tellez told the more than 300 in the audience that the union was celebrating several milestones, including the 80th anniversary of the Seafarers International Union of North America. “For the last 30 years, we have had an unprecedented period of peace and prosperity,” Tellez stated. “We have enjoyed a piece of the American Dream. This comes as no accident. This is the 30th anniversary of our leader – Mike Sacco (being in office). His vision and his tremendous drive motivate us to do what we do.” Secretary-Treasurer Dave Heindel followed Tellez at the microphone to recognize and thank Sacco’s wife, Sophie, before using one of President Sacco’s favorite analogies: “Mike has referred to us (the Executive Board) as his Super Bowl team. On behalf of the Board, we would like to present our coach with his own Super Bowl trophy.” The unexpected tribute with a standing ovation caught Sacco completely by surprise. As he accepted the lookalike trophy, Sacco said it has been “a wonderful 30 years. Coaches don’t win games; players win games. These are the players. These are 4 Seafarers LOG SIU Secretary Treasurer Dave Heindel (third from left) presents SIU President Michael Sacco (fifth from left) with a replica of the Vince Lombardi Super Bowl Trophy. Joining Sacco for the presentation are members of his administration, including his executive vice president, regional vice presidents and the national director of an SIU-affiliated union. the guys who get it done.” Sacco acknowledged the many industry officials attending the dinner by reminding all that labor and business have worked and will continue to work together in order to succeed: “We want a fair shake. We don’t want more, we don’t want less. We will help you.” July 2018 �AFL-CIO Launches Ad Blitz, Urges Organizing The AFL-CIO in late May announced a major, national print and digital ad campaign calling on workers to join together in the face of what the federation described as continued corporate assaults on the freedom to join together in union. An open letter to working people, penned by AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka, ran in USA Today, the Washington Post and regional newspapers in nine states, including Florida, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and Massachusetts. Trumka’s letter offers an urgent call to action: “If you want a raise, better benefits and the dignity of having a voice on the job, we’re saving a seat for you,” he wrote. “Join us – be a part of the fight to build a brighter future for you, your family and working people everywhere.” An accompanying digital ad campaign targets workers online and directs them to FreedomToJoin.org, a new website “that outlines efforts by wealthy corporate interests to take away the freedoms of working people.” Additionally, the website offers background on Janus v. AFSCME Council 31, a Supreme Court case funded by the Koch brothers to “deprive teachers, firefighters and other public-sector workers of their freedom to join together,” the AFL-CIO noted. (A ruling was expected around press time.) It also offers resources for forming a union and information about ongoing organizing campaigns. “This comes as a wave of collective action has continued to sweep the country,” the federation said in announcing the ad campaign. “As striking teachers march and secure raises even in anti-labor states, working people from all backgrounds are embracing the power of solidarity. Unions’ approval rating has broken above 60 percent, while dissatisfaction with corporations has risen to similarly high levels. “Young people, who are disproportionately impacted by corporate-driven policy decisions, have been leading the most recent surge in unionization,” the announcement continued. “Of the 262,000 new union members last year, more than three-quarters were under the age of 35.” This trend has continued steadily into 2018. In April, nearly 15,000 workers organized unions in a single week, ranging from nurses and flight attendants to Harvard graduate workers. “From the boardroom to the steps of the Supreme Court, a dark web of corporate interests is trying to stop us with everything it has,” Trumka concluded. “But no matter what any CEO or lobbyist does, we’re standing up for the freedom to join together in a union.” In a communication specifically about the Janus decision, the AFL-CIO said, “The Supreme Court case Janus v. AFSCME Council 31 is nothing more than a political Washington Times: ‘Jones Act Assures Freedom of Seas’ An editorial published in late May by The Washington Times states unequivocal support for the Jones Act. The piece, headlined “The cost of not having a Merchant Marine,” provides background on why America’s freight cabotage law was enacted in the first place, in 1920. It powerfully concludes that the United States would risk catastrophe by eliminating the law, which requires that cargo moving between domestic ports be carried on ships that are crewed, built, owned and flagged American. Published and posted May 23, a day after National Maritime Day, the editorial in part notes, “Freedom of the seas is critical to America’s economic and political security, enabling the transportation of goods manufactured in the United States to other places around the world, and enabling Americans to obtain things otherwise unobtainable here…. Americans have taken freedom of the seas for granted when they think about ships and seas, particularly in the years following the end of World War II, when despite the tension between the superpowers nothing much happened in either the Atlantic or Pacific that America didn’t want to happen.” But new threats are emerging, according to the Times. For instance, they point out, China recently launched its first domestically constructed aircraft carrier. “Aircraft carriers are not defensive weapons,” the article states. “They’re floating islands bristling with weapons of mass destruction, to project power far beyond the shores of a homeland. Together with Beijing’s plan to increase the size of its combat navy to more than 400 ships, and the man-made islands created in the South China Sea to wage war, foreshadows a coming crisis that threatens ev- erybody’s freedom to sail one of the world’s busiest sea lanes.” After further describing China’s maritime strength, the editorial says things for the U.S. would be comparatively even worse “without the Merchant Marine Act of 1920 (formal name of the Jones Act), enacted when a sobered Congress wanted to make sure the United States could supply troops in conflicts anywhere in the world. Getting the American Expeditionary Force and its supplies across the Atlantic in World War I had been tortuous and difficult indeed, and Congress was determined that it should never be repeated. “This law assured the survival of the American Merchant Marine,” the article continues. “Without it … the nation’s movement of crucial goods would have been outsourced years ago.” The piece concludes, “The Jones Act assures freedom of the seas and on the cheap. The merchant fleet supports the military in times of crisis. The cost to replicate it, according to some estimates, would be as much as $65 billion, money America does not have and which would be better spent building combat ships to keep pace with the Chinese. The possibility of conflict with China or other seagoing powers dictates the absolute necessity of a robust shipbuilding and repair industry together with a robust and capable Merchant Marine. The Jones Act makes that possible even if, as some economists argue, it adds a few pennies to the cost of goods that come to America by sea. The cost of not having a robust Merchant Marine when the nation needs it would be much higher, all to prevent catastrophe when the cost of prevention is highest.” The full article is available online at washingtontimes.com. Jones Act vessels including the SIU-crewed Overseas Nikiski boost U.S. national, economic and homeland security. July 2018 attack that aims to further rig our economy and democracy against working people. It’s an attempt to divide us and limit our power in numbers because unions give workers a powerful voice in speaking up for themselves, their families and their communities. When teachers, nurses, firefighters and other public service workers are free to come together in unions, they win benefits like better working conditions, better wages, health care, clean and safe environments and retirement security that benefit non-union members as well. But the CEOs and corporate special interests behind this case simply do not believe that working people should have the same freedoms and opportunities as they do: to negotiate a fair return on our work so that we can provide for ourselves and our families. They are funding this case through organizations like the National Right to Work Foundation because they view unions as a threat to their power and greed.” ‘Time to Save Our Merchant Marine is Now’ America’s national, economic and homeland security demand the sustainment of a strong U.S. Merchant Marine. That was the firm conclusion of a recent op-ed coauthored by Brian Schoeneman, political and legislative director of the SIU, and Bryant Gardner, a partner with the law firm Winston & Strawn LLP. The piece ran in The Hill newspaper on May 22 (National Maritime Day) and remains available on the publication’s website. Schoeneman and Gardner provide background on America’s proud history as a maritime nation. Whether projecting military power or providing humanitarian assistance, U.S. civilian mariners have delivered for centuries, they note. That’s still the case today, they continue. For instance, more than 90 percent of the materiel needed by our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan was carried aboard U.S.-flag vessels with American crews. “Because the Defense Department can rely upon our commercial fleet, it doesn’t have to hire tens of thousands of government employees and build hundreds of ships, saving taxpayers billions,” Schoeneman and Gardner point out. “Because America can rely upon its U.S. Merchant Marine, it will never again face the crisis it faced at the start of the last century, when American exports sat on the docks rotting because foreign fleets were unable or unwilling to take them to market. “As representatives of the shipping industry and maritime unions we see the importance of this issue from all sides,” the continued. “Yet, despite the importance of the Merchant Marine to America’s economic, national, and homeland security, many of the programs designed to help maintain it have come under attack. One such program is our cargo preference law. Cargo preference requires that when taxpayer-funded cargoes are shipped by the U.S. government, at least a portion of those cargoes move on U.S.-flag vessels, provided they are available at fair and reasonable rates. This allows us to leverage transportation dollars we are already spending, accomplishing two goals at once.” They go on to contrast the high standards applied to American crews and vessels as compared to the oftencutthroat world of runaway-flag or so-called flag-of-convenience shipping. In that light, “The only way the U.S. Merchant Marine can remain viable is through support programs that help counter these disadvantages inherent to the requirement that the U.S. Merchant Marine be an American institution we can count upon in times good and bad. In peace and war – the motto of the Merchant Marine,” the coauthors say. When the piece was published, the industry was battling against a blindside attack (ultimately unsuccessful) on cargo preference. “If the federal government is paying the freight, it makes sense to employ Americans to do the work,” Gardner and Schoeneman point out. “Despite this, cargo preference has been under attack by well-intended ‘reformers’ looking to trim shipping costs regardless of the other impacts. Nowhere have these attacks been more fervent than among the foreign-aid community, who would carve-out international food aid shipments from cargo preference rules, promoting foreign fleets over our own. “Critics claim that this cargo isn’t essential to the U.S. Merchant Marine,” they add. “Not true. Food aid is the largest source of government cargo available. When Congress reduced ship-American requirements for food aid from 75 percent to 50 percent, we lost a quarter of the fleet. The change had almost no impact on the overall food aid program, since using American ships instead of foreign ships represents barely one percent of the overall food aid budget…. Instead of cutting cargo preference, we should be looking to increase it. The military already aspires to ship 100 percent of its cargoes on U.S.flag vessels. Requiring the civilian agencies to do the same would go a long way toward reversing the trend.” They conclude, “On this, National Maritime Day, we need to stop taking our U.S. Merchant Marine for granted, and dedicate to serious discussion about ways to restore its capability. Restoring and bolstering cargo preference with new reforms is a good place to start.” Seafarers LOG 5 �Lummus Mariners Donate to Philippines-Based Charity The Seafarers’ time-honored tradition of providing humanitarian assistance to those in need continues to be displayed on the world’s international stage. The latest episode occurred May 10 in the Republic of the Philippines when – during an official visit – SIU crew members and AMO officers from the USNS 1st Lt Jack Lummus presented a $1,000 donation to the Pampangabased Smile Train Philippines Foundation, Inc. Smile Train is an international children’s charity (a hospital) that provides 100-percentfree cleft repair surgery and comprehensive cleft care to children in more than 85 developing countries around the world. The offer to look in on the facility was sent to Lummus Master Capt. David Hagner. The invitation to visit the hospital was “… based upon my own recent marathon fundraising for them (London 2017, Jacksonville 2017),” Hagner said. “So, I asked them to expand the guest list as an opportunity to bring some favorable exposure to both the program/ ship/crew and to their great charity.” According to Hagner, the Lummus at the time was in the Philippines supporting Exercise Balikatan 2018, an annual joint forces U.S.Philippines military partnership operation. “We were anchored in Subic Bay conducting routine maintenance between the partial discharge and backload of our prepositioned USMC roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) cargo used in the exercise when we made the visit to Pampanga,” he said. Joining Hagner during the visit and donation presentation were OS Charles Catunao, Chief Engineer Michael Fagan and Electronics Officer Clifford Ward. Catunao, on behalf of Lummus’ officers and crew, presented the $1,000 check to Smile Train’s Director for the Philippines Kimmy Flaviano. Also present were Dr. Edmund Mercado, a plastic surgeon who performs many of the procedures at the facility, and Marlon Punzalan, an Ambyth shipping agent. According to Hagner, the Ambyth family of companies and it principals were generous sponsors of his 2017 fundraising efforts for SIU Ordinary Seaman Charles Catunao (second from left in back row in photo above) poses with officers from the USNS 1st Lt. Jack Lummus, along with officials, patients and parents at the Smile Train Philippines Foundation, Inc., hospital during a May 10 visit. The facility is based in Pampanga, Philippines. In the photo at right, Catunao presents a $1,000 donation from the crew of the Lummus to Smile Train’s Director for the Philippines Kimmy Flaviano. Smile Train in London and Jacksonville. During the recent visit, members of the Lummus delegation had lunch with the facility’s director and members of her staff. They also saw a number of children who had undergone procedures the day before as well as others who were back for suture removals and follow-ups. Delegation members also saw a few infants who were at the facility for pre-op assessments. Proceeds for the donation were taken from a cash reserve that accrues from the onboard sale of assorted goods (soft drinks, snacks, etc.) to mariners in the vessel’s slop chest. “Rather than solicit from individual crew members, we made the donation from a small crew fund we maintain for such purposes,” said Hager. “We have previously supported (from the same fund) a charity golf tournament for The Heart of Texas Young Marines and sponsored a rider in the Dana Farber Pan-Mass Challenge bike ride for cancer.” The Lummus is operated by Crowley Liner Services. NTSB Publishes El Faro Summary New Books Cover 2015 Tragedy Involving SIU-Crewed Ship The tragic sinking of the SIU-crewed cargo ship El Faro happened nearly three years ago, but the incident made recent headlines following the release of two new books plus a summary from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). The board in late May posted a 16-page PDF file which it described as an “illustrated digest (that) summarizes the critical events and decisions that led to the Oct. 1, 2015, sinking of El Faro and the loss of all 33 crewmembers. The digest also synopsizes the more than 60 recommendations issued throughout the The NTSB posted a 16-page PDF file summarizing its findings about the El Faro. 6 Seafarers LOG NTSB’s investigation of the sinking. The infographics and summary make for an easy-to-read digest, compared with the thousands of pages that comprise the NTSB’s final report and associated investigative documents, while still imparting potentially lifesaving information to our stakeholders.” The NTSB announcement concluded, “While the full accident report, available at www.ntsb.gov, remains the agency’s definitive document on our investigation of the sinking, this digest provides an overview of this landmark marine accident, and a review of what government and industry can do to prevent such an ac- cident from happening again.” The summary is easy to find on the NTSB website. Use the search feature and enter the words “El Faro illustrated digest.” Meanwhile, the books were released in early May. One is titled “Into the Raging Sea” and is authored by Rachel Slade. The other is titled “Run the Storm” and is written by George Michelsen Foy. Both are available on Amazon. The hardcover edition of Slade’s book is 416 pages, and it appears to be the more critically acclaimed of the two. Foy’s book is 272 pages. Seventeen SIU members were among the El Faro’s final crew. Two new books revisit the tragic sinking. July 2018 �SHBP Announces Winners of Annual Scholarships The higher education goals of nine individuals moved one step closer to fruition May 4 when the Seafarers Heath and Benefits Plan (SHBP) Scholarship committee conferred upon them scholarships totaling $132,000. Convening in San Diego, the committee bestowed a series of grants to four active Seafarers and five dependents. On the SIU side of the ledger, JonDa Tanner was the recipient of a three-year $15,000 award; Joseph LoGuidice and Karl Mayhew each claimed a two-year, $6,000 grant; and Jarvis Atkins collected a oneyear, $5,000 scholarship. Dependents Katherine Conway, Junnel Grace Dingman, Ruth Isabel Dinongm, Gabriel Garcia, and Guan Polompo were the recipients of four-year awards totaling $20,000 each. JonDa Tanner Deep Sea Chief Steward JonDa Tanner was born in Alaska but currently calls Lynwood, California, home. A 1996 graduate of Foster High School in Tukwila, Washington, she completed three semesters of classes at North Seattle Community College in Seattle. She later spent five years working with Norwegian Cruise Lines. Tanner donned the SIU colors in 2000 and graduated from the apprentice program at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland. Since completing the apprentice program, Tanner has returned to the school on several occasions to upgrade her skills. Most recently, she completed the Chief Steward 2.0 Orientation/Assessment course. While working for Norwegian Cruise Lines, Tanner said she discovered that life on the high seas was a career that truly fit her personality. She became a union delegate and became hooked on organized labor. “I felt the union saved me and now I could give something back to them,” she said. “After five years, I decided to switch to the SIU (from the SIU-affiliated Seafarers Entertainment and Allied Trades Union). I want to be an example for the members of the union to rise above their circumstances. I want to finish what I started by getting my college degree with the help of the union.” Tanner has applied for admission to North Seattle Community College, the same institution she attended following her graduation from high school. She will pursue a double major on literature and drama. Joseph LoGuidice Deep Sea QMED Joseph LoGuidice joined the union in 2011 and was a members of Apprentice Class 747 at the Seafarers-affiliated maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. The husband of a U.S. Air Force spouse, he recently sailed aboard the USNS John Glenn, operated by Ocean Shipholdings, Inc. A frequent upgrader, LoGuidice has returned to the school on several occasions to improve his skills. Most recently, he completed his requirements in the Basic/Advanced Firefighting and Tanker Familiarization LG courses. A native of Denville, New Jersey, LoGuidice is a 1996 graduate of McClintock High School in Tempe, Arizona. While in high school, he was a member of the wrestling team. “I finished my apprenticeship in 2012 and started sailing in the engine department,” he said. “I’ve been back to Piney Point to upgrade numerous times. I’m applying for this scholarship to help me pay for the 10 classes I would need to get my associate’s degree through the College of Southern Maryland. This degree would give me the opportunity to stay on land in the future and support my wife through her Air Force career as she has done for me the last six years while I’m out at sea.” Karl Mayhew Deep Sea Recertified Bosun Karl Mayhew donned the SIU colors in 2001. Born in New York City, he graduated from H.C. Williams High School in Canton, New York. Mayhew earned 32 credits at the State University of New York at Canton. July 2018 Since joining the union, he has upgraded his skills no fewer than 11 times at the PHC, including in 2016 when he completed the bosun recertification course, the highest level of training available to unlicensed members who sail in the deck department. Looking back over his career as a merchant mariner and member of the SIU, Mayhew has no regrets. “I believe entering the U.S. Merchant Marine (USMM) was the best decision I have ever made,” he said. “It has allowed me to learn the importance of working in a team environment and has instilled many positive values (in me).” He continued, “Essentially, it has made me see the importance of always doing the right thing. Further, the USMM has provided a reliable means of making a living and providing for myself and family.” Now, Mayhew aspires to take his career to the next level. “I would like to further my career by gaining a college degree and continuing my education in an ever-changing merchant marine environment,” he said. “I am very thankful I have chosen this career path and intend on being part of it until my retirement.” Mayhew plans to pursue a degree in nautical engineering at the College of Southern Maryland. Jarvis Atkins Deep Sea OMU Jarvis Atkins was born in Roanoke, Virginia, and now resides in Portsmouth, Virginia. He currently works aboard the MV Capt. David I. Lyon, operated by Sealift, Inc. “For the past three years … I have been sailing as an oiler or junior engineer, depending on what ship the company needs me on,” he said. Married and the father of two children, Atkins is a 1996 graduate of Stafford High School in Stafford, Virginia and holds a bachelor’s degree in finance from Norfolk State University in Norfolk, Virginia. He is veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve. Atkins signed on with the SIU in 2013 and was a member of PHC Apprentice Class 764. A frequent upgrader, Atkins has enhanced his skills on numerous occasions at the union-affiliated school, most recently in March of this year when he completed five U.S. Coast Guard-approved courses. He applied for the SHBP Scholarship program in order “to be considered for the two-year scholarship to continue my quest in obtaining my Third Engineer’s License,” he said in his application package. “I am currently sailing as a QMED for Sealift Inc. and will soon have the required amount of sea days to sit for my Third Engineer Exam.” Atkins also said he needed to successfully complete five classes to achieve his goal. “My plan is to take two classes in the fourth quarter of 2018 and the remaining three classes in the first or second quarter of 2019,” he said. He has applied for admission to the Mid Atlantic Maritime Academy in Norfolk, Virginia, as well as the Chesapeake Marine Training Institute in Hayes, Virginia. Katherine Conway Katherine Conway is the daughter of Inland AB Nicholas Conway (and mother Susan, a teacher) who joined the union in 1999. Conway is a 2018 graduate of Gloucester County Institute of Technology in Sewell, New Jersey, where she was involved in a number of athletic as well as other extracurricular activities. Included were membership on the school’s junior as well as varsity cross country, track and bowling teams. Additionally, Conway was active in her school’s student council, holding the office of public relations officer from 2017 to 2018. She also volunteered her time supporting the school-based youth services program and other community outreach activities. Ultimately, Conway hopes to become a nurse. To achieve this objective, she has applied for admission to the following schools: Neumann University, Aston, Pennsylvania; Rutgers University, Camden, New Jersey; Stockton University, Galloway, New Jersey; and LaSalle University, Philadelphia. Junnel Grace Dingzon Junnel Grace Dingzon is a 2018 graduate of Baltimore Polytechnic Institute in Baltimore. She is the daughter of Deep Sea ABG Julian Dingzon (and mother Nelia, an office staffer) who has been sailing with the SIU since 2010. Born in the Republic of the Philippines, Junnel Grace now resides in Baltimore. She has five siblings. While in high school, she participated on the tennis team and held membership in the ethics, environmental, yoga/meditation and German clubs. She also volunteered with the Maryland Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Junnel Grace currently works at a frozen yogurt shop at the Baltimore Washington International Airport where she “hopes to save up money for college and develop better communication skills.” Her ambition is to earn her degree in biochemistry. “I aspire to be a neurologist someday and give back to the field that I’m so passionate about,” she said. To achieve her goal, Junnel Grace has applied for admission to the following institutions of higher learning: Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore; Bucknell University, Lewisburg, Pennsylvania; Lafayette College, Easton, Pennsylvania; and New York University in New York City. Ruth Isabel Dinong Ruth Isabel Dinong is the daughter of Deep Sea ABM Rolando Dinong (and mother Ofelia, a dental assistant) who sails aboard the Ocean Ships, Inc.-operated USNS Montford Point. Ruth Isabel was born in the Republic of the Philippines and currently resides in Daly City, California. She has one sibling. A 2018 graduate of Westmoor High School in Daly City, she was active in her school’s student government as well as the California Scholarship Federation and the Westmoor Service Commission. Ruth Isabel also spent numerous hours volunteering at the Second Harvest Food Bank where she helped distribute meals to low-income households and senior citizens. She plans to pursue a career in global studies and has applied to 10 institutions of higher learning to achieve her objective. Her top choices are: Northeastern University in Boston; the University of Washington in Seattle; the University of California, Los Angeles; and the University of California, San Diego. Gabriel Garcia Gabriel is the son of Deep Sea Recertified Steward Raymond Garcia (and mother Mazie, a staff member at the University of California, San Francisco.) He has six siblings. A 2018 graduate of Novato High School in Novato, California, Garcia since an early age has had a deepseated passion for gardening. While in high school, this passion led him to be more involved in his community. He took a leadership role in his school’s gardening club and volunteered many hours at gardens in his area. Along the way, he coordinated and consulted with “master gardeners,” a group of volunteers who are trained and certified by the University of California. Garcia also helped launch a campus beautification project. Besides restoring his school’s garden irrigation system, the endeavor sought to increase student participation in environmentalrelated undertakings. “I want to be a research doctor while simultaneously advocating for environmental awareness,” he said in his scholarship application package. His goal is to obtain his degree in plant biology. Garcia has applied for admission to the following schools: University of CaliforniaBerkley, Berkley, California; University of California-Davis, Davis, California; Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island; and Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore. Guian Palompo Guian Palompo is the son of retired inland DEU Nestor Palompo (and mother Jeannette, a delicatessen employee) who spent most of his career working with Crowley Towing and Transportation in Jacksonville, Florida. Palompo is a 2018 graduate of Jacksonville’s Atlantic Coast High School where he was active in a host of student activities. He was a member of the National Honor Society and served as vice president of the Multicultural Club. Additionally, he was heavily involved in his school’s math, science and history clubs. In the community service arena, Palompo spent numerous after-school hours volunteering. He served as camp counselor for a local high school and was a resolute supporter of a Baptist health volunteer program. Guian’s goal is to obtain his degree in mechanical engineering. To realize his ambition, he has applied for admission to the University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida; University of North Florida in Jacksonville, Florida; and the University of Florida, Gainesville. Members of the calendar year 2018 SHBP Scholarship Committee convened May 4 in San Diego to deliberate on this year’s scholarship winners. Comprising the committee (above, from left) were Dr. Gayle Olson, University of New Orleans (retired); Dr. Louis Fernandez, provost and vice president academic affairs, California State University; Dr. Marla Kohlman, professor, Department of Sociology, Kenyon College; Dr. Hank Toutain, dean of students, Kenyon College (retired); and Dr. Trevor Carpenter, College of Southern Maryland (retired). Seafarers LOG 7 �WELCOME ASHORE IN NEW ORLEANS – Longtime inland member Dave Walker (right) recently called it a career after 40 years as an engineer at Crescent Towing. He also served as a delegate on negotiating committees five different times. Presenting him with his first pension check is Port Agent Chris Westbrook. WELCOME ASHORE IN NORFOLK – Congratulations to Captain Mark Faust (center), pictured at the hall with his wife, Mary (right), and Port Agent Georg Kenny. Upon receiving his first pension check, Mark expressed gratitude to the union and to the Seafarers Pension Plan. He spent the past 15 years at the helm with Express Marine. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU LICENSE EARNED – Seafarer Jose Encarnacion (left) proudly displays his new third assistant engineer license, recently received from the U.S. Coast Guard. He’s pictured with Port Agent Amancio Crespo in San Juan. Encarnacion stated, “Since I got into the maritime industry in 2005, my life has been fun. Trip after trip, I’ve learned the true value of work, family and union. I want to thank our union leaders for a job well done, especially in helping maintain our cabotage laws.” MILESTONES IN OAKLAND – In photo at left, QEE Douglas McLaughlin (right) receives his A-seniority book from Port Agent Nick Marrone II. The photo above features Recertified Steward Louis Nicoud (center) picking up his first pension check and being WITH SEAFARERS ON WEST COAST – SIU Asst. VP Nick Celona (standing congratulated by Asst. VP Nick Celona (right) and fourth from right) meets with ROS crews from the USNS Algol and USNS Capella the port agent. in San Francisco. Both ships are operated by Ocean Duchess. STEWARD SELFIE – Chief Cook Jason Beckford is pictured along with some of the delicious menu items aboard the APL Guam. TALKIN’ JONES ACT IN PUERTO RICO – Port Agent Amancio Crespo (fourth from left) submitted this snapshot after an informal gathering to discuss the Jones Act and its vital importance to the territory with several key supporters. Joined by their respective spouses were (far left) Wilfredo Cameron, office coordinator for the Hon. Michael Abid Quinones; (fifth from left) the Hon. Carlos Johnny Mendez, president of the Puerto Rico House of Representatives; and (far right) Rep. Quinones. ABOARD ATB INNOVATION – SIU Asst. VP Kris Hopkins (right) meets with Recertified Steward Bruce Mesger (left) and AB/Tankerman Mike Eaton to discuss contract negotiations. The vessel is operated by Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning. 8 Seafarers LOG July 2018 �At Sea and Ashore with the SIU NEW PACT APPROVED – Seafarers recently voted in favor of a three-year contract covering the Delta Mariner. The pact features wage increases along with improved benefits and working conditions. Among those pictured on the Foss Maritime ship are Bosun Marcus Chambers (fourth from right), SIU VP Gulf Coast Dean Corgey (center) and Port Agent Jimmy White (left). Corgey said the bosun “deserves special recognition for his leadership and service as ship’s delegate.” A-BOOK IN JERSEY – Congratulations to AB Sal Mothana (left) on receiving his A-book last month. He’s pictured at the Jersey City hall with Port Agent Mark von Siegel. ABOARD OVERSEAS LOS ANGELES – Pictured aboard the Overseas Ship Management vessel in early May in Richmond, California, are (from left) AB Khamisi Kayanda, Port Agent Nick Marrone II, Recertified Steward Dennis Skretta, Chief Cook Carmelo Dela Cruz, SA Karen Thomasson, GUDE Nestor Montano, AB Joseph Nicodemus, Bosun Teodulfo Alanano and GUDE Ali Mohamed WITH USNS PETERSBURG CREW – Pictured from left in photo at left are Chief Steward Ruben Ong, GUDE Julian Lacuesta, Port Agent Nick Marrone II and Bosun Roberto Flauta. The Ready Reserve Force ship is operated by TOTE Services. ABOARD OCEAN GLORY – Pictured from left aboard the Crowley ship in Seaport, Maine, are Bosun Augustus Udan, SIU Safety Director Osvaldo Ramos and Steward/Baker Reyna Abel. “It’s a great ship with good shipmates who emphasize safety,” Ramos observed. SIU AT FLEET WEEK – The SIU-crewed USNS Maury recently took part in Fleet Week in New York. Pictured aboard the vessel (operated by Ocean Shipholdings) are (photo at left) MDR Brandon Maeda and (photo at immediate right, from left) GVA Crystal Cobbs (left) and STOS John Hodges. WITH SEABULK BOATMEN – This snapshot was taken last month after completion of Seabulk Towing contract negotiations in Port Arthur, Texas. Pictured from left are Patrolman John Niday, AB William Soileau, Chief Engineer Chris Butts, Capt. Chris Kibodeaux, SIU Asst. VP Mike Russo and Mate Josh Rodriguez. B-BOOK IN HONOLULU – Chief Cook Tiffany Davis (left) receives her full B-book at the union hall in Hawaii. Congratulating her is Port Agent Hazel Galbiso. July 2018 Seafarers LOG 9 �With Starlight Marine Crews SIU Port Agent Joe Vincenzo recently met with Seafarers aboard Starlight Marine Services tugboats in the Pacific Northwest. These photos were taken in early May. Pictured aboard the Hank Kaplan in Seattle are (from left) Junior Capt. Katie Ann Love, Capt. Matt Jeffcott, AB/Deckhand Tim Alexander, Capt. Jeff Johnson and Engineer Jon McCutcheon. Gathering for a photo aboard the Rich Padden are (from left) Engineer Joe Corey, Port Agent Joe Vincenzo, AB/Deckhand Wesley Shoemaker and Capt. Mitch Hetterlee. Aboard the Michelle Sloan in Tacoma, Washington, are (from left) Engineer Brian Alexander, Port Agent Joe Vincenzo and AB Maxwell Fleischfresser. Spotlight on Mariner Health All About Shingles Virus Shingles is a condition caused by the varicella-zoster virus. This is the same virus that causes chickenpox. Once a person has chickenpox, the virus will stay in their system for life. It usually stays in an inactive form and will only come out again if your immune system is weakened. Shingles causes open, oozing blisters, and this varicella-zoster virus can spread through contact with unscabbed shingles blisters. If you have never had chickenpox, you can get the varicella-zoster virus from contact with someone else’s oozing shingle blister. This, in turn, can lead to chickenpox. The virus does not spread once the blisters have formed a crusty scab. Once the scab forms, they are no longer contagious. The virus can also be contained by covering the area that is affected. Early symptoms of shingles can start with pain along the nerve root. Your skin might feel like it is tingling or like it is burning before the blisters appear. Some itching and sensitivity to touch can also occur. The real sign that someone has shingles is when the blisters start to appear. They remind people of chickenpox. They are raised blisters that are fluid-filled. They will eventually open and ooze. Finally, they will crust over. Most people that experience shingles do 10 Seafarers LOG have pain. This is usually for a short period of time and then they fully recover. Most people only have one episode of shingles in their lifetime. However, there are some that have a recurrent outbreak if their immune system is compromised again. Some people have long-lasting nerve pain from the shingles outbreak. This usually happens with older adults. The virus affects the nerve that it followed on the skin and can cause a continuous burning or stabbing type of pain. This is why it is very important when you first suspect that you have shingles, to get to your doctor’s office or other emergency care/treatment areas as soon as possible, to get antiviral medications. Once you are on these meds, the virus or vesicle eruptions will not be as bad or as long-lasting. The post-neuralgic pain will not be a severe, either. Some doctors use ointments on the blisters to help in their healing. Keep the areas clean and dry. Cover them as needed and follow the doctor’s advice. Wash your hands constantly and keep your fingers away from your face. Talk with your doctor about getting the shingles vaccine shot so that you have a better chance of never getting shingles. Keep active. Get your vaccines as your doctor recommends and you will have a longer, healthier life! Healthful Recipe Honey Citrus Glazed Chicken Servings: 8 Ingredients 8 chicken breast halves, without skin, trimmed – fresh 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 teaspoons Mrs Dash 1 tablespoon kosher salt ¼ cup honey ½ teaspoon granulated garlic ¼ cup orange juice, fresh squeezed ¼ lemon juice, fresh squeezed Preparation Butterfly the chicken breast and pat dry, season with the Mrs Dash, kosher salt, and olive oil evenly on both sides. Sauté the seasoned chicken 1-2 min on each side, just to brown them. Place into hotel pan. Mix together the honey, orange juice, lemon juice, and granulated garlic in a container big enough to hold it. Glaze the chicken with the sauce evenly. Bake in a 325-degree F oven for 10 min until the inside is 165 degrees F. Garnish with lemon and chopped green onion or parsley. Nutrition Information Per Serving (excluding unknown items): 198 Calories; 5g Fat (22.5 percent calories from fat); 27g Protein; 10g Carbohydrate; trace dietary fiber; 68mg Cholesterol; 782mg Sodium. Exchanges: 0 Grain (starch); 4 Lean Meat; 0 Fruit; ½ Fat; ½ Other Carbohydrates. Provided by the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education’s Lundeberg School of Seamanship July 2018 �Representatives from the SIU and other maritime unions, the Coast Guard, the Maritime Administration, American-flag vessel operators and the office of U.S. Rep. John Garamendi turn out in Oakland, California. SIU Observes Maritime Day Across U.S. While the annual National Maritime Day observance in the nation’s capital often garners the biggest headlines, the SIU traditionally also participates in several other noteworthy ceremonies across the country on May 22. SIU members, officials and staff upheld that custom this year, taking part in National Maritime Day gatherings in Virginia, Texas and California. SIU Vice President Government Services Kermett Mangram, Port Agent Georg Kenny, Safety Director Anthony Houston, Government Services Division Representative Sam Spain and Administrative Assistant Sheila Burton were among a crowd of approximately 400 individuals celebrating the gathering that was hosted by the Norfolk Propeller Club and the Port of Norfolk, Virginia. The USNS Medgar Evers, crewed by members of the SIU Government Services Division, served as a reception area for part of the event. Additionally, longtime Chief Steward Army Joe Leake was one of several mariners honored for his years of dedication to the industry. “National Maritime Day has evolved to become so much more as we recognize the importance of the maritime industry to our nation’s economic strength,” said Rear Adm. Dee L. Mewbourne, commander, Military Sealift Port Agent Nick Marrone II speaks at the event in Oakland, California. Command. “Let us keep all our nation’s mariners in our thoughts and prayers as they contribute courageously to the security and prosperity of our nation.” “I’m proud to celebrate National Maritime Day, a day where we honor American mariners who have served the U.S. admirably in time of war and crisis, including many who have made the ultimate sacrifice,” said Rear Adm. (Ret.) Mark Buzby, Maritime Administrator. “By delivering supplies and equipment to our military forces overseas, and commercial partners here at home and to other nations, our mariners have helped establish and sustain our way of life.” (Buzby spoke earlier the same day at the ceremony in Washington, D.C.) In Port Arthur, Texas, SIU Safety Director Kevin Sykes shared some SIU history. “My union was formed in 1938,” he said in his prepared remarks. “Our members have sailed in every conflict since then, proudly serving as America’s fourth arm of defense. From World War II to Korea to Vietnam, and from the first Persian Gulf War to Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, among other missions, SIU members have delivered the goods wherever and whenever needed.” He added, “I would be remiss in not briefly stating the case for why we need a strong U.S. Merchant Marine moving forward. Our domestic maritime industry alone supports nearly 500,000 American jobs and pumps billions of dollars into the economy every year. Our internationally trading deep-sea ships help ensure that we won’t be held as economic hostages by other nations, and our civilian-crewed military support ships guarantee that our brave men and women in uniform won’t have to cross their fingers and hope that foreign crews on foreign-flag ships decide to deliver the vital materiel they need in times of conflict. We can honor the past by working hard to ensure the ongoing vibrancy of this vital industry.” The Rev. Sinclair Oubre, who also is a longtime Seafarer, spoke at the Port Arthur ceremony. He reminded attendees that the maritime industry is vital to the nation, and still offers excellent career opportunities for those willing to put in the work. In Oakland, California, Port Agent Nick Marrone II was one of a number of speakers representing (respectively) labor, management and government. He underscored the importance of the U.S. Merchant Marine not just in the past but also today and in the future. Later that week, SIU Assistant Vice President Government Services Chet Wheeler joined a memorial event aboard the World War II victory ship Jeremiah O’Brien, based in San Francisco. The service honored all mariners who have perished at sea. Participants head to the Seamen’s Memorial Sundial in Port Arthur, Texas. Pictured from left in photo at left are Port Agent Georg Kenny, retired Chief Steward Army Joe Leake and SIU VP Government Services Kermett Mangram. Tugboats (photo above) were part of the National Maritime Day ceremony in Virginia. The Seafarers-crewed USNS Medgar Evers hosted a reception and supported a nearby wreath-laying ceremony with tugboats conducting a water salute on the Elizabeth River. Fr. Sinclair Oubre (at podium) speaks during the 32nd annual National Maritime Day observance in Port Arthur, Texas. July 2018 Safety Director Kevin Sykes reminds the Texas crowd that SIU members have always answered the nation’s call. Seafarers LOG 11 �Members of the HOV-4 Quartet performed the National Anthem as part of the Maritime Day Ceremony’s opening festivities. The Honorable Elaine Chao U.S. Transportation Secretary Rear Adm. Mark Buzby (USN, Ret) U.S. Maritime Administrator Gen. Darren McDew Commander, USTRANSCOM Kevin McAleenan, Commissioner U.S. Customs and Border Protection DOT Honors Seafarers with Maritime Day Ceremony Sec. Chao Says SIU is ‘One of the Strongest Unions in the Country’ While National Maritime Day was observed on May 22 with ceremonies across the country, only one featured an inspired speech from a current U.S. Cabinet Secretary. At the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) headquarters in Washington, D.C, Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao headlined the day’s ceremony with her keynote address, speaking to an assembled crowd of over 200 maritime industry leaders. Chao was in good company, with the ceremony’s other speeches given by (in order) Rear Adm. Mark “Buzz” Buzby (Ret.), administrator of the Maritime Administration (MARAD); Gen. Darren McDew, commander of the U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM); and Kevin McAleenan, commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Representing the SIU at the event were Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, Vice President Contracts George Tricker, Legislative Director Brian Schoeneman, Piney Point Port Agent Pat Vandegrift and 17 apprentices from the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. Apprentice Carlos Gutierrez served as the ceremony’s wreath tender, while fellow trainee Joshua Bonita rang eight bells, the traditional “end of watch” signal. Buzby opened the ceremony with words of thanks and a reminder of the importance of maritime: “We’re here today to take a Paul Hall Center Apprentice Joshua Bonita sounds the traditional eight bells during the ceremony. 12 Seafarers LOG few minutes out of our very, very busy lives to recognize the many dedicated seafaring men and women of the U.S. Merchant Marine, who have fueled the economy of the United States and helped defend her for more than 240 years. Longer, in fact, then we have had armed forces.” He continued, “We owe a collective great debt of gratitude to our mariners. By delivering supplies and equipment to our military forces overseas, and commercial cargoes here at home and to other nations, they have helped establish the American way of life.... By serving our nation in peace and war, and by providing humanitarian assistance around the globe, they have carried on the unwritten diplomatic mission of the United States: to keep our country strong, and to make the world a better place.” Chao began by thanking those in attendance, then made special mention of the SIU leadership, saying, “I’m especially pleased to have a great leader within the maritime industry, and that’s Mr. Augie Tellez, the executive vice president of the Seafarers International Union. President Mike Sacco and Executive Vice President Augie Tellez leads one of the strongest unions in the country, and they are one of our country’s strongest advocates of the maritime industry and for mariners, as well. So, Augie, we want to thank you for everything that you do to protect our mariners.” She continued, “The theme for this Maritime Day is, ‘Voices – Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow’. And what an appropriate focus during this time of change and opportunity. The maritime community has always had a strong and constant voice, as steady as the roar of the sea. Its values are timeless, the product of centuries of hardearned experience: Stand by your shipmates, do your duty, train hard and stay the course. Those voices continue to guide us with the wisdom that only experience can bring. “As you know, Maritime Day commemorates the American innovation that changed the seagoing world: the first successful crossing of the Atlantic by a steam-powered ship, the Savannah,” she noted. “It was revolutionary, and led to even more innovation and change. Iron and then steel replaced wood, propellers replaced sails, diesel replaced steam ... and now we have new LNG-powered containerships that are now putting to sea as part of our innovative U.S.-flag fleet.” Chao outlined additional improvements made within the shipping industry over the years, before saying, “However, one thing remains constant: the absolutely critical role that the U.S.-flag Merchant Marine vessels play in our economic and national security. As our flag says, ‘In Peace and War’.” The secretary then spoke about the Maritime Security Program, which she called “a vital part of that readiness. MARAD is currently conducting a study called MSP 4.0, to determine what direction the program needs to move in the future. I tell people the Maritime Security Program is a great example of the public-private partnerships that are often talked about in this administration’s infrastructure proposal. In this case, the Navy needs to move civilian and non-military goods around the world to vital locations. The military sealift program links it with commercial operators, who have developed knowledge and networks of ports, pilots, stevedores, port infrastructure.... For the Navy to try to replicate this experience and these connections, it would cost so much more than the prices that the Maritime Security Program delivers. “The Transportation Institute estimates that the MSP has saved the U.S. Navy $60 billion in transportation costs,” Chao continued. “So, to our MSP carriers who are represented here today, thank you for your patriotism and willingness to dedicate your ships and mariners to the cause. And of course, we thank the mariners as well. We thank you for performing this vital service so efficiently and effectively for the Navy, for our country and for the taxpayers, as well. We also appreciate the hard work done by our operating companies, and the mariners who efficiently and professionally maintain our U.S. Government Surge Sealift ships in the Ready Reserve Force.” After multiple awards were presented to World War II veteran mariner William Tiernan, who sailed with both the NMU and the SIU, McAleenan spoke on how the goals of CBP align with the intentions of the U.S.-flag shipping industry. He said, “What I’ve learned is that every person who’s taken the title of mariner has in common a commitment to country and a willingness to serve in a time of need. These are traits that I deeply respect, and I recognize daily in the men and women of U.S. Customs and Border Protection. So, while our functions may be distinct, our underlying purposes and even our goals are directly complementary. In fact, I believe the goals of the U.S. Merchant Marine and CBP actually align very well: facilitation of trade and the protection of the country. “So, when Admiral Buzby extended the invitation for me to speak about CBP’s efforts to promote national security and economic prosperity, in partnership with the U.S. maritime community, I was very grateful for the opportunity, but also struck by the fact that you also recognize the commonality between our communities and the value of our relationship,” he added. He then spoke of his relationship with Buzby, saying, “I got to know Buzz during our shared responses to the trio of hurricanes we faced – Harvey, Irma and Maria – last fall. I immediately recognized his professional competence but was also struck by the integrity with which he represented MARAD and, by extension, the U.S. maritime community. Fact-based operational reality is what you need in a crisis, and it was a privilege to partner with him. During a storm and its aftermath, there can be a tendency to respond to media narratives and political drivers. But Buzz and his team helped to inform us regarding the ready professionals of the U.S. Merchant Marine and the U.S. fleet, and how we can respond to those storms.” He continued, describing CBP’s efforts during and after the devastating hurricanes in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, and then spoke on the response from the merchant fleet: “I can tell you, it was an enormous relief ... when we could rely on our partners in the U.S. fleet to begin the heavy relief effort, to get those adequate supplies to the islands. I imagine General McDew can attest, it’s a relief when you can get from the aircraft part of logistics to the big Continued on page 14 Wreath Tender duties were handled by Paul Hall Center Apprentice Carlos Gutierrez President Trump Issues Proclamation For National Maritime Day On National Maritime Day, we recognize the critical role the United States Merchant Marine plays in bolstering national security and facilitating economic growth. We honor our merchant mariners for their contributions to connecting the States, supporting our military, and cementing ties among our allies. Long known as the “Fourth Arm of Defense,” the United States Merchant Marine has served with valor and distinction in every American conflict. The important work of the Merchant Marine was never more evident than during World War II, when merchant mariners sailed dangerous seas and fought enemies as they connected our Armed Forces fighting abroad to vital supplies produced by hardworking Americans at home. In the course of their valiant efforts, they endured the loss of more than 730 large vessels, and more than 6,000 merchant mariners died at sea or as prisoners of war. Today, American mariners facilitate the shipment of hundreds of billions of dollars of goods along maritime trade routes for American businesses and consumers. Merchant mariners are ambassadors of good will, projecting a peaceful United States presence along the sea lanes of the world and into regions of core strategic importance to our Nation. Often risking their lives by sailing into war zones, our merchant mariners continue to support our troops overseas by providing them with needed cargo and logistical support. They also advance humanitarian missions worldwide, including last year’s effort to ship tens of thousands of containers of lifesaving supplies to Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands after they had been devastated by hurricanes. The Congress, by a joint resolution approved May 20, 1933, has designated May 22 of each year as “National Maritime Day” to commemorate the first transoceanic voyage by a steamship in 1819 by the S.S. Savannah. By this resolution, the Congress has authorized and requested the President to issue annually a proclamation calling for its appropriate observance. NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 22, 2018, as National Maritime Day. I call upon the people of the United States to mark this observance and to display the flag of the United States at their homes and in their communities. I also request that all ships sailing under the American flag dress ship on that day. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-first day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand eighteen, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-second. Among those present in the crowd was SIU Executive Vice President Augie Tellez (first row, center) July 2018 July 2018 Seafarers LOG 13 �Attendees pack the ceremony at U.S. Department of Transportation headquarters. 200-Plus Industry Leaders Attend Maritime Day Ceremony in D.C. Continued from Page 13 surface transportation. We tremendously appreciate the impact that your community had on those efforts. Companies like Crowley, TOTE, Foss Maritime – just to name a few – were instrumental in getting those critical supplies to the American people. And more specifically, there were many anecdotes of merchant mariners assisting CBP personnel situated in the way of that storm along the Texas and Louisiana coast, in Florida, and especially in Puerto Rico. On behalf of my agents, I thank you for all that you did.” Later he referenced how CBP is working to help make mariners’ lives easier through their national Jones Act Division of Enforcement, or JADE, saying, “Nearly two years ago, CBP’s Office of Field Operations created JADE to assist CBP and industry partners and protect the U.S. maritime industry. Located in our New Orleans field office and led by Port Director Mike Hebert – who’s been part of the Gulf Coast maritime community since his birth – and staffed by subject matter experts, JADE works with industry stakeholders on the enforcement of the Jones Act, as well as other coastwise trade laws. JADE provides uniformity throughout CBP on matters related to the Jones Act, providing advice to our external partners in order to facilitate legitimate trade.” After a video on the hurricane response in 2017 was screened for the audience, General McDew took to the stage. He began by talking about military sealift’s role in our nation’s ability to project power, saying, “There are, some would argue, only three great powers in the world. There’s only one superpower in the world. And it’s not because we have the greatest soldiers, sailors, airmen, marines and coast guardsmen – although we do. It’s not because we have the best fighter jets, and we arguably do, and it’s not because we have the most wonderful carriers in the world, and we do. It’s because we have the ability to have an effect on our adversaries near and abroad 14 Seafarers LOG at the time of our choosing. We can bring an overwhelming force anywhere on the planet, and there are adversaries out there who only wish they had that capability. That capability resides with the men and women in this audience and the people you represent that are around the world. And as a combatant commander, I recognize our superpower status as a nation, our ability to have the respect of everyone in the world, resides with you. “I appreciate every single day the ships that sail for USTRANSCOM,” he con- tinued. “They transit dangerous waters, they deliver critical cargo.... Our adversaries really don’t want them there, but our mariners go there anyway. Our warfighters don’t have to worry about having enough ammo for the fight, or fuel for their patrol, or food in chow halls – that’s a big deal, by the way – and it’s because of you.” McDew then urged that the U.S. “reinvest in our strategic sealift fleet, and our ability to surge and sustain our warfight.” Specifically, he underscored the importance of recapitalizing the sealift fleet, replacing older vessels with newer, more modern ships. “I am every day grateful and thankful for the shipyards, the shipping companies, the unions, the longshoremen, the stevedores, the engineers, the mariners, the pilots, the shipbuilder, all the people who make this unheralded, untold story happen every single day,” he concluded. The ceremony concluded with a singalong of “Heave Ho,” official song of the U.S. Maritime Service, enthusiastically led by Admiral Buzby. SIU VP Contracts George Tricker (right) and Piney Point Port Agent Pat Vandegrift (second from right) talk to apprentices from the unionaffiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland who attended the Maritime Day observance. July 2018 �Notice NATIONAL MARITIME CENTER New CG-719 Series of Forms Implementation Editor’s note: The U.S. Coast Guard’s National Maritime Center (NMC) issued the following announcement June 1. PDF versions of the forms described in the announcement may be found on the NMC website and they’re also linked in a June 1 post in the News section of www.seafarers.org On March 31, 2018, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) approved the new CG-719 series of forms which will replace all previous versions. These new forms may be obtained electronically in a PDF fillable format at the Coast Guard’s National Maritime Center (NMC) website https://www.uscg.mil/nmc. The Coast Guard will not stock the CG-719 series of forms in paper format. A transition period has been established which will provide mariners the flexibility to apply for a credential using both the old or new forms as they adapt to the new formats. The table below lists the form numbers impacted by OMB’s recent approval and their implementation policy are listed velow. After December 31, 2018, the NMC will no longer accept previous form versions. Form - Implementation Policy CG-719B - Applications dated after September 1, 2018, must be submitted on the new form. CG-719K - Physicals signed by physician after September 1, 2018, must be on the new form. CG-719KE - Physicals signed by physician after September 1, 2018, must be on the new form. CG-719P - Drug tests collected and submitted after September 1, 2018, should use the new optional form. CG-719S - Sea Service commenced after September 1, 2018, should use the new optional form CG-719C - (If applicable) Disclosure Statement for Narcotics, DWI/DUI, and/or other Convictions should use the new optional form for any application packages submitted after September 1, 2018. If you have any questions or concerns, visit the NMC website or contact the NMC Customer Service Center by e-mailing IASKNMC@uscg.mil, by using the NMC online chat system, or by calling 1-888-IASKNMC (427-5662). July & August 2018 Membership Meetings Piney Point.........................................Monday: July 2, August 6 Algonac...............................................Friday: July 6, August 10 Baltimore..........................................Thursday: July 5, August 9 Guam............................................Thursday: July 19, August 23 Honolulu...........................................Friday: July 13, August 17 Houston...............................................Monday: July 9, August 13 Jacksonville......................................Thursday: July 5, August 9 Joliet..............................................Thursday: July 12, August 16 Mobile........................................Wednesday: July 11, August 15 New Orleans......................................Tuesday: July10, August 14 Jersey City.........................................Tuesday: July 3, August 7 Norfolk.............................................Thursday: July 5, August 9 Oakland........................................Thursday: July 12, August 16 Philadelphia...............*Thursday: July 5, Wednesday: August 8 Port Everglades............................Thursday: July 12, August 16 San Juan..........................................Thursday: July 5, August 9 St. Louis............................................Friday: July 13, August 17 Tacoma........................................... .Friday: July 20, August 24 Wilmington.........................................Monday: July 16, August 20 * Philadelphia change due to Independence Day holiday Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m July 2018 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea May 11, 2018 - June 11, 2018 Total Registered Total Shipped All Groups A B Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Deck Department 28 10 1 8 7 0 1 27 7 4 2 2 2 2 2 0 1 4 3 2 7 2 1 1 4 0 3 10 3 1 16 9 2 16 8 3 9 24 18 6 2 3 0 1 0 0 0 5 4 0 12 2 2 7 1 6 4 19 3 4 8 1 2 8 3 1 6 19 7 2 60 15 16 38 7 10 26 101 21 27 32 10 14 27 13 8 19 50 19 19 36 8 4 23 9 4 17 73 17 7 3 3 1 0 4 0 1 3 5 1 10 6 5 9 2 2 4 13 8 10 23 11 5 24 15 6 12 27 21 12 11 4 5 21 4 2 8 25 9 10 7 5 1 4 2 0 1 7 5 2 3 3 0 1 1 1 2 3 2 0 11 5 1 3 2 0 3 16 7 1 27 4 6 16 6 2 17 66 12 13 1 1 3 0 0 1 0 5 2 1 32 8 5 21 6 6 9 51 15 13 331 112 76 230 96 52 143 548 188 135 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Engine Department 4 4 3 1 4 3 2 5 6 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 8 8 1 4 4 0 1 4 5 2 9 13 3 5 10 1 8 13 11 3 2 0 0 0 1 0 0 2 1 1 3 2 1 2 3 0 1 4 3 1 8 2 0 3 2 0 2 13 5 1 22 7 6 8 8 4 7 32 12 9 26 24 2 20 16 2 16 38 25 4 13 7 0 3 9 0 3 29 7 0 1 1 0 1 1 0 0 2 0 0 6 2 1 5 3 1 4 6 4 2 9 12 2 12 9 3 3 17 14 6 7 2 2 10 2 1 2 11 6 5 1 4 0 4 1 0 1 5 3 0 2 1 0 1 4 0 0 1 1 0 5 4 1 4 4 1 3 9 3 3 14 3 4 8 3 2 5 29 8 6 1 2 0 1 0 0 0 1 2 0 5 7 3 9 6 2 2 18 17 15 146 105 29 101 90 20 60 240 133 58 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Steward Department 5 4 0 1 0 0 0 7 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 2 0 1 0 0 0 5 3 0 8 5 2 8 1 0 4 13 6 4 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 1 1 0 4 1 0 4 1 0 1 8 1 0 9 0 0 6 0 1 5 15 1 1 16 3 1 13 4 0 5 35 5 4 24 9 2 17 5 1 8 31 11 2 11 3 1 7 3 0 4 18 2 1 1 1 1 1 0 1 0 2 1 0 6 3 0 4 1 0 2 8 5 0 14 10 0 13 8 0 4 19 11 0 20 3 0 8 5 1 6 29 3 2 2 0 2 3 0 2 1 2 0 0 6 6 0 5 3 0 3 7 4 0 3 5 0 0 3 0 1 5 10 1 17 2 0 12 1 0 5 24 6 1 2 0 0 1 0 1 0 4 0 1 16 4 1 12 8 0 10 31 12 2 168 62 10 117 43 7 59 264 87 19 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Entry Department 2 6 6 1 3 4 4 3 11 11 0 1 2 1 2 0 2 0 3 4 0 1 3 0 1 2 0 0 2 2 0 4 8 0 6 4 3 1 4 10 0 2 2 0 1 0 0 0 1 2 0 4 2 0 1 1 1 1 4 5 0 8 9 1 3 3 0 2 13 8 5 6 19 4 6 10 2 11 13 35 1 19 39 0 11 26 7 4 30 78 3 12 11 0 9 11 2 3 25 25 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 1 0 1 1 0 1 0 0 2 1 4 2 14 18 1 10 23 4 3 23 46 0 6 11 2 4 8 0 2 15 18 2 0 2 0 1 1 0 2 1 2 2 0 4 1 0 1 2 1 1 2 0 2 0 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 5 9 8 2 3 6 3 10 21 17 0 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 2 18 14 2 6 9 8 3 29 51 24 115 160 15 69 111 38 48 199 322 C Trip Reliefs Registered on Beach All Groups A B C A All Groups B C GRAND TOTAL: 669 394 275 463 298 190 300 1,100 607 534 Seafarers LOG 15 �Seafarers International Union Directory 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 Kermett Mangram, 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 Inquiring Seafarer This month’s question was answered by the newest class of recertified stewards from the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education. Question: Why did you join the SIU and why have you remained with the union? Cesar Dela Cruz Recertified Steward I was blessed to join in 1980. My first job was with American Hawaii Cruises, taking care of all those VIPs. Today, the best part is just being a good SIU crew member and helping set a good example for the young kids who are just starting in the program. I’m thankful for the foundation I got from the SIU. Michael Ingram Recertified Steward I started with NCL as a member of SEATU (an SIU-affiliated union) and a waiter before joining the SIU. I’ve stuck with it because I enjoy cooking and working with different people, being exposed to different cultures. I enjoy sailing. Tyrell Thabit Recertified Steward I started in the Navy in 1981, looking for adventure at 19 years old. I spent 10.5 years there and then heard about an even better career in the merchant marine. I eventually came to Piney Point to upgrade, and took all the courses. I’ve been on over 50 ships. It’s been wonderful, and I’m still here because I haven’t gotten enough. I’ve been in the business 36 years and I’m proud of that. Stephen Martin Recertified Steward I grew up in the restaurant business. I saw an ad for American Hawaii Cruises in 1999 and went there as a waiter, on the Indy and the Patriot. Later, I was in Hawaii for a month and the patrolman said, why don’t you go to Piney Point and upgrade? That’s what I did. I was there for months, then got my first gig as a chief cook. I’m still here because the money is good, and it’s hard to leave that. I like the travel part, too. Breon Lucas Recertified Steward I was working as a security guard when a new company bought out the station, and then I was going from job to job to job. A cousin turned me on to the merchant marine. My first job was May 8, 1995 as an OS on the Anders, but I didn’t like the deck. The bosun pointed me to the galley and I never looked back. I’ve made a better life for myself. I enjoy cooking and I enjoy working with different people. Robinson Eromosele Recertified Steward I joined the SIU in search of a greener pasture and I am glad I made that decision, because I have been extremely blessed since then. This great union has allowed me to travel the world over while making a meaningful living as well. I have been so blessed that I am able to see all five of my children through the university. God bless the SIU. Pics From The Past 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 SANTURCE 1057 Fernandez Juncos Stop 16 1/2 Santurce, PR 00907-4601 (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) 549-4000 The originals are a bit blurry, but these snapshots from the scrapbook of longtime Seafarer Greg Jackson still carry clear and cherished memories for the recertified bosun. The vessel, the SS Jeff Davis, is shown in Bremerhaven, Germany, in 1981. Jackson is at far left in the other photo, with fellow members of Paul Hall Center Trainee Class 294-B in 1980. They had taken a bus for firefighting training – not near the Piney Point, Maryland, campus, but rather in Earle, New Jersey. (For younger readers, the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School opened in 1999.) 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 16 Seafarers LOG July 2018 �Welcome Ashore 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 waterways 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. DEEP SEA THOMAS ANDERS Brother Thomas Anders, 66, joined the union in 1969, initially sailing on the Fairport. A steward department member, he upgraded at the Piney Point school in 1973. Brother Anders last sailed on the Champion and makes his home in Baltimore. PETER BEAN Brother Peter Bean, 67, donned the SIU colors in 1970, first sailing aboard a Seatrain Lines vessel. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded on several occasions at the maritime training center in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Bean last sailed on the Overseas Martinez. He lives in the Philippines. WILLIAM BRAINARD Brother William Brainard, 69, joined the SIU in 1995. He first sailed on the Long Island and was a member of the steward department. Brother Brainard upgraded his skills at the Piney Point school in 2001. He most recently worked on the Flickertail State and calls Portsmouth, Virginia, home. EBERTO CASTRO Brother Eberto Castro, 66, signed on with the SIU in 1999 and first sailed on the Performance. He worked in the deck department and in 2001 upgraded his skills at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center. Brother Castro last sailed on the Maersk Pittsburgh before settling in Channelview, Texas. ROBERT GILLIAM Brother Robert Gilliam, 73, donned the SIU colors in 1969, initially sailing aboard the Eagle Traveler. A member of the steward department, he upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Gilliam last sailed on the Endurance. He lives in Prescott, Washington. JOHN JONES Brother John Jones, 66, became a member of the SIU in 2006, initially sailing on the Oakland. He was a deck department member and most recently sailed aboard the July 2018 USNS Dahl. Brother Jones resides in Tucson, Arizona. in 1979. Brother Evans last sailed aboard the Charles E. Wilson, and settled in Alpena, Michigan. THOMAS TANKERSLEY INLAND Brother Thomas Tankersley, 69, signed on with the SIU in 1968 and first sailed aboard the Alcoa Mariner. The deck department member upgraded at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center in 1985. Brother Tankersley most recently sailed aboard the Bonny. He calls Burkittsville, Maryland, home. VLADIMIR TKACHEV Brother Vladimir Tkachev, 65, signed on with the SIU in 2004, initially working aboard the Cape Decision. The engine department member took advantage of educational opportunities at the Piney Point school and upgraded in 2008. Brother Tkachev most recently sailed aboard the Decisive and lives in Vancouver, Washington. DAVID VAUGHN LOUIS CINCO Brother Louis Cinco, 62, joined the SIU in 1972 and first sailed on the Overseas Aleutian. A member of the deck department, he upgraded his skills in 1978 at the union-affiliated Piney Point school. Brother Cinco most recently worked for Mariner Towing and makes his home in Bayonne, New Jersey. MARK FAUST Brother Mark Faust, 68, signed on with the union in 2003. He began his career with Express Marine and was a member of the deck department. Brother Faust upgraded his skills on several occasions at the maritime training center located in Piney Point, Maryland. He remained with the same company for his entire career, and resides in Virginia Beach, Virginia. BENJIMAN HALLMARK Brother Benjiman Hallmark, 70, became a Seafarer in 1978. A member of the deck department, he worked for Crowley Towing and Transportation for his entire career. Brother Hallmark calls Silver Creek, Washington, home. LESLIE MAXWELL Brother Leslie Maxwell, 66, signed on with the union in 1979 when he worked for Hvide Marine. He was a member of the deck department and upgraded his skills on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Maxwell remained with the same company for his entire career. He resides in Nederland, Texas. KELLY STANFORD Brother Kelly Stanford, 64, joined the SIU in 1990, first sailing with Crescent Towing. A member of the deck department, he upgraded on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Stanford worked for the same company for the duration of his career. He makes his home in Savannah, Georgia. DAVID WALKER Brother David Walker, 66, signed on with the union in 1978 when he worked for Crescent Towing. He was a member of the engine department and remained with the same company for his entire career. Brother Walker settled in Abita Springs, Louisiana. PACIFIC MARINE ROGER MARTELL Brother Roger Martell, 65, became a member of the SIU in 2001. He initially sailed on the Cape Island and worked in the steward department. Brother Martell upgraded his skills in 2001 at the Piney Point school. He last sailed on the Manukai and resides in Long Beach, California. Talking Maritime with Senator Nelson Brother David Vaughn, 59, donned the SIU colors in 1977 and first sailed with Erie Navigation. He was a steward department member and upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center on multiple occasions. Brother Vaughn most recently sailed aboard the Alaskan Explorer. He resides in Arnold, Missouri. BRUCE WATSON Brother Bruce Watson, 66, joined the SIU in 2001. He first worked for Marine Personnel and Provisioning, and was a member of the deck department. Brother Watson upgraded his skills in 2002 at the maritime training facility located in Piney Point, Maryland. He most recently sailed on the USNS Fisher and calls Youngstown, Ohio, home. GREAT LAKES WILLIS EVANS Brother Willis Evans, 65, became a member of the union in 1970, initially working for Michigan Tankers. He was an engine department member and upgraded his skills at the Paul Hall Center SIU Assistant VPs Archie Ware (center) and Kris Hopkins (right) chat with U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson (DFlorida) June 9 in Orlando, site of the state AFL-CIO Committee on Political Education convention. They touched on the importance of the U.S. Merchant Marine to national, economic and homeland security. Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures DEEP SEA in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan. JIMMIE COOMBS WINSTON MARCHMAN Pensioner Jimmie Coombs, 79, passed away May 13. He joined the union in 1967 and first sailed on the Neva West. Brother Coombs was a member of the engine department and last worked aboard the Overseas Juneau. He retired in 2002 and made his home in the Philippines. Pensioner Winston Marchman, 82, died May 5. He signed on with the union in 1991, initially working on the USNS Harkness. A steward department member, Brother Marchman last sailed on the Pride. He retired in 2005 and lived in Virginia Beach, Virginia. ROBERT EGRI Pensioner Robert Egri, 70, died May 9. He joined the SIU in 1992 and first sailed aboard the Regulus. An engine department member, he last worked aboard the Philadelphia Express. Brother Egri retired in 2013 and lived in Pinellas Park, Florida. ROBERT HAMILTON Pensioner Robert Hamilton, 81, passed away May 10. He became a union member in 1990, initially sailing on the Ranger. Brother Hamilton was a deck department member and last sailed aboard the Paul Buck. He became a pensioner in 2003 and resided in Brooksville, Maine. HELENE ISHIZAKI Pensioner Helene Ishizaki, 82, died April 19. She signed on with the SIU in 1992, initially sailing on the Independence. A member of the steward department, Sister Ishizaki last sailed on the Manukai. She became a pensioner in 2005 and was a resident of Lemon Grove, California. WILLIAM MACDONALD Pensioner William MacDonald, 93, passed away May 5. He joined the SIU in 1947 when he worked for Elis Towing and Transport. A deck department member, brother MacDonald most recently sailed aboard the Sea-Land Liberator. He went on pension in 1985 and settled 18 Seafarers LOG HENRY RICHARDSON Pensioner Henry Richardson, 71, passed away May 15. He joined the SIU in 1999 and first sailed aboard the ITB Philadelphia. The deck department member most recently sailed on the Maersk Michigan before retiring in 2013. Brother Richardson was a resident of Houston. 65, died May 31. He signed on with the SIU in 1989 when he worked for Bob-Lo Island. A member of the deck department, he most recently sailed on the Burns Harbor. Brother Bearman became a pensioner in 2017 and made his home in Rogers City, Michigan. JOHN SHASKI Pensioner John Shaski, 72, passed away May 14. He became a member of the SIU in 1967 and initially sailed on the Lemmerhirt. Brother Shaski went on pension in 2003 after concluding his career with Luedtke Engineering. He resided in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. INLAND WILFREDO WILLIAMS SYLVESTER DELISTOVICH Pensioner Wilfredo Williams, 76, died April 30. He donned the SIU colors in 2001, first sailing aboard the Green Mountain State. Native to the Philippines, he was a member of the deck department. Brother Williams most recently sailed on the Yorktown Express before retiring in 2013. He resided in Aloha, Oregon. Pensioner Sylvester Delistovich, 99, passed away May 29. He joined the union in 1963, initially working for Erie Lackawanna Railroad. Brother Delistovich remained with the same company for his entire career before going on pension in 1979. He called Columbus, New Jersey, home. GREAT LAKES CHARLES BEARMAN Pensioner Charles Bearman, PETER DUNTHORN Brother Peter Dunthorn, 62, died May 1. He signed on with the SIU in 2000, when he worked for the Association of Maryland Pilots. A deck department member, brother Dunthorn remained with the same company for his entire SIU career. He lived in Virginia Beach, Virginia. JAMES MUSICK Pensioner James Musick, 76, died May 16. He joined the union in 1996 and first worked for Crowley. A shore-side mechanic, he worked for the same company for the duration of his career. Brother Musick retired in 2007 and lived in Wenonah, New Jersey. WILLIAM PHILLIPS Pensioner William Phillips, 72, died April 1. He signed on with the union in 1973 and first worked for Stone Towing. The deck department member concluded his career with Cape Fear Towing and retired in 2008. Brother Phillips made his home in Bolivia, North Carolina. FRANKLIN REYES Brother Franklin Reyes, 51, passed away April 26. He donned the SIU colors in 1997 when he worked for G&H Towing. Brother Reyes worked in the deck department and remained with the same company for the duration of his career. The Iowa native resided in Hitchcock, Texas. PACIFIC MARINE DOROTHY REGRUT Pensioner Dorothy Regrut, 92, passed away May 11. Born in Cleveland, she became a member of the SIU in 1970. She initially worked for Michigan Tankers and sailed in the steward department. Sister Regrut last worked aboard the Kauai before becoming a pensioner in 1991. She made her home in Strongsville, Ohio. NMU RONALD BLOW Pensioner Ronald Blow, 78, died May 28. Brother Blow began collecting his pension in 2000. He lived in Old Orchard Beach, Maine. JAMES BRATTEN Pensioner James Bratten, 93, passed away April 30. Brother Bratten resided in his home state of South Carolina, in the city of Irmo. In addition to the foregoing individuals, the following union members have also passed away. Insufficient information was available to develop summaries of their respective careers. Name Age Cebollero, Frank 89 Davis, Arthur 94 Flowers, Rudy 80 Forde, Calvin 90 Leisure, Ora 93 Lopez, Juan 89 Maloney, Clyde 92 Mawry, Saleh 91 McLetchie, Leroy 82 Montemayor, Misael 89 Richardson, John 93 Thomas, Eugene 76 DOD 05/14/2018 03/13/2018 05/07/2018 05/12/2018 05/23/2018 05/14/2018 05/18/2018 05/25/2018 05/26/2018 05/21/2018 04/16/2018 05/17/2018 Seafarers Team Up in Support of Military Exercise Two Seafarers-crewed vessels – the USNS Carl Brashear (left) and USNS Bob Hope – conduct ship-to-ship transfer operations at Naval Base Everett, Washington, in mid-May. The transfer happened in support of an upcoming Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) military exercise. According to the U.S. Navy, 26 nations and 25,000 personnel were scheduled to participate in the biennial exercise slated for June 27 to Aug. 2, in and around the Hawaiian Islands and Southern California. The Brashear is crewed by members of the SIU Government Services Division, while the Bob Hope is operated by U.S. Marine Management for the U.S. Military Sealift Command. (Photo by Sarah Burford) July 2018 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings MAERSK MICHIGAN (U.S. Marine Management), April 14 – Chairman Kenneth Abrahamson, Secretary Teresito Reyes, Educational Director Walden Galacgac, Deck Delegate Osei Baffoe, Engine Delegate Theodore Gonzales. Crew mess hall received new microwave and new chairs. Members requested additional chairs for crew lounge. Copies of new contracts needed on ship. Members were thanked for good housekeeping and advised to stay on top of documents. Educational director suggested members check schedule of classes and upgrade. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members requested better internet on board and new washer and dryers, preferably heavy duty. Crew happy with food from steward department. ALASKAN NAVIGATOR (Alaskan Tanker Company), April 15 – Chairman Gregory Hamilton, Secretary Albert Sison, Educational Director Leland Peterson, Deck Delegate Manuel Enrico, Engine Delegate Aljohn Fernandez, Steward Delegate Steve Concepcion. Chairman to contact port agent for copies of new contracts and crew repair list forms. Members discussed cleaning and repair possibilities for existing recliners, while awaiting clarification for ordering new ones. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade and also be mindful of STCW requirements. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew noted issues on board with lounge computer, heat lamp in bathroom and latches in drawers. Steward department was thanked for a job well done, especially in light of extra people on board. New fishing gear on ship. Company The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring 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. to provide jackets to those who qualify. Members looking into getting humidifiers for rooms. Next Port: Valdez, Alaska. GOLDEN STATE (Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning), April 16 – Chairman Philip McGeoghegan, Secretary Michael Carello. Crew received new microwave, new mattresses and new dryer. Linens and pillows ordered. Chairman reiterated importance of Jones Act and urged members to stick together. Secretary reminded everyone about Crowley’s alcohol policy. Educational director advised crew to keep documents up to date. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman asked each member present if new mattresses and/or cable boxes were needed. Crew requested additional vacation day. OREGON (Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning), April 22 – Chairman Joseph Caruso, Secretary Tina Knox. Chairman welcomed all former Sea River employees to the SIU. He noted a smooth transition between the two companies and expressed gratitude for steward department. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman individually discussed SIU contracts and information with new members. Vote of thanks given to SIU Assistant Vice President Kris Hopkins for assisting with transition. Next Port: Port Everglades, Florida. Sea River mariners to the SIU and discussed dues structure and overall SIU culture. Secretary explained importance of registering once ashore and keeping up with documents. Educational director reminded crew of courses being offered at SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, located in Piney Point, Maryland. Captain purchased pizza and wings for crew and allowed steward department an evening off. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Captain looking into purchasing game system for members on board. Next Port: Oakland, California. Aboard the Overseas Tampa Recertified Steward Bobby Darku said it “had been on my bucket list for a long time to do a New Orleans-style seafood boil.” He checked it off the list recently when the Overseas Ship Management vessel docked in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The menu included crawfish, shrimp, red potatoes, corn on the cob, creole sausage, mushrooms and more. Pictured from left in photo at the immediate right are Chief Cook Mauricio Castro, Darku and SA Reginald Jackson. CALIFORNIA (Intrepid Personnel and Provisioning), April 27 – Chairman John Cedeno, Secretary Benjamin Ines, Educational Director Mark Canada, Steward Delegate Michael Gramer. Chairman welcomed all former Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the 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 recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District are administered in accordance with the provisions 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 disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval 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 shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively 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 employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt July 2018 requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers 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 filing 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 SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful 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 responsibility for Sea­farers 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 OBLIGATIONS. 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 headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Conse­quently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION (SPAD). SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect 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 Michael 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. Seafarers LOG 19 �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 Gap Closing Courses Engineroom Resource Management October 6 Leadership & Manageral Skills October 13 October 12 October 19 Title of Start Date of Course Date Completion FOWT August 25 September 21 October 20 November 16 Junior Engineer August 11 October 5 October 27 December 21 Machinist September 1 September 21 October 20 November 9 Marine Electrician August 11 October 5 Marine Refer Tech October 6 November 16 Deck Department Upgrading Courses MEECE July 21 August 3 Able Seafarer Deck August 25 September 21 Pumpman July 7 July 13 October 20 November 16 September 22 September 28 AB to Mate Modules Module dates vary throughout the year. Welding August 18 September 7 Students will be advised of dates once accepted. Steward Department Courses ARPA October 20 October 26 Advanced Galley Ops Bosun Recertification July 21 August 6 Certified Chief Cook Modules run every other week. The next class will start July 9. Crane Familiarization July 14 July 20 Chief Steward July 7 August 24 100 Ton Master Galley Operations July 14 August 10 October 13 November 2 ECDIS October 20 October 26 Fast Rescue Boat July 7 July 13 August 11 August 17 September 8 September 14 GMDSS September 22 October 5 Lifeboat July 28 August 10 August 25 September 7 September 22 October 5 October 20 November 2 November 17 November 30 August 25 September 21 Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0 July 21 July 27 August 11 August 17 Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 July 7 July 13 July 14 July 20 Serve Safe July 28 August 3 October 20 October 26 Safety Upgrading Courses Radar Observer October 6 October 19 Basic Training/Basic FF July 14 July 20 Basic Training Revalidation July 13 July 13 July 27 July 27 Radar Renewal (one day) Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation August 18 August 24 Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting July 7 July 13 Contact the PHC Admissions Office RFPNW July 28 August 24 September 22 October 19 November 17 December 14 Engine Department Upgrading Courses Government Vessels July 21 July 27 Medical Care Provider July 14 July 20 December 14 Tank Barge DL August 25 August 31 BAPO July 28 August 24 September 22 October 19 November 17 December 14 Tank Ship Familiarization - DL August 25 August 31 Tank Ship Familiarization - LG August 4 August 10 Advanced Refer Containers December 1 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 application, 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. 20 Seafarers LOG COURSE ____________________________ ____________________________ START DATE _______________ _______________ DATE OF 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 students, 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. 7/18 July 2018 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class #836 – Graduated April 20 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Joshua Nino Bonita, Daveyon Kymyondro Burton, Lane Canada, Nicholas Falzone, Joshua Gail, Marcel Gordon, Carlos Marcos Gutierrez, Deandre Henry, Dequan Jamez Markell Joe, James Langston, Theodore Lopez III, Nicholas Mason, Orion Milazzo, Kirk Otto Kulikana Puchert, Seth Schrader, Anias Stanford and Justin Turner. Instructor Bernabe Pelingon is at the far right. Notice to All Students Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover - for whatever reason - that they can’t attend, should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. Water Survival Upgraders – Graduated April 20 (in alphabetical order): Samuel Ezell, Raymond Hoover, Anthony Jackson, Brian Peralta and Ivan Moises Vargas. Bernabe Pelingon, class instructor, is at the far right. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Terrestrial & Coastal Navigation – Graduated March 9: Matthew Jenness (second from left), Bryan Page (center) and James Wunder (right). Instructor Brian Moore is at the far left. Marine Refrigeration Technician – Graduated April 27 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): John Brantly, Alvin Cabahit, Jared Cabasug, Derek Chestnut, Earl Dimmick, David Kelch, Todd Lander, Jean Paul Merino Lozada, Mana Hassan Muhsen and Charles Packer. Class instructor William Dodd is at the far right. Tank Ship Familiarization – Graduated March 16 (in alphabetical order): Enrique Tabamo Ampil, Secundino Abel Arzu, Khiry Bivins, Guillermo Blanco-Nunez, Virgilio Ilisan Demegillo, Jasper Hayward, Marcus Hugee, Jamila King, Joseph Loguidice, Michael Riley, David Seymore, Cortney Smith, Michael Smith, Richard Vega Villafane, Jimmie Willliams Jr. and Denard Williams. (Note: Not all are pictured.) July 2018 Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes UA to AS-D – Graduated April 6 (in alphabetical order): Dalrick Fleming, Joseph Franta, Tyler Gardner, Raymond Green, William Asdrubal Mercado Ramos and Jose Javier Santos Montalvo. Instructor Tom Truitt is at the far right. ECDIS – Graduated April 13 (in alphabetical order): Martin Baker, Matthew Botterbusch, Joshua Jayson Gonzalez, Brian Luba, Bryan Page, George Steube III, James Wunder, and Slavi Zahariev. Instructor Patrick Schoenberger is at the far left. UA to FOWT – Graduated April 6 (in alphabetical order): Jeffrey Pacaldo Berame, Johnathan Brown Jr., David Bussey, Charles Collins III, David Cornelius, Mark Nover Miranda Lata, Bryant McGiffen Jr., Mason McGowan, Bryan Moreira, Karl Morrow Jr., Thomas Nelson Jr., Re’Sean Peters and Starling Priester. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Tank Ship Familiarization DL – Graduated April 13 (in alphabetical order): Monasser Mohamed Ali, Kingdom Chiadikaobi Alozie, George Arthur, Mark Joseph Romero Baclayon, Ashley Codrington, Jessica Crockett, David Dingman, Jackson Gourgue, Gary Hirsch, William Jackson, Manuel Javier Lata, James Lutrell Jr., Starling Priester, Cortney Smith, Aldo Thomas, Gary Toomer, Anatoli Vetsinov and Marvin Williams Jr. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Tank Ship Familiarization LG – Graduated April 20 (in alphabetical order): Ritche Asumbrado Acuman, Monassar Mohamed Ali, Kingdom Chiadikaobi Alozie, George Arthur, Mark Baclayon, Ashley Codrington, Jessica Crockett, Tom Dary, David Dingman, Timothy Dowd, Jackson Gourgue, Maurice Henry Jr., Terry Hester, Gary Hirsch, William Jackson, Manuel Javier Lata, James Luttrel Jr., Kyle Miller, Tamara Russ, Aldo Thomas, Annie Walker, Jeffrey Wheatley, Brian Wilder and James Wynegar III. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Medical Care Provider – Graduated April 27 (in alphabetical order): Tristan Brand, Dylan Mikaele Casuga, Tom Dary, Kenney Gaston and Alonzo Marbley. Instructor John Thomas is at the far left. Government Vessels – Graduated April 6 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): George Arthur, Hector Barnes, Xyla Jillain Toledo Bautista, Guillermo Blanco-Nunez, Joel Boyd, Jason Cason, Ashley Codrington, Marcil Ducre, Peter Babor Durangparang, Samuel Ezell, Dominick Glasper, Raymond Hoover, Anthony Jackson, Reynaldo Bermudez Lacayo, Fernando Fernandes Lopes, Erik Loret, Reina Mendez, Caezar Rivera Mercado, Randy Slue, Marcus Smith, Krystle Start, Sean Terry, Carlos Torres and James Wynegar III. Search & Rescue (Management Level) – Graduated April 27 (in alphabetical order): Martin Baker, Matthew Botterbusch, Joshua Gonzalez, Brian Luba, Christopher Mullin, Bryan Page, George Steube III, Dexter Madrona Turija, James Wunder and Slavi Zahariev. 22 Seafarers LOG Radar Observer – Graduated April 6 (in alphabetical order): Dylan Mikaele Casuga, John Consiglio, John Diaz-Hernandez Jr., Scott Gilleland, Charles Hosea Jr. and Harry Schrefer III. July 2018 �Paul Hall Center Classes Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting – Graduated April 20 (in alphabetical order): Dylan Mikaele Casuga, Mohammed Elazzouzi, Kenney Gaston, Karl Guenterberg, Corey Leonard, Alonzo Marbley, Casey Matheson, Jason Meyers and Ethan Sims. Class instructor John Thomas is at the far left. Advanced Galley Operations – Graduated April 20 (in alphabetical order): Abraham Abdul Allamoth, Masha Blas, Randall Campbell, Matthew Conyac, Stanford Drakes and Mario Miceleen Lacayo Martinez. Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated April 13 (in alphabetical order): Timothy Dowd, Erik Loret, Nee Tran, Edvaldo Cantao Viana and Glen Williams. Certified Chief Cook (Module 6) – Graduated May 4: Madina Lawless. July 2018 ARPA – Graduated April 13 (in alphabetical order): Dylan Mikaele Casuga, John Consiglio, John Diaz-Hernandez Jr., Scott Gilleland and Harry Schrefer. MLC Cook – Graduated May 4: Keith Doublin Certified Chief Cook (Module 5) – Graduated April 20: Sheneisha Thompson (left) and Aurelio Dela Cruz Esperanza. Chief Cook 2.0 – Graduated April 20: Markese Haynes (left) and Sherre Wilson. Certified Chief Cook (Module 2) – Graduated March 9: Timothy Kelley (left) and Shafreda Short Thigpen. Galley Operations – Graduated March 9: Rogelio Dela Nunez (left) and Virnabeth Tomo Cano. SUA (Galley Operations) – Graduated March 9 (in alphabetical order): Lakeeba Bazemore, Evelyn Cruz, Axel Omar Lopez Ferrer, Luis Sony Perez-Menendez Jr., Manuel Alejandro Robles, Wilhelm Orson Rodrigues-Latorre and Maria Yahaira Soler Madera. Seafarers LOG 23 �F E B R2018 UARY 2014 JULY o V O LVOLUME U M E 7 6 80, NNO. O . 72 Paul Hall Center Class Photos Pages 21-23 The Seafarers-crewed Endurance is part of the U.S. Maritime Security Program fleet. SIU Members Assist With Operation Atlantic Resolve Seafarers Continue Upholding Traditional Role as Fourth Arm of Defense M ariners have once again answered the nation’s call, as SIU members recently helped support an important military mobilization named Operation Atlantic Resolve. Seafarers sailed aboard three American Roll-on Roll-off Carrier (ARC) vessels – the M/V Honor, M/V Freedom, and M/V Endurance – in support of this long-term mission. Together, those ships were loaded with more than 414,000 square feet of military wheeled and tracked cargo, such as armored vehicles, and other important materiel. This equipment was then transported from Charleston, South Carolina, to Eastern Europe, where the 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team of the 1st Cavalry Division is deploying. Operation Atlantic Resolve, launched in 2014, is funded through the European Reassurance Initiative, which was likewise created in response to Russia’s annexation of Crimea in Ukraine. The primary goal of the operation is to increase the U.S. military presence in Europe, and to help strengthen NATO’s defense and deterrence measures. The aforementioned SIU-crewed ships are part of the U.S. Maritime Security Program (MSP). Since its inception in 1996, the MSP has received strong bipartisan backing in Con- gress and the White House, while receiving praise from military officials. The program provides an annual stipend to ensure 60 militarily useful U.S.-flag, U.S.-crewed ships are available in times of war or national emergencies. Companies that are contracted under the MSP or through the related Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement make their infrastructure available to the military as needed, too. MSP backers describe the program as one of the best public-private partnerships in government. The DOD has estimated that replicating the sealift capability provided by the MSP would cost the government billions of dollars. SIU-crewed ships (photos immediately above and at immediate right) load military cargo for Operation Atlantic Resolve. (All photos courtesy ARC) A tank (photo at left) is loaded onto the M/V Endurance. In the photo above, the Honor takes on cargo in Charleston, South Carolina. � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2010-2019 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXII-LXXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2010-2019 Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource July 2018 Description An account of the resource HEADLINES U.S. DOT HOSTS MARITIME DAY CEREMONY SHBP TRUSTEES ANNOUNCES NEW BENEFITS FOR SEAFARERS, SPOUSES REP. WITTMAN LANDS ‘SALUTE TO CONGRESS’ AWARD SIU JOBS SECURE ABOARD WHEELER SEAFARERS FULLY BACK NEW MARITIME BILL TELLEZ: DON’T QUESTION U.S. MERCHANT MARINE’S WILLINGNESS TO ANSWER THE CALL PORT COUNCIL HONORS NOLAN, RICHMOND, WEINGARTEN SEAFARERS EXECUTIVE BOARD SALUTES MIKE SACCO’S VISIONARY LEADERSHIP AFL-CIO LAUNCHES AD BLITZ, URGES ORGANIZING WASHINGTON TIMES: ‘JONES ACT ASSURES FREEDOM OF SEAS’ ‘TIME TO SAVE OUR MERCHANT MARINE IS NOW’ LUMMUS MARINERS DONATE TO PHILLIPPINES-BASED CHARITY NTSB PUBLISHES EL FARO SUMMARY SIU OBSERVES MARITIME DAY ACROSS U.S. SEC. CHAO SAYS SIU IS ‘ONE OF THE STRONGEST UNIONS IN THE COUNTRY’ 200-PLUS INDUSTRY LEADERS ATTEND MARITIME DAY CEREMONY IN D.C. NATIONAL MARITIME CENTER NOTICE NEW CG-719 SERIES OF FORMS IMPLEMENTATION SIU MEMBERS ASSIST WITH OPERATION ATLANTIC RESOLVE SEAFARERS CONTINUE UPHOLDING TRADITIONAL ROLE AS FOURTH ARM OF DEFENSE Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 07/01/2018 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 80, No. 7 http://seafarerslog.org/archives/files/original/a3b3abb5a6393326236a6807a037d602.pdf 8e2b1fe42e799d36e9b67f4c30c04b27 PDF Text Text JULY 2019 VOLUME 81, NO. 7 O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT 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 AT E R S , A F L- C I O National Maritime Day Salutes Past, Present And Future U.S. Mariners Maintaining a long tradition, the SIU and its affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education turned out in force for this year’s National Maritime Day observance at U.S. Department of Transportation headquarters in Washington, D.C. Taken immediately after the ceremony on May 22, the large group photo below includes World War II mariners, Paul Hall Center apprentices, featured speakers, SIU officials and others. Among those pictured are (back row, from left) SIU VP Contracts George Tricker, Port Agent Victor Nunez, Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, President Michael Sacco, Gen. Stephen Lyons (USA, commander of the U.S. Transportation Command), Maritime Administrator Mark Buzby, SIU VP Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski and SIU Exec. VP Augie Tellez. In the photo at right, Apprentice Shannon Gail Peterson is flanked by Gen. Lyons and Administrator Buzby as they display a life ring that was used during the ceremony. Pages 12-14. Matson Christens ConRo Lurline The SIU recently helped welcome the new Matson vessel Lurline, built by union members at the General Dynamics NASSCO shipyard in San Diego. The Jones Act ship is an 870-foot-long, 3,500 TEU, 44,200 deadweight metric ton, combination container ship/roll-on, roll-off (ConRo) vessel featuring LNG-capable engines. Christened and launched at the yard June 15, the Lurline is the lead ship of a twovessel contract. At right, the ship’s final grand block is eased into position in early February. The photo at left, taken by drone in May, shows the nearly completed ship. Visit the SIU website for additional information about the vessel and the ceremony. (Photos courtesy Matson) Jones Act News Pages 2, 4 ‘Maritime Heroes’ Page 3 USNS Gianella Feature Page 24 �President’s Report Fourth Arm of Defense Ready Global tensions were on the rise last month in the aftermath of attacks on two foreign-flag tankers in the Gulf of Oman. While I’m thankful the mid-June incidents, which happened in international waters, did not result in any serious injuries to the crew members, they definitely underscored the ongoing need for a strong U.S. Merchant Marine. If that sounds like an overstatement, here’s what the U.S. Central Command stated in response to the attacks: “The U.S. and our partners in the region will take all necessary measures to defend ourselves and our interests. Today’s attacks are a clear threat to international freedom of navigation and freedom of commerce.” History has taught us that it’s not a question of “if” the next conflict will occur, but when and where. That’s just reality. And that’s a big reason why our nation absolutely must be able to carry the fight and deliver the goods for our men and women in uniform. It’s usually a surprise to people who aren’t familiar with our industry when they learn that the U.S. MerMichael Sacco chant Marine delivered more than 90 percent of the materiel needed by our troops in Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. But, as Seafarers know, American citizen mariners have answered the call dating back to the very earliest days of our country. The Central Command added, “The United States has no interest in engaging in a new conflict in the Middle East. However, we will defend our interests.” It goes without saying that my sincere hope is that these two attacks were isolated mistakes that won’t be repeated. And it also goes without saying that if the balloon goes up, the SIU will answer the call. We are proud to serve as America’s fourth arm of defense. That’s a role we’ve upheld – without exception – every time we’ve been needed since our founding in 1938. New Tonnage Not all of the recent news was stressful. A few days after the aforementioned incidents, the SIU helped welcome a new Matson ship in San Diego that’ll sail in the Jones Act trade. This union-built beauty, the Lurline, means ongoing job security for SIU members. Like other Jones Act ships, it boosts America’s national, economic and homeland security. Like many other new U.S.-built vessels, it has LNG-capable engines. Congratulations to Matson and to the union workers and executives at General Dynamics NASSCO in San Diego on the christening and launch. It’s a great milestone and a tribute to our industry’s shared commitment to produce state-of-the-art vessels that carry the world’s best-trained crews. Well-Earned Honors Be sure to check out our coverage of the new “American Maritime Heroes” campaign that recently was launched by the major coalition American Maritime Partnership (AMP). The first two honorees – U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine L. Chao and, collectively, the U.S. Merchant Marine of World War II – are nothing short of fantastic, in my estimation. Secretary Chao is on a short list of greatest advocates our industry has ever known. That’s why I was incredulous when she recently came under attack by some in the press for having the audacity to be part of a politically active family. My bottom line is that Secretary Chao’s pro-maritime record speaks for itself, and that’s including crucial behind-the-scenes work for which she won’t take credit. As for our mariners from The Greatest Generation, their service and sacrifice remain unsurpassed in our industry. One of our late pensioners who sailed during the war managed to put a humorous spin on it. He’d often say, “Just remember, if it weren’t for us, we’d all be speaking German.” That always cracked me up but the truth in it is noteworthy. A hearty tip of the SIU white cap to Secretary Chao and to the U.S. Merchant Marine of World War II! O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT 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 AT E R S , A F L- C I O Volume 81 Number 7 The American Maritime Partnership (AMP) recently highlighted the positive effects of the Jones Act on the Pacific Northwest. The SIU is affiliated with AMP, the primary coalition representing all components of the domestic maritime industry. Citing a new study conducted by PricewaterhouseCoopers on behalf of the Transportation Institute, AMP’s first announcement focused on the state of Washington. The domestic maritime industry in Washington ranks sixth among all American states for jobs and labor income relating to the Jones Act, according to the study, and employs more than 22,500 individuals. The industry also produces $6.12 billion for the local economy, and generates more than $1.5 billion in worker income. “The Jones Act is a juggernaut when it comes to helping us, and we are not talking about a relic, but a key tool in growing our economy for the future,” said U.S. Sen. Maria Cantwell (D-Washington) while speaking at Seattle maritime event. “As shown in this report, the Jones Act has created 22,000 jobs here in Washington State, a 34 percent increase since the last report in 2014.” The second study focused on the state of Alaska, where the domestic maritime industry employs more than 6,500 individuals, produces $1.98 billion for the local economy, and generates $469 million in worker income. “In my state, a strong domestic maritime industry is not a luxury, it’s a necessity,” said U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska). “The welfare of our people and our economy is dependent on the U.S. maritime industry, providing over 6,000 Americans with maritime jobs that significantly contribute to the economies of Alaska and our nation. I proudly support the work of the Alaska and American Maritime Partnerships, and am pleased by the growth of maritime industry jobs in Alaska.” “The Jones Act is vital to maintaining a strong and stable domestic maritime industry that transports goods to Alaska and, as this study indicates, helps strengthen our economy by providing good-paying jobs,” said U.S. Sen. Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska). “Further, the Jones Act protects our homeland, ensuring that in times of dispute, Alaska and other states across our country will not be caught in the crossfire and held hostage by foreign-flagged vessels.” TOTE’s SIU-crewed North Star is one of many Jones Act vessels delivering economic benefits to the Pacific Northwest. July 2019 The SIU online: www.seafarers.org 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. The Seafarers International Union engaged an environmentally friendly printer for the production of this newspaper. Reversed to White Reversed to White 2 Seafarers LOG AMP Underscores Maritime’s Positive Impacts on Alaska, Washington State “The Jones Act is vital for protecting the U.S. maritime industry and promoting a very important sector of Alaska’s economy,” said U.S. Rep. Don Young (R-Alaska). “Simply put, the Jones Act is critical to maintaining a strong maritime workforce and ensuring the U.S. has shipbuilding capabilities that can keep pace with our competitors. This study is further proof of its immense success and the importance of protecting the Jones Act. For the sake of our maritime industry, our jobs, and national security, we must continue to support the Jones Act for years to come.” Some of the largest domestic shipping leaders also spoke on the importance of the maritime industry to Washington and Alaska. “The new economic data is proof positive that U.S.-built vessels crewed by American mariners provide our communities and our country substantial benefits from jobs and investments,” said Tom Crowley, chairman and CEO of Seafarerscontracted Crowley Maritime Corporation. “This study shows the domestic maritime industry is integral to the economic success of Alaska, the Pacific Northwest and the entire nation. The men and women in the maritime industry also provide irreplaceable support to our military’s readiness and homeland security. These benefits demonstrate why experts and elected officials readily support the U.S. maritime industry and the legal framework protecting it.” TOTE Maritime Alaska President Grace Greene stated, “TOTE is honored to call Washington home and we are proud of the many contributions that our employees, vendors, contractors, partners and peers have made over the last 40 years to help drive one of the most significant economic engines in the Pacific Northwest, the domestic maritime industry. TOTE’s success, and that of our industry, is rooted in our commitment to safety, innovation and focused investments that create a significantly positive impact for those we serve and the areas in which we operate.” “The Pacific Northwest is a leader in the domestic maritime industry, supporting nearly 22,500 family-wage jobs and contributing over $6.12 billion to the local economy,” said James L. Henry, chairman and president of Transportation Institute. “The findings in our most recent study demonstrate the strength and necessity of the Jones Act, which serves as the backbone of the American maritime industry, the U.S. industrial base, and job creation for the hardworking men and women that crew the vessels delivering both in times of war and peace.” “Quite simply, the Jones Act is American security,” said Matt Woodruff, president of the American Maritime Partnership. “In addition to the job creation benefits detailed in this study, our American mariners are relied on by defense leaders to project American force overseas in a national emergency. Alongside our waterfront workers, they are the eyes and ears of homeland security on our nation’s coasts and waterways. Our American-controlled fleet provides economic security, ensuring that our nation’s internal freight transportation system is not subject to foreign interference. American maritime jobs always have and will continue to be vital in the never-ending task of keeping America safe, strong and prosperous for generations to come.” SIU Members Ratify Penn Maritime Pact Union Crews Approve New Three-Year Agreement SIU members working for Penn Maritime recently ratified a new three-year contract featuring annual wage increases while maintaining benefits. The agreement, approved by an overwhelming majority, took effect May 1 and lasts through April 2022. In addition to boosting wages, the contract maintains health benefits at the top level available to SIU members (Core-Plus); maintains Seafarers Pension Plan benefits; and increases company contributions to the Seafarers Money Purchase Pension Plan. It covers approximately 200 Seafarers. The SIU bargaining team consisted of Vice President Atlantic Coast Joseph Soresi, Vice President Gulf Coast Dean Corgey, Assistant Vice President Michael Russo, Engineer Jeff Rydza, Mate John Harvard and ABT Mike Lyons. Soresi said, “The negotiations went well and we ended up with a good contract. I think the majority of the members are pleased with the outcome.” “I think it went really well,” said Lyons. “I’m very excited for the new contract, and very happy with it. There were some things that we didn’t get, but overall, I think the majority of the membership is pretty happy with the results.” Penn Maritime operates up to 15 tugboats and barges in the Gulf region, primarily moving asphalt along inland and coastal waterways. The company was acquired by Kirby Corporation in 2012. July 2019 �SIU Applauds Launch of ‘Maritime Heroes’ When the American Maritime Partnership (AMP) in early June announced the kickoff of its year-long celebration titled “American Maritime Heroes,” the SIU enthusiastically backed the first two honorees: U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine L. Chao, and the U.S. Merchant Marine of World War II. In an online post applauding the selections, the union noted, “Secretary Chao is a tireless, unwavering advocate of the American maritime industry. Her effectiveness and commitment to our industry are unsurpassed. The SIU is proud and humbled to respectfully count her as a friend.” SIU President Michael Sacco described Chao as “someone who not only understands our industry, but also truly cares about the American worker. She is a tremendous leader and is universally respected, admired and trusted throughout our industry.” Chao’s support for American-flag shipping and U.S. mariners is nothing new. Beginning in 1986, when she became Deputy Administrator of the U.S. Maritime Administration, she has consistently advanced programs that boost the industry. This also held true during her service as Chairwoman of the Federal Maritime Commission (1988-89), as Deputy Secretary of Transportation beginning in 1989, and as Secretary of Labor from 2001-2009. The SIU further stated, “We are honored to have hosted Secretary Chao at our affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland, in 2002, 2005 and 2017. We deeply appreciated her keynote remarks in October 2003 when the late SIU President Paul Hall was inducted to the DOL Hall of Fame. And we enjoyed celebrating together in June 2005 when she christened the Pride of America in New York City. More recently, we were heartened when one of her first official acts as Transportation Secretary was delivering DOT Secretary Elaine L. Chao speaks at the 2017 SIUNA convention in Piney Point, Maryland. keynote remarks in Beaumont, Texas, as the car carrier Liberty Passion formally reflagged under the Stars and Stripes in March 2017. Later that same month, SIU President Sacco was a featured speaker at a gathering in the nation’s capital that served as both a formal welcoming of Secretary Chao and an observance of the department’s 50th anniversary.” Sacco added, “There is nobody better qualified to be Secretary of Transportation than Elaine Chao, as she has demonstrated since day one. Throughout her time in government, she has been a steadfast friend to the SIU and to maritime labor. She has stood up to defend the Jones Act, the Maritime Security Program, cargo preference and the other key programs that keep our industry alive. She understands the importance of providing jobs to America’s work- ing families, and she has seen firsthand the value of the United States Merchant Marine to our nation’s defense and prosperity.” AMP’s other selection – the U.S. Merchant Marine of World War II – hits home with the union. More than 1,200 SIU members lost their lives to wartime service; their names are individually memorialized on a large plaque at the union’s affiliated school in Piney Point, Maryland. Overall, the U.S. Merchant Marine of World War II proved nothing short of indispensable for the Allies. As noted by AMP in its kickoff of the American Maritime Heroes campaign, “Almost 250,000 merchant mariners transported tens of millions of tons of war supplies and more than seven million servicemen under the most challenging circumstances imaginable. As a result, they suffered the highest casualty rate of any service during World War II, with one mariner out of every 26 lost. Often defenseless against enemy vessels, these merchant mariners continued to sustain the war effort. A total of 8,241 merchant mariners died in World War II, and many others were captured and became prisoners of war. Today only about 2,000 remain.” The late SIU historian John Bunker wrote in 1951, “Before any of the nation’s armed services were ready for all-out duty in World War II, the merchant marine and the men who manned it were on the front lines of global action. No executive manifestos; no formal enlistment, no testings of loyalty or pledges of devotion to their country’s service were required to put SIU crews into action or prove their willingness to face danger – and death.” For more information on the campaign, which will culminate on the 100th anniversary of the Jones Act becoming law, visit https://americanmaritimeheroes.com/ Building Named in Honor Of Late SIU VP John Fay New residential facilities in the U.K. memorialize one of the SIU’s most steadfast officials. The union Nautilus International on May 29 dedicated the John Fay House at Mariners Park in Wallasey, England. Built with financial support from Nautilus and the International Transport Workers’ Federation’s (ITF) Seafarers’ Trust, the apartments are named after the late SIU Executive Vice President John Fay, who died in 2005 at age 73. In addition to his half-century of service with the SIU, Fay also was the first American ever to serve as chairman of the ITF Seafarers’ Section, a position he held from 1995-2002.  SIU Secretary-Treasurer and Chairman of the ITF Seafarers’ Trust David Heindel – Fay’s SIU successor and close colleague, and currently also chair of the ITF Seafarers’ Section – was a featured speaker at the ceremonial opening. Several of Fay’s family members attended, including his brother, Frank; his son John Jr.; daughter-in-law Christina Fay; daughter Kelly Fay; sister, Cathy Tompkins; and granddaughter, Shaina Fay. Nautilus (which represents members in the U.K., the Netherlands and Switzerland) described the dozen dwellings as “state-of-the-art independent apartments for retired seafarers and their dependents.” They were constructed as part of an ongoing program “to upgrade and expand” services for retired mariners and their families. (Two of the apartments in the July 2019 new block were built with a donation from the Aged Veterans Fund and are reserved for merchant seafarers who served alongside the armed forces at times of conflict or during national emergencies.) During the dedication, Heindel noted that he worked with John Fay for many years. “He became my mentor and someone I admired,” he recalled. “John was a true friend and one of those rare individuals who brought calm to any heated discussion. Whether it was contentious labor negotiations or dealing with political leaders, he had a way The expanded facility features 12 new state-of-the-art dwellings. of making people feel comfortable. And if needed, he had a way of intimidating his counterpart without raising his voice.” Heindel continued, “On a personal note, John loved his family. He was very proud of his children and the path they chose in life…. This building is a testament to John’s professional life.  I hope his spirit brings the peace and calm that made him the man that I came to know.” Nautilus International General Secretary Mark Dickinson said he was pleased to see the latest development in the 162-year history of the union’s welfare work. “We are rightly proud of our past, but we have never sat back and rested on our laurels,” he said. “Mariners Park bears witness to the process of constant change and reassessment to ensure that we Pictured at the dedication are (from left) SIU Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, John Fay Jr., (Continued on next page) ITF Seafarers’ Trust Head Katie Higginbottom and Nautilus International General Secretary Mark Dickinson. Seafarers LOG 3 �NY Waterway Crew Rescues Helicopter Pilot Heroic Extraction Takes Place on Hudson River A NY Waterway ferry crew aboard the Gov. Thomas Kean on May 15 rescued the pilot after a helicopter crashed in the Hudson River. SIU member Capt. Adam Sciaino was carrying passengers between West 39th Street in Manhattan and 14th Street in Hoboken when he saw the helicopter go down at about 2:20 p.m. This is Sciaino’s second rescue in 10 years with the company. SIU member Deckhand Edwin Montoya deployed the Jason’s cradle rescue device off the bow of the ferry and pulled the uninjured pilot (Eric Morales) aboard. There was no one else on the helicopter. “It was just instinct – just another day for NY Waterway rescues,” Sciaino said. “We’re right here. Edwin Montoya is an outstanding deckhand. He moved instantly to the rescue.” Both Seafarers have completed safety training at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland. According to preliminary report from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), Morales had just refueled the helicopter and was trying to maneuver it to the pad where he picks up passengers when he felt “the loss of the effectiveness of the tail rotor.” Shortly thereafter, the aircraft started an uncontrollable spin, at which time the pilot deployed floats for a water landing. News reports quoted Morales as saying the helicopter functioned normally earlier that day, including a pair of landings. Montoya recalled, “We were just leaving the Jersey side and saw the helicopter spinning, and then it went down in the water. The pilot was hanging outside of it, standing on it.” The ferry was “very close” to the helicopter, and Montoya said they “approached very slowly and carefully. The whole thing only took three minutes. I asked him (the pilot) a couple of times if anyone else was on board and if he was hurt. He said he was okay and there was no one else. He was a little nervous but had good overall awareness.” Montoya also said that the Gov. Thomas Kean had passengers on board during the rescue “so we kept people inside the boat. We did the rescue and then dropped off the passengers in New York and continued our service.” In 32 years, NY Waterway crews Congressman Babin Backs Jones Act A United States congressman from Texas recently used a hypothetical image to drive home a very real point. U.S. Rep. Brian Babin (R-Texas) on May 16 spoke on the House floor to commend President Trump for not waiving the Jones Act and to express support for the nation’s freight cabotage law. The congressman’s office created a fictional image of a Chinese-flagged freighter navigating the Mississippi River under the St. Louis Gateway Arch to demonstrate what would happen if the Jones Act were waived or eliminated. “For the past 100 years, the Jones Act has brought strength and certainty to maritime commerce here in the United States,” said Babin. “It has protected the rights of American sailors, created and maintained American jobs, and has been one of the single largest factors in facilitating the strong American economy that we are enjoying. The Jones Act states that goods shipped between U.S. ports are to be built, owned, and operated by the citizens of the United States.” He continued, “Can you imagine a Chinese-built vessel, flying the Chinese national flag, and operated by Chinese citizens traveling through the American heartland to deliver goods to our ports? Although this is a hypothetical situation, it could easily become a reality if the Jones Act is waived. Our national security, economic growth, and our ability to provide American jobs would be in jeopardy. Worst of all, waiving the Jones Act would allow these foreignoperated ships into our waterways and could be opening the door to espionage. “We need the Jones Act, and I encourage those who want to repeal it to watch my speech and explain why the image that you see in the video would make for a better and stronger America,” he concluded. As reported in last month’s LOG, multiple news outlets had indicated the president was pondering an extended Jones Act waiver for moving American LNG to domestic ports. However, U.S. Senators Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Bill Cassidy (R-Louisiana), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), John Kennedy (R-Louisiana) and Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Mississippi) as well as House Minority Whip Steve Scalise (RLouisiana) met with the president May 1 and came away assured that he will fully stand behind the maritime law. A new study by PricewaterhouseCoopers found that the nation’s freight cabotage law helps sustain nearly 650,000 American jobs while contributing $154 billion to the nation’s economic growth annually. Moreover, 91 countries across the globe maintain some form of cabotage law. Capt. Adam Sciaino (left) and Deckhand Edwin Montoya have rescued almost 300 people from the waters of New York Harbor, including 143 people rescued from U.S. Air- ways Flight 1549 in “The Miracle on the Hudson,” the most successful marine rescue in aviation history. Facility Pays Tribute to Late SIU Official (Continued from Page 3) deliver not just quality services, but services that meet the real, changing and increasingly complex needs of our retired members and their partners.” Katie Higginbottom, head of the ITF Seafarers’ Trust, said the charity was delighted to support the new development. “My mission in the Trust is to learn from great examples such as this, and to do more work with unions to improve seafarers’ welfare around the world,” she said. John Fay Jr. stated, “I can’t begin to put into words the thanks and gratitude of the family. This really is a great honor for my dad.” John Fay joined the SIU as a teenager in 1949 and sailed in both the deep sea and in- land divisions. He came ashore in the mid1950s and continued working for the SIU for the next 49 years. He served as executive vice president from 1997-2005 after working as the union’s secretary-treasurer since 1990. Previously, the Boston native held various port-level positions in Philadelphia, Baltimore, Boston, Brooklyn and elsewhere.  While his contributions to the union’s advancement in the United States were substantial, he also played a pioneering role in fully involving not just the SIU but all of American maritime labor in international efforts to promote and protect mariners’ wellbeing. Beginning in 1975, he participated in forums and other activities involving the ITF; the International Maritime Organization; and the International Labor Organization. This plaque is displayed in the new building Coast Guard Issues New Radar Observer Rule Congressman Babin speaks on the House floor and uses an illustration to warn of the dangers of waiving the Jones Act. 4 Seafarers LOG The U.S. Coast Guard has published a final rule, titled: “Amendments to the Marine Radar Observer Refresher Training Regulations.” The rule amends the requirements for renewal of a Radar Observer Endorsement, eliminating the stipulation that a mariner actively using their MMC complete an approved or accepted refresher or recertification course to maintain a Radar Observer Endorsement. When the new rule enters into effect on July 22, 2019, any mariner who serves in a “relevant position” aboard a radarequipped vessel for one year in the previous five years will no longer be required to complete a radar refresher or recertification course to renew the endorsement. The official announcement and related links are posted on the SIU website – look under News, then Latest Posts. The article is dated June 11. The respective links go to the policy letter and the rule itself. July 2019 �SHBP Awards $132,000 in Scholarships Eight individuals – three active Seafarers and five dependents – are one step closer to realizing their educational aspirations thanks to the Seafarers Health and Benefits Plan (SHBP). The SHBP’s 2019 Scholarship Committee on May 17 bestowed scholarships totaling $132,000 on the former group. Convening at the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland, the committee selected OMU Terrell Cuffee and Mate Troy Janelle as recipients of a pair of twoyear scholarships worth $6,000 each. Junior Engineer Thomas Swayne was chosen to receive a four-year award worth $20,000. Dependents picked for four-year, $20,000 grants were: Muhab Abdelwahab, Emily May, Bjorn Soriano, Katherine Scott and Alana Thomas. OMU Terrell Cuffee Deep Sea OMU Terrell Cuffee hails from Chesapeake, Virginia. He signed on with the union in 2014 and was a member of Paul Hall Center Class 778. After completing his apprentice training, his initial voyage was aboard the Sealift, Inc.operated Advantage where he sailed in the engine department. When he applied for the 2019 SHBP Scholarship Program, he was a crew member aboard the LTC John U.D. Page, another Sealift, Inc. vessel. Cuffee is 2009 graduate of Chesapeake’s Oscar Smith High School. He was active in his community, dedicating numerous hours making positive contributions to neighborhood youths. Cuffee served as a youth leader, mentor and basketball coach. He also volunteered his time assisting in community center events. In his SHBP application package, Cuffee recalled that during his apprentice graduation ceremony, he made a promise to himself (and to the union) that one day he’d be sailing as a mate or an engineer. “Well, it’s now time for me to begin the process of fulfilling that promise,” he said. “I have been sailing for six years, and during that time, I have come to be knowledgeable enough to have the confidence to [say] that I will not only become an engineer, but a successful one.” Cuffee has applied for admission to Mid-Atlantic Maritime Academy, where he hopes to major in engineering. Mate Troy Janelle Inland Mate Troy Janelle (wife, Rebecca) was born in Portland, Maine, and currently makes his home in Dickinson, Texas. A 2005 graduate of Oak Hill High School in Wales, Maine, he posted an overall 3.502 grade point average (GPA) and ranked ninth in his class of 112 students. Janelle holds a bachelor’s degree in Community Recreation & Sports Management, having graduated from the University of Utah in 2010. Not long thereafter he landed what he thought was his dream job as a program coordinator at a Salt Lake City recreation center. As much as he loved his job, he quickly realized that he had amassed far too much student loan debt to prosper and enjoy life on his recreation center salary. At that point he began looking to the maritime industry as a solution. Janelle was accepted for admission at the Maine Maritime Acad- July 2019 emy (MMA) in 2012 and enrolled in the school’s Small Vessels Operations Program. Two years later, he earned an associate’s degree and his next move was to start sailing under the SIU banner. His current duties involve ship assist and escort services for the Texas Ports of Houston, Galveston and Corpus Christi. “I used my degree and licenses at MMA to get hired at G&H Towing Company as a mate where I have been employed for the past five years,” he said. “Changing professions turned out to be one of the best decisions I ever made.” Since joining the maritime industry, Janelle said he has come to realize that “…the educational backgrounds of ashore office employees tend to be drastically different from the vessel personnel that they are overseeing. Often this results in hiring people with the educational background to qualify them for a position but they have no idea how the industry of ships systems actually works.” Janelle sees this situation as a divide that potentially could negatively impact a company’s productivity. “This disconnect between the company and its workforce is why I want to get my master’s degree,” he said. “I believe that getting more people to go from the ship to the office can only provide greater communication and cohesion between the different divisions of companies in our industry.” His goal is be accepted to the MMA’s master’s program in international logistics management. “[This] would allow me to use that degree and my work experience in the maritime industry to advance my career from the vessel to the office where I know that both … would be an asset to any organization.” In addition to MMA, Chanelle has applied for admission to Texas A&M Galveston, Grand Canyon University and Sam Houston State University. JE Thomas Swayne Deep Sea Junior Engineer Thomas Swayne (wife, Zakiah) is a native of San Leandro, California and a 1999 graduate of Oakland, California’s Skyline Senior High School. An avid athlete, he participated in football, track and field, and wrestling. As a community activist, Swayne contributed countless volunteer hours serving as an assistant in a senior citizen facility. Swayne joined the SIU in 2001 and successfully navigated the Paul Hall Center’s apprentice program. Since then, he has returned to the Piney Point, Maryland-based campus no fewer than six occasions to enhance his skills. Swayne earned his junior engineer rating in 2006 and currently sails aboard the Sunrise Operations LLC (Pasha) operated Horizon Enterprise. His first vessel was the Red River Carriers operated Black Eagle. “It’s been 20 years since I gradu- ated from high school and I always considered myself an overachiever,” Swayne shared in his scholarship application package. “I attended a community college hoping to succeed from the bottom up but quickly had to drop out to find employment to support my grandparents and their needs. “Soon after, I became a merchant marine, lived life, traveled around the world and started a family,” he continued. “In today’s society, it can be challenging to raise and teach two children, and there is a part of me that’s missing. For the last year I have been motivated to go back to school and fulfill a promise I made to myself and grandmother.” During his educational pursuits, Swayne said he hopes not only to obtain an associate’s degree but also a bachelor’s as well as master’s degree and “apply them all in the corporate world of my trade that I’ve been in for the past 18 years.” Ultimately his goal is to secure his engineering license and “be a better asset to any company in my field and influential to the next generation and my peers.” Swayne has applied for admission to the College of Southern Maryland, Cal Maritime and Cal State East Bay. His focus will be on engineering and business administration. Muhab Abdelwahab Muhab Abdelwahab is the son of Deep Sea Able Seaman Mohamed Abdelwahab (mother, Ehram) who sails aboard the Maersk Atlanta. He has three siblings who are ages 20, 25 and 28. Muhab is a 2019 graduate of Southwest High School in Minneapolis, Minnesota, where he posted an overall 3.92 GPA. He participated in tennis, cross country, soccer and ping pong and held membership in a myriad of non-athletic student organizations. Included were: National Honor Society, Muslim Youth of North America, Muslim Student Alliance, Biology Club, Math Team and Choir. He spent numerous hours volunteering at a wide variety of Minnesotabased bodies such as Minneapolis Community Education, Habitat for Humanity and Hennepin Healthcare just to name a few. “Growing up as a first-generation American, I recognize the expansive opportunities that come with receiving a degree,” he said in his SHBP application package. “My father was the sole breadwinner for my family of six, and my sisters and I became profoundly aware of the obstacles that many immigrant families face. This early realization has motivated me to strive for academic success, taking the most challenging courses offered and involving myself with extracurriculars in high school with the eventual goal of attending college.” Muhab said that as a high school senior, his aspirations became broader: Members of the 2019 Calendar Year SHBP Scholarship Committee (above, from left) were Dr. Gayle Olson, University of New Orleans (retired); Dr. Trevor Carpenter, College of Southern Maryland (retired); Dr. Hank Toutain, dean of students, Kenyon College (retired); Dr. Marla Kohlman, professor, Department of Sociology, Kenyon College; Dr. Michael Glaser, St. Mary’s College (retired); and Dr. Keith Schlender, dean emeritus, college of graduate studies, University of Toledo College of Medicine. “I hope to establish programming, specifically targeted at elementary-aged students in underserved communities, to help promote excellence in academia and the professional workforce. I personally have experienced the disparity in our educational system, through the limited access I had to academic-based extracurriculars, and I believe that this type of programming would help elevate many underprivileged communities.” He has applied for admission to the University of Minnesota, Harvard College and Yale University. If accepted, “I will pursue a biological sciences major. These classes will give me hands-on opportunities to learn.” After college, Muhab hopes to attend medical school. Emily May Emily May is 2019 graduate of Alamo Heights High School in San Antonio, Texas. She ranked first in her class of 365 peers and posted a 105.94 GPA. The daughter of Inland Master Phillip May (mother, Nancy, a dietician) who works for G&H Towing, Emily was extremely active in extracurricular activities at her school. As a baton twirler she regularly entertained audiences during band performances at parades, football games and pep rallies. Emily earned superior ratings and top accolades in her craft during local, regional, state and national competitions. Included were a host of first place awards during American Twirling Federation and National Baton Twirling Association outings. She also is an accomplished musician (saxophone), having participated in her school’s varsity marching band, wind ensemble, jazz band and pep band. Emily was section leader during her junior and senior years and was an active member in a host of school clubs and organizations. Included were the science Olympiad, mayor’s fitness council, environmental club, and National Spanish Honor Society. In the community service arena, Emily spent countless hours enhancing the lives of San Antonio citizens. Among the organizations that benefitted from her service were: Animal Defense League of San Antonio, environmental club and Lake Canyon Sailing Club. She also reached out to fellow students, providing tutoring to freshmen and other students requiring help in geometry and preparation for standardized testing. “I plan to use my skills to study biochemistry for undergraduate and advanced degrees,” she said in her application package. “I am passionate about science and research. I see a direct path of influential discovery through cellular communications and am excited for my growth in the field through college and beyond. “ Emily has applied for admission to the University of Texas at Austin, Rice University and Baylor University. She plans to major in biochemistry/molecular biology. Bjorn Soriano Bjorn Soriano hails from Olympia, Washington, and is the son of Deep Sea ABG Leonard Soriano (mother, Eleanor, a certified nursing assistant) who sails aboard the Alaskan Navigator. A 2019 graduate of Timberline High School, Bjorn has one sibling. He accumulated a 3.92 GPA at Timberline and participated in both the tennis and swimming teams. Bjorn held membership in the National Honor Society, Key Club and Honor Guard. As a community activist, he donated time at a neighborhood middle school and served as a reader to elementary school children. During the holidays, he collected donations for the Salvation Army while serving as a bell ringer. “As a child of Filipino parents, I understood at an early age the value of education,” Bjorn said in his application package. “Realizing the sacrifice my parents made by leaving their homeland in hopes for a better life for their children, I made a commitment to myself that I would capitalize on the opportunities provided to me.” Bjorn plans to earn a degree in engineering. He has applied for admission at the University of Washington, Seattle University and Gonzaga University. Katherine Scott Katherine Scott was born in Galveston, Texas. She is a 2018 graduate of Ball High School and currently is attending Galveston College. She is the daughter of Inland Pilot Martin Scott (mother, Anne) who works aboard G&H Towing’s David B. She has one sibling. Katherine amassed an overall 3.72 GPA in high school and ranked 44 in her class, which numbered 460 graduates. She participated in golf and was a member of the National Honor Society, the student council and Key Club. As a volunteer, she donated many hours providing assistance to the Galveston Island Humane Society. Katherine also participated in a community endeavor dubbed the Big Event Beach Cleanup. On the collegiate level, Katherine has already completed five semesters of work and earned 28 credits at Galveston College. She has posted a 3.12 GPA and is majoring in kinesiology. Her ultimate goal to become a physical therapist. [After obtaining my degree in kinesiology] “I plan to continue on into physical therapy at the University of Texas Medical Branch and eventually become a physical therapist that specializes in pediatric therapy, in order to help children that need it for their everyday lives,” she said in her scholarship application package. Alana Thomas Alana Thomas is the daughter of Deep Sea GUDE Aaron Thomas (mother, Erinn, a process improvement analyst) who sails aboard Keystone Shipping Service’s Cape Domingo. She has three siblings. Alana hails from Jacksonville, Florida, and is a 2019 graduate of Atlantic Coast High School. At Atlantic, she amassed an overall 3.57 GPA and ranked 135 in her class, which numbered 562 graduates. Alana held membership in and was elected to office in both the National Honor Society and Spanish National Honor Society. As a volunteer, she logged more than 100 hours of service at the UF Florida Health Jacksonville Hospital. “I specifically want to become a nurse practitioner because it will allow me to expand the leadership qualities I already have and to become a better, more calm problem evaluator and solver,” she said in her SHBP scholarship application package. “These are skills I will need once I decide to open my own practice.” Alana has applied for admission to Florida State University, the University of Central Florida and the University of North Florida. She plans to major in nursing and minor in business. Seafarers LOG 5 �SIU Asst. VP Chester ‘Chet’ Wheeler Retires Spent 32 Years Sailing, 23 as Union Official Anyone familiar with longtime SIU Government Services Division Assistant Vice President Chester “Chet” Wheeler won’t be surprised by the fact he’s staying quite active in retirement. A tireless worker throughout his decades as a mariner and an official, Wheeler, 74, officially called it a career earlier this year. He’s enjoying the new lifestyle, but if the particulars of a given day have changed, the pace isn’t much different. “It’s fine and I’m busy,” said Wheeler, who lives with his wife, Becky, in Cobb, California. “I realize now all the things my wife did without me, and now those are my jobs. I’ve remodeled a house and was already helping out at a senior center, which I’m continuing. I’m service-oriented anyway, but it’s nice to be able to give back. There are some real characters there.” Wheeler also plans to accommodate his wife’s request for European travel – admittedly not a huge concession from someone who said travel was the highlight of his 32 years as a mariner. He cited “family considerations” as the driving force behind his retirement, which officially commenced March 28. Wheeler also said he thoroughly enjoyed both his time at sea and the years spent working as an official. SIU Vice President West Coast Nick Marrone stated, “Chet had a very steady attitude towards his fairness and diligence in representing his mariners. He definitely was dedicated. He grew up in that fleet and was involved as a delegate under Buck Mercer (the late vice president of the union’s Government Services Division). Chet understood the complexities of the Military Sealift Command (MSC) and was able to navigate effectively through the various processes.” SIU Vice President Government Services Kate Hunt said, “Chet and I worked well together over the years. I always respected him as a union representative who really had the best interests of the mariners at heart.” Wheeler came ashore to work for the union in 1997, first as a representative and soon thereafter as an assistant vice president. Prior to the SIU’s merger with the National Maritime Union in 2001, he handled all West Coast representational efforts for MSC and the Suisun Bay reserve fleet. In fact, since 1997, Wheeler was involved in every MSC and Suisun Bay contract negotiation and “instruction and policy” negotiation. Colleagues described him as instrumental in ensuring the safety and health of mariners by negotiating afloat and ashore habitability agreements, watch hours, standards for shipboard water potability and air quality, and shipyard working conditions. He was a guiding force in the three-year negotiation of Civilian Mariner Personnel Instruction (CMPI) 610, a key document covering hours of work and overtime pay. Wheeler also played leading roles in representing mariners aboard joint high-speed vessels, and in securing significant compensatory time for travel for many CIVMARS. “Most importantly,” said retired SIU Counsel Deborah Kleinberg, who worked very closely with Wheeler, “Chet guided thousands of CIVMARS, wage mariners and Suisun Bay boat handlers, representing employees in grievances and disciplinary actions, and assisting employees who were injured or ill. He helped mariners leave their vessel assignments to attend to ill family members. He assisted many employees with the medical exam process, retirement counseling, workers’ compensation advocacy and making sure mariners could return home from afar when sick or injured.” Never one to worry about popularity, Wheeler definitely earned respect and appreciation both from fellow officials and from rank-and-file members. This was reflected by his having not one but two retirement parties – the first at the Oakland, California, SIU hiring hall in February, the second closer to his home in northern California in late April. At those gatherings, Wheeler received large binders packed with appreciative messages from people he represented and worked with through the years. Here’s a small sampling of those sentiments: “Thanks for all the advice, support, wisdom and guidance you so gracefully gave to all the mariners. You will be sorely missed.” – Bill Machie, Second Asst. Engineer “Thank you for looking out for us, your brother CIVMARS, all these years. You always commanded attention with your booming voice and no-nonsense talks about our rights. Many mariners benefited from your advice.” – Rob Cruz “I have known you for close to 20 years and have admired your work and indefatigable efforts to make the working conditions, quarters and lives of CIVMARS better. I have seen firsthand how CIVMARS and agency folks alike respected, liked and in some cases, loved you.” – Joe Vincenzo, SIU Asst. VP “It has been an honor to have worked with you. I have learned so much from you and am grateful for all of your efforts. Your dedication to the Seafarers is unmatched.” – John Madden, SIU Associate Counsel When presenting the albums, Kleinberg said, “If a person’s career is measured by how many people he has supported and helped during their life’s work, then your career is truly without measure. You were instrumental in helping me and all you have come in contact with, obtain a better understanding and appreciation of the unique working environment of federal mariners. Your extraordinary passion, hard work, persistence and exceptional dedication to seagoing workers and their families inspired me each day to live up to your example. I know for certain that your advocacy and unwavering efforts will never be duplicated.” Reflecting primarily on his time as an official, Wheeler said, “I’m proud of the representation we gave them. It was a 24/7 job and it’s a complicated unit. Also, issues affecting government services can also affect the Wheeler (left) is pictured with SIU President Michael Sacco in 2008. private sector.” Wheeler said Kleinberg was “the best support I could have,” and expressed solid confidence in Vincenzo as his successor. Moreover, Wheeler said that while he never was pressured to enter the maritime industry, it came naturally. “My great grandfather was an indentured servant in the Swedish merchant marine beginning when he was 10 years old,” he noted. “My uncles all went to sea and I grew up around water on the coast. I was surrounded by seamen. But I didn’t have to go to sea; I like it.” He said his fondest memory of shipboard life is “I got to travel a lot of places. In the old days, when I sailed, it took maybe a week or two weeks to unload. There were lots of adventures.” His advice for those entering the industry? “Get as much out of it as you can,” Wheeler replied. “It’s an adventure. Make this your adventure. The other thing is, learn everything you can. We have a great school (the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education). Keep going back and keep learning. It’s a wonderful occupation and I’m really glad I did it.” Retiring SIU Asst. VP Chet Wheeler (second from left in photo directly above) always felt most at home with fellow CIVMARS. He’s pictured at a 2016 MTD event in San Diego with members of the SIU Government Services Division and with other officials. The photo at right is a cover page in one of the two keepsake albums Wheeler received at a retirement gathering. 6 Seafarers LOG July 2019 �SALUTING WWII MARINERS, AUTHOR – SIU Executive VP Augie Tellez (right) surprises author William Geroux with a framed, declassified listing of the U.S. Merchant Marine convoys bringing supplies to the Soviet Union during World War II via the Arctic convoys to Murmansk and Archangel. Geroux recently published a book on the subject: “The Ghost Ships of Archangel – The Arctic Voyage That Defied the Nazis.” The event was hosted on Capitol Hill by U.S. Rep. John Garamendi (D-California) and U.S. Rep. Don Young (R-Alaska), both longtime backers of the maritime industry. WITH SEAFARERS ON WEST COAST – The SIU contingent at the yearly tribute in San Pedro, California, included Wilmington Port Agent Jeff Turkus (fourth from right) and (among others) GUDE George Galanas, GVA Kris Bechtel, Bosun Rick Barnhart, GUDE Hamza Jinah and Bosun Rudy Nuno. National Maritime Day Celebrated Coast to Coast The annual National Maritime Day ceremony hosted by the U.S. Department of Transportation always proves noteworthy, but it’s definitely not the only such observance. The SIU once again in 2019 also turned out for ceremonies in Texas, Virginia and California; some Seafarers also marked the occasion aboard ship. Additionally, a high-ranking SIU official made a surprise presentation at a pro-maritime gettogether in Congress. The photos on this page were taken at those respective gatherings. ABOARD HONOR – Vessel Master Capt. Shawn Hagerty reports: “On May 22nd at 1230 hours local, while at sea from Charleston to Bremerhaven, the M/V HONOR held an onboard National Maritime Day ceremony. The all-hands event included learning about the history of National Maritime Day from our Third Officer and hearing this year’s Presidential Proclamation read by both Kings Point and Maine Maritime Academy cadets. We ended with eight bells struck on the ship bell followed by a moment of silence.” Thanks to Capt. Hagerty for the photo, which features the whole crew of the TOTE Services-operated vessel. NORFOLK CEREMONY – Chief Cook Michele Woodley (left) and SIU Safety Director Anthony Houston (right) helped represent the union at the city’s Half Moone Cruise and Celebration Center. GALVESTON GATHERING – Pier 21 was the site of the tenth annual National Maritime Day ceremony in Galveston, Texas. The group photo at right includes SIU Safety Director Kevin Sykes (third from left) with U.S. Coast Guard personnel. In the photo above, longtime SIU member Fr. Sinclair Oubre addresses attendees before the tossing of a memorial wreath. July 2019 Seafarers LOG 7 �USNS Maury Completes Whirlwind Voyage via Panama Canal RN/MSO Brandon Maeda, medical department representative aboard the USNS Maury provided the photos appearing on these two pages. The photos were taken during what Maeda described as the completion of roughly an 11,500 nautical mile voyage which had the Maury sailing from Florida to Hawaii via the Panama Canal. The return trip took the vessel and crew from Hawaii to California; once again through the Panama Canal and back to the East Coast. In his correspondence to the LOG, Maeda portrayed the Maury’s SIU crew as an interesting blend of mariners, a real microcosm of the United States. “We have seamen who are originally from America, Asia, [the] Caribbean, Africa, Arabia and the Pacific Islands,” he said. Included are “both men and women, young and old, from the east, west and gulf coasts with a sprinkling of military veterans.” The vessel is operated by Ocean Shipholdings, Inc. Bosun Kwesi Adu-Gyamfi AB Demilton Wheat ABG Eugene Evans ABG George Fababier In the photos below, the USNS Maury approaches, enters and exits the locks at the Panama Canal. 8 Seafarers LOG July 2019 �STOS Christian Mercado Nunez STOS Terrance Paige Oiler Zachary Cartwright Oiler Michael Ribeiro GVA Mason Abdulfattah Kamhed CC Brandon Hamilton July 2019 QE4 Daniel Resultan SKS Michael Dupee GVA Camilo Villafania Oiler Derrick Walker GVA Isaka Koanda SA Crystal Cobbs MDR Brandon Maeda Seafarers LOG 9 �CIVMAR MEETING – Members of the SIU Government Services Division met in mid-May in Norfolk, Virginia, with SIU VP Government Services Kate Hunt (standing fourth from left) and SIU Government Services Representative Sam Spain (standing far left). A-BOOK IN PINEY – Chief Cook Rachel Janssen (left) received her A-book June 5 from SIU President Michael Sacco (right) in Piney Point, Maryland. Janssen most recently sailed aboard the Horizon Spirit before heading to the Paul Hall Center. At Sea and Ashore with the SIU ABOARD CROWLEY TANKER CALIFORNIA – These photos were taken in mid-April in Martinez, California. Pictured at the gangway (above, left) is AB Raymond Contreras. Chief Cook Najeeb Ginah (above, center) is shown in the galley, while the remaining photo includes (from left) Bosun Ruben Datu, Port Agent Nick Marrone II and QMED/Pumpman Joshua Zelinsky. BOOKS GALORE IN HONOLULU – Three members recently received their respective full B-books at the hall in Hawaii. AB Rolan Aguilar is at right in photo at left, with Shureen Yatchmenoff, administrative assistant. Assistant Storekeeper Tanya Awong stands at left in photo above, with Port Agent Hazel Galbiso. The photo at the immediate right includes Wiper Chanel Peters and Yatchmenoff. 10 Seafarers LOG A-BOOK IN JAX – QMED Samir Tarsha (left) gets his A-book from Safety Director Joseph Koncul at the hiring hall in Jacksonville, Florida, on May 9. The two were classmates in Piney Point (No. 736) and have been close friends ever since. July 2019 �At Sea and Ashore with the SIU MILESTONES IN SAN JUAN – Steward department Seafarer Bernice Reyes (left) is pictured at the new hiring hall, proudly displaying her first vacation check and her first Maritime Defense League receipt after completing her initial voyage. Her next planned stop was the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center in Piney Point, Maryland, for upgrading training. Pictured at right is Port Agent Amancio Crespo. FULL BOOK IN PINEY – Chief Cook Luis Perez Acosta (left) receives his full membership book from Port Agent Victor Nunez in early May. The Seafarer was enrolled in the certified chief steward course at the union-affiliated Paul Hall Center. NEW CONTRACT APPROVED – Seafarers at the Association of Maryland Pilots have unanimously approved a new five-year contract featuring wage increases, seniority bonuses and per-diem gains. Pictured recently at the Solomons Island station are (from left) members Adam Xenides and Kevin Kuhne, and Port Agent Victor Nunez. Xenides is the shop delegate. ABOARD WEST VIRGINIA – Pictured recently on the Crowley tanker in Houston are (from left) Patrolman Kelly Krick and Recertified Bosun John Cedeno. July 2019 ABOARD SAFMARINE NGAMI – Pictured from left are AB Saidu Sesay, AB Orlando Da Cruz, Bosun Leroy Sierra, AB Roberto Flores and AB Ron Ramos. Their chief mate submitted the photo in early June and noted, “I’ve been sailing master and mate for almost 20 years. This is one of the most productive teams I’ve encountered.” The vessel is operated by Maersk Line, Limited. DELIVERING FOOD AID – Bosun Jerrold Foke submitted these photos of fellow Seafarers aboard the Crowley-operated Ocean Glory. The snapshots were taken in April while the heavy lift ship was in Djibouti, delivering U.S. food aid (wheat grain) ultimately bound for Yemen. Pictured at the gangway (above, left) is AB Daniel Mensah. AB Lomarro West is shown in the photo at center, while the photo at right features Chief Steward Johnny Palencia. TAKING THE OATH IN HOUSTON – AB Nexlon Colon Diego (right) is sworn in for his full B-book by Patrolman J.B. Niday at the hiring hall in late May. Seafarers LOG 11 �Rear Adm. Margaret Kibben (USN, Ret.) Rear Adm. Mark Buzby (USN, Ret.) Maritime Administrator Gen. Stephen Lyons, USA Commander, USTRANSCOM Jennifer Boykin, President Newport News Shipbuilding Rear Adm. Timothy Gallaudet, Ph.D. (USN, Ret.) Deputy NOAA Administrator SIU Celebrates National Maritime Day in Nation’s Capital T he SIU made a typically strong showing for this year’s National Maritime Day observance in the nation’s capital. Union officials and an enthusiastic group of apprentices from the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education – two of whom played key roles in the ceremony – were on hand at Department of Transportation (DOT) headquarters for the annual gathering May 22. The SIU contingent included President Michael Sacco, Executive Vice President Augie Tellez, Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel, Vice President Contracts George Tricker, Vice President Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski and Port Agent Victor Nunez. Paul Hall Center Apprentice Shannon Gail Peterson served as the official wreath-tender while fellow Apprentice Charles Patchin sounded eight bells, consistent with tradition. Hosted by the DOT’s Maritime Administration, the ceremony drew hundreds of people from all segments of the industry. This year’s theme was “Empowering Women in the Maritime Community.” Speakers were (in order) Deputy Maritime Administrator Richard Balzano (master of ceremonies); Rear Adm. Margaret Kibben, USN (Ret), who also gave the invocation; Maritime Administrator Rear Adm. Mark Buzby, USN (Ret); Gen. Stephen Lyons, USA, commander of the U.S. Transportation Command; Rear Adm. Timothy Gallaudet, Ph.D., USN (Ret), assistant secretary of commerce for oceans and atmosphere and deputy NOAA administrator; Jennifer Boykin (keynote), president, Newport News Shipbuilding; and The Hon. Jenniffer Gonzalez Colon, commissioner, Puerto Rico. Awards were presented to: Capt. Arthur R. Murray Jr. for his service as a merchant mariner during World War II; Andrew Bouchot of the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, who saved the life of a stowaway while training at sea; and Catherine Morrison, a real-life “Rosie the Riveter” who worked as a welder during World War II. The administration also showed a video highlighting the historic role women have played in various components of the American maritime industry. The speakers covered an array of maritime topics. In addition to remarks consistent with this year’s theme, many also reinforced the ongoing, indispensable role of the U.S. Merchant Marine as America’s fourth arm of defense. Several recognized the Paul Hall Center apprentices and thanked them for attending. Buzby during his remarks relayed greetings from Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao, a maritime stalwart who was in Germany that day. He continued, “As we celebrate our industry today, I salute all the women from the maritime industry, afloat and ashore, who continue to make a difference…. Maritime Day celebrates our indispensable industry and commemorates a historic yet largely forgotten technological achievement: the first trans-Atlantic crossing of a ship under steam power, the SS Savannah. Its voyage from Savannah, Georgia, to Liverpool, England, that took place began on May 22, 1819, and marked the passing of the era of sail power and the coming of the first industrial age, which would transform the speed of commerce and the entire nature of naval warfare. That’s part of why Maritime Day is so important. It’s a time to honor those who served, too many of whom gave their lives as patriotic merchant mariners.” He said the day offers a chance “to pause to remind ourselves of just how critical maritime issues are to the security and prosperity of this island nation of ours – something that’s generally out of the public’s focus. It’s also up to us to ensure that there is always a new generation of American mariners prepared to relieve the watch. Jenniffer Gonzalez Colon Commissioner, Puerto Rico “Two centuries on from the historic cruise of the Savannah, America’s strength still rises and falls with the health of the maritime community,” Buzby concluded. “We will need it to meet the challenges ahead, and I have great confidence in the future because of the people here today.” Lyons opened his speech by “recognizing the hard-working men and women of the United States Merchant Marine and the maritime industry that have made and continue to make significant economic and national security contributions to the United States of America in peace time and war.” He recalled the crucial service of World War II mariners specifically and the U.S. Merchant Marine in general through the centuries, which he said “has made significant contributions to our nation’s survival.” Lyons noted that upwards of 9,000 civilian U.S. seamen died in World War II (including more than 1,200 SIU members), either during the formal hostilities or afterward as a result of injuries sustained. Continued on next page Paul Hall Center Apprentice Shannon Peterson carries a life ring, used this year in lieu of a wreath. SIU President Michael Sacco is at the right. From left: SIU President Michael Sacco, Exec. VP Augie Tellez, VP Great Lakes Tom Orzechowski and Secretary-Treasurer David Heindel stand for the Pledge of Allegiance. 12 Seafarers LOG The U.S. Coast Guard Ceremonial Honor Guard arrives. The U.S. Coast Guard Ceremonial Honor Guard posts the Colors. July 2019 July 2019 Paul Hall Center Apprentice Charles Patchin prepares to ring “eight bells.” Seafarers LOG 13 �President Trump Issues Proclamation for National Maritime Day 2019 On National Maritime Day, we honor the men and women who, throughout our history, have served with professionalism, dedication, and patriotism in the United States Merchant Marine. We recognize these seafaring merchant mariners for helping to fuel our economy, maintain our sea power, and support our national security. Merchant mariners extend goodwill into all parts of the world, serving as a peaceful United States presence on international waterways. Today, American mariners facilitate the import and export of billions of dollars of goods, including fuel, agricultural products, and raw materials through the Marine Transportation System. They are also among the first to respond to help their fellow citizens in the wake of national disasters. During times of war, merchant mariners courageously sail into combat zones to provide sealift for the Department of Defense, carrying weapons and supplies to America’s fighting forces. In every con- Event Theme Recognizes Importance of Empowering Women in Maritime Industry Continued from Page 13 “Fast forward to today,” he stated. “The DOD and TRANSCOM continue to depend on U.S.-flag merchant ships, their incredible trade networks, and our incredible mariners – exceptional mariners who sail. These ships that carry important exports in peace time rapidly transition to a Navy auxiliary in war time, delivering the vast majority of supplies and equipment to protect and sustain our military forces globally.” He described the merchant marine as “an essential part of our DOD war plan. This is why I remain a strong advocate of Administrator Buzby and MARAD’s selfless work to preserve emergency preparedness programs like VISA, and incentive programs like the Maritime Security Program. It’s vitally important to the United States of America to retain the viability of a fleet of ships that sail underneath the U.S. flag. This fleet provides assured access to the United States Transportation Command and the Department of Defense, and these programs and the work that MARAD does are critical to our national security.” He concluded, “To all the merchant mariners around the globe, thank you for your patriotism, for your support, and your unwavering commitment to defend our great nation. Together, we deliver.” Boykin, who overseas a union shipyard with 24,000 employees, discussed changing times in the maritime industry and how she recognizes the significance of having become the first woman president of Newport News Shipbuilding. “There’s never been a more exciting time to be a shipbuilder,” she said. “For the first time in over a decade, all of our available drydocks are full…. We have more work under contract than we’ve had in two decades.” (For ex- flict, United States citizen mariners have answered the call to duty and risked their lives. Some have sadly made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. Because the United States Merchant Marine plays a central role in bringing American goods to market and in bolstering our military readiness abroad, we must encourage more people to pursue career opportunities on America’s waterways and the oceans of the world. For this reason, I recently signed an Executive Order to help veterans of the Armed Forces transition seamlessly into civilian careers in the United States Merchant Marine by allowing them to apply relevant military training and experience toward becoming credentialed merchant mariners. This will help support a robust, well-equipped, and safe merchant fleet crewed by well-trained mariners. The Congress, by a joint resolution approved May 20, 1933, has designated May 22 of each year as “National Maritime Day” to commemorate the first ample, the yard recently signed a contract to build two aircraft carriers. That means 14 years’ worth of work, she explained.) Gonzalez-Colon saluted America’s rich maritime history and emphasized the reliable service provided by Jones Act ships to Puerto Rico. She recalled Hurricane Maria and credited the domestic maritime industry for timely delivery of all the supplies needed to survive and rebuild. She said it was a transoceanic voyage by a steamship in 1819 by the S.S. Savannah. By this resolution, the Congress has authorized and requested the President to issue annually a proclamation calling for its appropriate observance. NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim May 22, 2019, as National Maritime Day. I call upon the people of the United States to mark this observance and to display the flag of the United States at their homes and in their communities. I also request that all ships sailing under the American flag dress ship on that day. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twentieth day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand nineteen, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-third. DONALD J. TRUMP “lifeline” and that the “American shipping industry” made recovery possible. Domestic maritime is “a loyal, dependable partner” with the territory, she stated. Gallaudet, a Navy veteran, recalled serving on an aircraft carrier during Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom. “We could have done none of that without the sealift and supplies from our merchant marine,” he said. Catherine Morrison (second from right), age 95, worked as a welder during World War II to support the war effort. She’s pictured with (from left) Gen. Lyons, Jennifer Boykin and Maritime Administrator Buzby. SIU VP Contracts George Tricker (standing, center) and SIU Piney Point Port Agent Victor Nunez (standing, left) chat with Paul Hall Center apprentices before the ceremony. 14 Seafarers LOG July 2019 �Urgent Notice/Reminder Culinary 2.0 Training Available at Paul Hall Center As previously reported, the SIU-affiliated Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education continues to offer Culinary 2.0 classes designed to help students boost their skills while complying with a new rule that takes effect next year. Completing the coursework also is intended to aid individual shipping opportunities. Shipping Rule 5.A.(6), which will go into effect January 1, 2020, states, “Within each class of seniority 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 remember 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 (unless 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 employment 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 culinary training and efficiency: Orientation/ 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 encouraged to plan ahead and enroll as soon as possible. For more information, contact your port agent and/ or the school’s admissions office. Correction An article in the June LOG misidentified the union affiliation of Christopher Kalinowski. He’s a member of the International Organization of Masters, Mates and Pilots (MM&P). July & August 2019 Membership Meetings Piney Point........................................Monday: July 8, August 5 Algonac.............................................Friday: July 12, August 9 Baltimore.......................................Thursday: July 11, August 8 Guam............................................Thursday: July 25, August 22 Honolulu...........................................Friday: July 19, August 16 Houston............................................Monday: July 15, August 12 Jacksonville....................................Thursday: July 11, August 8 Joliet.............................................Thursday: July 18, August 15 Mobile......................................Wednesday: July 17, August 14 New Orleans....................................Tuesday: July 16, August 13 Jersey City........................................Tuesday: July 9 , August 6 Norfolk...........................................Thursday: July 11, August 8 Oakland........................................Thursday: July18, August 15 Dispatchers’ Report for Deep Sea May 16, 2019 - June 15, 2019 San Juan..........................................Thursday: July 11, August 8 St. Louis............................................Friday: July 19, August 16 Tacoma.............................................Friday: July 26, August 23 Wilmington........................................Monday: July 22, August 19 Each port’s meeting starts at 10:30 a.m ATTENTION SEAFARERS Contribute To The Seafarers Political Activities Donation SPAD Works For You. July 2019 Total Shipped All Groups A B Port Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Deck Department 18 6 1 11 6 0 5 29 12 2 4 1 1 1 0 1 2 5 2 2 7 4 1 1 3 0 1 8 4 2 27 15 3 18 10 1 10 35 20 6 1 0 0 1 0 0 0 4 0 0 13 3 2 4 5 1 3 22 4 3 6 7 1 3 5 0 2 15 6 1 46 20 13 42 24 6 29 93 35 17 33 19 6 23 19 1 20 54 28 10 39 10 4 25 11 3 13 61 14 8 3 3 0 2 3 1 0 4 4 1 11 10 2 7 5 1 6 17 9 4 25 10 5 15 9 6 13 43 18 19 15 3 4 7 5 1 7 18 4 5 1 4 0 1 4 0 2 4 2 1 4 6 1 4 3 0 4 4 7 1 8 2 1 4 0 0 3 16 8 2 20 11 5 20 12 2 18 55 14 5 2 0 2 2 0 2 2 3 2 2 30 10 6 17 8 1 13 53 21 11 313 144 58 208 132 27 153 543 214 102 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Engine Department 2 0 4 0 0 2 0 5 0 2 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 2 1 0 2 2 1 5 3 0 2 4 3 1 9 11 1 6 9 0 7 15 12 1 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 2 0 1 5 0 4 1 0 3 4 5 0 5 6 1 8 2 1 1 15 7 2 20 9 4 11 6 2 9 34 13 5 22 14 2 10 7 1 10 31 26 3 12 6 2 8 7 0 7 20 8 2 2 0 1 1 0 0 2 3 1 3 4 4 1 3 8 0 1 5 3 3 15 13 9 16 13 4 11 21 14 9 4 6 1 6 0 0 3 10 7 3 3 2 1 1 3 0 1 2 2 1 4 3 0 2 2 0 1 2 3 0 3 5 0 4 1 0 2 9 8 0 11 7 2 9 4 0 3 28 8 2 3 0 0 1 1 1 0 3 3 0 10 10 2 7 7 2 7 21 15 4 133 105 32 102 75 13 70 235 141 41 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Steward Department 4 0 0 0 0 0 0 7 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 1 0 0 1 2 4 0 7 2 0 7 1 0 7 16 5 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 1 0 5 2 2 3 1 1 2 8 1 1 9 1 1 4 0 0 2 22 0 1 20 4 1 18 5 1 9 38 4 2 22 9 0 17 7 0 9 32 18 1 7 1 1 10 0 2 2 16 4 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 2 2 0 3 0 0 2 7 5 0 10 6 3 11 8 1 5 22 9 5 15 5 1 11 3 1 5 34 4 0 3 0 0 1 0 0 0 6 0 0 2 3 3 0 1 3 2 3 4 0 2 1 0 0 3 0 2 7 5 0 11 0 2 7 2 1 5 16 8 3 2 0 1 1 0 0 0 3 0 1 11 7 1 10 3 0 7 35 25 2 133 46 16 104 34 10 60 276 98 20 Algonac Anchorage Baltimore Fort Lauderdale Guam Harvey Honolulu Houston Jacksonville Jersey City Joliet Mobile Norfolk Oakland Philadelphia Piney Point Puerto Rico Tacoma St. Louis Wilmington TOTALS Entry Department 2 6 16 1 3 9 1 4 10 13 1 3 0 0 0 0 0 1 7 1 0 0 2 0 0 2 1 0 1 2 0 3 2 0 3 2 2 0 6 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 1 1 2 3 0 1 0 0 1 5 4 0 6 2 1 3 2 1 0 9 2 2 14 11 1 6 4 4 5 26 15 1 24 25 1 21 14 6 2 40 43 0 19 8 2 10 6 2 0 27 11 0 1 2 0 0 1 0 0 2 1 1 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 15 25 0 11 27 4 0 26 35 1 12 10 2 4 5 7 4 24 12 0 1 1 0 1 1 0 1 1 0 0 3 0 0 2 2 3 0 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 2 2 0 0 2 10 10 4 6 0 2 7 17 19 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 1 16 11 4 12 4 5 3 40 24 13 136 128 17 83 81 40 31 243 187 GRAND TOTAL: 592 431 234 431 324 131 323 1,085 696 350 C Trip Reliefs Registered on Beach All Groups A B C Philadelphia................................Wednesday: July 10, August 7 Port Everglades.............................Thursday: July 18, August 15 Total Registered A All Groups B C Seafarers LOG 15 �Seafarers International Union Directory 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 Inquiring Seafarer This month’s question was answered by members of the most recent class of recertified stewards. Question: Why did you join the SIU, and why have you remained with the union? Frank Ramones Recertified Steward I joined the SIU because of the opportunities that I got. I was able to send my daughter to graduate school, thanks to the economic stability afforded by the union. Plus, I travel the world for free! I enjoy everything this organization has done for me. Robert Owens Recertified Steward After a 10-year stint in the Navy, I wanted more adventure. I’ve traveled to all parts of the world thanks to the SIU. The union has provided me and my family a most beautiful life, and joining has been one of the best decisions I’ve made. Rocky Dupraw Recertified Steward My parents decided to send my younger brother to Piney Point, and asked if I wanted to go. It was the best decision I’ve ever made. The SIU has provided my family and me with a better quality of life. Angela Robertson Recertified Steward I decided to join the union to travel, and meet people from different parts of the world. Continuing to travel and meet new people keeps me sailing SIU. Fakhruddin Malahi Recertified Steward I joined the union in 1998 in San Francisco, and joined the steward department. I started from the bottom, and built my way up to recertified steward. The SIU is a great union, and works with the best maritime school in the U.S. Ali Munsar Recertified Steward I joined the union because my dad was in the union, and he told me how nice it was to go to sea, and that was the truth. I love it, and I am going to get my kids to join the union. I want to thank everyone in the union for everything you’ve done for me. 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 Pics From The Past 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 These 1984 photos were taken during and after the SS Inger paid off in New Jersey. The inset features then-SIU Representative Kermett Mangram (now a retired VP). The larger image shows Bosun Stanley Jandora and his wife “happily reunited,” according to the original caption. 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 16 Seafarers LOG July 2019 �Welcome Ashore 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 waterways 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. DEEP SEA AUBREY BENJAMIN Brother Aubrey Benjamin, 65, signed on with the Seafarers in 1997, initially sailing with Crowley Towing and Transportation. A member of the deck department, he last worked with Maersk Line, Limited when he sailed on the Constellation. Brother Benjamin makes his home in San Diego. MICHAEL BREWLEY Brother Michael Brewley, 71, became a member of the union in 1974 when he shipped on the Arizpa. He primarily sailed in the deck department and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Brewley most recently sailed on the Maersk Memphis. He resides in Bayonne, New Jersey. LAWRENCE CLINE Brother Lawrence Cline, 65, joined the SIU in 1975, first sailing on the Arecibo. He sailed in all three departments and upgraded on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Cline last shipped on the Voyager and lives in Ashford, Washington. JOAQUIM FIGUEIREDO Brother Joaquim Figueiredo, 68, began sailing with the union in 2003, first shipping on the Maersk Maine. In 2010, he enhanced his skills by upgrading at the Piney Point school. A member of the engine department, Brother Figueiredo most recently sailed aboard the Maersk Columbus. He calls Palm Coast, Florida, home. KEVIN GIBBONS Brother Kevin Gibbons, 65, embarked on his SIU career in 1978. His first ship was the Santa Maria and he sailed in both the deck and steward departments. Brother Gibbons concluded his career sailing on the Reliance. He resides in San Francisco. DANIEL HAEGELE Brother Daniel Haegele, 66, joined July 2019 the union in 1991 when he sailed on the USNS Tenacious. He was a deck department member and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Haegele’s last vessel was the Balboa. He calls Woodbury, Minnesota, home. RICHARD HICKS Brother Richard Hicks, 63, donned the SIU colors in 1976, initially sailing aboard the Sealand Resource. A steward department member, he upgraded on numerous occasions at the maritime training center located in Piney Point, Maryland. Brother Hicks most recently sailed on the Maersk Columbus. He resides in West Palm Beach, Florida. DONALD HUFFMAN Brother Donald Huffman, 65, became an SIU member in 1978 when he shipped on the Pisces. He was a member of the steward department and upgraded on several occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Huffman last shipped on the Green Lake. He lives in Jacksonville, Florida. LEROY JENKINS Brother Leroy Jenkins, 71, signed on with the SIU in 1968 and first sailed on the La Salle. He upgraded often at the Paul Hall Center and sailed in all three departments. Brother Jenkins most recently sailed aboard the Cape Island. He makes his home in Tacoma, Washington. JOHN MCMURTRAY Brother John McMurtray, 65, embarked on his career with the SIU in 1979 when he sailed on the Arecibo. A deck department member, he upgraded on multiple occasions at the union-affiliated Piney Point school. Brother McMurtray last sailed aboard the Beaver State. He resides in St. Helens, Oregon. FRANCISCO RAMILO Brother Francisco Ramilo, 69, became a member of the union in 2003, initially sailing aboard the Cape Horn. An engine department member, he upgraded his skills on several occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Ramilo most recently sailed on the Pennsylvania. He makes his home in College Station, Texas. DEREK ROSS Brother Derek Ross, 65 joined the Seafarers in 1992. His first vessel was the USNS Denebola and he primarily sailed in the deck department. Brother Ross enhanced his skills in 1999 when he upgraded at the Paul Hall Center. He last shipped on the Maersk Denver before settling in Brooklyn, New York. AHMED SHARIF Brother Ahmed Sharif, 67, signed on with the SIU in 1982, initially sailing aboard the Maunalei. He was a steward department member and upgraded at the Piney Point school on numerous occasions. Brother Sharif most recently sailed aboard the John Boland before settling in Dearborn, Michigan. ROBERT TANAKA Brother Robert Tanaka, 65, began his career with the Seafarers in 1980, first sailing on the Oceanic Independence. He shipped as a steward department member and last sailed on the Independence in 1992. Brother Tanaka is a Las Vegas resident. EMMANUEL WABE Brother Emmanuel Wabe, 67, donned the SIU colors in 1993 when he sailed on the Global Mariner. A member of the deck department, he upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Wabe most recently sailed on the Corsica. He makes his home in Baltimore. GREAT LAKES ROSS WAISANEN Brother Ross Waisanen, 65, started shipping with the union in 1996, initially sailing on the Steel T. Crapo. The deck department member enhanced his skills in 2005 when he upgraded at the Paul Hall Center. He last shipped on the John Boland and resides in Minneapolis, Minnesota. INLAND STEPHEN HATHORN Brother Stephen Hathorn, 62, began sailing with the SIU in 1976 when he worked for Crescent Towing and Salvage. A deck department member, he remained with the same company for the duration of his career. Brother Hathorn makes his home in Kenner, Louisiana. PETER MADDEN the SIU colors in 1978 when he sailed with Hvide Marine. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded often at the Piney Point school. Brother Madden most recently shipped aboard the Liberty and resides in Virginia Beach, Virginia. ROBERT MCDERMOTT Brother Robert McDermott, 65, signed on with the union in 1979, initially working for G&H Towing. He sailed in the deck department and upgraded on multiple occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother McDermott concluded his career with Moran Towing of Texas in 1992 and lives in Anahuac, Texas. JAMES NEWCOMB Brother James Newcomb, 65, joined the SIU in 1971, sailing first on the Wacosta. He sailed in both the deck and engine departments and upgraded at the Piney Point school in 1978. Brother Newcomb was last employed with Atlantic Towing. He resides in Virginia Beach, Virginia. MANUEL PIMENTEL Brother Manuel Pimentel, 62, became a member of the SIU in 1977 when he worked for Crowley Puerto Rico Services. He was a member of the deck department and upgraded at the Paul Hall Center in 1979. Brother Pimentel worked for the same company for the duration of his career. He lives in Tampa, Florida. ANTHONY PRIMEAUX Brother Anthony Primeaux, 62, donned the SIU colors in 1975, first shipping with Higman Barge Lines. A deck department member, he continued his employment with the same company for his entire career. Brother Primeaux calls Lufkin, Texas, home. RAYMOND RICHARDSON Brother Raymond Richardson, 59, started sailing with the SIU in 1981, initially working for Red Circle Transport. He upgraded at the unionaffiliated Piney Point school on multiple occasions and was a member of the deck department. Brother Richardson most recently shipped with Crowley Towing and Transportation before settling in White Springs, Florida. GEORGE ULLYOT Brother George Ullyot, 66, embarked on his career with the Seafarers in 1973, sailing first with McAllister Towing of Philadelphia. A deck department member, he upgraded on multiple occasions at the Piney Point school. Brother Ullyot was last employed by Mariner Towing. He resides in Waterford, New Jersey. STEVEN WOODS Brother Steven Woods, 61, began shipping with the SIU in 1996, initially working for Crescent Towing and Salvage. He sailed in both the engine and deck departments and upgraded on numerous occasions at the Paul Hall Center. Brother Woods continued to work for the same company throughout his career. He lives in Foley, Alabama. JOHN ZENTS Brother John Zents, 64, joined the SIU in 1974 when he worked for Moran Towing of Maryland. He sailed in the engine department and remained with the same company for his entire career. Brother Zents makes his home in Baltimore. NMU RODOLFO AGUSTIN Brother Rodolfo Agustin, 65, signed on with the union in 2001. He sailed with the NMU prior to the SIU/NMU merger. Brother Agustin sailed in the engine department. He is a resident of Chula Vista, California. JOEL EDWARDS Brother Joel Edwards, 66, became a member of the SIU in 2001 during the SIU/NMU merger. He was an engine department member and first sailed aboard the Cape Horn. Brother Edwards’ last vessel was the Maersk Nebraska. He is a resident of Brooklyn, New York. PILAR HERNANDEZ Brother Pilar Hernandez, 79, joined the SIU in 2001 during the SIU/NMU merger. He was a deck department member and last sailed aboard the Argonaut. Brother Hernandez lives in Catano, Puerto Rico. Brother Peter Madden, 62, donned Seafarers LOG 17 �Final Departures DEEP SEA PATRICK CARROLL Brother Patrick Carroll, 51, died May 5. He joined the SIU in 1991, sailing first on the Gus W. Darnell. An engine department member, Brother Carroll last sailed aboard the Mykonos. He made his home in Cypress, Texas. ELEX CARY Pensioner Elex Cary, 85, passed away May 31. He became an SIU member in 1966 when he sailed aboard the Mt. Vernon Victory. A deck department member, Brother Cary last sailed on the Enterprise. He went on pension in 1998 and lived in Milpitas, California. RICKEY CAVENDER Pensioner Rickey Cavender, 62, died May 15. Signing on with the Seafarers in 1970, Brother Cavender first shipped with Michigan Tankers. He was a member of the engine department and last sailed aboard the Thompson Pass. Brother Cavender started collecting his pension in 2007 and called San Pedro, California, home. EUGENE CIPULLO Pensioner Eugene Cipullo, 89, passed away April 8. He started sailing with the SIU in 1969 when he shipped on the Red Arrow. An engine department member, Brother Cipullo last sailed aboard the John Paul Bobo. He retired in 1994 and settled in Largo, Florida. ROY CONN Pensioner Roy Conn, 80, died April 27. He began his career with the SIU in 1992, initially sailing aboard the USNS Assertive. Brother Conn shipped in the deck department and last sailed on the Jack Lummus. He became a pensioner in 2006 and resided in Fort Worth, Texas. 18 Seafarers LOG GARY DOYEN Pensioner Gary Doyen, 76, passed away May 18. He signed on with the Seafarers in 1967, initially sailing on the Commander. An engine department member, Brother Doyen last sailed aboard the Horizon Consumer. He began collecting his pension in 2007 and made his home in Downey, California. SAMUEL ESHUN Brother Samuel Eshun, 69, died May 6. Born in Ghana, he became an SIU member in 2004. Brother Eshun’s first vessel was the Cape Diamond. He shipped in all three departments and most recently sailed on the Maersk Sentosa. He called East Orange, New Jersey, home. ALFONSO GARCIA Pensioner Alfonso Garcia, 74, passed away May 9. He joined the union in 1985 when he sailed aboard the Constitution. A deck department member, Brother Garcia last sailed on the Endurance. He became a pensioner in 2010 and lived in Pico Rivera, California. JOHN HOPKINS Brother John Hopkins, 92, died March 27. Born in Oklahoma, he donned the SIU colors in 1979 when he shipped on the President Adams. Brother Hopkins worked in the steward department and last sailed aboard the Rover in 1999. He lived in Portland, Oregon. RAYMOND JONES Pensioner Raymond Jones, 71, passed away May 17. He signed on with the SIU in 1969, initially sailing on the Hattiesburg Victory. Brother Jones was a steward department member and concluded his career on the Richard G. Matthiesen. He retired in 2008 and settled in Haines City, Florida. CLIFTON MAINERS Pensioner Clifton Mainers, 96, died May 22. He joined the union in 1955 when he worked for Z Maritime Operations. An engine department member, Brother Mainers last sailed aboard the Puerto Rico. He retired in 1982 and lived in Pinson, Tennessee. JOAQUIN PASSAPERA Pensioner Joaquin Passapera, 78, passed away June 5. He began his career with the SIU in 1962, initially working with Waterman Steamship Corporation. Brother Passapera sailed in the deck department. He last shipped on the Perseverance before retiring in 1999. Brother Passapera was a resident of Humacao, Puerto Rico. LAWRENCE ROSE Pensioner Lawrence Rose, 84, died March 29. Initially sailing on the Cape Horn, he joined the SIU in 1990. Brother Rose was an engine department member and last sailed on the Harry Martin. He went on pension in 2005 and made his home in Melbourne, Florida. KYLE SCHULTZ Pensioner Kyle Schultz, 59, passed away June 8. He donned the SIU colors in 1978, first sailing on the Great Land. Brother Schultz was a deck department member. He last shipped on the Ocean Crescent and became a pensioner in 2016. Brother Schultz resided in Livingston, Texas. WILLIAM WILLIAMS Pensioner William Williams, 77, died June 3. He joined the union in 1964, initially sailing with McAllister Towing of Virginia. Brother Williams primarily sailed in the engine department and concluded his career on the Stonewall Jackson. He went on pension in 2006 and settled in Dupont, Louisiana. HOWARD YAEKEL Pensioner Howard Yaekel, 78, died May 15. Born in Brooklyn, New York, he became an SIU member in 1961. Brother Yaekel was a deck department member and first shipped on the Steel Artisan. He retired in 2001 after sailing on his final vessel, the Quality. Brother Yaekel lived in Deerfield Beach, Florida. GREAT LAKES DONALD GIMPEL Pensioner Donald Gimpel, 84, passed away April 13. He embarked on his SIU career in 1967, when he worked for Price Brothers. Brother Gimpel was last employed with Great Lakes Towing before his retirement in 2001. He resided in Duluth, Minnesota. MERTON LYONS Pensioner Merton Lyons, 92, died June 7. He joined the Seafarers in 1963 and first sailed with Inland Lakes Management. Brother Lyons was a deck department member. He concluded his career on the Steel T. Crapo and became a pensioner in 1992. Brother Lyons made his home in Alpena, Michigan. INLAND JOHN DANIELS Pensioner John Daniels, 76, passed away April 24. He joined the SIU in 1961 when he shipped with Interstate Oil. Brother Daniels last worked for IBC Company before going on pension in 2005. He was a resident of Belhaven, North Carolina. WILLIAM MEYER Pensioner William Meyer, 70, died May 16. He started his career with the Seafarers in 1985 when he worked for Sheridan Transportation. Brother Meyer sailed in the deck department and remained with the same company for the duration of his career. He became a pensioner in 2011 and resided in Dania Beach, Florida. TED MILLIGAN Pensioner Ted Milligan, 86, died April 13. He signed on with the union in 1961, initially sailing with Bethlehem Steel. Brother Milligan last sailed aboard the Lemmerhirt. He became a pensioner in 1995 and lived in Brimley, Michigan. ANTHONY NOCELLA Pensioner Anthony Nocella, 91, passed away May 18. He began sailing with the SIU in 1961 when he worked for P.F. Martin. Brother Nocella last shipped with McAllister Towing of Philadelphia. He retired in 1989 and settled in Haddonfield, New Jersey. WILLIAM SHUBERT Pensioner William Shubert, 87, died May 19. He embarked on SIU career in 1973 when he worked for National Marine Service. Brother Shubert was a deck department member. He continued to work for the same company until he became a pensioner in 1994. Brother Shubert lived in Bessemer City, North Carolina. JAMES WOODS Pensioner James Woods, 65, passed away May 19. He joined the union in 1994, first working for Piney Point Transportation. Brother Woods worked in the engine department and last sailed with Allied Transportation. He went on pension in 2012 and made his home in Charlotte County, Virginia. NMU GEORGE MORAN Pensioner George Moran, 84, died May 2. Born in Baltimore, he was an NMU member before the 2001 SIU/NMU merger. Brother Moran began collecting his pension in 1990 and was a resident of Jacksonville, Florida. EDWARD QUIGLEY Pensioner Edward Quigley, 76, passed away May 16. He sailed with the NMU prior to the 2001 merger with Seafarers International Union. He retired in 1999 and lived in Plymouth, Massachusetts. FRANCIS WOJCIK Pensioner Francis Wojcik, 86, died May 19. Born in Maryland, he shipped as a member of the NMU before the SIU/NMU merger. Brother Wojcik became a pensioner in 1993 and resided in Bel Air, Maryland. In addition to the foregoing individuals, the following union members have also passed away. Insufficient information was available to develop summaries of their respective careers. Name Age Aguilar, Donald 82 Alonzo, Julio 98 Burton, Earl 91 Chisholm, Davis 77 Cross, Alvin 79 Cruz, Jaime 99 Gaines, Paul 90 Garcia, Francisco 96 Gibbs, Arthur 90 Goodo, Henry 85 Konieczny, Peter 92 Ladd, Leon 86 Thompson, Roland 78 DOD 06/07/2019 06/24/2018 05/18/2019 07/18/2018 05/24/2019 05/27/2019 05/16/2019 05/06/2019 06/01/2019 06/05/2019 05/17/2019 04/12/2019 05/26/2019 July 2019 �Digest of Shipboard Union Meetings ENDURANCE (TOTE), March 14 – Chairman Dominic Marco, Secretary Robert Davis, Deck Delegate Richard Grubbs, Engine Delegate Benjamin Stanley, Steward Delegate Sandra Vann. Crew discussed old business including December visit from SIU representative during vessel’s last arrival in Jacksonville, Florida. Union representative found no issues. Chairman went over new working rules regarding duties assigned while on watch. Duties will be assigned as master deems necessary and during regular shift, not overtime. Secretary advised members to use ship computer to get on SIU website to find new postings regarding jobs, medical requirements, or documentation. He reminded crew to replace linen when leaving the vessel. Educational director urged members to check expiration dates of documents and to upgrade often at Piney Point. Crew brainstormed ways to spend ship’s fund and mentioned purchasing two bicycles and tire repair kits. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Members ask for company provided work gear or reimbursement for work gear. Crew noted lack of Wi-Fi availability. Members requested upgrades to computers and entertainment system. Steward department was thanked for a job well done. Members expressed gratitude to counter staff at hiring halls. Next port: Corpus Christi, Texas. USNS STOCKHAM (Crowley), March 16 – Chairman Munassar Ahmed, Secretary Shanita Flachbart, Educational Director Randy Slue, Deck Delegate Ethan Mims. Chairman advised crew to have all current documents and shipping cards upon arrival to vessel. Secretary reminded members to wipe their feet when entering the house. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew discussed travel reimbursements, The Seafarers LOG attempts to print as many digests of union shipboard minutes as possible. On occasion, because of space limitations, some will be omitted. Ships’ minutes first are reviewed by the union’s contract department. Those issues requiring 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. ventilation repairs and costs of transporting baggage to vessel. They requested new contents for vending machine as well as a new coffee maker. Crew requested new washing machine, microwaveable covers for plates, and bikes to ride to and from gate. Members would like fewer days to be required in order to qualify for pension. Next port: South Korea. Celebrating New Tonnage HORIZON RELIANCE (Pasha), April 6 – Chairman Kissinfor Taylor, Secretary Mark Cabasag, Educational Director Jason Powell. Chairman discussed new policy regarding random drug testing. Secretary suggested crew renew their documents six months ahead of expiration. He reminded everyone to keep rooms clean for oncoming crew. Educational director encouraged members to upgrade at Piney Point. No beefs or disputed OT reported. HORIZON PACIFIC (Pasha), April 9 – Chairman Daniel Ticer, Secretary Donald Irvine, Educational Director Thomas Flynn, Deck Delegate Antjuan Webb, Steward Delegate Mercurion Abuan. Chairman commended crew for a job well done bringing the ship out of the yard. Educational director reminded members of necessary LNG course for new generation ships and encouraged them to upgrade at the Paul Hall Center. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Crew requests availability of satellite and Wi-Fi aboard ship. Members were thanked for cleaning up the ship safely. Next Port: Oakland, California. LIBERTY PASSION (Liberty Maritime), April 21 – Chairman David Campbell, Secretary Abraham Mills, Steward Delegate Nilsa Manaiza. Crew was thanked for a safe voyage. Ship payoff will be at next port. Steward department was thanked for keeping the The SIU helped welcome Matson’s new containership Kaimana Hila on May 3 during a reception in Seattle. Pictured from left are ACU Saleh Sewileh, SIU VP West Coast Nick Marrone, Matson CEO Matt Cox, Shoregang Bosun Steve Ackley, Chief Cook Alberto Insong and SIU Port Agent Warren Asp. ship clean and for their cooperation. No beefs or disputed OT reported. Chairman encouraged crew to go to SIU meetings for updated information. Members expressed gratitude to SIU President Mike Sacco for a great job leading the way to excellent contract. Crew requested pensioners be given a cost of living increase every two years. They would like an increase in vacation pay and vacation days. Members request availability of Wi-Fi and satellite phone on ship. Replacement DVD player needed for crew. Vote of thanks given to steward department for good food. Next Port: Freeport, Texas. Know Your Rights FINANCIAL REPORTS. The Constitution of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District makes specific provision for safeguarding the membership’s money and union finances. The constitution requires a detailed audit by certified public accountants every year, which is to be submitted to the membership by the 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 recommendations. Members of this committee may make dissenting reports, specific recommendations and separate findings. TRUST FUNDS. All trust funds of the SIU Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District are administered in accordance with the provisions 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 disbursements of trust funds are made only upon approval 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 shipping rights and seniority are protected exclusively 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 employers, they should notify the Seafarers Appeals Board by certified mail, return receipt July 2019 requested. The proper address for this is: Augustin Tellez, Chairman Seafarers Appeals Board 5201 Auth Way Camp Springs, MD 20746 Full copies of contracts as referred to are available to members at all times, either by writing directly to the union or to the Seafarers 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 filing 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 SEAFARERS LOG. The Seafarers LOG traditionally has refrained from publishing any article serving the political purposes of any individual in the union, officer or member. It also has refrained from publishing articles deemed harmful 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 responsibility for Sea­farers 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 OBLIGATIONS. 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 headquarters. EQUAL RIGHTS. All members are guaranteed equal rights in employment and as members of the SIU. These rights are clearly set forth in the SIU Constitution and in the contracts which the union has negotiated with the employers. Conse­quently, no member may be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, sex, national or geographic origin. If any member feels that he or she is denied the equal rights to which he or she is entitled, the member should notify union headquarters. SEAFARERS POLITICAL ACTIVITY DONATION (SPAD). SPAD is a separate segregated fund. Its proceeds are used to further its objects and purposes including, but not limited to, furthering the political, social and economic interests of maritime workers, the preservation and furthering of the American merchant marine with improved employment opportunities for seamen and boatmen and the advancement of trade union concepts. In connection with such objects, SPAD supports and contributes to political candidates for elective office. All contributions are voluntary. No contribution may be solicited or received because of force, job discrimination, financial reprisal, or threat of such conduct, or as a condition of membership in the union or of employment. If a contribution is made by reason of the above improper conduct, the member should notify the Seafarers International Union or SPAD by certified mail within 30 days of the contribution for investigation and appropriate action and refund, if involuntary. A member should support SPAD to protect 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 Michael 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. Seafarers LOG 19 �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 Title of Start Date of Course Date Completion Junior Engineer September 28 November 22 Machinist October 19 November 8 Deck Department Upgrading Courses Engine Department Upgrading Courses FOWT August 17 September 13 October 12 November 8 Marine Electrician August 10 October 4 Able Seafarer Deck August 17 September 13 Marine Refer Tech July 13 August 23 October 12 November 8 Pumpman July 20 July 26 AB to Mate Modules Modules must be taken in order. Those who November 9 November 15 are not in the mates program cannot apply for these courses. Contact the Admissions Welding July 20 August 9 Office for further details. August 17 September 6 ARPA September 28 October 4 Bosun Recertification July 20 August 5 Crane Familiarization October 5 October 11 ECDIS September 21 September 27 November 16 November 22 Fast Rescue Boat July 20 July 26 August 17 August 23 September 14 October 4 October 19 November 8 Steward Department Courses Advanced Galley Operations September 21 October 18 Certified Chief Cook Modules run every other week. The next class will start July 15. Chief Steward July 27 September 13 October 19 December 6 Galley Operations July 20 August 16 GMDSS July 20 August 2 September 14 October 11 August 31 September 13 Orientation/Assessment Chief Cook 2.0 July 20 July 26 Lifeboat July 27 August 9 August 3 August 9 August 24 September 6 September 21 October 4 Orientation/Assessment Chief Steward 2.0 July 13 July 19 October 19 November 1 July 27 August 2 November 16 November 29 December 14 December 27 Safety Upgrading Courses Radar Observer September 14 September 27 Basic Training/Basic FF July 13 July 19 July 27 August 2 Radar Renewal (one day) Contact the PHC Admissions Office RFPNW July 20 August 16 September 14 October 11 November 9 December 6 100 Ton Master September 7 September 27 Engine Department Upgrading Courses Advanced Refer Containers July 13 July 26 BAPO July 20 August 16 September 14 October 11 November 9 December 6 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 application, 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. 20 Seafarers LOG Basic Training Revalidation July 26 July 26 Basic Training/Adv. FF Revalidation September 14 September 20 Combined Basic/Advanced Firefighting August 17 August 23 Government Vessels July 27 August 2 August 17 August 23 Medical Care Provider August 24 August 30 Tank Ship Familiarization - DL July 27 August 2 Tank Ship Familiarization - LG July 20 July 26 COURSE ____________________________ ____________________________ START DATE _______________ _______________ DATE OF 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 students, 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. 7/19 July 2019 �Paul Hall Center Classes Apprentice Water Survival Class #848 – Graduated March 22 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Thomas Bateman, Roche Aurea Bonita, A’trenique Tramani Deamus, Jalen Jaquan Denson, Susha Dore, Jason Hill, Christian Kalinowski, Chauncey Kukahiko, Deshante Luchien, Tyler Maddox, Shawn McDowell, Corey Reseburg, Lydia Robinson, Randy Slue, Calvettta Taylor, Anthony Timmson-Brown and Joel Williams. Important Notice To All Students Students who have registered for classes at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, but later discover - for whatever reason - that they can’t attend, should inform the admissions department immediately so arrangements can be made to have other students take their places. Junior Engineer (Basic Refrigeration) – Graduated February 22 (above, in alphabetical order): Patrick Dean, Vincent Freeman, Deondre Gardner, Arvin Tarroza Heras and Yves Mbuiti Nsuami. Instructor Christopher Morgan is at the far right. RFPNW (Phase III) – Graduated March 1 (above, in alphabetical order): Steven Ellis Jr., Joshua Gail, Jamel Smith and Lucas Tiderman. Upon the completion of their training, each plans to work in the deck department of SIU-contracted vessels. BAPO (Phase III) – Graduated March 1 (above, in alphabetical order): William Alston III, Toren Bolden, Joshua Nino Bonita, Daveyon Burton, Micah Champion, Keilah Freeman, Marcel Gordon, Darius Jackson-Jordon, Dequan Joe, Brady Martin, Ivan Meza, Orion Milazzo, Kirk Puchert, Quinton Sashington, Betram Solomon Jr., Anias Stanford and Demario Walter. Each plans to work in the engine department aboard union-contracted vessels upon the completion of their training. July 2019 Seafarers LOG 21 �Paul Hall Center Classes Government Vessels – Graduated February 15 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): James Abilad, Barry Bettis, Roni Anival Castillo, Juan Amilcar Colon, Deirick Coltrane II, Daniel Davenport, Dominic Gilmartin, Eric Jackson, Mahare Kidane, Stephen Martin, Jeffrey Nicholson, Guiomar Rancel, Jameel Robinson, Ben Skuban and Eric Williams. (Note: Not all are pictured.) MSC Storekeeper – Graduated February 22 (above, in alphabetical order): Jason Bentz, Carlos Enrique Gibbons, Enchantress Charmaine Johnson, Paul Klear, Demarkus Antoine McNabb, Robert Resurreccion, Douglas Vaughn and Beverly Williams. Instructor Matthew Rogers is at the far left. Small Arms – Graduated February 15 (above, starting second from left): Brett Van Pelt, Abraham Dionela Tunguia and Will Jordan. Instructors John Thomas and Leonard Wayne Johnson Jr. are at the far left and far right, respectively. Tankship Familiarization DL – Graduated February 22 (photo at right, in alphabetical order): Barry Bettis, Joel Boyd, Roni Anival Castillo, Dominic Gilmartin, Maurice Henry Jr., Hussein Kareem Howe, Niven Hurlston, Eric Jackson, Christopher McAfee, Thomas McClure Jr., Jason Newsham, Jeffrey Nicholson, Atm Zahid Reza, Lamont Robinson, Darryl Roundtree, Wilson Ruiz, Tyler Unkle, Oscar Vencer, Travis Williams Sr., and Eric Williams. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Government Vessels – Graduated February 11 (above, in alphabetical order): Francisco Mecator Amada, Alex-Stephen Amarra, Jarrett Andrews Jr., Sandra Baker, Nahun Moises Bernardez Bernard, Albert Chandradat Bharrat, Jack Boscia, Charles Villamia Catunao, Richard Dogcio Digman, Danilo Cabrera Fullante, Tyrone Hernandez, Nadzeya Mikhailovna Kuptsova, Ruthellen McDonough, Jessie Azurin Parente, Kyle Parson, Rolly Aguilar Pascua, Casey Pearson, Antonio Rico Bragado, Wilson Ruiz, Jakeem Montreal-Rashad Simmons and Elston Sintok Yu-Mateo. 22 Seafarers LOG July 2019 �Paul Hall Center Classes SUA (Galley Operations) – Graduated October 5 (photo at left, in alphabetical order): Alexandra Erickson, Paisami Gay, Daniel Howard, Lamarai Jones, Shadonna Jones, EsStonia Moore, Eugenia Porter, Noah Susumu SantiagoBasic Self-Unloading – Graduated February Lareesa 8 (photo at left, in alphabetical Stephens, Warren, Jessica order): Desmon Graham, Maeen Abdulla Williams, Kendra and Jinah, Allen Ludlow,Williams Amer Mousa, Mo-Jarid hamed Omer, Tyrone Wilson and Husam Wilson. Ali Mohamed Yahya. Instructor Don Jaegle is at the far left. Advanced Self-Unloading – Graduated February 15 (above, in alphabetical order): Douglas Bellmore, Justin Bellmore, Allen Ludlow and Tyrone Simmons. Class instructor Don Jaegle is at the far right. BAPO – Graduated March 1 (above, in alphabetical order): Rodney Holmes, Joshua Kraynak, Lawrence Mills Jr., Tracy Mitchell Jr., Chanel Peters, Marcelino Jose Santos Bermeo and Jessica Valentin. (Note: Not all are pictured.) Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated March 1 (above, in alphabetical order): Christopher King, Antonio Mendez Cruz, Carlos Hugo Sanchez and Elston Sintok Yu-Mateo. Certified Chief Cook (Module 3) – Graduated February 22 (above, from left): John Kenneth De Borja Panuelos, Aaron Helton-Cox and Curtis Snow. July 2019 alphabetical order): Tommy BelWilliams. Galley Ops – Phase III Apprentice Myles Otis (above) graduated from this course March 1. Upon the completion of his training, he plans to work in the steward department of SIU-contracted vessels. Chief Steward 2.0 – Graduated February 8 (above, in alphabetical order): James Abilad, Sergio Nunez Castellanos, Oscar Anibal Gomez, Derrick Moore, Donald Spangler and Edward Echague Villanda. Seafarers LOG 23 Galley Operations – Graduated October 5 (above, from left): Stevon Taylor, Porcia Johnson and Tuliga Fuega. �VOLUME 81, NO. 7 JULY 2019 Paul Hall Center Class Photos Pages 21-23 O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E S E A F A R E R S I N T E R N AT I O N A L U N I O N AT 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 AT E R S , A F L- C I O The Gianella (left in photo at left) performs an historic underway replenishment in 1992 with the aircraft carrier USS Independence. In the photo above, the Gianella (right) assists the USCGC Polar Sea (left) on a supply mission to Antarctica in 2002. USNS Lawrence Gianella Completes Final Voyage The last of the T-5 petroleum tankers, the U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC)-owned, Ocean Ships-operated USNS Lawrence H. Gianella has completed its final mission for the U.S. Navy. The SIU-crewed vessel sailed to Norfolk, Virginia, as part of National Maritime Day, bringing the tanker’s storied history to a close. The vessel was crewed by SIU members in all three departments. The final crew of the USNS Gianella included Captain Robert J. Mills III, Chief Mate Robert Grove, 2nd Mate Tian Chi, 3rd Mate Dillon Davidson, 3rd Mate Jeffrey Harcq, Bosun Nicholas Hoffman, ABG Owen Hammond, ABG Lionel Hall, ABG Lloyd La Beach, ABG Matthew Furlong, ABG Adam Ropp, Chief Eng. Daniel Lee, 1st Asst. Engineer Jonathan Miller, 2nd Asst. Eng. Charlie Umali, Pumpman Richard Lawson, QMED Bernard Smalls, QMED Samuel Sanders Jr., DEU Eric Jackson, DEU Shawn Smith, Chief Steward Michael Sanders Jr., Chief Cook Linda McPhetridge, GSU Rhonda Williams and GSU Brandon E. Bob. ABG Hall remarked, “She was a great ship, and we’re sad to see her go. It’s weird being on a ship that’s about to get mothballed, sort of like putting a great old car out to pasture. We all figure with a spit shine and a fresh coat of paint, she’d be sailing another 40 years.” Chief Steward Sanders Jr. said that although the vessel’s service life is ending, “The galley was still nice. The galley and the mess halls were in great shape, not at all out of date.” Sanders added, “We were able to attend the Maritime Day event in Norfolk, Virginia, thanks to the company (Ocean Ships). That was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, to be there with the ship serving as the background, and see the vessel off.” Christened in 1986, the USNS Gianella’s primary role has been to perform point-to-point delivery of petroleum products to Department of Defense storage and distribution facilities worldwide. A 615-foot tanker, the Gianella had a capacity of 237,766 barrels and a top speed of 16 knots. “USNS Lawrence H. Gianella is the last and longest-serving U.S. government-owned champion class T-5 tanker,” said Matthew Sweeney, MSC tanker project officer. “As the longest-serving T-5 Tanker she moved more petroleum for the U.S. military than any other vessel in U.S. military history.” “USNS Lawrence H. Gianella was the last of five T-5 tankers built,” said Capt. Mills III, USNS Lawrence H. Gianella’s ship master since 1998. “The Gianella is a liaison between commercial petroleum terminals and Department of Defense fuel facilities around the world.” The other T-5 tankers in the U.S. Navy’s inventory were the SIU-crewed MV Gus. W. Darnell, USNS Paul Buck, USNS Richard G. Matthiesen and USNS Samuel L. Cobb. The vessel has a long and interesting history, all involving SIU crews since the ship was christened. The Gianella has provided direct support to U.S. troops in multiple wars, performed notable rescues at sea, and took part in almost countless military exercises. Additionally, “USNS Lawrence H. Gianella is fitted with reinforced framing on the hull which allowed us to sail through icy waters to support the annual resupply missions Operation Deep Freeze in Antarctica and Operation Pacer Goose at Thule Air Base, Greenland, in the Arctic,” said Mills. “We have supported a total of 11 of these missions.” The ship earned a passage in the U.S. military’s book of “first times” when a successful underway replenishment operation was completed with the aircraft carrier USS Independence in the Persian Gulf in 1992. The port-side-to-starboard-side fuel transfers while underway, which took place in late July, is believed to be the first time a civilian-operated tanker replenished a combatant ship of this class under operational conditions, according to a statement issued by the U.S. Navy’s chief of information. The Gianella was involved in a rescue in 2007, saving the lives of 13 Cuban refugees whose boat had suffered engine failure in the Gulf of Mexico. The rescued men and women were given medical attention, and fed and housed by the crew of the Gianella until they were transferred over to a Coast Guard boat. However, the vessel has primarily served in military operations throughout its history. It is capable of providing underway replenishmentat-sea services with combatants using the modular fuel distribution system (MFDS), according to Sweeney. “During the Iran-Iraq War in 1988, USNS Lawrence H. Gianella supported U.S. fleet and convoy operations in the Gulf of Oman and Persian Gulf by providing fuel consolidation CONSOL) support to MSC fleet oilers,” Sweeney said. “The ship also provided CONSOL and petroleum logistics support for Operation Desert Shield, Operation Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.” “While in the MSC inventory, USNS Lawrence H. Gianella has incurred minimal down time and its length of time in service is a testament to how well this ship was built,” said Mills. “We have typically been crewed by 23 civilian mariners and occasionally travel with two maritime academy cadets. “We, the crew of USNS Lawrence H. Gianella, feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to serve aboard this ship,” Mills concluded. “Serving aboard this ship has been very much like serving with family.” Upon deactivation, the USNS Lawrence H. Gianella will be placed in layup in coastal Texas. The final crew of the USNS Lawrence H. Gianella � Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Seafarers Log Issues 2010-2019 Description An account of the resource Volumes LXXII-LXXXI of the Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 2010-2019 Document A resource containing textual data. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre text. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource July 2019 Description An account of the resource Headlines: AMP UNDERSCORES MARITIME'S POSITIVE IMPACTS ON ALASKA, WASHINGTON STATE SIU MEMBERS RATIFY PENN MARITIME PACT SIU APPLAUDS LAUNCH OF 'MARITIME HEROES' BUILDING NAMED IN HONOR OF LATE SIU VP JOHN FAY NY WATERWAY CREW RESCUES HELICOPTER PILOT CONGRESSMAN BABIN BACKS JONES ACT COAST GUARD ISSUES NEW RADAR OBSERVER RULE SHBP AWARDS $132,000 IN SCHOLARSHIPS SIU ASST. VP CHESTER 'CHET' WHEELER RETIRES NATIONAL MARITIME DAY CELEBRATED COAST TO COAST USNS MAURY COMPLETES WHIRLWIND VOYAGE VIA PANAMA CANAL SIU CELEBRATES NATIONAL MARITIME DAY IN NATION'S CAPITAL CULINARY 2.0 AVAILABLE AT PAUL HALL CENTER USNS LAWRENCE GIANELLA COMPLETES FINAL VOYAGE Creator An entity primarily responsible for making the resource Seafarers Log Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Seafarers Log Digital Copies Publisher An entity responsible for making the resource available Seafarers International Union of North America Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 7/1/2019 Format The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource Newsprint Type The nature or genre of the resource Text Identifier An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context Vol. 81, No. 7 2019 Periodicals Seafarers Log